EP3815195A1

EP3815195A1 - Plug connector module having a module element

Info

Publication number: EP3815195A1
Application number: EP19736574.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Wilhelm KLIEVER; Irina Lötkemann; Heiko Meier; Bernard Schlegel
Original assignee: Harting Electric GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: Harting Electric Stiftung and Co KG
Priority date: 2018-06-26
Filing date: 2019-06-13
Publication date: 2021-05-05
Also published as: WO2020001687A1; CN114628943A; US20210265766A1; CN112335135B; CN112292785A; US11784435B2; US11387591B2; CN114628960A; WO2020001688A1; CN112335135A; DE102018115371A1; EP3815192A1; US20210273370A1; EP3869624A1; EP3905451A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a module element (4) for accommodating pluggable contact means and/or functional elements in order to provide an assembled plug connector module (4M), having the features: the plug connector has a slot (P) designed and arranged suitably for the plug connector module (4M); the contact means of the module element (4) run in a first direction (S) corresponding to the plugging direction (S) of the module element (4); the slot (P) has a length (L) running in a second direction (X) and a width (B) running in a third direction (Y); the module element (4) has a retaining contour (41, 42) arranged and designed in such a way that a first module element (4) can be joined with a second module element (4) in the second direction (X), and/or the module element (4) has a fastening contour (43, 44) and at least one fastening element (5), which are arranged and designed correspondingly in such a way that a first module element (4) can be joined with a second module element (4) in the second direction (X) and can be fastened thereto to form the plug connector module (4M); the first and second joined module elements (4) and/or the plug connector module (4) and/or the fastening element (5) being retained on and/or fastened to one another. The invention further relates to a plug connector module (4M) composed of at least two of the module elements (4) described above.

Description

Connector module with module element

description

The invention relates to a connector module for a modular connector and in particular to a module element provided for providing such a connector module.

Such connector modules are required to modular

To build connectors. The house

Connector modules have modular contact inserts and several, identical or different types of contact inserts

Connector modules are combined into one connector. The connector can do so with a high degree of flexibility

compiled and configured.

Connector modules are either directly in one

Connector housing inserted or first inserted and fixed in a module frame. The module frame is then mounted in the connector housing with the connector modules accommodated in it.

A large number of connector modules for modular connectors are known from the prior art. They vary in their size, number of contact means added, dimensioning of the contact means and type of contact means. Depending on the design of the

These can be used for the transmission of signals and currents of digital, analog, electrical, pneumatic, mechanical, optical or hydraulic type, for example.

State of the art

For example, from DE 296 01 998 U1 is a modular

Connectors with a metallic support frame and several individual connector modules with housed in them

Contact inserts known.

The holding frame is limited to receiving six connector modules arranged in succession in the longitudinal direction of the holding frame and adjacent to one another, after which one

The aforementioned desirable flexible combinability and thus variable use of the holding frame and its

Connector modules designed for flexibility and variability of the connector modules in the longitudinal direction of the

Holding frame is disadvantageously limited.

The German Patent and Trade Mark Office researched the following prior art in the priority application for this application: DE 10 2017 123 331 B3, DE 10 2014 108 847 A1 and DE 202 14 132 U1.

task

The object of the invention is to provide a connector module for a modular connector, which has an increased flexible combinability of contact inserts and / or variability

Contact inserts of the connector modules enable, so that the connector can be configured for a wide variety of applications. It is also the task of

Invention to provide a module element suitable for providing such a connector module.

The object is achieved with the features of the independent claims.

Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims and / or the following description, which by

schematic drawings is accompanied. The present invention relates in particular to a module element for accommodating contact means and / or functional elements which can be plugged in in a first direction, namely in the plugging direction

Provision of a composite connector module for a connector. Here, the connector module is provided for a slot of the connector that has a length that extends in a second direction, and that has a width that extends in a third direction, and is configured accordingly in terms of its length and width.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, the module element suitably has a holding contour, which is arranged and designed such that a first module element in the second direction with a second module element to the connector module

can be put together. The holding contours of the first and second

Module elements are advantageously positive

arranged interacting and / or configured in such a way that the first and second assembled module elements are held against one another in the first direction and in the third direction in a torsion-proof, tilt-proof and shift-proof manner and also in the second direction in which the first and second modules are assembled, are held against one another in a torsion-proof and tilt-proof manner.

The two module elements held in this way by means of the holding contour and assembled to form the connector module can only be moved by a displacement in the second direction, namely in the opposite direction to the second direction

are composed, separated again. By providing a protruding advantageous holding contour, the first module element can be easily assembled with the second module element to form the plug connector module. The above holding contour can be formed in a suitable manner on a first and a second edge of a first wall of the module element which extends in the plugging direction. This measure advantageously makes it possible to also form the holding contour on a wall of a module element that is only a small thickness in a structure sufficient for its projecting effect, without a wall of the module element in its predetermined function, such as for example the insulation of the module element impaired contact means and / or functional elements.

The above holding contour can be suitably formed on the first edge of the first wall advantageously in the plug-in direction in a first section as a first projection, and on the first edge in the plug-in direction in a second section as a first step.

The above holding contour can also be suitably formed on the second edge of the first wall in the plugging direction in the first section as a second step and on the second edge in the plugging direction in the second section as a second projection.

The above holding contour can advantageously be designed and arranged with its first and second protrusions and with its first and second gradations in such a way that the first protrusion interlocks with the second gradation, and the second protrusion positively with the first gradation

interacts.

Due to the arrangement and design of the holding contour described above with its first and second projection and its first and second gradation, a first module element can advantageously be assembled with a second module element of the same design. The second module element, which is rotated by 180 ° with respect to the first module element in the plug-in direction, is arranged so that it can be assembled with the first module element in the second direction such that the holding contours of the first and second described above

Interlocking module elements as intended and, as also described above, advantageously cooperating. The length of the protruding first portion of the first and second edges of the first wall of the module element and the length of the

protruding second portions of the first and second edges may suitably differ. This measure advantageously ensures correct assembly in the direction of insertion

only the first and second module elements aligned in the same way as intended.

The first and second sections of the holding contour formed on the first and second edges of the first wall can suitably extend together over the entire length of the module element in the plug-in direction, the first and second sections being arranged adjacent to one another. In this way, the full length of the first and second edges is advantageously used to form the holding contour, thereby achieving a particularly effective holding contour.

In the case of a module element which houses a predetermined contact means and for this purpose has a predetermined, suitable inner contour, its outer contour and thus its first wall and / or one or more other of its walls can have recesses suitable for a desired predetermined material compensation, so that the first and / or second section on the first and / or second Edge can be suitably interrupted accordingly.

On a second wall of the module element opposite the first wall, a coding and / or holding element of the

Module element can be provided, which is suitably arranged and designed such that the coding and / or holding element with a provided on the slot coding and / or holding element of the

Interactively engages slot so that the connector module is positively held and / or fixed at its slot.

The coding and / or holding element of the slot can have a coding that defines an orientation-correct seat of the connector module on the slot, wherein the coding and / or holding element of the slot can be a recess that can have a predetermined width. The coding and / or

Holding element of the module element can advantageously as a

Projection on the second wall, in particular in one piece with the second wall, can be a pin which can have a predetermined width, which suitably corresponds in particular with the width of the coding and / or holding element of the slot in a form-fitting manner.

After the coding and / or

Holding the assembled connector module in its intended position and also in a predetermined orientation in place, the coding and / or

Holding element of the module element has an advantageous double function.

As mentioned at the beginning, a module element for

Provision of a composite connector module for one Connector described a first embodiment of the invention, wherein the module element of the first embodiment has in particular the above-described holding contour formed on the first wall of the module element.

