EP4092838A1

EP4092838A1 - Housing assembly, plug connector, and connection assembly with a cable-fastening connector position assurance

Info

Publication number: EP4092838A1
Application number: EP22173722.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Rudolf Pamin; Carlo L'abbate; Ronny Puchner
Original assignee: TE Connectivity Germany GmbH
Current assignee: TE Connectivity Germany GmbH
Priority date: 2021-05-17
Filing date: 2022-05-17
Publication date: 2022-11-23
Also published as: DE102021112744B3

Abstract

The present invention relates to a housing assembly (1) for a plug connector (2) that may be plugged to a mating plug connector (6), wherein the housing assembly (1) comprises a connector housing (18) and a connector position assurance (20), wherein the connector housing (18) comprises a cable feedthrough (22) for passing a cable (8) into a housing interior (24) and a coupling device (26) which is configured to be movable towards the cable feedthrough (22) to a final plugged position (28) for plugging the plug connector (2) to the mating plug connector(6), wherein the connector position assurance (20) is configured to be movable relative to the connector housing (18) to a retaining position (48) and to be attachable at the cable feedthrough (22), wherein the connector position assurance (20) comprises a cable clamping section (50) and a locking section (70) disposed at the exterior on the cable clamping section (50), wherein the cable clamping section (50) surrounds a passage opening (52) for the cable (8) at least in sections, and wherein the locking section (70) in the retaining position (48) locks the coupling device (26) in the final plugged position (28). Due to a dual function of assuring the position and fastening the cable realized in the connector position assurance (20), the housing assembly (1) according to the invention is characterized by a comparably small number of components. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a plug connector (2) and a connection assembly (4) with such a housing assembly (1).

