EP3465836A1

EP3465836A1 - Contact element

Info

Publication number: EP3465836A1
Application number: EP17723713.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Tom KUFNER; Philipp Alexander Strehler; Fabian HILTI; Lucas WIRZ
Original assignee: Staeubli Electrical Connectors AG
Current assignee: Staeubli Electrical Connectors AG
Priority date: 2016-05-25
Filing date: 2017-05-19
Publication date: 2019-04-10
Anticipated expiration: 2037-05-19
Also published as: KR20190006563A; JP2019517118A; EP3465836B1; CN109155482A; US20190305458A1; WO2017202709A1; CN109155468B; EP3465837A1; KR102451131B1; RU2731326C2; JP2019517119A; US20190207338A1; EP3465826B1; JP2022009164A; BR112018074065A2; US20200328544A1; JP7261279B2; RU2018142551A; EP3465837B1; JP2019517120A

Abstract

A contact element (1) for establishing electric contact between two contact pieces comprises a support strip (2) extending in a longitudinal direction (L) as well as a plurality of contact parts (5, 5a, 5b), each of which has a first contact section (6) for contacting one of the two contact pieces (K1, K2), a second contact section (7) for contacting the other one of the two contact pieces (K2, K1), and a fastening section (8) for securing the contact part (5, 5a, 5b) to the support strip (2) at a fastening point (3). Each contact part (5, 5a, 5b) comprises at least one plastically deformable connection element (50) for securing the contact part (5, 5a, 5b) to the support strip (2). The at least one connection element (50) forms an integral part of the contact part (5, 5a, 5b).

Description

TITLE

CONTACT ELEMENT TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a contact element for mediating an electrical contact between two contact pieces according to the preamble of claim 1.

STATE OF THE ART

From the prior art contact elements, which can also be referred to as contact blades have become known. For example, EP 0 716 474 shows a contact element which comprises a one-piece contact band extending along a longitudinal direction, with which two opposing contact surfaces can be contacted electrically. The contact band can be easily deformed in its length, so that this is easy to install.

Even if the deformation of the contact band during installation is very advantageous, the contact blade according to EP 0 716 474 has some disadvantages. On the one hand, the scalability with respect to the electrical currents to be transmitted is very limited. Typically, an increase in the current is accompanied by an enlargement of the cross section of the contact element. Such scaling is not readily possible because otherwise advantageous properties are lost. For example, the contact element becomes stiffer at an enlargement.

From EP 2,115,820 a contact element has become known in which the contact parts producing the electrical contact are fastened to a carrier tape. The attachment of the contact parts on the carrier tape is relatively expensive. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

Based on this prior art, the invention has for its object to provide a contact element, which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, the contact element should be more efficient to produce. Next it is one preferred task that the degree of freedom in the dimensioning should be greater.

Accordingly, a contact element for switching an electrical contact between two contact pieces comprises a carrier strip extending in a longitudinal direction and a plurality of contact parts each having at least one first contact portion for contacting one of the two contact pieces, at least one second contact portion for contacting the other of the two contact pieces, as well as with at least one attachment portion for fastening the contact part to an attachment point on the carrier tape. Each contact part comprises at least one plastically deformable connecting element for fastening the contact part to the carrier tape.

Due to the arrangement of the plastically deformable connecting element, the advantage that the contact part can be easily connected to the carrier tape. Thereby, the contact element can be easily manufactured. Next issued by the separate training between carrier tape and contact part of the advantage that the dimensioning of the Kontakteile can be done independently of the carrier tape. In particular, the contact part can be formed with a high proportion of material, which has the advantage that larger currents can be transmitted.

In a first embodiment, the at least one connecting element is an integral part of the contact part or of the fastening section. Furthermore, the at least one connecting element has a shaft projecting from the fastening section, which shaft is plastically deformed in a shaping process in such a way that the shaft forms a mechanically strong connection with the carrier strip.

The term "integral component" is understood to mean that the contact part and the connecting element or the shaft are integrally formed, that is to say the connecting element and the contact part form an integral structure, in other words the connecting element is integrally formed with the contact part.

Due to the integral nature of the contact part, there is the advantage that in assembly a single element, namely the contact part with the carrier tape, must be connected. That is, the provision and handling of additional fasteners deleted.

In addition, the contact part itself can be produced by a forming process very easily and in large quantities efficiently.

Preferably, the at least one connecting element is formed in one piece on the contact part via the fastening section. In particular, the at least one connecting element is formed from the fastening section.

Particularly preferably, the at least one connecting element is pressed out of the fastening section via an embossing process or an enforcing process. That is, the connecting element can be formed by already existing on the attachment portion material.

Preferably, the fastening portion after pressing out of the connecting element opposite to the connecting element on a recess, wherein the volume of the recess substantially corresponds to the volume of the pushed-out connecting element. The attachment portion is thus plastically deformed to form the connecting element in the region of the connecting element. Preferably, the attachment portion is preferably not formed in the region of the connecting element with an increased proportion of material, whereby the said indentation is formed by the plastic deformation.