As also mentioned at the beginning, the present invention relates in particular to a module element for accommodating contact means which can be plugged in in a first direction, namely in the plugging direction, and / or functional elements for providing a composite plug connector module for a plug connector. Here is that

Connector module for a slot of the connector

is provided which has a length which extends in a second direction and which has a width which extends in a third direction, and is formed accordingly.

According to a second embodiment of the invention, the above module element advantageously has a fixing contour and at least one fixing element designed and arranged in such a way that it corresponds and corresponds to the fixing contour such that a first module element in the second direction with a second module element to the connector module

can be assembled and fixed together.

The fixing contour and the fixing element are suitably designed and arranged in such a way that they interact and interlock with one another in such a way that the first and second assembled module element and / or the connector module and / or the fixing element are secured against rotation in the first direction and in the second direction and in the third direction, are secured against tipping and shifting.

The first wall of the first and second composite module elements of the connector module suitably touch each other. The fixing contour is suitably formed on a second and / or third and / or fourth wall of the module element, the fixing contour advantageously having at least one step with at least one elevation.

In this regard, it should be mentioned that the first wall of the first and second composite module elements of the connector module of the first embodiment of the invention described above also touch.

The gradation of the fixing contour is not advantageous to everyone

Contacting walls of the assembled module elements, namely the second, third and fourth wall of the module element is formed, wherein the second wall is arranged opposite to the first wall, and the third wall opposite to the fourth wall

is arranged.

The gradation formed in the third and fourth wall suitably each has an elevation which can be suitably surrounded by the gradation formed in the wall.

As with the first embodiment of the invention described above, which has a folded contour, a coding and / or folded element can be provided on the second wall of the module element in the second embodiment of the invention.

As in the first embodiment, the coding and / or folding element of the module element can be arranged and designed in a suitable manner on the second wall of the module element such that the coding and / or folding element of the module element has a coding and / or provided on the slot Folded element with a positive fit

interacting in such a way that the compound Connector module is positively held and / or fixed in its slot.

The module element of the second embodiment of the invention can also suitably be used instead of the coding and / or holding element of the module element formed on the wall of the module element and / or in addition to the coding and / or holding element of the

Module element have a coding and / or holding element provided on the fixing element, which is designed and arranged in such a way that the coding and / or holding element of the fixing element interlocks with the coding and / or holding element provided at the slot in such a way that the

Connector module is positively held and / or fixed in its slot.

Here, the coding and / or holding element of the slot, as in the first embodiment of the invention, can suitably have a coding that ensures that the

Connector module defined in its slot.

As in the first embodiment of the invention, the coding and / or holding element of the slot can be a recess which can have a predetermined width, the coding and / or

Holding element of the module element can be a pin formed as a projection on the wall, which can have a predetermined outer contour with in particular a predetermined width.

The coding and / or holding element of the fixing element can advantageously be a U-shaped projection formed on the fixing element, which can have a predetermined inner contour and / or predetermined outer contour with in particular a predetermined width. The

predetermined inner contour of the coding and / or holding element of the Fixing element can be suitably designed in a form-fitting manner with the predetermined outer contour of the coding and / or holding element of the module element, and the predetermined outer contour of the coding and / or holding element of the fixing element can be suitably designed in a form-fitting manner with the coding and / or holding element of the slot his.

The above measures can advantageously

Orientation-correct orientation by means of differently designed coding and / or holding elements by means of interaction of corresponding, correspondingly designed coding and / or holding elements of the slot and of the fixing element are provided, the coding and / or holding elements of the module elements advantageously all having the same contour and therefore comparatively can be produced easily and in particular inexpensively.

The coding and / or holding element of the module element requires only one in for a desirable interaction with the coding and / or holding element of the fixing element, in particular also for receiving and / or distributing plug-in and pulling forces

Form-locking action with the coding and / or

Holding element of the fixing element, which by means of only one contour of the coding and / or holding element of the first and / or second

Module element can be provided.

The above fixing element can in particular advantageously be bow-shaped with a central section on which a first and second leg is angled opposite and parallel to each other. The fixing element can be designed and arranged in such a way that the fixing element positively engages around the second wall of the first module element of the module elements assembled to form the plug connector module in such a way that the central section of the fixing element engages positively in the gradation of the fixing contour of the second wall of the first module element.

The first and / or second leg of the fixing element can be designed and arranged in such a way that the first and / or second leg at least partially engages in the gradation of the third and fourth wall of the first module element.

The first and / or second leg can have a first and second recess, which are designed and arranged in a form-fitting manner corresponding to an elevation of the fixing contour of the module element in such a way that the fixing contour on the third and / or fourth wall of the first and / or second module element provided positively in the first and / or second

Recess of the first and / or second leg engages.

By means of a first and / or second fixing element with the above features and a first and second module element with the above features, a first and second module element of a composite connector module can be fixed to one another in a particularly secure manner and, in addition, the first and / or second fixing element can be particularly securely attached to the Connector module are fixed. The first and second assembled and fixed together

Module element and / or the fixed connector module can also have a first and second fixing element, which are designed and arranged such that the first leg of the first and second fixing element is longer than the second leg, and the first leg with the first and second positively an elevation of the fixing contour of the first and second module elements has a corresponding recess, while the second leg has no such recess.

The central section of the protruding first fixing element can be designed and arranged so as to positively engage in the gradation of the fixation contour of the second wall of the first module element, and the central section of the protruding second fixation element can thereby positively reach into the gradation of the fixation contour of the second wall of the second module element be trained and arranged.

The first leg of the first fixing element can be positively adjacent to the second leg of the second fixing element in the gradation of the fixing contour of the fourth wall of the module element

may be arranged, and also the first leg of the second fixing element adjacent to the second leg of the first

Fixing element can be arranged positively in the gradation of the fixing contour of the third wall of the first module element.

By means of the above-mentioned first and second fixing elements, a first and a second module element can be assembled

Connector module are particularly securely attached to each other.

In addition, with the above first and second

Fixing element the first and second module element can be assembled and fixed particularly easily. In this case, the first and second fixing elements can also be arranged in a simple manner, before the first and second module elements are assembled, in a form-fitting manner engaging in a fixing contour of the first and / or second module elements on the first and / or second module element. The above first and / or second fixing element can moreover have at least one hook-shaped angled portion, and the third and / or fourth wall of the first and / or second module element can have at least one groove which is arranged and formed in a form-fitting manner corresponding to the hook-shaped bend.

The above-mentioned first and / or second fixing element can also have at least one recess which is in the form of a hook

Angling is arranged and designed in a corresponding, corresponding manner.

The groove of the third and / or fourth wall and / or the recess of the first and / or second fixing element corresponding to the hook-shaped bend can be arranged and designed in such a way that the hook-shaped bend positively fits into the corresponding one Groove of the first and / or second assembled module element and / or engages in the corresponding recess of the first and / or second fixing element.

In a suitable manner, the first and / or second leg of the first and / or second fixing element can be arranged and designed to overlap with the second and / or first leg of the second and / or first fixing element, the hook-shaped bend with the groove corresponding to it can be arranged and formed on the first and / or second leg of the first and / or second fixing element. The hook-shaped bend and the groove corresponding to it in the first and / or second module element and / or the recess in the first and / or second fixing element can each be elongated and be in their

Extend lengthwise in the direction of insertion. In contrast to the embodiment of the connector module having a first and / or second fixing element described above, the first and second leg of a further embodiment of the Fixing element have the same length. At the end of the first and second legs of the fixing element that is spaced from the central section, the first and second legs can each have a first and second angling of the leg ends of the first and second fixing elements that are directed toward one another.

The central section of the fixing element can be arranged in a form-fitting manner in the gradation of the fixing contour of the second wall of the first module element of the first and second assembled and fixed module element and / or of the fixed connector module.

