EP3174021A1 - Signal device with light module - Google Patents

Abstract

It is an optical signal device, in particular a modular signal tower (1) or the like, with at least a first, at least one light element (10) comprising, exchangeable light module (3) for the visual display of one or more different operating states of a technical device ( 2), such as a machine, a system, a vehicle or the like, the first lighting module (3) having at least one first printed circuit board (11) aligned substantially in the direction of a longitudinal axis (8) of the signal device with the at least one first lighting element (10) and electrical components, wherein at least one contact (32) between at least one first, releasably contactable, electrical contact surface (19) and a second electrical contact surface (18) arranged adjacent, as a second light module (3) and / or as a holding module (5) and / or as a socket module (6) for holding and connecting the signaling device to a Betri ebsposition formed module (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) is provided, wherein the adjacently arranged module (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) at least one substantially in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) aligned second circuit board (11) includes proposed that meets the high demands on the contact between two adjacent modules and at the same time realized the design effort and / or improved energy or power supply of the modules. This is inventively achieved in that in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) between the first circuit board (11) and the second circuit board (11) at least the two, releasably contactable, electrical contact surfaces (18, 19) of the contact (32) are arranged ,

Description

The invention relates to an optical signal device, in particular a modular signal tower or the like, with at least a first, at least one light element comprehensive, interchangeable light module for optical display of one or more different operating conditions of a technical device such as a machine, a system, a vehicle or The like, according to the preamble of claim 1.

State of the art

Such optical signal devices or signal towers have been in use for many years in various variants. In many cases, the "classic" signal tower with three interchangeable exchangeable modules is in use, which usually have the colors red, yellow and green. Since signal towers are usually constructed in a modular manner, it is also quite possible to include additional changeover modules in the colors blue or white, etc., or to remove individual changeover modules under changing operating conditions or applications / purposes of use. Frequently, acoustic signal generators such as piezo discs or multi-tone generators or horns, etc. are also integrated in the device, so that not only one optical, but also an acoustic signaling can be done.

In the case of the modular, optical signal devices, there are on the one hand the so-called "preconfigured" devices, wherein a fixed, unchangeable structure of the firmly interconnected modules is present, for example in the colors red, yellow, green.

More widely used are tool-less detachable, temporarily interconnectable exchange modules in so-called "non-preconfigured" devices or signal towers. In this case, the individual modules, in particular lighting modules and / or acoustic modules can be combined with one another as desired and also exchanged or replaced without tools at a later time. This achieves a particularly great flexibility in the application possibilities with standardized changeover modules. For example, a "blue" stage or replacement module can subsequently be supplemented and / or a damaged or broken lighting module / replacement module can be replaced by a new, intact lighting module / replacement module without much effort.

This is especially in modern lighting modules with long-life LEDs or printed circuit boards / boards of particular advantage because compared to the previously widely used light bulbs not only the light source, that is, the bulb, but in the case of damage or destruction of the light source and / or the circuit boards / PCBs nowadays usually for economic reasons, a repair is out of the question, but the entire replacement module / light module is replaced.

Especially in the case of modularly constructed signal towers with interchangeable modules, a "looping through" of the current or energy supply of the individual modules by means of wires has been used for many years. Thus, according to the DE 100 41 202 A1 For example, a signal tower with up to five Stages / light modules described, each module in addition to the five separate power supply / power lines / wires, also a negative pole or neutral / wire present in each module and is "looped through" from stage to stage. This means that so far usually every change module / light module has six wires on the inside of the dome, so that all exchange modules of up to five-level signal tower are the same design and are interchangeable with each other. The signaling of the respective module, for example of stage no. 3, takes place in that a closed and energized circuit of line no. 3 is realized with the neutral conductor.

For example, each interchangeable module / lighting module must each have six contact points, with which the electrical connection can be "looped through" from a first module to an adjacent module. This means that both end faces of the exchange modules each have a total of six detachable contact points, so that when disassembling a module or a change module, all six contact points are dissolved or separated. When mounting or fixing two exchange modules / lighting modules with each other, the contact points are reconnected, that is, a wire or a contact surface from the first module with the corresponding second wire or a second contact surface of the adjacent module is connected to each other.

Particularly in the case of signal towers with exchangeable modules, there are high demands on these contact points or on the contacting during replacement, that is to say assembly and / or disassembly of one of the modules / exchangeable modules. Signal towers experience in the course of their lifetime sometimes a very frequent replacement of such modules or exchange modules, with a secure contact and thus the security of the power supply between the tool-replaceable modules must be guaranteed under all circumstances.

From the EP 1 467 140 B1 is known a signal tower, wherein a circuit board is used, which is aligned in the longitudinal direction of the signal tower. The printed circuit board is permanently contacted with wires during operation or use. These wires extend radially outward to the inside of the dome, again on the inside of the dome to be solved for the disassembly of the respective module contact points between two adjacent or between two detachably connectable exchange modules / modules. Thus, the many years of conventional contact between the individual exchange modules / lighting modules is realized with wires here, too. Here, the "looping through" of the power supply between the individual exchange modules corresponds to the usual signal towers with "wire looping" according to the DE 100 41 202 A1 ,

Furthermore, in the DE 198 54 666 C2 discloses different signal tower variants with detachably fixable exchange modules. In one of these variants, the changeover modules / lighting modules each have planar circuit boards / printed circuit boards, which are arranged in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the signal tower. Thus, these boards are equipped with plugs and plug receptacles, the contacting of two adjacent lighting modules / change modules can be realized only by a directed in the direction of the longitudinal axis joining / moving. The pin-shaped plug and the plug receptacles should ensure a secure contacting of the contact points between two detachable change modules / light modules.

The plug or plug receptacles are in this case arranged on the board and thus mounted offset to the board. In addition, the plug contact is realized by means of pins and spring-elastic plug receptacles to realize a contact force between the plug and plug receptacle, which should ensure the electrical connection or contact during operation safely.

Purpose and advantages of the invention

The object of the invention is in contrast to propose an optical signal device of the type mentioned that meets high demands on the contact between two adjacent modules and at the same time realizes the design effort and / or improved energy or power supply of the modules.

This object is achieved on the basis of an optical signal device of the aforementioned type by the features of claim 1. The measures mentioned in the dependent claims advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention are possible.

Accordingly, an optical signal device according to the invention is characterized in that in the direction of the longitudinal axis, preferably on / in (an extension) of a plane of at least one of the circuit boards and / or on / in a longitudinal center plane of the light module / module, (preferably in alignment) between the first Printed circuit board and the second circuit board at least the two, detachably contactable, electrical contact surfaces of the contact are arranged / provided.

With the help of this measure it is achieved that virtually no torques are generated when connecting or contacting two adjacent modules / exchange modules / lighting modules. This reduces, inter alia, the risk that in the course of operation or repeated replacement or replacement of the individual modules / lighting modules or loosening and reconnecting adjacent modules / lighting modules adverse load or adverse effect on the contact or the contact point due to a torque effect eccentrically mounted contacts / surfaces may occur. For example, the pin-shaped plug and the associated plug receptacle according to of the DE 198 54 666 C2 due to a torque load occurring during the plug-in process during the axial connection or mating of adjacent modules / exchange modules experience a mechanical force and repeated mounting or dismounting can damage the connector and / or the solder connections between plug / -aufnahme and the circuit board and thus to an impairment the energy or power supply between the modules / change modules arise.

In contrast, between the first and the second contact surface of the contact, that is, between two detachably connectable adjacent modules, with the present invention, a comparatively large force application, preferably in the direction of the longitudinal axis on a plane of at least one of the circuit boards and / or on / in a Longitudinal plane of the light module / module between the two corresponding circuit boards can be realized. This ensures a reliable or secure contact or electrical power supply / power supply between adjacent modules / exchange modules. In addition, also occurring assembly or manufacturing tolerances of the individual contacting elements can be compensated in an advantageous manner.