In a second embodiment, which is claimed in claim 5, the at least one plastically deformable connecting element before the plastic deformation and before the connection with the carrier tape is fixedly arranged on the contact part. Furthermore, the at least one connecting element has a shaft projecting from the fastening section, which shaft is plastically deformed in a shaping process in such a way that the shaft forms a mechanically strong connection with the carrier strip. After the second embodiment, the at least one plastic connecting element before the forming process, ie before the plastic deformation of the shaft, fixedly arranged on the mounting portion. That is, the connecting element may be a separate element, which is firmly connected to the contact part via the mounting portion in time before the connection to the carrier tape and before riveting. That is, the connecting element and the contact part form a one-piece structure for mounting on the carrier tape, which has the advantages mentioned above in connection with the first embodiment. Preferably, the at least one connecting element according to the second embodiment projects with the shaft through an opening in the fastening section and is firmly fastened to the fastening section, wherein the fastening is positive-locking and / or non-positive and / or material-locking. With regard to all embodiments, the expression "mechanically fixed" means that the contact part is fixedly connected to the carrier strip via the plastically deformed shaft, ie, that it is essentially non-detachable The mechanically strong connection is preferably a non-positive and / or positive locking and / or or a material connection.

The connecting element or the shaft is deformed in all embodiments substantially on the side opposite the contact part of the carrier tape, wherein the shaft extends substantially completely through the attachment opening therethrough. In the undeformed state, the shaft protrudes from said opposite side of the carrier tape and is then deformed against the carrier tape.

Preferably, for the purpose of mechanical connection in all embodiments of the shaft is pressed by the forming operation against the wall of the mounting hole. The shaft is thus plastically deformed during the forming process, whereby its diameter is larger. That is, the shaft is pressed with its lateral surface transverse to the shaft axis against the wall of the mounting hole. In this way, the said non-positive connection can be provided. Alternatively, for the purpose of mechanical connection, the connecting element protrudes with its shank over the carrier strip prior to plastic deformation, and a head section is formed at the protruding end of the shank by the forming operation, the extent of which is greater than the cross section of the attachment opening transverse to the shank axis. In this way, the said positive connection can be provided.

In a further alternative, the shaft is pressed by the forming operation against the wall of the mounting opening for the purpose of mechanical connection and it is formed at the protruding end of the shaft by the forming a head portion whose extension is transverse to the shaft axis greater than the cross section of the mounting hole. In this way, the said non-positive and positive connection can be provided.

In other words, the connecting elements extend away from an underside of the contact part, which faces the carrier tape, protrude through fastening openings in the carrier tape and are plastically deformed on the side of the carrier tape opposite the support of the contact part.

Preferably, in all the embodiments described herein, the stem is deformed with respect to the protruding part over its entire cross-section. That is, the shaft is completely plastically compressed with a tool over its cross section. Alternatively, the shaft can also be selectively deformed at different portions of its cross section. This means that even with larger cross sections, only partial areas of the shaft can be plastically deformed. For example, a tool can engage at different locations on the shaft end, so that not the entire shaft cross section is reshaped. Supporting the plastic deformation, the connecting element can also be welded or soldered.

Preferably, in all embodiments described herein, the one of Mounting portion projecting shaft in the undeformed state has a length which corresponds at least to the thickness of the carrier tape, and / or which corresponds to a maximum thickness, in particular half the thickness of the attachment portion. The thickness of the carrier tape is the extension of the carrier tape in the direction of the extension of the shaft.

Preferably, in each embodiment described herein, there are exactly two connecting elements or more than two connecting elements per contact part. Alternatively, a single connection element may also be present.

Preferably, exactly two or more than two connecting elements are spaced from each other, wherein the distance is in particular formed such that the connecting elements do not touch in the deformed state. This means that the connecting elements can be deformed independently of each other and above all without negative influence on each other.

Preferably, in all the embodiments described herein, the connecting element extends along a shaft axis viewed from the fastening section, the extension into a first transverse axis, which is transverse to the shaft axis, being greater than the extension into a second transverse axis, which is transverse to the shaft axis and to the first transverse axis lies. Alternatively, the extent may be the same. The connecting element is designed as non-circular or non-circular. The advantage of this design is that the cross section of the connecting element can be optimized, in particular can be chosen as large as possible.

In a particularly preferred development, the connecting element extends along a shaft axis as viewed from the fastening section, the extent in a first transverse axis, which is transverse to the shaft axis, being greater than the extension into a second transverse axis, which is transverse to the shaft axis and transverse to the first transverse axis lies, wherein the shank is selectively deformed at different portions of its cross section. Due to the selective deformation in this context, the advantage that the deformation can be better controlled and in particular in mechanically favorable Directions can be directed.

Preferably, the shaft is deformed on at least two partial areas or exactly two partial areas, which are opposite with respect to the second transverse axis.

Particularly preferably, the deformation is circular or polygonal.

Preferably, the first transverse axis extends at an angle inclined at an angle to the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape. The first transverse axis can also be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

Preferably, the at least one connecting element in all embodiments described herein has a circular or an oval or a polygonal or a n-shaped cross section. Particularly preferably, the at least one connecting element has a cross-section which is complementary to a slot. That is, the cross section has substantially the shape of a rectangle, wherein two opposite side edges are rounded.