Description

The present invention relates to a housing assembly for a plug connector comprising a coupling device, for example, but not exclusively, for an electrical plug connector for use in the automotive sector. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a plug connector and a connection assembly with such a housing assembly.
In many technical applications, e.g. in automotive engineering, detachable plug connections are used to transmit electrical currents and signals. Modern plug connections must further fulfill a variety of additional functions that reach beyond the basic function of current and signal transmission.
All of these additional functions typically require separate components. For example, retaining devices are used to retain the plug connector in a specific operating position. Such retaining devices are often used in combination with coupling devices for mechanical assistance or for performing the entire plugging process. Furthermore, fastening devices for cables are provided for ensuring current or signal transmission even under conditions subject to severe vibration.
This increases the complexity of the plug connections in terms of the number of components required. At the same time, the amount of work and the fault rate in the manufacture and installation of the plug connections increase with the number of components.
The object of the present invention is therefore to reduce the number of components required for plug connections by combining several different additional functions in one component.
This object is satisfied by a housing assembly for a plug connector that may be plugged to a mating plug connector, wherein the housing assembly comprises a connector housing and a connector position assurance, wherein the connector housing comprises a cable feedthrough for passing a cable into a housing interior and a coupling device which is configured to be movable towards the cable feedthrough to a final plugged position for plugging the plug connector to the mating plug connector, wherein the connector position assurance is configured to be movable relative to the connector housing to a retaining position and to be attachable at the cable feedthrough, wherein the connector position assurance comprises a cable clamping section and a locking section disposed on the exterior of the cable clamping section, wherein the cable clamping section surrounds a passage opening for the cable at least in sections, and wherein the locking section in the retaining position locks the coupling device in the final plugged position.
With regard to the underlying object above, the functional integration explained hereafter is achieved with the aid of the connector position assurance which also represents the advantage of the housing assembly according to the invention.
Firstly, it is possible to mount the connector position assurance onto the cable in that a length of the cable is received in the passage opening of the connector position assurance. By subsequently attaching the connector position assurance to the cable feedthrough, as shall be explained in more detail below, the cable may be clamped by the cable clamping section and cable fastening may thus be achieved. The cable fastening develops in particular a vibration-damping effect since the free-floating length of the cable is reduced and a more favorable vibration behavior of the cable is set in this manner. This prevents, for example, vibration-related chafing of the cable insulation of the cable on the connector housing. The vibration damping also leads to less abrasion at contact surfaces of any contact elements of the plug connector and/or the mating plug connector.
Secondly, it may be prevented at the same time by way of the connector position assurance via the locking section that the coupling device is unintentionally moved away from the final plugged position. For this purpose, the connector position assurance is made to assume the retaining position once the plug connector is connected to the mating plug connector and the coupling device is disposed in the final plugged position. The coupling device remaining in the final plugged position ensures that the connection between the plug connector and mating plug connector continues to exist and thereby maintains the plugged position.
In summary, this means that, in the case of the housing assembly according to the invention, a function of fastening the cable is also integrated in the connector position assurance in addition to the actual function of assuring the position. Compared to housing arrangements in which the fastening and retaining devices are each present as separate components, the housing assembly according to the invention then has a smaller number of components and satisfies the object set out at the outset.
A plug connector comprising the housing assembly according to the invention also satisfies the object set out at the outset. The plug connector according to the invention there benefits from the advantages already mentioned. In particular, the comparatively small number of components in the housing assembly also contributes to improved manufacturability and useability of the entire connector. The functionality of the plug connector remains unchanged owing to the dual function of assuring the position and fastening the cable by the connector position assurance.
The above underlying object may also be satisfied by a connection assembly comprising a plug connector according to the invention and a cable, wherein the cable passes through the cable feedthrough of the connector housing, and wherein the cable clamping section of the connector position assurance is inserted at least in part between the cable and the connector housing.
The advantages already mentioned above are also exploited in the connection assembly according to the invention. Any play between the connector housing and the cable passed through the cable feedthrough may be selectively eliminated or at least reduced primarily by way of the positioning described of the cable clamping section. In the context of the connection assembly according to the invention, the connector position assurance therefore fulfills its dual function of assuring the position and fastening the cable and leads to a smaller number of components.
The cable may be either an electrical cable or a cable with an optical conductor. Embodiments with an electrical cable shall be discussed primarily hereafter. However, embodiments with optical conductors should not be excluded and are expressly covered by the present invention. Accordingly, the plug connector may be a purely electrical plug connector, an electro-optical plug connector, or an opto-electronic plug connector. The same applies to the connection assembly according to the invention.
The invention may be further improved by the following embodiments which are advantageous by themselves and which may be combined with one another at random.
According to a first exemplary embodiment, the coupling device may be configured such that the motion of the connector position assurance to the retaining position is blocked if the coupling device is outside the final plugged position, is disposed in particular in the immediate vicinity but outside of the final plugged position. For example, the coupling device may have a stop for the connector position assurance, wherein the stop interrupts a motion trajectory of the connector position assurance leading to the retaining position when the coupling device is outside the final plugged position. Once the coupling device is moved completely to the final plugged position, the stop leaves this motion trajectory of the connector position assurance so that the connector position assurance may now be moved to the retaining position. It is prevented in this manner that the connector position assurance is moved to the retaining position, although the coupling device has not fully reached the final plugged position. Situations may be detected and rectified in which the coupling device is only slightly outside the final plugged position and with a deviation that is not clearly recognizable to the naked eye.
In order to be able to attach the connector position assurance to the cable feedthrough, the cable clamping section may be inserted or introduced at least in part into the cable feedthrough. For example, the cable clamping section may be configured to be sleeve-shaped or ring-shaped at least in sections for this purpose. In particular, the cable clamping section may then be inserted or introduced into a ring-shaped gap between the cable and the connector housing. Depending on the application, the sleeve-shaped or ring-shaped cable clamping section may be open or closed in the radial direction with respect to the passage opening.