In addition, comparatively large-sized and multiply bent contact wires, as was customary in previous standard signal columns, can be eliminated or improved with the aid of the present invention. This not only reduces the design complexity, but also the economic effort in an advantageous manner compared to the prior art. For example, a multiple bending of the respective contact wire, for example, according to DE 100 41 202 A1 be waived or reduced. In contrast to the present invention, the mounting or fixing according to multiple bent energy supply wires according to the prior art is relatively expensive and therefore economical unfavorable.

Preferably, the first contact surface and the second contact surface of the contact, preferably on / in (an extension) of a plane of at least one of the circuit boards and / or on / in a (common) longitudinal center plane of the light module / module, (preferably in alignment) between the end face of first printed circuit board and the end face of the second printed circuit board arranged. Thus, a direct force flux / adhesion or an advantageous force effect in the longitudinal direction of the printed circuit board or printed circuit boards can be recorded or realized in a particularly advantageous manner. Thus, comparatively large forces for contacting, that is, contact / contact forces can be realized, which can be accommodated in an advantageous manner, at least by one of the printed circuit boards and / or two printed circuit boards, without significant / adverse torques or mechanical loads on the circuit board or the contact will be generated.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one second, in the direction of the longitudinal axis, preferably on / in (an extension) of a plane of at least one of the circuit boards and / or on / in a longitudinal center plane of the light module / module, (preferably in alignment) between the first Circuit board and a third printed circuit board arranged contact for electrically connecting and contacting the first light module with an adjacently disposed, third light module or with the holding element and / or the base module is provided, wherein the second contact (also like the first contact in the context of the invention) at least a first contact surface and a second, with the first contact surface releasably connectable, electrical second contact surface. This means that the second contact is provided for the detachable connection of the first lighting module to a further or third module / lighting module / replacement module, and preferably the corresponding two so-called "first" and "second" Contact surfaces and / or structurally or constructively formed almost identical or similar.

Preferably, the first contact is arranged on / on a first base surface or first end side of the light module / module and the second contact is arranged on / on a second, the first opposing base surface or front side of the light module / module. It is thereby achieved that advantageously a module / exchange module or lighting module can be arranged or integrated between a further or the third lighting module and another or the second lighting module or the holding element or base module. Thus, a signal device or a signal tower with a plurality of lighting modules and / or base / holding modules can be realized in an advantageous manner.

Preferably, the second contact is identical / identical and / or structural or constructive almost identical or similar to the first contact formed. This further improves the modularity or interchangeability of the individual modules of the optical signal device or signal tower. Accordingly, a transfer or "looping through" of the power supply or the power supply from one module to another module and from this in turn to a further / third module, etc., can advantageously be realized in an advantageous manner.

In general, an advantageous force flow or force progression can take place through an entire optical signal device or an entire signal tower via the respective printed circuit boards and the contacts arranged in each case in the longitudinal direction. An adverse effect of torque due to corresponding eccentric contact points as in the prior art can be avoided according to the invention. Thinner wall thicknesses for the calottes or base areas and / or for fixing the printed circuit boards to the calottes / base areas may be realized, which has a constructive and economical advantage.

Preferably, the contact surfaces are aligned transversely or substantially perpendicular / orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. Hereby, an advantageous contact pressure or contact between two adjacent modules can be ensured. Correspondingly large contact forces or contact forces can be realized, which ensures a high level of security when "looping through" the electrical power supply between the modules or between module to module and to another module.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first contact surface and the second contact surface of the contact between two adjacent modules are arranged in alignment between the printed circuit boards or the respective printed circuit boards of the adjacent modules. This in turn allows an advantageous power flow between the detachably replaceable, adjacent modules / printed circuit boards in the operating state, that is, when releasably fixed, adjacent modules. Accordingly, in turn, an advantageous power flow without relevant torque generation is achieved during operation.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, the first and / or second end face of the first and / or second printed circuit board is at least partially formed as one of the contact surfaces. This means that the first and / or the second printed circuit board is a component or a side of the electrical contact to be produced according to the invention or this printed circuit board can be used directly for contacting two adjacent modules / exchange modules / lighting modules. This makes it possible to dispense with separate contact elements for the connection between this printed circuit board or the lighting means and the detachable contact of the modules / lighting modules, which considerably reduces both the constructive and the economic outlay for the production of the module / light module / exchange module according to the invention. Thus, separate, multi-curved electrical contacting wires as in the prior art, at least partially omitted or for the electrical connection of one of the circuit boards.

Thus, it is entirely possible that the first end face of the first printed circuit board is directly or directly electrically connected to the second end face of the second printed circuit board, e.g. by means of advantageous solder contacts. This means that the contact according to the invention between two adjacent modules, in particular lighting modules, is realized exclusively by two adjacent in operation, arranged in the longitudinal direction printed circuit boards. In this structurally particularly costly contact point or contacting adjacent modules / change modules / lighting modules minimization of the design effort or the required / used components is implemented.

However, it should be noted that possibly slightly larger manufacturing tolerances or tolerances in the formation of the front side contacts or front side contact surfaces, in particular corresponding solder joints, possibly to certain impairments in the electrical connection or electrical "looping" of the (entire) energy / power supply between adjacent modules or exchange modules can lead. However, post-processing such as e.g. Subsequent grinding or mutual adjustment or adjustment of the dimensioning of the individual end contacts / solder joints or contact surfaces be advantageous so that spatial tolerances, esp. The solder joints are compensated and an arrangement / alignment of all contact surfaces of the front side is ensured on a common plane ,

Preferably, at least three first and / or second contact surfaces are arranged along an end face of the first and / or second printed circuit board and / or along a straight line oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis, wherein the printed circuit board and / or the straight line in a direction of Longitudinal axis aligned longitudinal axis of the first light-emitting module and / or the module is arranged. This makes it possible to achieve that the contact surfaces or at least three, in particular a plurality of first and / or second contact surfaces of at least three, in particular a plurality of contacts, arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis (side by side, in particular with a distance from one another), and / or preferably the circuit board is arranged substantially centrally or in the center or in the longitudinal center plane of the light module / module.

Advantageously, the longitudinal center plane or the printed circuit board divides the module or the dome into two halves, preferably into two similar circular segments / circular halves. In most cases, cylindrical modules / exchange modules / lighting modules or hollow cylindrical domes are provided.

In principle, the longitudinal center plane in the sense of the invention is defined / formed in such a way that the longitudinal center plane encompasses the longitudinal axis, which extends centrally or centrally through the center / centroid of the cross section of the module / exchange module / light module. In the case of a cylindrical module, the longitudinal center plane consequently divides the circular cross-section symmetrically into two semicircles as a flat surface and also comprises the centrally arranged longitudinal axis. The circuit board may extend over the entire cross-section or only partially, i. narrower than the (clear) cross-section of the module / light module / exchange module, esp. In the area of the longitudinal center plane.

Correspondingly transversely to the longitudinal axis and at the same time on / on one side or respectively on / on two opposite in the direction of the longitudinal axis sides of the longitudinal center plane, ie preferably on the straight line, advantageously, a plurality of contacts or contact surfaces (side by side, especially spaced apart) arranged. This means that a plurality of contacts are arranged transversely, in particular perpendicular / orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, preferably along a straight line or the straight line. This is a largely symmetrical design of the contacts, in particular a plurality of contact surfaces feasible. For example, when using a bayonet closure for producing the detachable module connection, that is especially in lighting modules with bayonet lock for releasably connectable fixing of adjacent light modules / modules / modules, such an arrangement of the contact surfaces or contacts according to the invention on the longitudinal center plane and / or with a symmetrical arrangement the cross-sectional area, of particular advantage.