Preferably, the shape of the attachment opening corresponds to the shape of the connecting element. Between connecting element and mounting hole, a small clearance with a maximum range of 0.1 millimeters can be present.

Preferably, the connector has a full cross section in all of the embodiments described herein. That is, the shaft has a full cross-section. But it can also be that the shaft is hollow.

The connecting element may also be referred to as a rivet.

In a further development, the carrier tape extending in the longitudinal direction comprises a plurality of attachment locations spaced apart in the longitudinal direction at a distance from each other, wherein the carrier tape is designed such that upon application of a force to the carrier tape in the longitudinal direction, a relative displacement of the attachment tabs to each other is possible. The contact parts each comprise a first contact portion for contacting one of the two contact pieces, a second contact portion for contacting the other of the two contact pieces, and a fastening portion for fastening the contact part to a fastening tab.

Preferably, exactly one single contact part is arranged per fastening strap. The number of attachment tabs corresponds to the number of contact parts.

The contact parts are formed separately from the carrier tape and are connected via the attachment portion fixed to the carrier tape. The contact part is in communication with the at least one connecting element with the carrier tape.

The material of the carrier tape is preferably different from the material of the contact part. The material of the carrier tape preferably has good elastic deformation properties and the material of the contact part preferably has a good electrical conductivity.

The material of the carrier tape is preferably made of metal, in particular steel, particularly preferably spring steel or non-rusting spring steel. The material of the contact part is preferably made of copper or alloys thereof. The contact part is preferably provided with a coating which improves the electrical contact. For example, by a silver coating.

Preferably, the carrier tape is produced by a metal strip, which is shaped in particular by means of a punching process or laser cutting. The metal strip can also be made otherwise.

Preferably, the second contact portion of the contact part is so to the carrier tape, that the carrier tape and possibly the connecting element in the contact position does not come into contact with the contact piece. For example, the second contact portion from the bottom of the connecting portion, which rests on the carrier tape, be discontinued or bent. The second contact portion may thus be part of a survey with respect to the attachment portion. Preferably, the cross section of the contact part in the region of the fastening section is larger than the cross section of the contact part in the region of the first contact section. The cross section of the first contact portion is thus tapered with respect to the attachment portion. Alternatively or additionally, the cross section of the contact part in the region of the fastening section is larger than the cross section of the contact part in the region of the second contact section. Alternatively, the cross section of the contact part in the region of the fastening section can be substantially equal to the cross section in the region of the second contact section.

The contact part can thus be formed in sections waisted.

As a result, with optimized use of material, a good mounting of the fastening section to the fastening strap can be achieved.

Particularly preferably, the contact part tapers from the attachment section to the first contact section.

As explained above, the contact part is fastened via the attachment section to the attachment point or to the attachment lug of the carrier band. The attachment portion may be formed differently according to the first and the second embodiment.

A method for producing a contact element according to the first embodiment according to the above description is characterized by the steps of

a) providing the carrier tape;

b) providing the contact parts; and

c) connecting the Kontakteile with the carrier tape and

d) the plastic deformation of the shank of the at least one fastening element,

wherein the step of providing the contact parts comprises forming the fastener from the contact part. A method for producing a contact element according to the second embodiment according to the above description is characterized by the steps of

a) providing the carrier tape;

b) providing the contact parts; and

c) connecting the Kontakteile with the carrier tape and

d) the plastic deformation of the shank of the at least one

Fastener,

wherein the step of providing the contact parts comprises firmly fixing the fastener to the contact part.

Further embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, which are given by way of illustration only and are not to be interpreted as limiting. In the drawings show:

Fig. 1 is a side view of a contact element according to the present invention

Invention;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the contact element according to FIG. 1 from above; FIG.

3 is a perspective view of the contact element of Figure 1 from below.

Fig. 4 is a plan view of the contact element of Figure 1;

5 shows a sectional view through the contact element according to FIG. 1 with the contact part not yet fastened;

Fig. 6 is a sectional view through the contact element of Figure 1 with attached

Contact part;

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a contact element according to another

Embodiment of the present invention from above;

8 is a perspective view of the contact element of Figure 7 from below. 9 is a perspective view of a contact element according to another

Embodiment of the present invention from above;

10 is a perspective view of the contact element of Figure 9 from below.

Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a contact element according to another Embodiment of the present invention from above;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the contact element according to FIG. 11 from below; FIG.