The first and second bends of the leg ends of the fixing element can advantageously be positively shaped in the gradation of the

Fixing contour of the second wall of the second module element of the first and second assembled and fixed module element and / or the fixed connector module is arranged and designed so that the elevations of the fixing contour formed on the third and / or fourth walls of the first and second module element also in a form-fitting manner the recesses of the first and second legs of the fixing element engage.

Using the above fixing element, a first and a second module element of a composite connector module can be fixed to one another in a particularly secure manner, advantageously only one fixing element being required for this.

In this embodiment of the fixing element, the central section of the fixing element suitably has a first coding and / or folding element described above, which is connected to the coding and / or

Folding element of the slot as described above

interacts. The second module element has its second Wall a second coding and / or described above

Holding element that interacts with the coding and / or holding element of the slot.

The above-described designs of the fixing element can be used for simple assembly on the plug-in connector module and / or the first and / or second module element and in particular for a desirably secure fixing of the composite

Module elements and / or the connector module and / or the fixing element on the modules and / or the connector module are advantageously designed to be resilient and advantageously have a thickness that corresponds positively to the depth of the gradation and the height of the elevations of the fixing contours formed on the modules.

A module element of a particularly advantageous third embodiment of the invention can suitably have a combination of the features of the above-described first embodiment of the invention having a holding contour with at least one feature of the above-described second embodiment of the invention having a fixing contour and / or a combination of the features of the above-described second embodiment of the invention having a fixing contour with at least one feature of the above-described second embodiment of the invention having a retaining contour.

The third embodiment of the invention can all of the above

described advantages of the first and / or second embodiment of the invention.

The above-described module element of the above first, second and third embodiment of the invention can be more suitable Way have a width that corresponds to the width of the slot of the connector module and / or corresponds to the width of the slot provided for the connector module, the assembled connector module can advantageously have a length in the first direction that matches the length of the slot

corresponds and / or corresponds to the length of the slot.

The module element can advantageously have a length in the first

Have direction that corresponds to half the length of the slot.

With the above features of the module element and / or the connector module with reference to the length and width of the

Slot stands for the module element and / or that

Connector module a desirable space for accommodating contact means and / or functional means available.

The first, second, third and fourth wall of the module element can also suitably form a circumferential wall of the module element which extends in the plug-in direction, so that a particularly compact module element using the for the

Connector module available space is provided.

The fixing contour of the module element of the second and / or third

Embodiment of the invention can also advantageously be formed and arranged on a third section of the module element which extends in the plugging direction and which at least partially overlaps the first and / or second section in the plugging direction, so that a desirable material and / or

Contour compensation of the folded contour of the first and / or third embodiment can be provided. The invention also relates in particular to a connector module for accommodating plug-in contact means and / or functional elements for a connector, the connector module being provided for a slot in the connector. The contact means of the connector module extend in a first direction which corresponds to the direction of insertion of the connector module. The slot has a length that extends in a second direction and a width that extends in a third direction.

The connector module is advantageously composed of at least a first and second module element according to the above

described first and / or second and / or third embodiment of the invention, and therefore also has the mentioned advantages of the mentioned embodiments.

The slot can be suitably from one for the

Connector provided module frame can be provided, which has two parallel to each other in the third direction extending side walls, which are spaced apart in the first direction, the distance of the side walls suitably the length of the

Slot corresponds.

The module frame can advantageously have a large number of slots for a large number of connector modules which are located next to one another and are arranged successively in the third direction.

By means of the provision according to the invention, one out of two

Module elements according to an embodiment of the invention in the longitudinal direction of its slot assembled connector module increases a desirable variability and flexibility in the

The connector modules and / or module elements can be combined many times over. At least one of the module elements of the above

The connector module and / or a module element according to an embodiment of the invention can suitably have a contact means and / or a functional element, the functional element being, for example and advantageously, a suitable sensor system for monitoring at least one operating state of the connector and / or connector module and / or module element can. As mentioned at the beginning, the contact means can be used, for example, for

Transmission of, for example, signals and currents of digital, analog, electrical, pneumatic, mechanical, optical or hydraulic type may be suitable, and the module element according to one embodiment of the invention can be used to accommodate the contact means as above

be appropriately described.

embodiment

Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and are explained in more detail below. Show it:

Fig. 1 A for a connector module according to an embodiment of the

Invention suitable module frame;

Fig. 1 B a suitable for the module frame of Fig. 1 A

Connector housing;

2 shows a module element according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 3 shows another module element according to an embodiment of the

Invention;

Fig. 4 shows another module element according to an embodiment of the

Invention;

5A shows two reduced representations of the module element from FIG. 4 from different perspectives; 5B shows the module elements from FIG. 5A assembled to form a connector module according to an embodiment of the invention;

6A shows two representations of a module element according to an embodiment of the invention from different perspectives;

6B shows three connector modules according to an embodiment of the invention in the direction of insertion from above;

7A shows a fixing element suitable for a module element and / or a connector module according to an embodiment of the invention;

7B another one for a module element and / or one

Connector module according to an embodiment of the invention suitable fixing element;

8A another one for a module element and / or one

8B another one for a module element and / or one

Fig. 9 with a fixing element of the embodiment of Fig. 7A

provided module element of Fig. 4;

10 shows the module element from FIG. 9 provided with a fixing element from a different perspective;

Figure 1 1 A is a common reduced view of the module elements of Figures 9 and 10.

Fig. 1 1 B the module elements of Fig. 1 1 A assembled into one

Connector module according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 12 shows another connector module according to an embodiment of the

Invention;

13 shows a further connector module according to an embodiment of the

Invention; and

Fig. 14 shows another connector module according to an embodiment of the

Invention. The figures contain partially simplified, schematic representations. In some cases, the same, but possibly not identical

Elements used identical reference numerals. Different views of the same elements could be scaled differently. The

For the sake of clarity and clarity, not all reference symbols are shown in all drawings.

FIG. 1A shows a module frame 2 suitable for a connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention, which is used in a connector housing 1 of a modular module shown in FIG. 1B

Connector is suitable. The module frame 2 is an articulated frame with two parallel, opposite side walls 20, each of which encodes K1, K2

Orientation correct use of a

Have connector module 3 and / or 4M in the module frame 2.

The module frame 2 of FIG. 1A is for accommodating six in the longitudinal direction of the module frame 2 next to one another and

successively arranged connector modules 3 and / or 4M, the connector modules 3 and / or 4M each having different contact inserts and / or contact means, and wherein the connector modules 4M furthermore in particular also functional elements such as a sensor system for detecting an operating state, for example one

Can have 4M connector module.

Here and below, and in the entire context of the application, the direction in which the parallel side walls 20 of the module frame 2 extend, namely the longitudinal direction of the module frame 2, is considered

Denoted Y direction. In addition, the direction in which the parallel side walls 20 of the module frame 2 are spaced from each other, namely the width direction of the module frame 2, becomes the X direction designated.

The connector modules 3 and 4M are suitably designed, adjacent to one another, successively in the Y direction, namely in the longitudinal direction of the module frame 2 in the intended for them

Slots P of the module frame 2 to be used. A slot P has a width B in the Y direction and length L in the X direction, which corresponds to the width B and length L of the connector modules 3 and 4M.

The connector modules 3 and / or 4M can

Width direction have a width that corresponds to the width of their slot P in the module frame 2, and have a length in their longitudinal direction that corresponds to the length of their slot P.

A used in the module frame 2 as intended

Connector module 3 and / or 4M points to the

Sidewalls 20 adjacent walls each have a coding and / or holding element 35 and / or coding and / or holding element 45 and / or coding and / or holding element 55, each with the coding and / or holding elements 25 of the side walls 20 correspond positively so that an orientation-correct insertion of a connector module 3 and / or 4M into the module frame 20

is ensured.