In an advantageous variant of the invention, at least one of the first and / or second printed circuit boards has at least two electrical connecting lines, so that at least two contacts arranged opposite one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis of this printed circuit board, in particular two "first" contacts with two "second" Contacts according to the invention, electrically conductively connected. Hereby, the circuit board can be formed in an advantageous manner as a connecting line. Accordingly, from a first light module / change module / module via the light module / change module / module of this circuit board or this second light module / change module / module to a third module / change module / light module, the energy or power supply durchleitbar or the so-called "Looping through" the power / power supply realized.

According to separate, additional connecting wires as in the prior art, which are usually arranged on the inside of the dome, can be omitted by means of this variant of the invention in an advantageous manner. Thus, the constructive as well as the economic effort for the production and realization of corresponding modules / lighting modules is reduced.

Preferably, six electrical connection lines are provided, which comprises the printed circuit board. This can be a signal tower or an optical signal device with a total of five optical / acoustic modules can be realized in an advantageous manner. In addition, it is quite conceivable that due to high quality standards or due to the miniaturization of electrical circuit boards or electronic components on a printed circuit board of the optical signal device or a light module / change module / module according to the invention, more than six electrical connection lines, especially when using multilayer Circuit boards, may be present, so that quite unlike the prior art, not only five electrical modules / change modules / lighting modules, but possibly up to 10 or even more light modules / change modules / modules are used with optical and / or acoustic electronic / signaling components can.

Advantageously, the light module / change module / module comprises at least one contact element with the second electrical contact surface of the contact. Preferably, this contact element is connected or electrically connected to the second electrical contact surface of the contact with an end face of the printed circuit board or adjacently arranged printed circuit board of an adjacently arranged lighting module / exchange module / module. That is, in the operating position, the contact element with the second electrical contact surface in this preferred variant is in direct contact or contact with an end face or contact surface of the adjacent printed circuit board.

An advantageous contact element with the second electrical contact surface of the contact can be used to compensate for manufacturing or assembly tolerances and / or other advantageous functions. Thus, the production of a frontal contact of the circuit board, for example, realized as a solder joint, relatively inflexible with respect. A compensation of assembly or manufacturing tolerances. On the front side of the circuit board / board, although it is advantageous or possible without great effort solder or

Metal material to install, however, these solder joints etc. may optionally have comparatively disadvantageous manufacturing tolerances. In these cases, adjacent second contact surfaces may possibly result in e.g. one of the contacts between two adjacently arranged modules / exchange modules may only conditionally ensure sufficient electrical transmission of the power supply or power supply between adjacent modules. In order to safely avoid such conceivable impairments when "looping through" the power supply, e.g. a post-processing such as a grinding / grinding of the front side or solder joints or the like and / or the use of the advantageous contact element with the second electrical contact surface of the contact of particular advantage. For example, the contact element is designed to be yielding or flexible or adjustable / movable at least in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

Preferably, the contact element is designed as at least partially longitudinally adjustable in the direction of the longitudinal axis and / or substantially perpendicular in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the contact spring for generating a aligned in the direction of and / or transversely to the longitudinal axis contact force. This can be compensated in an advantageous manner manufacturing tolerances in the circuit boards or adjacent modules and / or multiple contacts. In addition, advantageous contact / contact forces can be realized, so that a secure electrical contacting or forwarding of the electrical power supply between the modules / lighting modules is realized.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a housing element of the module and / or the first lighting module is designed as a fixing unit for fixing the / the contact elements and / or the circuit board. For example, the housing element is designed as a dome of a lighting module. Preferably, the housing element is visible light permeable or transparent, in particular in the region of a cylindrical surface of a cylindrical module / light module.

Preferably, a fixation of the circuit board on the cylinder jacket element of the module / light module is provided. Alternatively or in combination with this, the printed circuit board and / or the contact element (also / additionally) can be fixed to a base surface element of the module / light module or to a front side / existing housing element of the module / light module.

At the front side / housing element or base element, i. in the area of a base area of the module / light module / exchange module, the fixing or the fixing unit for fixing the contact element or the first and / or second contact surface of the contact can be realized in an advantageous manner.

For example, the fixing unit is designed as a latching unit, so that the printed circuit board and / or the / the contact elements on the housing element, in particular fixed to the base of the housing element or the front side of the housing element / are latched. In such a fixation or Verrasterung is advantageous that in the manufacture of the module / light module / change module, the circuit board and / or the / contact elements by attaching / pressing in / on the housing element latch and possibly over the entire duration of use or of the operation are securely fixed. Under certain circumstances, if the printed circuit board or the contact element is impaired, a latching of the printed circuit board and / or the contact elements can also be achieved again (with a tool). In most cases, however, this is not economically advantageous, so rather it can be assumed that in the event of impairment of a printed circuit board or electronic components located thereon, the corresponding module as a whole is exchanged and dispenses with an item replacement becomes.

An end face of the housing element or a base area of the housing element preferably has an opaque material and / or an opaque glare or cover element and / or layer / layer, so that the light of the module / light module / interchangeable module does not become an adjacent module / light module / Replacement module should / should be forwarded. Hereby, a clear light image of a single module / light module is realized without any optical mixing between adjacent light modules / modules can take place.

Preferably, the contact element has a barb or the like, with which an electrical contact or contact with the circuit board is realized. This permanent contacting of the contact element with the circuit board advantageously allows an advantageous energy / power supply of the circuit board on the one hand and on the other hand a forwarding or looping through to an adjacent module.

The printed circuit board preferably has a contact region which is aligned in the longitudinal direction of the signal tower or the optical signal device / module and / or substantially parallel to the longitudinal center plane. This means that the contact region of the circuit board for contacting with the contact element is not realized here by means of the end face, but with the almost planar surface of the circuit board / board. This means that these as long as possible contacting the printed circuit board with the contact element present within the module / light module / exchange module is preferably realized on the longitudinal surface oriented perpendicular to the end face of the printed circuit board and having the electrical and / or electronic components.

However, however, one can also be within the Module / light module / exchange module existing, preferably permanent contact on the front side of the circuit board with the contact element according to the invention carried out. This means that in this embodiment, the contact element between the two opposite end faces of the first and the second circuit board is arranged, but one contact permanently and the other contact according to the invention between the modules / lighting modules is detachably connectable in the context of the invention, ie the contact according to the invention having the first and second contact surfaces.

In general, the existing as possible within the module / light module, permanent contact as possible of the contact element or the circuit board during operation, that is, both mounted and disassembled adjacent module permanently connected, that is, this is not (if possible) / never solved. It may well be in the connection / contact between the contact element of the first module with the circuit board of the first module to a releasable electrical connection, such as a resilient contact. However, this contacting is realized in the production of the corresponding module / light module and not solved during operation or when replacing a light module / change module. In contrast, the contact according to the invention, that is connected to the inventive first and second contact surface, between two adjacent modules in operation and released as needed, that is, when replacing or disassembling a module / light module according to the invention.

For example, the electrical connection or the contact is ensured according to the invention by means of a longitudinal adjustment or a contact force in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively or in combination with this, a sliding contact can be advantageously designed as a contact according to the invention by means of the transverse adjustment or the bayonet closure of two adjacent modules become. A sliding contact, in particular a longitudinally resilient sliding contact, ensures high reliability with regard to the electrical transmission of the energy / power supply from one module / lighting module to an adjacent module / lighting module.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the contact or sliding contact at least partially a Relativversteilbarkeit the two contact surfaces according to the invention, wherein the adjustment is aligned transversely / perpendicularly and / or rotationally with respect to the longitudinal axis. Advantageously, an adjustment or an adjustment path in the direction of the longitudinal axis for generating a spring load or spring force is additionally advantageous. This is realized in particular in a bayonet closure or the like in an advantageous manner. In other words, in addition to a longitudinal adjustment, this additionally generates a rotational adjustment when connecting two adjacent modules / lighting modules.