Fig. 13 is a partially sectioned side view of the contact element after

further embodiment of the present invention from above;

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of the contact element according to FIG. 13 from below; FIG. and

Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a contact element according to the figures

13 and 14 from below.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the figures, various embodiments of a contact element 1 according to the invention are shown. The contact element 1 mediates an electrical contact between a first contact piece and a second contact piece. For this purpose, the contact element 1 contacts a contact surface of a contact piece and a contact surface of the other contact piece. Due to its resilient properties, which are described in more detail below, the contact element is always pressed in the contact position against the two contact surfaces of the contacts. According to all embodiments, the contact element 1 for mediating the electrical contact between the two contact pieces comprises a carrier strip 2 extending in the longitudinal direction L and a plurality of contact parts 5,, 5a, 5b which are connected to the carrier strip 2. The carrier tape 2 serves for the storage of the contact parts 5 and not the mediation of an electrical contact, while the contact parts 5 are arranged for the transmission of an electrical contact. The longitudinal direction L extends in the figure 1 at right angles to the drawing sheet surface. The longitudinal direction L may be curved depending on the installation position of the contact element or extend along a straight line. For example, the longitudinal direction L during installation of the contact element 1 in a female / male combination around a central axis formed circumferentially. When contacting two contact pieces, which is substantially flat, the longitudinal direction L can extend along a straight line.

The carrier tape 2 can in its longitudinal direction L, as will be explained below, be flexible or rigid. In FIGS. 1 to 6, a carrier strip 2 which is designed to be flexible in the longitudinal direction L is shown, while in FIGS. 7 to 12 a carrier strip 2 which is substantially rigid in the longitudinal direction L is shown. Regardless of the shape of the carrier tape 2 are the contact parts 5, 5a, 5b via attachment points 3 with the carrier tape 2 in connection.

The contact parts 5 each comprise a first contact section 6 for contacting one of the two contact pieces, a second contact section 7 for contacting the other of the two contact pieces, and a fastening section 8 for fastening the contact part 5 to an attachment point 3 of the carrier strip 2.

Each of the contact parts comprises at least one connecting element 50 for fastening the contact part 5, 5 a, 5 b on the carrier tape 2. The connecting element 50 is provided on the fastening section 8.

In all the embodiments shown, the at least one connecting element 50 is an integral part of the contact part 5, 5a, 5b. That is, the at least one connecting element 50 is integrally formed on the contact part 5, 5a, 5b. The contact part 5 and the connecting element 50 thus form a one-piece structure. The at least one connecting element 50 has a shaft 51 protruding from the fastening section 8, which shaft 51 is plastically deformed in a forming process in such a way that a mechanically strong connection between the contact part 5a, 5b and the carrier strip 2 is provided. In FIG. 5, the contact part 5b is shown at a distance from the carrier tape 2. The connecting element 50 is not yet transformed here. The contact part 5b is moved toward the carrier tape 2 and the connecting element 50 then projects through the attachment opening 53. In Figures 1 to 4 and 6 and in Figures 7 to 12, the connecting element is shown in the formed state. In the embodiment shown, the shank 51 is deformed such that a head portion 54 is formed with the head portion 54 pressed against the carrier tape 2. The shaft 51 extends, as in the figure 5 and 6, through a arranged in the carrier tape 2 rivet opening 53 therethrough. In addition, however, the outer diameter of the shaft 51 is deformed and pressed against the wall 55 of the mounting hole. The same applies to the embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 12.

In an alternative, not shown, it would also be conceivable that only the shank 51 is deformed, the shank 51 then experiencing an increase in diameter, so that the shank 51 is pressed against the wall 55 in the interior of the fastening opening 53. The shaft 51 is held in a force-locking manner in the interior of the attachment opening 53.

Here, the connecting element 50 is plastically deformed in the region of the underside 25 of the carrier strip, so that a head section 54 is formed, with which the carrier strip 2 is clamped to the contact part 5, 5a, 5b. The connecting element 50 protrudes through a mounting opening 53 through the carrier tape 2. The attachment opening 50, in particular the shaft 51, as well as the attachment opening 53 have essentially the same cross-section. The attachment opening 53 here has the shape of a slot and the shaft 51 is complementary or designed to match.

As mentioned, in all the embodiments shown, the at least one connecting element 50 is integrally formed on the attachment portion 8 in one piece on the contact part 5, 5a, 5b. In the embodiment shown, the at least one connecting element 50 is formed from the fastening section 8. The at least one connecting element 50 is thereby pressed out of the fastening section 8 via an embossing process or a piercing process. With the embossing tool or an insertion tool, the attachment portion 8 is plastically deformed from the upper side 22 forth and the connecting elements are pushed out on the underside 26 of the contact element 5, 5a, 5b.

As a result of this extrusion, a recess 52 is formed opposite the connecting element 50. The volume of the recess 52 essentially corresponds to the volume of the pressed-out connecting element 50. In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 6, two connecting elements 50 are arranged per contact part 5, 5a, 5b. In the embodiment according to FIGS. 7 to 8 and FIGS. 11 to 12, two connecting elements 50 are likewise arranged per contact part 5, wherein in each case one of the connecting elements 50 is arranged on a respective fastening section 8. In the embodiment according to FIGS. 9 to 10, a connecting element 50 is arranged.

The carrier tape 2 has for receiving the connecting elements 50 mounting openings 53. The number of fastening openings 53 and their position is adapted to the number and position of the connecting elements 50. The attachment openings 53 in the carrier tape are produced, for example, by a punching process. Before the plastic deformation, the connecting element 50 protrudes with its shaft 51 over the carrier tape 2. After the plastic deformation, the shank 51 extends through the attachment opening 53 and the head section 54 protrudes beyond the carrier tape 2.