The corresponding coding and / or

Holding elements 25, 35 and / or 25, 45, 55 can thereby

Recesses 25 in the side walls 20 and on the aforementioned walls of the connector modules 3 and / or 4M and provided with the recesses 25 are suitable pins 35 and / or pins 45 and / or projections 55, each of which has a width corresponding to one another May have coding K1, K2.

The module frame 2 from FIG. 1A designed for a maximum of six connector modules 3 and / or 4M is incompletely equipped for a better understanding of the invention, four connector modules 3

as intended and a connector module 3 is incompletely inserted into the module frame 2 and a slot P with its width B in the Y direction and its length L in the X direction is exposed in the module frame 2.

The use of a module frame 2, which is provided with connector modules 3 and / or 4M as intended, in a connector housing 1 of a connector shown in FIG

Module frame 2 fastening screws 21 are provided, which are provided with corresponding ones on the connector housing 1

Threaded bores correspond to 1 1. The module frame 2 inserted as intended in the connector housing 1 of FIG. 1A points upward with its connector face pointing downward in FIG. 1B.

Those used as intended in their slot P.

Connector modules 3 and / or 4M extend with their contact means having contact inserts in the plug direction S and extend in their longitudinal direction in the direction X and in their

Width direction in the direction of Y.

Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a module element 4 according to an embodiment of the invention. The module element 4 has, for example, a plug insert suitable for accommodating power contacts, the module element 4 being designed such that its correspondingly accommodated contact means extend in a direction S which corresponds to the plug direction S of the module element 4. The more appropriate Modular plastic element 4 has a suitable inner contour for its plug insert and its contact means and

Outside contour, especially its walls. A holding contour 41, 42 is formed on a first wall 401 which is visible in the drawing and extends in the plug-in direction S and in the Y direction. The holding contour 41, 42 is suitably on a first 412 and a second 421 opposite one another

Plugging direction S extending edge of the first wall 401, so that the holding contour 41, 42 for the plug insert and the

Contact means required space of the module element 4 advantageously not affected.

In a second section S2 adjoining the first section S1 in the plug-in direction S, the first edge 412 of the first wall 401 is designed as a second step 42. That of the first edge 412

The opposite second edge 421 of the first wall 401 is formed and arranged in the second section S2 as a second projection 41 in such a way that the second projection 41 corresponds to the second step 42 in a form-fitting manner.

The further fourth wall 404 visible in the drawing and extending in the X direction has the same with the first wall 401

common edge 421. The module element 4 has the length L4 in the X direction and the width B in the Y direction. The width B and the

Length L4 of the module element 4 suitably corresponds to the width B and half the length of the connector module 4M for which the module element 4 is intended, as well as the width B and the length L of the slot P provided for the connector module 4M.

By means of the projections 41 and gradations 42 corresponding to one another in a form-fitting manner, one is advantageous Holding contour 41, 42 is provided, which allows two module elements 4 to be assembled in the X direction to form a connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention, the first walls 401 of the

Module elements 4 of the assembled connector module 4M are arranged adjacent to one another and touch and the retaining contours 41, 42 formed on the first 412 and second 421 edges of the first walls 401 interlock positively.

By means of the advantageous holding contour 41, 42 described above, they are assembled to form a connector module 4M

Module elements 4 in the plug-in direction S, in the X direction and in the Y direction by means of the interacting holding contours 41, 42 of the

Module elements 4 advantageously secure against twisting and tilting

held together and also held securely in the direction of insertion and in the Y direction.

The length of the first section S1 and the length of the second

Sections S2 are advantageously designed differently, which ensures correct orientation of a first and a second in the insertion direction S.

Module element 4 is ensured when they are assembled in the X direction.

Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of another

Module element 4 according to an embodiment of the invention, the dimensions of which corresponds to the module element 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 2 and, unlike the module element 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 2, has a fixing contour 43, 44 instead of the holding contour 41, 42, which with one below with reference to Figs. 7A, 7B, 8A and 8B

described fixing element 5 corresponds and cooperates in a form-fitting manner such that two module elements 4 arranged with their first walls 401 adjacent to one another by means of at least one fixing element 5 interacting with the fixing contour 43, 44 are fixable and form a connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention.

The fixing contour 43, 44 has a flat gradation 43 which extends in a third section S3 in the insertion direction S of the module element 4 with the exception of the first wall 401 over all walls of the module element 4. On the fourth wall 404, a flat elevation 44 is formed in the flat step 43, which rises to the level of the non-stepped section of the wall 404.

In this embodiment of the invention, the third wall 403 opposite the fourth wall 404 and not visible in the drawing is mirror-symmetrical to the fourth wall 404, so that the fixing contour 43, 44 with a step 43 and an elevation 44 in the two opposite walls 403 and 404 is formed. On the opposite wall 401 and in the

Drawing also not visible second wall 400 shows the

Fixing contour 43, 44 only the gradation 43 and no elevation 44. The depth of the gradation 43 of the fixing contour 43, 44 corresponds to the thickness of the at least one fixing element 5, which interacts positively with the fixing contour 43, 44 such that the fixing element 5 is composed of two module elements 4

The connector module 4M grips like a clamp and in this way fixes the two module elements 4 arranged adjacent to one another with their first walls 401. The module elements 4 are advantageously secured against twisting, tilting and

fixed against one another in any direction. Fig. 4 shows a further module element 4 according to an embodiment of the invention, which all the features described above

Designs of the module elements 4 of FIGS. 2 and 3 have and Accordingly, all the advantages of the two designs are combined, with regard to the above description

Reference is made to FIGS. 2 and 3. It is for a particularly secure fixation of two to one

4M connector module according to an embodiment of the invention

Assembled module elements 4 of further advantage that the section S3, in which the fixing contour 43, 44 extends in the insertion direction S of the module element 4, overlaps both with the first section S1 and with the second section S2, in which the

Folded contour 41, 42 is formed which, moreover, as in the embodiment of the module element 4 from FIG. 2, extends in the plug-in direction S of the module element 4 over its full length. FIG. 5A shows two scaled-down representations of the module element 4 from FIG. 4 from different perspectives, each of which

The first wall 401 having the folded contour 41, 42 is visible and the right representation of the module element 4 in FIG. 5A corresponds to the perspective of the module element 4 shown in FIG. 4.

The left-hand illustration of the module element 4 in FIG. 5A is rotated relative to the right-hand illustration such that the above under

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4 and described in the first

Wall 401 formed folding contour 41, 42 with that on the first

Edge 412 of wall 401 formed second gradation 42 is visible.

In addition, that is that above with reference to FIG. 2

described fourth wall 404 opposite third wall 403 visible in the left representation of the module element 4 of FIG. 5A. The two opposite walls 403 and 404 differ only in their first 412 and second 421 edges, which are common to the wall 401 and which, as above, refer to FIG. 2 are designed and arranged in a form-fitting manner corresponding to one another.

FIG. 5B shows the module elements 4 from FIG. 5A assembled to form a connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention, the first walls 401 being arranged adjacent to one another and touching and the pleated contours 41, 42 of the first walls 401 interlocking.

The two module elements 4 are in the X direction

assembled and form the connector module 4M, the assembled module elements 4 in the first plug-in direction S, in the direction X and in the direction Y by means of the interacting pleat contours 41, 42 of the module elements 4 being advantageously held against one another against twisting and tilting and also in the first plug-in direction S and non-shifting in the Y direction

are held together. Only in the direction X, in which the two module elements 4 are also assembled, can the

Module elements 4 are separated again in the opposite direction to one another, according to which the direction X is the only degree of freedom which the interworking folding contours 41, 42 of the assembled module elements 4 allow.