Thus, when assembling two adjacent modules, a first adjustment path can be aligned in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis, and in a subsequent step a second adjustment path in the transverse direction and / or radial direction, that is to say rotationally about the longitudinal axis, can be provided. It has been shown that such a transverse adjustment, in particular a bayonet connection of two adjacent modules / exchange modules / lighting modules is of particular advantage. In such a bayonet connection, the contacting of adjacent modules / exchangeable modules / lighting modules takes place inter alia by the fact that the two contact surfaces can be pressed or adjusted in the longitudinal direction and then an advantageously substantially parallel to one of the contact surfaces or to both contact surfaces of the contact be adjusted or rotated according to the invention. In this case, a rotation of, for example, about 10 °, 20 ° or 30 °, etc. are provided.

In a particular variant of the invention, the contact element is designed as a fixing element for fixing the printed circuit board / circuit board on the housing element of the module / light module. For example, the contact element is designed as a contact spring for fixing the printed circuit board, wherein by means of a spring force or advantageous fixing elements, such as. Snap hooks, fixing lips, clamping elements, barbs or the like, on the one hand a fixing to / with the circuit board and / or on the other hand a fixing to / with the housing element / module / lighting module can be realized. With the help of an arrangement of the contact element between the housing element and the printed circuit board, an advantageous double or multiple function of the contact element is realized, that is, on the one hand for contacting with the adjacent module and for fixing the circuit board on the corresponding module / light module and / or for fixing with the circuit board , Such a double / multiple function reduces the constructive as well as the economic effort or the number of required components.

In addition, can be provided by the formation of the contact element as a spring element at the same time an advantageous fixing force on the one hand for fixing to the circuit board and / or the other for fixing to the housing element of the module / light module / change module.

Furthermore, with a double / multiple function of the contact element at the same time an advantageous or economically favorable production of the module / light module / exchange module can be implemented according to the invention. Thus, for example, by mounting or mounting the contact element or spring element on the housing or the dome not only the contact element / spring element mounted, but at the same time also additionally fixed the circuit board in an advantageous manner and electrically connected. Consequently, for example, a soldering of the contact element on the printed circuit board can be omitted, which further the effort and the production of a light module / module according to the invention reduced.

Advantageously, the module / light module has an advantageous contact strip with at least three, preferably six or more contacts and / or first and / or second contact surfaces and / or contact elements / spring elements, which are preferably arranged on the front side. Preferably, the contact strip is transversely, in particular aligned substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and / or arranged on / on the longitudinal center plane and / or aligned substantially in a straight line. This means that the contact strip is arranged in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and also substantially centrally. Preferably, the contact strip has at least six contacts or six second contact surfaces and / or contact elements, so that advantageously up to five lighting modules (a neutral or a ground plus five signal conductors) can be used in a signaling device according to the invention.

Preferably, the contact strip is arranged at least in / on a base surface or end face and / or base element of the module / light module, wherein a symmetrical design is to be preferred. A symmetrical design allows, for example, a more flexible installation or connection to an adjacent module / light module or an adjacent circuit board.

In an advantageous variant of the invention, a module / light module on / on a first end face or base area has a printed circuit board contact strip (ie as a first contact strip) with at least three, preferably six or more end faces on the printed circuit board (separately or spaced apart from one another). arranged, first contact surfaces on and on a second, the first end face or base opposite end face or base a contact element contact strip (ie as a second contact strip) with at least three, preferably six or more, second contact surfaces and / or contact elements or contact springs on.

For example, especially when using a bayonet closure for connecting two detachably connectable, adjacent modules / exchange modules / lighting modules, a common contact strip and / or symmetrical design of the second contact surfaces or the contact elements of advantage. The rotational adjustment path of the bayonet closure and the generated thereby rotation of the contact surfaces of the contact according to the invention in relation to the longitudinal center plane of the adjacent module / light module generates a first position, the contact strip and the adjacent circuit board or the two longitudinal center planes are arranged at an acute angle to each other and substantially in cross the middle. Accordingly, in a second position or operating position, the two adjacent circuit boards are arranged in alignment or on a common longitudinal center plane. This means that in the rotation or relative movement, the two legs of the above-described, crossing X-arrangement of the circuit boards or longitudinal center planes of the two adjacent modules move towards each other and finally overlap or until the two X-legs arranged in parallel (one above the other) are.

Thus, a rotation or relative movement of the two circuit boards is realized, esp. The contact strip and the adjacent circuit board, both from one side and from the other side.

Advantageously, the contact element in the direction of the longitudinal axis exposed curved and / or kinked / angled surface. Hereby, a transverse adjustment or a rotational movement between two adjacent modules / exchange modules / lighting modules can be realized in an advantageous manner. For example, hereby advantageously a spring contact or a contact force between the two contact surfaces can be realized according to the invention. Also, thereby manufacturing tolerances of or between the individual contacts are compensated, for example, a contact strip with multiple contacts.

Preferably, at least two or all or each contact of the contact strip, in particular at least two or all second contact surfaces and / or contact springs / contact elements, in the direction of the longitudinal axis substantially separately or independently adjustable. Hereby advantageously u.a. Assembly and manufacturing tolerances compensated, in particular the contacts or contact elements and / or circuit boards, and / or separate contact forces generated.

Perhaps a common spring element is provided, such as e.g. an elastomeric element or the like, which is aligned substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and are arranged on / on the at least two or all second contact surfaces and / or contact elements. Here too, a largely separate or independent adjustment of the at least two or all second contact surfaces and / or contact elements can be realized.

Advantageously, the contact element is designed at least as a latching element for latching with the housing element and / or as a clamping element for clamping with the circuit board. Hereby, an advantageous production or assembly of the module or light module / exchange module is possible because, for example, by mounting the contact element designed as a latching element this latched by mounting with the housing element and / or jammed with the circuit board. Consequently, it can be achieved by the assembly process of the contact element in or on the module or with the module that the already preassembled circuit board using the contact element securely fixed during operation or jammed / clamped. Thus, not only the contact element in the module or light module / change module is fixed by the mounting of the contact element in an advantageous manner, but at the same time fixed the circuit board. Accordingly, additional assembly or work steps in the Production of a corresponding module / light module can be avoided according to the invention, which has an economically favorable effect.

In a particular variant of the invention, the contact element on at least one, preferably on two sides, in particular on two opposite in the transverse direction to the longitudinal axis and / or aligned in the direction of the longitudinal axis sides, (each) at least one latching nose or the like, so that the contact element or locking element can be snapped or fixed in an advantageous manner with the housing element or the dome of the module / light module / change module. For this purpose, a substantially symmetrical configuration of the latching noses or the clamping element is provided at least in this area, so that the assembly of the contact element or latching element on / with / in the housing element u.a. can be flexibly mounted or fixed in two rotated by 180 ° positions. This facilitates the assembly of the contact element, since, for example, an assembly person or a mounting robot or machine does not have to pay attention to the "only correct side" when installing / mounting the contact element on / in / with the housing element.

The printed circuit board preferably has at least one contact section per contact or per contact element on two opposite side surfaces aligned in the direction of the longitudinal axis. As a result, in turn, a flexibility in the assembly of a contact element, which is preferably designed as a clamping element for clamping with the circuit board, realized. Alternatively or in combination with the advantageous measure mentioned above, an arbitrary assembly with two mutually rotated by 180 ° mounting positions of the contact element can be realized, especially even with a non (complete) symmetrical design of the contact element, at least the connection / Verklemmbereichs of the contact element , For example, the contact element (only) a (one-sided) connecting lip or The like for contacting with the circuit board or the corresponding contact portion of the circuit board.