The cable clamping section, in particular cable clamping section configured to be the sleeve-shaped or ring-shaped, may have at least one discontinuation in the circumferential direction. As a result of this discontinuation, the cable may advantageously be inserted laterally into the passage opening during assembly. In the force-free state, the cable clamping section preferably comprises a cable introduction gap as a discontinuation. The connector position assurance may optionally be configured such that it may be spread by widening the cable introduction gap. For this purpose, the connector position assurance may be manufactured from material and have a geometry such that the cable clamping section withstands at least one widening of the cable introduction gap, without permanent plastic deformation, to a width that corresponds to the outer diameter of the cable.
A connector position assurance with a closed cable clamping section configured in a sleeve-shaped or ring-shaped manner is advantageously held captively on the cable. It is advisable to thread the cable through the passage opening prior to assembly.
For centering the cable clamping section when inserted or introduced into the cable feedthrough, the cable clamping section may comprise centering ribs pointing outwardly with respect to the passage opening. In addition or as an alternative, the cable clamping section may comprise clamping ribs pointing inwardly with respect to the passage opening for increasing the cable clamping force. For the purpose of ease of motion, the clamping ribs and/or centering ribs preferably run in the axial direction relative to the passage opening.
In order to simplify the insertion or introduction of the cable clamping section into the cable feedthrough, the centering ribs may be configured to be beveled or rounded. The clamping ribs may optionally also be configured to be beveled or rounded so that the cable is not damaged by sharp corners or edges of the clamping ribs when the connector position assurance is moved.
In order to further prevent damage to the cable, the connector position assurance may be configured such that the cable is clamped by the cable clamping section only when the connector position assurance is attached to the cable feedthrough and/or in the retaining position. For this purpose, the cable clamping section may comprise an outer surface that is conical at least in sections. In addition or as an alternative, the cable feedthrough may comprise an inner surface that is conical at least in sections. When the connector position assurance is attached to the cable feedthrough, the conical outer surface of the cable clamping section tapers in the direction of the connector housing, whereas the conical inner surface of the cable feedthrough widens in the direction of the connector position assurance. The surface pressure exerted upon the cable by the cable clamping section then increases steadily the further the cable clamping section is inserted or introduced into the cable feedthrough. The same effect may also be achieved by way of the beveled centering ribs described above.
An advantageous embodiment of the housing assembly is obtained when both the outer surface of the cable clamping section as well as the inner surface of the cable feedthrough are each configured to be conical at least in part, as described above. For attaching the connector position assurance to the connector housing, the two conical shapes may then be configured such that the cable clamping section and the cable feedthrough connect in a self-locking manner when inserted or introduced. An alternative or in addition, the connector position assurance may also be attached to the connector housing using other measures, for example, by latching elements arranged in pairs on the connector position assurance and on the connector housing.
According to a further possible embodiment, the connector position assurance may be configured to be compressible by compressing the cable clamping section. For this purpose, the connector position assurance may be manufactured from material and have a geometry such that the cable clamping section withstands at least one widening, without permanent plastic deformation, which closes the cable introduction gap of the cable clamping section or at least reduces its width. The advantage of this embodiment is obtained in particular when the outer surface of the cable clamping section and/or the inner surface of the cable feedthrough are each configured to be conical at least in sections, as described above.
According to a further possible embodiment, the housing assembly may be configured such that the connector position assurance reaches its retaining position once it is attached to the cable feedthrough. In particular, the retaining position of the connector position assurance may be characterized in that the cable clamping section is inserted or introduced at least in part into the cable feedthrough. In other words, the position that the connector position assurance assumes after the cable clamping section has been inserted or introduced into the cable feedthrough by way of a translation relative to the connector housing corresponds to the retaining position of the connector position assurance. This embodiment, referred to hereafter as a translationally activated configuration, advantageously enables simultaneous activation of the function of the connector position assurance of fastening the cable and the function of assuring the plugging position in the same work step.
In an alternative embodiment of the housing arrangement, the connector position assurance does not automatically reach its retaining position by being attached to the cable feedthrough, but rather only by a subsequent rotation of the connector position assurance relative to the connector housing. The rotation may there be effected by an angle between 45° and 180°, preferably by 90°. For this purpose, the connector position assurance may be arranged accordingly to be rotatable on the connector housing. In particular, the connector position assurance may be rotated as long as it has not reached its retaining position. The axis of rotation is there preferably aligned parallel to the cable feedthrough and to the passage opening. In this embodiment, which is referred to hereafter as a rotationally activated configuration, the function of the connector position assurance of fastening the cable and the function of assuring the plugging position may advantageously be activated independently of one another.
According to a further embodiment, in which the locking effect of the locking section may be achieved in a simple manner, the locking section may comprise a retaining groove into which a section of the coupling device may be inserted and locked in the final plugged position. The retaining groove is preferably open downwardly towards the coupling device in the state of the cable clamping section being inserted into the cable feedthrough. In other words, the retaining groove of the locking section is accessible to the coupling device from the side of the connector housing when the cable clamping section is inserted into the cable feedthrough.
In an embodiment that is easy to manufacture, the above-mentioned section of the coupling device may be a retaining projection configured to be complementary to the retaining groove, wherein the retaining groove of the connector position assurance being in the retaining position receives the retaining projection of the coupling device that is disposed in the final plugged position. Both in the translationally activated configuration as well as in the rotationally activated configuration, the retaining projection is preferably arranged on the remainder of the coupling device such that the retaining projection must be moved in the radial direction in order to move the coupling device to or away from the final plugged position.