Preferably, the stem 51 is deformed with respect to the protruding part over its entire cross section. Alternatively, the shaft 51 may be selectively deformed at different portions of its cross section. In this case, not the entire cross section of the shank 51 is deformed, but only a partial cross section of the shank 51 is deformed.

The connecting elements 50 are spaced from each other here, wherein the distance is in particular designed such that the connecting elements 50 do not touch in the deformed state.

The connecting element 50 extends along a central axis S as viewed from the fastening section 8. According to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, the connecting element 50 is formed as follows: The expansion of the connecting element 50 into a first transverse axis Ql, which is transverse to the central axis S. here larger than the extension in a second transverse axis Q2, which is transverse to the central axis S and the first transverse axis Ql. The first Transverse axis Ql is angled at an angle δ inclined to the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape 2. The transverse axis Ql can also extend at right angles to the longitudinal direction.

The connecting element 50 according to the embodiment of Figures 1 to 6 and according to the embodiment of Figures 7 to 8 has a cross-section which is suitable for the shape of the mounting hole 53, which here has the shape of a slot.

The connecting element 50 according to the embodiment of Figures 9 to 10 has a substantially rectangular cross section, wherein the rectangle has a constriction at the longer edges. The cross section may also be referred to as a cross shape. Under the condition that sufficient material is available for the deformation, the cross section can be basically arbitrary.

The connecting element 50 has, according to the embodiment of FIGS. 11 to 12, a substantially round cross-section.

The cross section of the connecting element 50 may be interchanged among the embodiments. However, the connecting element 50 can also have an oval or a square or polygonal cross section.

The attachment to the at least one connector 50 could be assisted in addition to mechanical attachment with a weld or solder joint. The connecting element 50 could therefore be welded or soldered to the carrier tape 2.

In a second embodiment of the connecting element, the at least one connecting element is fixedly arranged on the contact part before the riveting and before the connection with the carrier tape. This second embodiment can be used in all embodiments shown herein. That is, the contact part 5, 5 a, 5 b can be connected to the connecting element 50 before the connection with the carrier tape 2. Preferably, the at least one connecting element according to the second embodiment with the shaft protrudes through an opening in the fastening portion and fixedly secured to the mounting portion, wherein the attachment positive and / or non-positive and / or cohesive.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, an exemplary carrier tape 2 to which the contact parts 5 are attached is shown. The carrier tape 2 is here designed in such a way that, when a force F is applied, it presses or stretches on the carrier tape 2 in the longitudinal direction L. The carrier tape 2 is therefore designed to be variable in its length. The change in the length of the carrier tape 2 is preferably carried out in the elastic region. The force F is symbolized in FIG. 2 as a double arrow. The carrier tape can also be designed differently. For example, rigid.

The carrier tape 2 comprises in the embodiment shown a plurality of fastening points in the form of fastening tabs 3. The fastening tabs 3 are seen in the longitudinal direction L spaced apart from each other at a distance. In the embodiment shown, two rows of fastening tabs 3 are arranged. One row comprises first fastening tabs 3a, which are arranged one after the other in the longitudinal direction L, and the other row comprises second fastening tabs 3b, which are likewise arranged one after the other in the longitudinal direction L. The two rows thus extend in the longitudinal direction L, wherein the rows are in a transverse direction, which is transverse to the longitudinal direction, spaced from each other. The distance between the fastening tabs 3 in both rows is identical. However, the first fastening tabs 3a are arranged offset in the longitudinal direction L by an offset to the second fastening tabs 3b.

In the figures, a symmetrical arrangement of the fastening tabs 3 with respect to the longitudinal direction L is shown. An asymmetrical arrangement is also conceivable.

Located midway between the row of the first fastening tabs 3a and the row of the second fastening tabs 3b is a center line M, which also extends in the longitudinal direction L. The first attachment tabs 3a and the second attachment tabs 3b are spaced transversely of the centerline M with respect to the transverse direction.

At the attachment tabs 3, the contact parts 5 are attached to the carrier tape 2. If now the carrier tape 2 is acted upon by the force F, the distance between changes the fastening tabs 3 and thus there is also a change in the distance between the contact parts. 5

In the embodiment shown, in each case two fastening straps 3, which follow each other directly in the longitudinal direction L, are connected to one another via a web 4. The web 4 here extends at an angle inclined at an angle to the longitudinal direction L. In the embodiment shown, a first web 4a extends from a first fastening tab 3a to a second fastening tab 3b. The web 4 is in each case formed on the inner edges 21 of the respective fastening tabs 3a, 3b. The inner edge 21 is the edge of the fastening tab 3a, 3b, which faces the respective other fastening tab 3b, 3a. A second web 4b extends to a further first fastening tab 3a. The web 4b extends away from the same inner edge 21 of the second mounting tab 3b, as the first web 4a is formed. The second web 4b is also inclined at an angle to the longitudinal direction L.