With two arranged on opposite sides connecting lips of the contact element, if necessary, a complete symmetry can be realized, wherein the circuit board is arranged or clamped in an advantageous manner in the assembled operating state between these two connecting lips of the contact element. Accordingly, these two connecting lips can be connected or contacted with the advantageously present on both sides arranged, electrically conductive contact portions of the side surfaces of the circuit board.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, the contact element on one or at least on both sides of the longitudinal center plane in each case an acute-angled aligned to the longitudinal axis contact ramp for an adjacent circuit board and / or first contact surface. This ensures that in a transverse displacement in relation to the longitudinal axis, both linearly and rotationally about the longitudinal axis, a front side contact of the circuit board or the first contact surface by means of the advantageous ramp to the second contact surface of the contact is adjustable or displaceable. Thus, the contact according to the invention as an advantageous sliding contact can be realized, which among other manufacturing and / or assembly tolerances of the components / elements involved are compensated.

Preferably, the acute-angled orientation of the contact ramp with respect to the second contact surface according to the invention also makes it possible to adjust the second contact surface in the longitudinal direction, so that inter alia an advantageous contact force or clamping force can also be generated. This clamping force or contact force is preferably aligned in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis, so that the two contact surfaces of the contact according to the invention are pressed against each other or pressed. This improves the electrical Contacting / transmission and thus the reliability of the contact according to the invention.

In a variant with a bilateral training, each with a contact ramp, i. the second contact surface is arranged between two contact ramps, it is possible that when joining adjacent modules / lighting modules or the corresponding two contact surfaces, these can be adjusted or moved against each other as desired or from both sides. For example, in a rotary adjustment when mounting two adjacent modules / light modules preferably the straight circuit board and / or a linearly aligned contact strip with a plurality of along the longitudinal center plane arranged contact elements / spring contacts of a first X position of the corresponding contact surfaces by rotation about the longitudinal axis or Axis of alignment of the two X-legs can be realized in an advantageous manner. Namely, in such rotation of the two adjacent modules / light modules, the circuit board and the contact strip move toward each other from both sides, i. Each X-leg of the circuit board and the individual contact element is covered in each case by "right" and "left" of the other contact surface. Therefore arranged on both sides of the second contact surface contact ramps are of great advantage when joining adjacent modules / lighting modules.

When adjusting or joining two adjacent modules / light modules / changeover modules, an adjustment path is preferably provided in a transverse plane, which is aligned substantially perpendicular or orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. Such an adjustment allows the advantageous realization of a sliding contact.

In an advantageous variant of the invention in the non-assembled operating state of two adjacent modules / lighting modules in the direction of the longitudinal axis in an advantageous manner, an overlap or parallel offset of provided first contact surface with respect to the second contact surface. As a result, an advantageous contact force / contact force can be generated and / or manufacturing tolerances or assembly tolerances can be compensated.

Advantageously, at least one adjustment path of the light module and / or the module at least partially a rotational path about the longitudinal axis and / or at least one bayonet closure for tool-releasable connection of the first light module with the adjacent tool-solvable connecting the first light module with the adjacent module / light module arranged module provided. This ensures that, for example, by a first adjustment, which is aligned in the direction of the longitudinal axis, two adjacent modules / light modules / exchange modules and possibly overcome the longitudinal axis in the original parallel offset of the two contact surfaces overcome / eliminated / compensated and with a subsequent Rotationsverstellweg or . A rotation is realized a fixing or locking / jamming. Here, on the one hand, a secure or reliable contacting and fixing in the operation of two adjacent modules / lighting modules / exchange modules is achieved. On the other hand, this replacement or replacement of a module / light module / change module can be realized without great effort.

All this is of great advantage, in particular in the case of damage or impairment of electronic components or the like of a module / light module. Also, this can be realized without great effort an extension or change of the optical signal device or the signal tower. For example, subsequently another module can be supplemented in another color not yet used or a light module in a certain color, which is no longer needed with changed conditions, be removed without much effort.

An inventive contact, in particular a sliding contact with the two contact surfaces of the contact, which are preferably aligned perpendicular or orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, may have a certain wear or abrasion of the contacts or contact surfaces with multiple removal and installation or assembly and disassembly, without causing disadvantages for the contact or the contact according to the invention arise. Thus, by the parallel offset and / or the advantageous elastic training, especially the second contact surface and the contact element, a corresponding abrasion of the contact surfaces are compensated.

The base module and / or the holding module preferably has at least one printed circuit board or a connecting printed circuit board for electrically connecting the signal generator and / or at least one contact element and / or a contact strip. Advantageously, the contacting of the base module and / or the holding module is identical / identical and / or structurally or structurally almost identical or similar to the contacting of the first light module and / or module formed. Hereby, an advantageous modularity of the optical signaling device according to the invention can be realized. Thus, the base or the holding module can be advantageously connected to a lighting module according to the invention or electrically contacted.

embodiment

A preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the drawing and will be explained in more detail with reference to FIGS.

Figur 1

schematisch eine Signalsäule gemäß der Erfindung,

Figur 2

die Signalsäule gemäß Figur 1 im Schnitt,

Figur 3

eine schematische, frei gemachte Anordnung von Leiterplatten verschiedener Module der Signalsäule gemäß Figur 1,

Figur 4

eine schematische, perspektivische, vergrößerte Detaildarstellung einer Kontaktierung von zwei benachbarter Leiterplatten,

Figur 5

eine schematische Ansicht einer Leiterplatte,

Figur 6

schematisch, perspektivisch zwei benachbarte Leiterplatten ohne ein dazwischen angeordnetes Kontaktelement,

Figur 7

eine schematische Draufsicht auf ein Modul einer Signalsäule gemäß Figur 1,

Figur 8

schematische, perspektivische Schnittdarstellung eines Details der Signalsäule gemäß Figur 1,

Figur 9

schematische, perspektivisch dargestellte, freigemachte Leiterplatten,

Figur 10

schematisch, perspektivisch dargestellte Positionierung von benachbarten Leiterplatten in verschiedenen Positionierungsstufen mit freigelegten Leiterplatten sowie Kontaktelementen und

Figur 11

schematisch, perspektivisch in vergrößerter Detaildarstellung verschiedenen Montagestellungen zweier benachbarter Module.

In detail shows:

FIG. 1

schematically a signal tower according to the invention,

FIG. 2

the signal tower according to FIG. 1 on average,

FIG. 3

a schematic, vacated arrangement of printed circuit boards of various modules of the signal tower according to FIG. 1 .

FIG. 4

a schematic, perspective, enlarged detail of a contacting of two adjacent circuit boards,

FIG. 5

a schematic view of a printed circuit board,

FIG. 6

schematically, in perspective, two adjacent circuit boards without a contact element arranged therebetween,

FIG. 7

a schematic plan view of a module of a signal tower according to FIG. 1 .

FIG. 8

schematic, perspective sectional view of a detail of the signal tower according to FIG. 1 .

FIG. 9

schematic, perspective, cleared printed circuit boards,

FIG. 10

schematically, in perspective positioning of adjacent printed circuit boards in different positioning stages with exposed printed circuit boards and contact elements and

FIG. 11

schematically, in perspective in an enlarged detail representation different mounting positions of two adjacent modules.

In FIG. 1 is schematically a signal tower 1 according to the invention mounted on a technical device 2, wherein the signal tower 1 via not shown connecting lines of the machine or the device 2 and a corresponding electrical / electronic control receives electrical signals as information regarding the operating conditions of the device 2 receives.