That composed of the two module elements 4

5B, which also cooperates with one with its fixing contour 43, 44

Fixing element 5 is provided, is shown in Fig. 5B and Fig. 1 1 B. The connector module 4M of Fig. 1 1 B is suitable for use in a modular connector and / or in a module frame 2 of a connector. For example, the connector module 4M for one under

With reference to Fig. 1 A described module frame 2 with

appropriate dimensions of the spacing of its side walls 20 may be suitable, the side walls 20 of the module frame 2 additionally effectively preventing separation of the assembled module elements 4 in the X direction. In this way, it is inserted into its slot P as intended in a module frame 2

4M connector module held securely and for his

intended use ready.

For this purpose, the module element 4 of the embodiment of FIGS. 4, 5A and 5B can have a suitable coding and / or holding element 45 on its second wall 400 opposite the first wall 401, which element corresponds to the coding and coding element described with reference to FIG. 1A / or holding element 25 of the side walls 20 of the module frame 2 can have a coding K1 and K2 which corresponds to the respective coding and / or holding element 25 in a form-fitting manner. The coding and / or holding element 45 can be provided by means of a pin 45 and / or projection which is suitably designed and arranged on the second wall 400 and in particular has a width corresponding to the coding K1, K2.

6A shows two perspective representations of a module element 4 according to an embodiment of the invention from different perspectives, which essentially correspond to the perspectives of the two module elements 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 5A. The module element 4 of the

6A is also made of plastic and, like the module element 4 of FIG. 5A, also has a holding contour 41, 42 and a fixing contour 43, 44, which are used to assemble and fix the module elements 4 to form a connector module 4M

Execution of the invention are suitably designed. In contrast to the module element 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 5A, the module element of FIG. 6A has, for example, a plug insert with an inner contour suitable for the use of contact means for a signal line, and an outer contour corresponding to the inner contour with a plurality of recesses for providing an

Material balance of the wall thickness of the module element 4. The folded contour 41, 42 and the fixing contour 44, 45 are partially affected by the aforementioned recesses, after which, for example, the second formed on the second edge 421 of the first wall 401

Projection 41 can be interrupted.

The two module elements 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 6A are also suitably designed to be assembled to form a connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention, the

6A is also advantageously compatible with the module element 4 of the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 5A and also with the module element 4 of the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 5A to a connector module 4M according to one embodiment of the invention can be assembled.

The above compatibility also for the most varied

Applications designed module elements 4 is particularly advantageous and allows desirable flexibility and variability

Connector modules 4M in their longitudinal direction X, that of the longitudinal direction X of a slot P provided for them, in particular one

Module frame 2 corresponds to a connector.

6B shows three connector modules 4M according to one embodiment of the invention in the plug-in direction from above, the connector module 4M shown in the drawing above being provided by means of two module elements 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 6A assembled in the X direction. The connector module 4M shown in FIG. 6B below is formed by means of a module element 4 of the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 5A, which is assembled in the X direction with a module element 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 6A.

The further connector module 4M shown in FIG. 6B corresponds to the connector module 4 of FIG. 5B, for which reason reference is made to the above description in this regard.

7A shows one for a module element 4 and / or one

Connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention suitable fixing element 5. The fixing element 5 can be made of a suitable

Plastic and in particular made of a suitable metal with suitable spring properties, such as VA sheet or spring steel.

As described above, the fixing element 5 is designed in a form-fitting manner with the fixing contour 43, 44 of the module element 4 in such a way that a first and second fixing element 5 each form fit in the

Fixing contour 34, 44 of a first and second to one

Connector module 4M engages composite module element 4 and thereby fixes the assembled module elements 4 in a rotationally secure, tilt-proof and non-displaceable manner in the plugging direction S, Y direction and X direction.

For this purpose, the fixing element 5 has a thickness which corresponds to the depth of the step 43 of the fixing contour 43, 44, and

Recesses 54 on the two with the elevations 44

Composite module elements 4 are arranged and designed accordingly. The fixing element 5 is bow-shaped with a central section 50. At the central section 50 extend in one direction angled legs 52 formed and arranged parallel to each other.

The central section 50 of the fixing element 5 is provided for positive engagement on the second wall 400 of the module elements 4 opposite the first wall 401 and is designed accordingly. One leg 52 of the two angled legs 52 is designed to be comparatively shorter, the short leg 52 being provided for this purpose and being designed and arranged accordingly to positively engage around a common edge of the first wall 400 with the third wall 403 of the module element 4.

The leg 52, which is designed to be comparatively longer, is intended to positively engage around a common edge of the second wall 400 with the fourth wall 404 of the module element 4, the third 403 and fourth 404 wall of the module element 4 being arranged opposite one another.

The third wall 403 also has the same first edge 412 as the first wall 401, and the fourth wall 404 also has the common second edge 421 with the first wall 401, in this regard also referring to the description with reference to FIG. 2 and Fig. 4 is referenced. The longer leg 52 also has recesses 54 which are arranged and designed in such a way that the recesses 54 correspond positively to an elevation 44, described above, of the module elements 4 assembled to form a connector module 4M.

On the upper edge of the central section 50, a substantially U-shaped projection can also be suitably configured Coding and / or holding element 55 may be provided, which may be designed to correspond to a coding and / or holding element 25 of a module frame 2. The coding and / or holding elements 55 and 25 can have codings K1, K2 which differ in their dimensions and / or design and in particular in their width. In this context, reference is made here to the above description of the coding and / or holding elements 25 with reference to FIG. 1A. The coding and / or holding element 55 can furthermore have an inner contour, which with the contour of one on the first wall 400

Module element 4 formed pin 45 corresponds, reference being made in this connection to the description with reference to FIG. 11B.

The two legs 52 suitably have a length which is designed such that the ends of the legs 52 of two fixing elements 5 which are intended to be positively inserted into the fixing contour 43, 44 of two assembled module elements 4 are arranged adjacent to one another.

The fixing element 5 of the embodiment of FIG. 7A can also have at least one angled hook 56 for positive locking

Have latching with at least one groove, for example, which can be designed and arranged corresponding to the hook 56 on at least one wall of the module element 4.

An example of a protruding hook 56

Fixing element 5 is shown in FIG. 7B, the hook 56 being embodied by way of example and advantageously on a recess 54 of the fixing element 5 and advantageously extending perpendicular to the direction X in which the module elements 4 are assembled. Of course one can Such a hook 56 can also be suitably provided, for example, on at least one end of a leg 52.

8A shows another one for a module element 4 and / or one

Connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention suitable fixing element 5 which, like the fixing element 5 described with reference to FIG. 7A, has a central section 50 with two legs 52 angled at the central section 50. One leg 52 of the two angled legs 52 is

Comparatively short, the short leg 52 being provided and designed and arranged accordingly to positively engage around the common edge of the first wall 400 with the third wall 403 of a module element 4.

The second comparatively longer leg 52 is in the

Substantially arranged and formed like the leg 52 of the embodiment of the fixing element 5 described above with reference to FIG. 7A, so that here refers to the above

Description is referenced.

In contrast to the longer leg 52 of the fixing element 5 of FIG. 7A, the longer leg 52 of the fixing element 5 of FIG. 8A also has a hook 56 mentioned above, which is provided at its end. The shorter leg 52 has one

Has recess 560 which is formed and arranged in a form-fitting manner corresponding to the hook 56. The hook 56 and the recess 560 advantageously extend perpendicular to the direction X in which two module elements 4 can be assembled to form the connector module 4M. In addition, the longer leg 52, which has the hook 56, has a length which is selected such that two are intended with their central section 50 into that on the first wall 400

trained gradation 43 each of a module element 4 of a composite connector module 4M used

Fixing elements 5 overlap with the ends of their respective first and second legs 52 in such a way that the hook 56 of a fixing element 5 interacts positively with the recess 560 in such a way that the two module elements 4 assembled to form a connector module 4M are fixed to one another and, in addition, the two Fixing elements 5 are fixed to each other and to the connector module 4M. The assembled module elements 4 are fixed against one another in any direction and / or plane in such a way that they cannot be twisted, tilted, or shifted.