In other words, the webs 4a, 4b extend alternately from a fastening tab 3a in the first row to a fastening tab in the second row 3b and vice versa. By means of such an arrangement of the attachment tabs 3a, 3b and of the webs 4a, 4b, a meandering structure of the carrier tape 2 is achieved, which is easily deformable in its length.

This arrangement of the webs 4 and the fastening tab 3 is then repeated over the longitudinal direction L many times, so that the actual carrier tape 2 can be provided, which has a multiplicity of fastening tabs 3 and webs 4.

As mentioned above, the carrier tape can also be designed differently. Alternatively, the carrier tape 2 may be formed such that it substantially does not deform when a force F is applied to the carrier tape 2 in the longitudinal direction L. The carrier tape 2 is formed in this variant in its length is not variable. Such a carrier tape 2 may be formed from a flat band, the thickness of which is smaller by a multiple than its width. In the illustrated embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 6, a first contact part 5a with its fastening section 8 is in each case connected to a first fastening tab 3a. A second contact part 5b is in each case connected with its fastening section 8 with a second fastening strap 3b. The first contact part 5a, which is in communication with the first fastening tab 3a, is oriented with its first contact section 6 toward the second contact part 5b, which is in communication with the second fastening tab 3b. The first contact section 6 thus protrudes toward the second contact part 5b. Likewise, the second contact part 5b, which is in communication with the second fastening tab 3b, is oriented with its first contact section 6 toward the first contact part 5a which is in communication with the first fastening tab 3a. In this case, the contact parts 5a, 5b are arranged such that the respective first contact sections 6 extend from the fastening tab 3a, 3b over the center line M, which extends in the longitudinal direction L between the two fastening sections 3a, 3b. That is, the first contact portions 6 of the respective contact parts are at least partially on the other side with respect to the center line M.

In the figure 1 it is also shown that the webs 4 are simply bent around a bent between the attachment tabs 3a, 3b center line M or formed repeatedly bent, so that the surface 24 of the mounting tabs 3a, which are arranged on one side of the center line M, angled inclined to the surface 24 of the mounting tabs 3b, which are arranged on the other side of the center line M lie. The bending point in each case bears the reference numeral 23 and the angle between the first fastening tabs 3a and the second fastening tabs 3b is indicated by β.

It is also shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 that in each case a second contact part 5b extends into the intermediate space ZI, Z2 lying between two adjacent first contact parts 5a. A first contact part 5a extends between two adjacently arranged second contact parts 5b into the intermediate space Z2. So it creates an entangling structure.

In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 6, the first contact section 6 of the contact part 5, 5 a, 5 b forms a free end 9, which protrudes from the carrier strip 2. The free end 9 is therefore not on the carrier tape 2, but extends from the mounting portion 8 from the carrier tape 2 away.

In the spring-loaded state, the free end 9 can project through a recess 35 in the carrier tape 2 through the carrier tape 2. The recess 35 is preferably provided by the intermediate region between two webs 4.

The attachment portion 8 is flat against the carrier tape 2. The second contact portion 7 is also depending on the type of attachment of the contact part 5, 5a, 5b, a free end or he lies on the bottom 25 of the carrier tape 2 at. This will be further explained below in connection with the attachment of the contact parts 5, 5a, 5b. In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 6, the second contact section 7 of the contact part 5, 5a, 5b is arranged in such a way to the carrier strip 2 that the carrier strip 2 does not come into contact with the contact piece in the contact position. The second contact portion 7 is formed as a kind of elevation 29 and is spaced from the bottom of the carrier tape second

In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 6, the contact part 5 in the first contact section 6 is formed with a rounding 11. The rounding 11 relates, in particular, to the top side 22 of the contact part in the first contact section 6, since contact with the respective contact surface also takes place via the top side 22. Depending on the design, the underside 26 of the contact part 5, 5a, 5b may be rounded. The rounding 1 1 extends with a constant or varying radius of curvature around a rounding axis Rl 1. The rounding axis Rl 1 preferably extends parallel to the longitudinal direction L. In the embodiment according to Figures 1 to 6 and the second contact portion 7 of the contact part 5, 5a , 5b rounded with a rounded 12 formed. The rounding 12 extends around a rounding axis R12 with a constant or varying radius of curvature. The rounding axis R12 preferably extends parallel to Longitudinal direction L.

In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 6, the second contact section 7 lies in the region of the fastening section 8. That is to say, the second contact section 7 and the fastening section 8 are spatially close.

In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 6, the rounding radius RH of the rounding 11 of the first contact section 6 can be different from the rounding radius R12 of the rounding 12 of the second contact section 7. The radii of curvature RH, R12 can also be the same.

In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 6, the cross-section of the contact part 5, 5a, 5b in the region of the fastening section 8 is greater than in the region of the first contact section 6. The first contact section 6 is thus formed tapered to the fastening section 8. The change in cross section may have different geometries.

In the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 6, the cross section of the contact part 5, 5a, 5b is larger in the region of the fastening section 8 than the cross section of the contact part 5, 5a, 5b in the region of the second contact section 7. The second contact section 7 is thus tapered formed to the attachment portion 8. The change in cross section may have different geometries. However, the degree of taper in the second contact section 7 is preferably smaller than in the first contact section 6.