FIG. 1 illustrates that the signal tower 1 has a modular design, wherein in the illustrated embodiment, the signal tower 1 a total of four lighting modules 3 with bulbs and additionally at the (upper) end an acoustic module 4 for generating acoustic signals and end a final cover 7. The signal tower 1 or the lighting modules 3 are connected via a connection module 5 with a base module 6, wherein the base module 6 is designed for fixing the signal tower 1 on the technical device 2, for example by screw or the like.

As is customary in many cases with signal towers 1, the individual modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 are connected in a known manner releasably connected to one another in a known manner by way of a bayonet closure (not shown). This means that the individual modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 can be mounted or fixed in a direction of a longitudinal axis 8 in combination with a rotation 9 about the longitudinal axis 8 and disassembled or released again. Thus, such modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 are commonly referred to as so-called "change modules", as they can be easily quickly replaced, that is without the use of tools, quickly replaced or assembled and disassembled. This is particularly advantageous in the case of a supplement or change in the number and / or color of the lighting modules 3 or acoustic modules 4 and in the event of damage or disturbance of one of the (electronic) modules 3, 4, 5. For example, a damaged module 3, 4, 5, be exchanged or replaced by a new equivalent similarly designed module without much effort.

In FIG. 2 is the signal tower 1 according to FIG. 1 shown in a cutaway view. Thus, printed circuit boards 11 and so-called boards 11 of the lighting modules 3, acoustic module 4 and connection module 5 shown. The connection module 5 has a printed circuit board 11, on which a connection terminal 12 is fixed or arranged. With the help of this terminal 12 not shown electrical wires coming from the device 2 and connected through the base module 6 going or clamped.

In FIG. 2 In addition, it becomes clear that the printed circuit boards 11 of the lighting modules 3 have advantageous light sources 10, preferably LEDs 10. In contrast, the acoustic module 4 has a printed circuit board 11, which has an acoustic element, not shown in detail, in particular a piezo buzzer or the like, so that an acoustic signaling can be realized. In addition, the circuit boards 11, depending on the application, various electrical / electronic components such as transistors, resistors, capacitors, microprocessors, etc. in different numbers and characteristics or Verschaltungsweise have.

In FIG. 2 In addition, it is illustrated that the printed circuit boards 11 or sinkers 11 in the mounted operating position are arranged essentially in alignment in the direction of the longitudinal axis 8 one behind the other or in / on a longitudinal center plane 29 of the signal tower 1. The longitudinal center plane 29 corresponds here in FIG FIG. 2 the viewing / leaf level or lies parallel to the sheet level. In the detailed illustrations according to FIG. 3 or 4 such as FIGS. 8 to 11 In addition, it becomes clear that contact elements 14 or contact springs 14 or leaf spring contacts 14 are provided in the mounted operating position between the printed circuit boards 11 which are arranged in the longitudinal direction 8 for electrical contacting.

Especially in the FIGS. 3 and 4 For example, it will be apparent that the contacting between the circuit boards 11 by means of the contact springs 14 in such a way that the circuit boards 11 at a first, in particular based on the structure of the signal tower 1 "upper" end 15 lateral contact surfaces 17, for example as Solder contacts are formed. These contact surfaces 17 are located in an advantageous manner on a side surface / plane or on the two opposite side surfaces of the printed circuit board 11. The side surfaces or contact surfaces 17 are aligned in an advantageous manner in the longitudinal direction 8 and / or arranged parallel to the longitudinal center plane 29. About these side surfaces or contact surfaces 17, the respective circuit board 11 is permanently connected to a separate contact element 14 and a separate contact spring 14 in operation. The contact spring 14 has for contacting with an adjacent circuit board 11, a contact surface 18, that is, a so-called second contact surface 18 in the sense of the invention. The contact surface 18 is in particular in the Figures 10 and 11 more clearly visible.

A contact 32 according to the invention between two printed circuit boards 11 arranged in the longitudinal direction 8 of two adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6 is realized as a detachable contact 32 with the so-called second contact surface 18 and a so-called first contact surface 19. In the illustrated embodiment, the contact surface 19 of the circuit board 11 as the end face 19 and first contact surface 19 is formed. Thus, the contact surface 19 in an advantageous manner as a front side arranged or mounted solder joint or the like can be realized.

In FIG. 5 is a circuit board 11 shown according to the invention, among other things, the end faces 19 and first contact surfaces 19 are shown in more detail. In addition, connecting lines 20 between the first, front-side contact surfaces 19 and the lateral contact surfaces 17 at the opposite end 15 of the circuit board 11 are shown. Thus, in the schematic plan view of a printed circuit board 11 according to the invention, it becomes clear that from a first end 16 of the printed circuit board 11 an electrically conductive connection of the (first) contact surfaces 19 via lines 20 of the printed circuit board 11 is realized up to the (lateral) contact surfaces 17 at the opposite, second end 15 of the circuit board 11. This means that the circuit board 11 or the circuit board 11 is formed as a connecting line between adjacent modules 3, 4, 5. Thus, the so far customary in the prior art, separate electrical wires for connecting adjacent modules 3, 4, 5 or for so-called. "Looping" of the electrical energy or power supply with such an advantageously designed circuit board 11 can be omitted. Here, the arrangement of the circuit board 11 in the longitudinal direction 8 or on / in the longitudinal center plane 29 of great advantage, wherein advantageously between the two adjacent circuit boards 11, the contact surfaces 18 and 19 of the releasably connectable contact 32 between two adjacent modules 3, 4th , 5 are arranged.

For example, in FIG. 9 clearly, wherein the planar / planar printed circuit boards 11 and the contact springs 14 are freed from other components such as the cap 13 of the signal tower 1, that an aligned in mounted operating position arrangement preferably all circuit boards 11 in the longitudinal direction 8 or on / in the longitudinal center plane 29 provided or ., Is realized, between the aligned in the longitudinal direction 8 / exposed end faces of the circuit boards 11 of the contact according to the invention or the contact surfaces 18 and 19 according to the invention are arranged / realized. As a result, inter alia, an advantageous force flow from / in the longitudinal direction 8 or within the longitudinal center plane 29 or the printed circuit board plane can be realized. This means that no torques are generated on laterally offset components or eccentrically arranged contact surfaces as in the prior art. Thus, a fixed fixation or support for the circuit boards 11 and / or for the contact elements 14 can be dimensioned comparatively small or realized in an advantageous manner.

Also is aligned by the mounted in the mounted operating position Arrangement of the circuit boards 11 with the intervening / arranged contact elements 14 and contact surfaces 18, 19 an advantageous, relatively large contact force by means of the preferably metallic spring contacts 14 can be realized. Thus, a comparatively large contact force / pressure force can be generated without a massive training of holding and / or fixing elements 26, 30, 31 would be necessary. Thus, in addition, assembly tolerances or manufacturing tolerances can be compensated in an advantageous manner. A high quality in the contacting or high demands on the secure electrical contact / passage between adjacent modules / light modules / change modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 using the contact system according to the invention is ensured.

In addition, especially in the FIGS. 7 . 9 and 10 clearly that on both side surfaces or longitudinal planes of the circuit board 11 of a lighting module 3 bulbs 10 and LED's 10 are arranged. In FIG. 7 schematically the radiation directions are exemplified with schematic, individual radiation arrows. It is thus illustrated that so-called "top LEDs" 10 are arranged on the one hand in the middle area of the printed circuit board 11 or in the center of the lighting module 3 or the dome 10, emitting light away from the printed circuit board 11 radially outward in a relatively large angular range , On the outside or on the edge regions of the printed circuit board 11, so-called "side LEDs" 10 are arranged, which emit light partly in parallel and partially at an acute angle to the printed circuit board 11 (see schematic light arrows). Overall, in FIG. 7 clearly that a nearly uniform all-round illumination of the entire dome 13 of the lighting module 3 is realized by the advantageous arrangement of the lighting means 10 or corresponding "side LEDs" and "top LEDs".