The recess 560 formed in the short leg is also advantageously T-shaped and extends from its section which extends perpendicular to the direction X and which interacts positively with the hook 56, suitably up to the edge of the fixing element 5 which is used in the Angling his short leg 52 is formed. This measure advantageously ensures that the leg 52 having the recess 560 is at the same

Training by means of intended bending from the central section 50 is not damaged.

8B shows another one for a module element 4 and / or one

Connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention, suitable bow-shaped fixing element 5, which is form-fitting with the fixing contour 43, 44 of the connector module 4M and / or the connector module 4M in the X direction

Module elements 4 cooperate such that the assembled module elements 4 in any direction and / or plane are secured against rotation, tilting and non-shifting.

The fixing element 5 of the embodiment of FIG. 8B, like the fixing elements 5 of the embodiment of FIGS. 7A, 7B and 8A described above, has a central section 50 on which two legs 52 which extend parallel to one another are angled, which is why the above section is referred to here Description is referenced. The two legs 52 each have two recesses 54, which are designed and arranged corresponding to the elevations 44 of the fixing contour 43, 44 such that the recesses 54, when the fixing element 2 is arranged as intended, are assembled on two in the direction X to the connector module 4M

Module elements 4 from conclusively with the elevations 44 of the

Fixing contour 43, 44 of the module elements 4 interact.

The two legs 52 also point to the central one

Section 50 of the fixing element 5 opposite ends each have a mutually facing bend 51.

The length of the legs 52 is selected in such a predetermined manner that the two bends 51 form-fit around the two edges of the first wall 400 of the module element 4 spaced from the central section 50 of the fixing element 5 such that the two assembled module elements 4 in any direction and / or plane are fixed to one another in a rotationally secure, tilt-proof and non-displaceable manner, and that in addition the fixing element 5 is fixed to the connector module 4M and / or the module elements 4.

FIG. 9 shows a module element 4 from FIG. 4 provided with a fixing element 5 of the embodiment from FIG. 7A; 10 shows this with a Fixing element 5 provided module element 4 of Figure 9 from a different perspective. and FIG. 11A shows a common, scaled-down representation of the module elements 4 from FIGS. 9 and 10. Finally, FIG. 11B shows the two module elements 4 from FIGS. 9 and 10, each provided with a fixing element 5, put together to a 4M connector module according to an embodiment of the invention.

The fixing contour 43, 44 of the module element 4 is formed on its first 400, third 403 and fourth 404 wall in a form-fitting manner corresponding to the fixing element 5 in such a way that a fixing element 5, which is inserted as intended in the fixing contour 43, 44 in the gradation 43 of the fixing contour 43, 44 of the module element 4 is held. The two legs 52 of the fixing element 5 engage in a form-fitting manner in the two edges of the second wall 400 which extend in the insertion direction S of the module element 4 in such a way that they are held in the gradations 43 of the folded contour 43, 44 formed in the opposite third 403 and fourth 404 wall are. The central section 50 of the fixing element 5 is seated in a form-fitting manner in the gradation 43 of the first wall 400

Fixing contour 43, 44 of a module element 4.

The longer leg 52, which has the two recesses 54, is positively inserted into the gradation 43 of the folded contour 43, 44 of the fourth wall 404 of the module element 4 in such a way that the elevation 44 engages in a form-fitting manner in a recess 54 of the longer leg 52. The fold contour 43, 44 extends in a third section S3 in the plug-in direction S of the module element 4, which advantageously each partially extends with the first S1 and also extending in the plug-in direction S. second S2 section of the module element 4 overlaps. Here, as described above with reference to FIG. 4, the first S1 and second section S2 are in each case form-fitting with one another

Corresponding projections 41 and steps 42 are formed on the mutually opposite edges 412 and 421 of the first wall 401 of the module element 4, wherein a holding contour 41, 42 is provided by means of the projections 41 and the steps 42, which is described above with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG 4 is described.

Two module elements 4 described above, already provided with their intended fixing elements 5, can be assembled in a simple manner in the direction X, their

Fixing elements 5, each with their central section 50 and their longer leg 52, embrace the first wall 400 and the fourth wall 404 completely in a form-fitting manner, while the shorter leg 52 grips the third wall 403 in a form-fitting manner only in the region of their edge common to the second wall 400 ,

When assembling the module elements 4 provided with a fixing element 5 as above, the holding contours 41, 42 of the module elements 4 interlock positively. In addition, the exposed elevation 44 of the fixing contour 43, 44 of the third wall 403 of a module element 4 engages in a form-fitting manner in the exposed recess 54 of the fixing element 5 with its central section 50 on the adjacent module element 4 such that the two module elements 4 by means of their interlocking holding contours 41, 42 and by means of the interaction of the fixing elements 5 with the

Fixing contours 43, 44 are advantageously fixed to one another in a manner such that they cannot twist, tilt and shift

4M connector module according to an embodiment of the invention

is provided, which has two identical module elements 4. The fixing element 5 of the embodiment of Fig. 7A of

The connector module 4M of the embodiment of the invention described above can, like the fixing element 5 of the embodiment of FIGS. 7B and 8A, in particular on the upper edge of the central one

Section 50 suitably have a coding and / or folding element 55 designed as a U-shaped projection, which corresponds in a form-fitting manner, in particular with the width and / or coding K1,

K2 of a coding and / or folding element 25, in particular one

Module frame 2 can be formed so that a

orientation-correct insertion of the connector module 4M provided with two fixing elements 5 is provided.

In a suitable manner, the module elements 4 can be positively connected to the central section 50 of the fixing element 5

cooperatively formed second wall 400 have a pin 45 which is designed such that the pin 45 is independent of the coding K1, K2 of the coding and / or folding element 55, which in particular is essentially U-shaped on the central section 50, when fixing the two Composite module elements 4 is accommodated in the coding and / or folding element 55 by means of the fixing element 5 in such a way that in particular a lower edge of the pin 45 in the plugging direction S at a lower edge of the coding and / or

Folded element 55 is present. Flierdurch is advantageously ensured that the

Plug-in module 4M plug-in and / or pulling forces in each case in particular also on the fixing elements 5 of the

4M connector module act and evenly on it

Module elements 4 are distributed and / or transmitted.

The fixing element 5 of the embodiment of Fig. 7A of

Connector module 4M of the above-described embodiment of the Like the fixing element 5 of the embodiment of FIGS. 7B and 8A and 8B, the invention can also be carried out without a fixing element 5

formed coding and / or folding element 55 may be formed. A corresponding coding of the connector module 4M can be done by means of suitably designed and arranged coding and / or

Fold elements 45 are provided. The coding and / or

Folding elements 45 can be suitably by means of a

corresponding pins K1, K2 provided and formed on the wall 400 of the module elements 4 and 45 pins are provided.

A suitable one for such coding and / or folding elements 45

Fixing element 5 can be used instead of the above

Protrusion 55 formed coding and / or folding elements 55 have a recess corresponding to the coding and / or folding elements 45, which can be designed in a suitable manner such that for a desirable uniform transmission of insertion and / or pulling forces to the module elements 4 and the fixing elements 5 of the

Connector module 4M in particular a lower edge in the plugging direction S of the coding and / or folding elements 45 on one edge of the

Recess of the fixing elements 5 is present.

The coding and / or folding elements 55 of a fixing element 5 described above, like the coding and / or folding elements 45 of a module element 4, can also each be arranged and arranged in this way

be configured so that the connector module 4M by means of the coding and / or folding elements 55 and / or 45 also on it

intended position suitable for example in a

Module frame 2 is also kept correct orientation.