In the embodiment shown, the second contact section 7 has an optional indentation 28, which extends into the second contact section 7 in the center through the second contact section 7 and transversely to the longitudinal direction L. With the indentation 28, a defined division of the contact surfaces can be achieved, whereby the contact resistance is more precisely defined.

In the area of the outer edge 13 of the fastening tab 3, the contact part 5 further has a projection 29. The survey 29 closes then the second contact section. 7 at. Due to the elevation 29 of the attachment portion 8 is rearwardly offset from the contact portion 7, so that the fastening tab 3 and the head portion 54 are also offset from the contact portion 7, such that they do not adversely affect the contact process.

In the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8, the contact part 5 is formed as a bracket. In the region of the bow bend 60, the first contact portion 6 is arranged and at the free ends 61 of the bracket, a second contact portion 7 is arranged in each case. In each area of the two second contact portions 7 a respective attachment portion 8 is arranged in each case. In each attachment section 8, a connecting element 50 is arranged as described above.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 7 and 8, the carrier tape 2 comprises fastening webs 63 projecting from both sides on a main web 62. The fastening webs 63 form a fastening tab 3 with the fastening openings 53 at the end. The fastening webs 63 also act as a spring element, in particular as a torsion spring element.

In the embodiment of Figures 9 and 10, the contact part 5 is formed as a rectangular part. The first contact portion 6 is formed substantially by one of the longer side edges, wherein the contact portion 6 is formed slightly cambered. In the embodiment shown, two contact portions 7 are arranged per contact part 5. The attachment portion 8 with the connection element 50 lies substantially in the center of the contact part 5 and is arranged as described above.

The carrier tape 2 comprises in the embodiment of Figures 9 and 10 of two parallel main webs 62 protruding mounting webs 63, which connects the two main webs 62. The fastening webs 63 form centrally a fastening tab 3 with the fastening opening 53. The fastening webs 63 also act as a spring element, in particular as a torsion spring element.

In the embodiment of Figures 1 1 and 12, the contact part 5 is formed as a triangle. In the region of the triangular tip 64, the first contact section 6 is here arranged and at the other tips 65 a second contact portion 7 is arranged in each case. In each area of the two second contact portions 7 a respective attachment portion 8 is arranged in each case. In each attachment section 8, a connecting element 50 is arranged as described above.

The carrier tape is formed according to the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8.

In Figures 13 to 15, a further embodiment is shown. The same parts bear the same reference numerals. This further embodiment differs from the embodiment described in connection with FIGS. 1 to 6 essentially by the deformation of the connecting element 50.

The connecting element 50 extends along a shank axis S as viewed from the fastening section 8. The extension into a first transverse axis Q1, which is transverse to the shank axis S, is greater here than the extension into a second transverse axis Q2, which is transverse to the shank axis S and transverse to the shaft first transverse axis Ql is located. The shaft 51 is selectively deformed at different portions 70 of its cross section. In the embodiment shown, the shank 51 is deformed at exactly two partial areas 70, which are opposite one another with respect to the second transverse axis Q2.

The deformation is polygonal in the embodiment shown and snuggles in the region of the outside of the shaft 51 of the shape of the shaft 51 at. In the region 71 between the two partial regions 70, which are deformed, the deformation is provided with a rounding 72. Between the two subregions, an optional indentation is present in the area 71, which can arise as a result of the deformation.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

contact element

Carrier band 60 stirrup bend, 3a, 3b attachment tabs 61 free ends

Web 62 main web, 5a, 5b contact part 63 fastening web first contact section 64 triangular tip second contact section 65 tip

attachment section

free end 70 partial area1 rounding 71 area

2 Rounding 72 Rounding3 Outer edge S Shaft axis1 Inner edge Qi First transverse axis2 Upper side Q2 Second transverse axis3 Bending point

4 Surface C Transverse Distance5 Bottom L Longitudinal Direction6 Bottom M Center Line8 Indentation P, P 'Arrow

9 Elevation ZI Interspace5 Recess Z2 Interspace0 Connection element F Force

1 shaft X length

2 Indentation RH Rounding axis3 Fastening opening R12 Rounding axis4 Head section

5 wall δ angle

Claims

1. contact element (1) for switching an electrical contact between two contact pieces (Kl, K2) comprising

a carrier tape (2) extending in a longitudinal direction (L)

and

a plurality of contact parts (5, 5a, 5b) each having at least one first contact section (6) for contacting one of the two contact pieces (Kl, K2), at least one second contact section (7) for contacting the other of the two contact pieces (K2, Kl ), and at least one fastening section (8) for fastening the contact part (5, 5a, 5b) to an attachment point (3) on the carrier strip (2), each contact part (5, 5a, 5b) comprising at least one plastically deformable connecting element (50 ) for fastening the contact part (5, 5a, 5b) on the carrier tape (2),

characterized,

that the at least one connecting element (50) is an integral part of the contact part (5, 5a, 5b) and

in that the at least one connecting element (50) has a shank (51) projecting from the at least one fastening section (8), which is passed through a fastening opening (53) in the carrier strip, whereby the shank (51) is plastically deformed in a forming process, the shaft (51) forms a mechanically strong connection with the carrier strip (2).