In addition, in FIG. 7 clearly that the dome 13 has on its inside an advantageous internal corrugation 21. The inner corrugation is preferably formed as a round or semicircular inner corrugation 21. Among others in Combined with an outer corrugation 22, an advantageous light scattering can be realized. In the FIG. 8 illustrated external corrugation 22 is preferably formed jagged or triangular.

Advantageously, an inner corrugation 21 aligned in the longitudinal direction 8 is provided, in particular an inner corrugation 21 formed with a semicircular cross-section, which can be generated in an advantageous manner by injection molding or correspondingly advantageous injection molding tools. Correspondingly, an external corrugation 22 arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis 8 or perpendicular / orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 8, in particular a jagged or triangular outer corrugation 22, can likewise be generated with the aid of an advantageous injection molding technique or, for example, with the aid of two injection half-shell elements.

Thus, for example, the frontal base surface 24 may be formed integrally with the hollow cylindrical cap 13, in particular by injection molding of plastic material. However, it is also possible to use a module 3, 4, 5 which has a separate (hollow cylindrical) cap 13, in particular made of transparent or semitransparent and / or milky plastic material, with a separate base 24 or end face made of opaque material and / or be realized with an opaque coating / occupancy. Generally, it is advantageously achieved with the aid of an opaque base surface 24 that light, in particular colored light, can not penetrate from a module 3, 4, 5 into a correspondingly adjacent module 3, 4, 5, 7 and partially illuminate it. This improves the illumination of a signal tower 1.

Preferably, an integral unit of frontal base 24 is provided with hollow cylindrical cap 13 made of at least transparent / translucent material, wherein on the frontal base surface 24 a opaque layer / occupancy is arranged. This opaque layer / occupancy of the base 24 is preferably designed as a sticker with advantageous information / information on, for example, the product, the manufacturer, the usability or technical properties / qualities or test certificates of the module 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.

In FIG. 6 are two, in the assembled state adjacent printed circuit boards 11, but shown without the operation to be arranged therebetween contact springs 14. This particularly illustrates the arrangement of the contact surfaces 17 and the frontal contact surfaces 19 of the respective adjacent printed circuit boards 11 of the corresponding adjacent modules 3, 4, 5 or lighting modules 3.

In FIG. 4 an advantageous embodiment of the contact springs 14 can be seen. Here, the contact springs 14 are preferably made of metal, in particular resilient, elastic metal. Preferably, at least on one, in particular on two opposite, substantially aligned in the longitudinal direction 8 sides arranged locking lugs 23 are provided, which advantageously with recesses 25 and not shown locking lugs of the dome 13 and a frontally arranged base 24 of the light module 3 and In the assembled state, the acoustic module 4 or connection module 5 are in operative connection and ensure a permanent, secure or fixed latching / fixing.

By fixing the spring contacts 14 by means of the locking lugs 23 on the base 24 in recesses 25, for example, an advantageous assembly of the module 3, 4, 5 can be realized. For example, a printed circuit board 11 or a holding web 31 of the printed circuit board 11 is held by means of holders 26 and / or a guide groove or holding groove 30 of the calotte 13. For this purpose, the circuit board 11 is inserted in the direction of the longitudinal axis 8 in the module 3, 4, 5, so that a radially defined arrangement or a holding the circuit board 11 is realized by the cap 13 at least at a first end 16. A fixed fixation of the printed circuit board 11 (at the end 15), in particular in the longitudinal direction 8, is realized by the advantageous mounting of the spring contacts 14 in the recesses 25 of the base 24. Thus, the spring contacts 14 and contact springs 14 are firmly locked or fixed by the locking lugs 23 with the base 24 and the cap 13. At the same time is generated by the advantageous shape of the contact springs 14, in particular with acute angle to the longitudinal axis 8 aligned contact lips 27, on the one hand a thrust in the longitudinal direction 8 and on the other hand, a clamping force or a contact force transverse to the longitudinal axis 8 relative to the circuit board 11, so that the circuit board 11 against the dome 13 or base 24 on the one hand arranged on a stop of the base 24 / pressed and on the other hand jammed or pressed transversely to the longitudinal axis 8 and thus securely fixed at the end 15.

In addition, a secure contacting of the printed circuit board 11 or the contact surface 17 with the contact spring 14 is realized by the contact lip 27. Thus, between the / the detent / n 23 and the / in the longitudinal direction 8 aligned side / n of the contact spring 14 and the contact lip 27 is a frictional connection or an operative connection between the corresponding circuit board 11 and the housing or the cap 13 of the corresponding Module 3, 4, 5 generated.

By an advantageous symmetrical design of the recess 25 and / or aligned in the longitudinal direction 8 sides of the contact spring 14 can be achieved that the contact springs 14 in any manner, that is in particular in two different, offset by 180 ° positions / mounting positions, respectively in the corresponding recess 25 can be pushed or latched into it, without any disadvantageous fixing or contacting would be connected thereto. Thus, the circuit board 11 in an advantageous manner according to both opposite longitudinal sides or planes accordingly advantageous contact surfaces 17 for contacting with the contact springs 14. Accordingly, a person or a robot or an assembly machine when manufacturing the module 3, 4, 5 need not pay attention to the correct installation position of the contact springs 14, since there are two correct or equivalent installation positions, which is a significant simplification / improvement of the manufacturing effort ,

In the figures, it is also clear that the two contact surfaces 18, 19, which realize the detachable contact 32 according to the invention between the modules 3, 4, 5 and the end sides of the printed circuit boards 11, are aligned substantially perpendicular or orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 8. Especially in the FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 10 and 11 also illustrate that the contact springs 14 each have two ramps 28 arranged at an acute angle to the second contact surface 18. These ramps 28 are advantageously suitable for example with a bayonet closure between adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 by the transverse adjustment or the rotational movement in direction 9 (relative movement between two adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6 , 7) a printed circuit board 11 or arranged on the front side / existing first contact surfaces 19 along the ramps 28 to the second contact surface 18 of the spring contact 14 are advantageously adjustable.

Thus, the contact springs 14 are preferably arranged in the non-contacted state that when contacting or in a lateral or rotary adjustment of adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, the contact springs 14 in an advantageous manner (using the ramps 28) in Direction of the longitudinal axis 8 realize a certain travel. Thus, on the one hand an advantageous spring force or contact force in the longitudinal direction 8 is generated, which ensures a secure electrical contact, and on the other hand, this assembly and / or manufacturing tolerances can be compensated, for example, the frontal contacts or solder contacts of a printed circuit board 11. This ensures safely that all Contact springs 14 of a first module 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 (each separately / independently) together with the first contact surfaces 19 (preferably an end face of a printed circuit board 11) of a second module 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 safely an electrical Generate contact 32 according to the invention.

Especially in the Figures 10 and 11 the exemplary contacting process or the rotational / relative movement between adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 illustrated, ie here printed circuit boards 11 and spring contacts 14. Thus, for example, in FIG. 11a a first joining position or mounting position shown, wherein of a first module 3, 4, 5, a first circuit board 11 (at the "upper" part of FIG. 11a shown, without representation of the cap 13) at an acute angle to a contact strip with a row of the contact elements 14 and an adjacent second circuit board 11 of a second module 3, 4, 5, 6 is arranged. According to FIG. 11b For example, in an intermediate mounting step and a second joining position, respectively, the first (upper) circuit board 11 is aligned / shown at a smaller angle to the second (lower) circuit board 11, and finally according to FIG FIG. 11c the two circuit boards 11 are arranged in the operating position substantially parallel or in alignment with each other or on the longitudinal center plane 29.