The above for the coding and / or folding elements 55 of the

Fixing elements 5 and the coding and / or folding elements 45 of the Module elements 4 of the connector module 4M of the embodiment of Fig. 1 1 B applies accordingly to the below

12, 13 and 14

Embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 12 shows a further connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention, which essentially corresponds to the embodiment of FIG. 11B and which also has two assemblies

4, which are fixed to one another by means of two fixing elements 5 of the embodiment of FIG. 7B, for which reason reference is made to the above description of the

Connector module 4M of Fig. 1 1 B is referenced.

In contrast to the connector module 4M from FIG. 11B, the fixing elements 5 of the connector module 4M from FIG. 12 have a recess 54 of the fixing elements 5 in the plugging direction S

extending flakes 56, each of which interacts in a form-fitting manner with a groove suitably arranged and formed on the module elements 4 such that the assembled module elements 4 are particularly securely fixed to one another in their position, in particular in the X direction.

FIG. 13 shows a further connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention, which, unlike the connector module 4M of FIGS. 11B and 12, has two composite module elements 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 6A, the module elements 4 using a

Fixing element 5 of the embodiment of FIG. 8A are fixed to one another in a rotationally secure, tilt-proof and non-displaceable manner. The interlocking interlocking contours 41, 42 of the

Module elements 4 fix the to the connector module 4M

Composite module elements 4 additionally secure against rotation Tilt-proof in the plug-in direction S and in the X- and Y-directions and also non-shifting in the plug-in direction S and in the Y-direction.

The two fixing elements 5, which are designed and arranged in a form-locking manner corresponding to the fixing contour 43, 44 of the module elements 4, and also with their flakes 56 form-fittingly designed and locked in place with their recesses 560, also fix the assembled module elements 4 in a non-rotatable, tilt-proof and non-displaceable manner in any direction , The fixing element 5 formed with the flake 56 and the recess 560 is particularly suitable for fixing one with another

Module element 4 to a connector module 4M assembled module element 4 of the embodiment of Fig. 6A after a

Module element 4 of this embodiment has a plurality of recesses formed in its wall.

The coding and / or folding elements 55 and / or pin 45 of the

The connector module 4M of FIG. 13 can be designed like the coding and / or folding elements 55 and / or pin 45 of the embodiment of FIG. 11B described above.

FIG. 14 shows a further connector module 4M according to an embodiment of the invention, which has a module element 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 4 and a module element 4 of the embodiment of FIG. 6A. The two

Module elements 4 are designed to be compatible with one another and assembled to form the connector module 4M, the folding contours 41, 42 of which interlock positively in such a way that the assembled module elements 4 are secured against twisting and tilting in the plugging direction S and in the X direction and Y direction and also in the plugging direction S and Y direction are fixed to each other so that they cannot move. The connector module 4M also has a fixing element 5 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8B, which is intended to be positively inserted into the fixing contour 34, 44 and, in the process, also fixes the two module elements 4 to one another in any direction so as to prevent twisting, tilting, and displacement.

For the coding and / or folding element 55 formed on the section 50 of the fixing element 5, this applies to the coding and / or

Folding element 55 of the embodiment of Fig. 1 1 B said. The free-standing one, on the wall 400 of the one shown on the right in the drawing

The pin 45 of the module element 4, which is designed as a module element 4, is suitably designed as a coding and / or folding element 45, which has a corresponding coding K1, K2 for an orientation-correct use of the connector module 4M. With regard to the pin 45 designed as a coding and / or folding element 45, reference is also made here to what has been said in this regard above in the description of the design of the connector module 4M of FIG.

Even if different aspects or features of the invention are shown in each case in combination in the figures, unless otherwise stated, it is obvious to the person skilled in the art that the combinations shown and discussed are not the only possible ones. In particular, units or feature complexes corresponding to one another can be exchanged with one another from different exemplary embodiments. Connector module with module element

List of reference symbols housing, connector housing

I threaded hole module frame

0 side wall

1 fastening screw

5 coding and / or holding element, recess module, connector module

5 coding and / or holding element, pin

module element

00, 401, 403, 404 wall

1 holding contour, projection

2 holding contour, gradation

12, 421 edge

3 fixing contour, gradation

4 fixing contour, elevation

5 coding and / or holding element, ZapfenM module, connector module

fixing

1 bend

0 central section

2 legs

4 contour, recess

5 coding and / or holding element, projection 56 Angle, hook

560 recess

B width

L, L4 length

K1, K2 coding, width P slot

s direction, insertion direction

S1, S2, S3 section

X, Y direction

Claims

Expectations

1. Module element (4) for accommodating plug-in contact means and / or functional elements for providing a

composite connector module (4M) for one

Connectors with the features:

the connector has a slot (P) which is suitably designed and arranged for the connector module (4M);

the contact means of the module element (4) extend in a first direction (S) which corresponds to the insertion direction (S) of the module element (4);

the slot (P) has a length (L) that extends in a second direction (X) and a width (B) that extends in a third direction (Y);

the module element (4) has a holding contour (41, 42) which is arranged and designed such that a first module element (4) can be assembled in the second direction (X) with a second module element (4) to form the connector module (4M) , the holding contours (41, 42) of the first and second module elements (4) interacting in such a form-fitting manner that the first and second assembled module elements (4) in the first direction (S), second direction (X) and third direction ( Y) are held against one another in a torsion-proof and tilt-proof manner, and in the first direction (S) and the second direction (Y)

are held securely against one another.

2. Module element (4) according to claim 1, wherein

the holding contour (41, 42) on a first (412) and a second (421) edge of a first wall (401) extending in the insertion direction (S) of the module element (4) is formed.

3. Module element (4) according to claim 2, wherein

the holding contour (41, 42) is formed on the first edge (412) in a first section (S1) in the plugging direction (S) as a first projection (41), and

the holding contour (41, 42) on the first edge (412) is designed as a first step (42) in a second section (S2) in the insertion direction (S), and

the holding contour (41, 42) on the second edge (421) in the first section (S1) in the plug-in direction (S) is designed as a second step (42), and

the holding contour (41, 42) on the second edge (421) in the second section (S2) in the plug-in direction (S) is designed as a second projection (41);

and wherein the holding contour (41, 42) is designed and arranged such that

the first projection (41) interlocks with the second step (42), and

the second projection (41) interacts with one another in a form-fitting manner with the first step (42).

4. Module element (4) according to claim 3, wherein

the length of the first section (S1) and the length of the second section (S2) differ in the plug-in direction (S), and / or the first (S1) and second (S2) section together in

Plug direction (S) extends over the entire length of the module element (4), and / or

the first (S1) and / or second (S2) section are interrupted at the first (412) and / or second edge (421), and / or the first (S1) and second (S2) sections in the plug-in direction (S) are arranged in succession and adjacent to one another.

5. Module element (4) according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein

A coding and / or holding element (45) is provided on a second wall (400) of the module element (4) opposite the first wall (401), which is arranged and designed such that the coding and / or holding element (45) with one on that

The slot (P) provided coding and / or holding element (25) interacts in an interlocking manner such that the connector module (4M) at its slot (P)

is positively held and / or fixed, wherein

the coding and / or holding element (25) can have a coding (K1, K2) which ensures that the

Connector module (4M) defined at its slot (P); and where

the coding and / or holding element (25) can be a recess (25) which can have a predetermined width, and the coding and / or holding element (45) a as a projection on the wall (400) of the module element (4) trained pin (45), which can have a predetermined width, which corresponds to the width of the recess (25).