Second contact element (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanically fixed connection is a non-positive and / or a positive and / or a material connection.

3. Contact element (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one Verbindungsseiement (50) via the mounting portion (8) is integrally formed on the contact part (5, 5a, 5b), in particular that the at least one Connecting element (50) from the mounting portion (8) is formed.

4. contact element (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the at least one connecting element (50) from the mounting portion (8) is pressed out via an embossing process or a piercing operation.

5. contact element (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the fastening portion (8) opposite to the connecting element (50) has a recess (52), wherein the volume of the recess (52) substantially to the volume of the pushed-out connecting element (50). equivalent.

6. comprising contact element (1) for mediating an electrical contact between two contact pieces

a carrier tape (2) extending in a longitudinal direction (L)

and

characterized,

in that the at least one connecting element (50) is fixedly arranged on the contact part (5, 5a, 5b) before the plastic deformation and before the connection with the carrier strip (2) and

the at least one connecting element (50) has a shank (51) projecting from the fastening section (8), which is guided through a fastening opening (53) in the carrier strip, wherein the shank (51) is plastically deformed in a shaping process such that the shank (51) a mechanically fixed connection, in particular a non-positive and / or a positive connection, with the carrier tape (2) received.

7. contact element (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one connecting element (50) with the shaft (51) through an opening in the mounting portion (8) protrudes and fixed to the mounting portion (8), wherein the attachment form-fitting and / or non-positively and / or materially.

8. Contact element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

in that the shank (51) extends substantially completely from the side of the carrier strip on which the contact parts are arranged through the attachment opening (53) and that the shank (51) is plastically deformed on the side of the carrier strip which corresponds to the contact part opposite,

and or

that, for the purpose of mechanical connection, the shaft (51) is pressed against the wall (55) of the fastening opening (53) by the forming process; or

that, for the purpose of mechanical connection, the connecting element protrudes with its shank (51) over the carrier strip (2) prior to plastic deformation, and wherein at the protruding end of the shank (51) a head section (54) is formed by the forming operation, the extension of which extends transversely to Shaft axis (S) is greater than the cross section of the mounting hole (53); or

that, for the purpose of mechanical connection, the shank (51) is pressed against the wall (55) of the fastening opening (53) and that, for the purpose of mechanical connection, the connecting element is deformed by its shank (51) over the backing strip (3) prior to plastic deformation. 2) and wherein at the protruding end of the shaft (51) by the forming process, a head portion (54) is formed whose extension transverse to the shaft axis (S) is greater than the cross section of the mounting hole (53).

9. contact element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shaft (51) is deformed with respect to the protruding part over its entire cross section; or that the shaft (51) at different Partial areas of its cross-section is selectively deformed.

10. Contact element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mounting portion (8) projecting shaft (51) in the undeformed state has a length (X) which corresponds at least to the thickness of the carrier tape (2), and / or which corresponds at most to the thickness, in particular half the thickness, of the fastening section (8).

1 1. Contact element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that per contact part (5, 5a, 5b) exactly two connecting elements (50) or more than two connecting elements (50) are present.

12. Contact element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (50) seen from the attachment portion (8) extends along a shaft axis (S), wherein the extension in a first transverse axis (Ql), the transversely to the shaft axis (S), is greater than or equal to the extension in a second transverse axis (Q2), which is transverse to the shaft axis (S) and the first transverse axis (Ql).

13. Contact element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (50) seen from the attachment portion (8) extends along a shaft axis (S), wherein the extension in a first transverse axis (Ql), the transversely to the shaft axis (S), is greater than the extension in a second transverse axis (Q2) which is transverse to the shaft axis (S) and transverse to the first transverse axis (Ql), said shaft (51) selectively deformed at different portions of its cross section becomes.

14. Contact element (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the shank (51) is deformed on at least two partial areas or exactly two partial areas, which are opposite with respect to the second transverse axis (Q2).

15. Contact element (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the deformation is circular or polygonal.

16. Contact element according to one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that the first transverse axis (Ql) at an angle (δ) is oriented at an angle inclined to the longitudinal direction of the carrier tape; or that the first transverse axis (Ql) is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

17. Contact element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one connecting element (50) has a circular or a slot complementary cross-section or a n-square or a polygonal cross-section; and / or that the at least one connecting element has a full cross section or a hollow cross section.

18. A method for producing a contact element (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the steps of

a) providing the carrier tape (2);

b) providing the contact parts (5, 5a, 5b); and

c) connecting the Kontakteile (5, 5a, 5b) with the carrier tape (2) and

d) the plastic deformation of the shank (51) of the at least one

Connecting element (50),

wherein the step of providing the contact parts (5, 5a, 5b) comprises forming the connecting element (50) from the contact part (5, 5a, 5b) or firmly fixing the connecting element (50) to the contact part (5, 5a, 5b) ,