Accordingly, different intermediate stages and the assembled end position of a contacting system according to the invention or a signal tower 1 according to the invention is also in FIG. 10 represented, with the circuit boards 11 and contact springs 14 are shown without corresponding dome, ie freed to better illustrate the different joining positions. So is in the upper part of the FIG. 10 the end position or the mounted operating position between adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6 or adjacent printed circuit boards 11 shown with the contact springs 14 and in the lower part of FIG. 10 is an intermediate position immediately after the axial assembly or adjustment of two adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6, in particular of the connection module with the terminal 12 and a adjacent lighting module 3 shown. Thus, this lower representation represents the intermediate position in the case of a bayonet closure, wherein in a first joining step a relative adjustment of two adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 takes place in the longitudinal direction 8 and then a transverse adjustment or rotation 9 takes place about the longitudinal axis 8, like this in the middle area of the FIG. 10 is illustrated as an intermediate position. This rotation 9 is preferably carried out to the end position according to the upper illustration in FIG FIG. 10 or according to FIG. 11c or FIG. 9 , wherein the two circuit boards 11 are arranged in the operating position substantially parallel or in alignment with each other or on the longitudinal center plane 29.

Especially in FIG. 7 It is clear that the circuit board 11 in the so-called "longitudinal center plane" 29 of a module 3 and a cap 13 is arranged or positioned / fixed. This longitudinal center plane 29 extends along the longitudinal axis 8 over an entire signal tower 1, wherein substantially all printed circuit boards 11 are arranged in alignment in the longitudinal center plane 29. Between the circuit boards 11, the contact surfaces 18, 19 of the contact according to the invention are arranged according to the invention. As a result, a continuous force flow between the individual modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and the circuit boards 11 and contact springs 14 is generated without adverse torques acting on the contact or the circuit boards 11.

Thus, an advantageous contact strip is realized by the arrangement of all contact springs 14 along the longitudinal center plane 29 or orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 8. This contact strip is formed symmetrically in an advantageous manner, which is advantageous, for example, when using a bayonet closure, not shown, for the tool-less detachable connection of adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 (cf., inter alia Figures 10 and 11 ).

In principle, it is advantageous that the contacting according to the invention of adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 not only with an adjustment of adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 takes place in the longitudinal direction 8, but that alternatively or in combination thereto, an adjustment transverse to the longitudinal axis 8 is present. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, in particular with a bayonet closure, not shown, a rotation 9 is provided about the longitudinal axis 8. Through this rotation 9 or transverse adjustment, a sliding contact or a realization of the contact 32 according to the invention with the two contact surfaces 18, 19 is realized as sliding contact. Thus, on the one hand, a comparatively large area and thus high demands on the electrical contacting or power line can be ensured. Accordingly, the contact surfaces 18, 19 are oriented transversely or orthogonally to the longitudinal axis 8 in an advantageous manner.

On the other hand, with this contacting according to the invention not only high demands on the electrical power supply or power supply between adjacent modules are met, but rather can be arranged with the contacting system according to the invention on separate electrical connecting wires or lines, for example on the inside of the cap 13, be omitted in order to realize a "looping through" the power supply or power supply.

Furthermore, a long life can be ensured with this contact or the sliding contact according to the invention, since wear, wear, etc. at the contact 32 and the contact surfaces 18, 19 are automatically or resilient compensated.

In addition, with the help of the base surface 24 according to the invention or the contact springs 14, which are preferably formed together as a contact strip, not only a favorable contacting of adjacent modules 3, 4, 5, 6 implemented, but rather can hereby also an advantageous aesthetic design of contacting system or the modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 are realized.

In addition, an advantageous uniform and / or closed base area 24 can also be realized with such an advantageous areal contacting, which is preferably arranged essentially transversely or orthogonally to the longitudinal axis on the base area 24. Thus, high demands on the protection class or moisture resistance of the modules 3, 4, 5, 6 and the base 24 can be realized without great effort. Without further illustration, advantageous sealing elements or elastomer seals may be provided on the spring contacts 14 or in the recesses 25 for this purpose. In addition, a seal between the modules 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 can be provided, being provided on the calotte 13 in the region of the base 24 externally arranged O-rings or the like. This is particularly advantageous in applications with moist air or in damp rooms or the like.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

signal Tower

2

device

3

light module

4

acoustic module

5

connection module

6

socket module

7

cover

8th

longitudinal axis

9

rotation

10

LED

11

circuit board

12

terminal

13

dome

14

contact spring

15

The End

16

The End

17

area

18

contact area

19

contact area

20

management

21

interior Riffel

22

outside Riffel

23

nose

24

Floor space

25

recess

26

holder

27

contact lip

28

ramp

29

Longitudinal center plane

30

retaining groove

31

holding web

32

Contact

Claims (10)

Optical signal device, in particular a modular signal tower (1) or the like, with at least one first, at least one light element (10) comprising, exchangeable light module (3) for optical display of one or more, different operating conditions of a technical device (2) a machine, a system, a vehicle or the like, the first lighting module (3) having at least one substantially aligned in the direction of a longitudinal axis (8) of the signal device first printed circuit board (11) with the at least one first light emitting element (10) and electrical components in that the first printed circuit board (11) has a first end face (19) aligned in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) and a second end face (19) arranged opposite the first end face (19) and oriented in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) at least one contact (32) between at least one first, detachably contactable, electrical contact surface (32) 19) and a second electrical contact surface (18) of a module (3, 3) arranged adjacently, designed as a second light module (3) and / or as a holding module (5) and / or as a base module (6) for holding and connecting the signal device at an operating position. 4, 5, 6, 7) is provided, wherein the adjacently arranged module (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) comprises at least one substantially in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) aligned second printed circuit board (11), characterized in that in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) between the first printed circuit board (11) and the second printed circuit board (11) at least the two, releasably contactable, electrical contact surfaces (18, 19) of the contact (32) are arranged. Signal device according to claim 1, characterized in that the contact surfaces (18, 19) of the contact (32) are aligned substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (8). Signal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first printed circuit board (11) has a first, aligned in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) end face (19) and a second, the first end face (19) opposite, in the direction of the longitudinal axis ( 8) aligned end face (19) and that the first and / or second end face (19) of the first and / or second printed circuit board (11) is at least partially formed as one of the contact surfaces (19). Signal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least three first and / or second contact surfaces (18, 19) along at least one of the end sides of the first and / or second printed circuit board (11) and / or along a transverse to the longitudinal axis (8). aligned straight lines, wherein the printed circuit board (11) and / or the straight line on a longitudinal axis (8) aligned longitudinal center plane (29) of the first light module (3) and / or the module (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) is arranged. Signal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first lighting module (3) and / or the adjacently arranged module (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) at least one to the circuit board (11) additional contact element (14), the the second electrical contact surface (18) of the contact (32). Signal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact element (14) as at least partially in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) adjustable contact spring (14) for generating a in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) aligned contact force is formed. Signal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a housing element (13, 24) of the module (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) and / or the first light-emitting module (3) as a fixing unit (25, 26, 30) for Fixing the / the contact elements (14) and / or the circuit board (11) is formed. Signal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and / or second light module (3) and / or the adjacently arranged module (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) at least one contact strip with at least three contacts (32) and at least three first and / or at least three second contact surfaces (18) and / or at least three contact elements (14), wherein the contact strip aligned transversely to the longitudinal axis (8) and / or arranged on / on the longitudinal center plane (29) and / / or is aligned substantially rectilinearly. Signal device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two individual contacts (32) and / or at least two second contact surfaces (18) and / or at least two contact elements (14) of the contact strip in the direction of the longitudinal axis (8) substantially separately and / or independently adjustable. Signaling module (3, 4) for a signaling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signaling module (3, 4) as the first and / or second lighting module (3) and / or as an acoustic module (4) with a on an acoustic circuit board (11) arranged sound generating unit is formed.

Images