6. module element (4) for accommodating plug-in contact means and / or functional elements for providing a

composite connector module (4M) for one

Connectors with the features:

the contact means of the module element (4) extend in a first direction (S), that of the plug-in direction (S) of the module element (4) corresponds to;

the module element (4) has a fixing contour (43, 44) and

at least one fixing element (5), which are arranged and designed correspondingly such that a first module element (4) can be assembled and fixed to one another in the second direction (X) with a second module element (4) to form the connector module (4M); in which

the fixing contour (43, 44) and the fixing element (5) in this way

are form-fittingly interacting and interacting that are arranged

the first and second assembled module element (4) and / or the connector module (4) and / or the fixing element (5) in the first direction (S) and in the second direction (X) and in the third direction (Y) against rotation, safe from tipping and

are fixed to one another so that they cannot move.

7. Module element (4) according to claim 6, wherein

a first wall (401) of the first and second composite module elements (4) of the connector module (4M) touch; and where

the fixing contour (43, 44) on a second (400) and / or third

(403) and / or fourth (404) wall of the module element (4) and has at least one step (43) and / or at least one elevation (44).

8. Module element (4) according to claim 7, wherein

the gradation (43) on the second (400) and third (403) and fourth

(404) wall of the module element is formed; and where the second wall (400) is located opposite the first wall (401) and the third wall (403) is located opposite the fourth wall (404); and where

the one formed in the third (403) and fourth (404) walls

Gradation (43) each has an elevation (44) which can be surrounded by the gradation (43).

9. Module element (4) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein

a coding and / or holding element (45) is provided on the second wall (400) of the module element (4) and is arranged and designed in such a way that

the coding and / or holding element (45) with one on the

Slot (P) provided coding and / or holding element (25) and / or interacts with a coding and / or holding element (55) provided on the fixing element (5) in such a way that it interlocks

the connector module (4M) in its slot (P)

is positively held and / or fixed; and or

the coding and / or holding element (55) interacts with the coding and / or holding element (25) in a form-fitting manner such that

the connector module (4M) in its slot (P)

is positively held and / or fixed, wherein

Connector module (4M) defined at its slot (P); and where

the coding and / or holding element (25) can be a recess (25) which can have a predetermined width and the coding and / or holding element (45) can be a pin (45) designed as a projection on the wall (400) can of a predetermined May have an outer contour with in particular a predetermined width, and / or

the coding and / or holding element (55) can be a U-shaped projection (55) which is formed on the fixing element (5) and which can have a predetermined inner contour and / or a predetermined outer contour with in particular a predetermined width, the inner contour of the U-shaped projection (55) can be arranged and formed in a form-fitting manner corresponding to the coding and / or holding element (45), and

the outer contour of the U-shaped projection (55) can be arranged and formed in a form-fitting manner corresponding to the coding and / or holding element (25).

10. Module element (4) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein

the fixing element (5) is bow-shaped with a central section (50), on which a first and second leg (52) is angled opposite and parallel to one another, wherein

the fixing element (5) the second wall (400) of the first

Module element (4) of the first and second module element (4) assembled to form the plug-in module (4M) positively surrounds, the central section (50)

engages positively in the step (43) of the second wall (400) of the first module element (4); and where

the first and / or second leg (52) engages at least partially in the step (43) of the first and / or second module element (4) formed in the third (403) and / fourth (404) wall of the first module element (4); and where

the first and / or second leg (52) each have a first and second recess (54), which is form-fitting

corresponding to an elevation (44) of the fixing contour (43, 44) are trained and arranged.

11. Module element (4) according to claim 10, wherein

the first and second assembled and fixed module element (4) and / or the fixed connector module (4) has a first and second fixing element (5), which is designed and arranged such that

the first leg (52) of the first and second fixing element (5) is longer than the second leg (52), and the first leg (54) has the first and second recesses (54), while the second leg (52) does not Has recess (54), wherein

the first section (50) of the first fixing element (5) has a positive fit in the step (43) of the second wall (400) of the first

Module element (4) engages; and

the first section (50) of the second fixing element (5)

engages positively in the step (43) of the second wall (400) of the second module element (4); and

the first leg (52) of the first fixing element (5) is arranged adjacent to the second leg (52) of the second fixing element (5) in a form-fitting manner in the step (43) of the fourth wall (404) of the second module element (4), and

the first leg (52) of the second fixing element (5) is arranged adjacent to the second leg (52) of the first fixing element (5) in a form-fitting manner in the step (43) of the third wall (403) of the first module element (4).

12. Module element (4) according to claim 11, wherein

the first and / or second fixing element (5) has at least one hook-shaped bend (56), wherein

the third (403) and / or fourth wall (404) of the first and / or second module element (4) has at least one groove, which with the hook-shaped bend (56) of the first and / or second

Fixing element is arranged and formed correspondingly in a form-fitting manner, and / or

the first and / or second fixing element (5) at least one

Has recess (560) which is arranged and formed in a form-fitting manner corresponding to the hook-shaped bend (56); in which

the groove of the third (403) and / or fourth wall (404) corresponding to the hook-shaped bend (56) and / or the

Recess (560) are arranged and designed correspondingly that

the bend (56) in a form-fitting manner in the corresponding groove of the first and / or second composite module element (4) and / or the connector module (4) and / or in the

Recess (560) of the first and / or second fixing element (5) engages.

13. Module element (4) according to claim 10, wherein

the first and second legs (52) of the fixing element (5) have the same length and have a mutually directed first and second bend (51) at their end spaced from the central section (50); in which

the central section (50) of the fixing element (5) has a positive fit in the step (43) of the second wall (400) of the first

Module element (4) of the first and second assembled and fixed module element (4) and / or the fixed connector module (4) is arranged, and

the first and second bends (51) of the fixing element (5) form-fit into the gradation (43) of the second wall (400) of the second module element (4) of the first and second Composed and fixed to each other module element (4) and / or the fixed connector module (4) is designed and arranged so that it engages

the elevations (44) of the fixing contour (43, 44) formed on the third (403) and / or fourth (404) walls of the first and / or second module element (4) fit into the recesses (54) of the first and second leg ( 52) grab.

14. Module element (4) according to one of claims 6 to 13, wherein

the fixing element (5) is designed to be resilient and has a thickness which corresponds in a form-fitting manner to the depth of the step (43) and the fleas of the elevation (44).

15. Module element (4) according to one of claims 1 to 5, furthermore with the features of the module element (4) according to one of claims 6 to 14, wherein

the module element (4) has a width which corresponds to the width (B) of the slot (P) and / or the width (B) of the

Slot (P) corresponds; and or

the connector module (4M) has a length (L) in the first direction (X) which corresponds to the length (L) of the slot (P) and / or corresponds to the length (L) of the slot (P); and or

the module element (4) has a length (L4) in the first direction (X) which corresponds to half the length (L) of the slot (L); and or

the first (401), second (400), third (403) and fourth (404) wall of the module element (4) a circumferential wall (400, 401, 403, 404) of the module element (4) extending in the plug-in direction (S) form; and or

the fixing contour (43, 44) on a in the insertion direction (S) extending third section (S3) of the module element (4) is formed and arranged, which at least partially overlaps with the first (S1) and / or second (S2) section in the insertion direction (S).

16. Connector module (4M) for housing pluggable

Contact means and / or functional elements for one

Connector with the features:

the contact means of the connector module (4M) extend in a first direction (S) that of the plug direction (S) of the

Connector module (4M) corresponds;

the connector module (4M) is composed of at least a first and second module element (4) according to one of the

Claims 1 to 15.

17. The connector module (4M) according to claim 16, wherein

the slot (P) is provided by a module frame (2) provided for the connector, which has two side walls (20) extending parallel to one another in the third direction (Y) and spaced apart from one another in the second direction (X), wherein the distance between the side walls (20) of the length (L) of the

Slot (P) corresponds; and where

the module frame (2) has a plurality of slots (P) located next to one another and successively arranged in the third direction (Y) for a plurality of connector modules (4M) arranged successively and next to one another.

18. Connector module (4M) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein at least one of the module elements (4) can have a contact means and / or a functional element.