Furthermore, the retaining projection in the case of the translationally activated configuration may be inserted into the retaining groove preferably exclusively in the axial direction, provided the coupling device is in its final plugged position. Accordingly, the retaining projection may then only be removed from the retaining groove in the axial direction. This means that the retaining projection is simultaneously inserted into the retaining groove when the cable clamping portion is inserted or introduced into the cable feedthrough in the axial direction. Once the retaining projection has been introduced into the retaining groove, the retaining projection may no longer be moved, in particular, in the radial direction. As a result, a motion of the coupling device away from the final plugged position is prevented. This may be achieved in a simple manner in that the retaining groove is configured, e.g. as a depression in the locking section extending parallel to the passage opening.
In the case of the rotationally activated configuration, the retaining groove is preferably curved around the passage opening. For this purpose, the locking section in which the retaining groove is formed may surround the cable clamping section at least in sections. In particular, the locking section may be arranged with respect to the passage opening radially on the exterior of the cable clamping section so that the locking section describes a circular path around the passage opening during the rotation of the connector position assurance already described above. Correspondingly, the retaining groove may extend at least in sections in the shape of a segment of a circle between an entrance to the retaining groove and an end of the retaining groove, wherein the above-mentioned axis of rotation runs through the center point of the segment of a circle. The retaining projection of the coupling device may there be inserted into the retaining groove at the entrance to the retaining groove along the circumferential direction provided that the coupling device is in its final plugged position and the cable clamping section has been inserted or introduced into the cable feedthrough. In other words, after the cable clamping section has been inserted or introduced into the cable feedthrough, the connector position assurance may be rotated relative to the connector housing, as a result of which the retaining projection is introduced into the retaining groove. Once the retaining projection has been introduced into the retaining groove, the retaining projection may no longer be moved in particular in the radial direction. As a result, a motion of the coupling device away from the final plugged position is again prevented.
According to a further possible embodiment, the passage opening may be disposed in a central position of the connector position assurance. The cable received in the passage opening may serve as an axis of rotation for the connector position assurance, in particular in the rotationally activated configuration.
In order to simplify joining the retaining projection and the retaining groove, the retaining projection and/or the retaining groove may comprise an insertion bevel. In the case of the of the retaining groove having a shape as a segment of a circle in the rotationally activated configuration, the insertion bevel may be located at the entrance of the retaining groove.
The retaining groove and the retaining projection may be latched together in the retaining position. For example, the retaining groove in the shape of a segment of a circle may have a latching hook which engages behind the retaining projection once the retaining projection reaches the end of the retaining groove. Alternatively, the retaining groove in the shape of a segment of a circle may taper towards the end of the retaining groove so that a frictionally engaged connection to the retaining projection arises in the retaining position.
The retaining projection may optionally form the stop for connector position assurance, which has already been described above. The arrangement of the retaining groove and the retaining projection is of course also possible the other way around. This means that the coupling device may comprise the retaining groove, whereas the locking section of the connector position assurance comprises the retaining projection. Expressed in general terms, the locking section may have a positive-fit element which is configured to be complementary to a positive-fit element of the coupling device, or a link guide element which is configured to be complementary to a link guide element of the coupling device. For example, the one link guide element may be configured as a sliding block and the other link guide element may be configured as a connecting link with a link track shaped to be complementary to the sliding block.
According to a further possible embodiment, the connector position assurance may have a receptacle extending at least in sections around the cable clamping section and being open in the circumferential direction. The receptacle may be arranged with respect to the cable clamping section diametrically opposite the locking section. In particular, the receptacle may taper in a direction opposite its opening direction. Secondary cables and/or secondary wires, which run parallel to the cable already described above and also lead into the housing interior, may be bundled and fastened in position in the receptacle. For this purpose, the receptacle, which shall be referred to as the secondary cable holder hereafter, may comprise at least one holding element which is configured to hold such secondary cables and/or wires in a clamped manner. For example, the secondary cable receptacle is configured as a receptacle slot that is curved around the passage opening.
According to a further possible embodiment, the secondary cable receptacle may be spaced from the locking section in the circumferential direction, in particular spaced on both sides. On the one hand, this spacing results in the lateral accessibility of the secondary cable receptacle, similar to the discontinuation of the cable clamping section already described above. On the other hand, this spacing also ensures that the entrance to the retaining groove is accessible to the retaining projection.
In addition or as an alternative, the secondary cable receptacle may be spaced from the passage opening in the radial direction so that the secondary cable receptacle describes a circular path when the connector position assurance rotates around the passage opening as described above.
The advantage of this embodiment with the secondary cable receptacle is primarily in connection with the rotationally activated configuration, since the secondary cables and/or wires may be bundled and fastened during the same work step in which the connector position assurance is rotated to the retaining position It is particularly advantageous there to have the retaining groove in the shape of a segment of a circle and the secondary cable receptacle each be open in the same direction of rotation in the circumferential direction.
For improving handling, the connector position assurance may have two circumferential surfaces which are disposed opposite one another with respect to the passage opening and on which gripping elements are formed. In particular, the gripping elements may be configured as nubs, knurls, corrugations, rubber coatings, or other elements that prevent slippage. It makes sense there to arrange the gripping elements on the cable clamping section, the locking section, and/or on the exterior of the secondary cable receptacle.
The coupling device may be, for example, a manually operated lever which is arranged to be movable on the connector housing, preferably pivotable about a pivot axis running perpendicular to the cable feedthrough. The lever may have drive elements which engage with driven elements of the mating plug connector that are configured to be complementary and thereby mechanically assist the plugging process or carry it out entirely. Such a coupling device makes it possible, in particular by utilizing the mechanical leverage, to reduce the force required during the plugging process. Depending on the accessibility and spatial environmental conditions, the coupling device may alternatively also be configured as a manually operated slide. The slide may be arranged to be displaceable on the connector housing, preferably displaceable along a sliding direction running perpendicular to the cable feedthrough.
The invention shall be explained hereafter in more detail with reference to the drawings on the basis of several embodiments, the different features of which may be combined with one another as required in accordance with the above remarks,
where:

Fig. 1: shows a schematic perspective illustration of a connection assembly of the invention according to an exemplary embodiment;
Fig. 2: shows a further schematic perspective illustration of the connection assembly from Figure 1;
Fig. 3: shows a further schematic perspective illustration of the connection assembly from Figure 1;
Fig. 4: shows a schematic perspective illustration of a connection assembly of the invention according to a further exemplary embodiment;
Fig. 5: shows a further schematic perspective illustration of the connection assembly from Figure 4;
Fig. 6: shows a further schematic perspective illustration of the connection assembly from Figure 4;
Fig. 7: shows a schematic perspective sectional illustration of the connection assembly from Figure 4; and
Fig. 8: shows a schematic perspective illustration of the connection assembly from Figure 4.

The schematic structure of a connector housing 1 according to the invention shall first be explained with reference to Figures 1 to 8. The schematic structure of a plug connector 2 according to the invention and a connection assembly 4 according to the invention as well as their mode of operation shall subsequently be explained briefly with reference to Figures 1 to 8.
As shown in Figure 1, housing assembly 1 according to the invention may be part of plug connector 2 according to the invention. Plug connector 2 is configured such that it may be plugged to a mating plug connector 6 and is part of connection assembly 4 according to the invention. Connection assembly 4 also comprises a cable 8. Connection assembly 4 may optionally also comprise mating plug connector 6.
Cable 8 may be either an electrical cable 10 or a cable with an optical conductor (not shown). Accordingly, plug connector 2 may be a purely electrical plug connector 12, an electro-optical plug connector (not shown), or an opto-electronic plug connector (not shown). The same applies to connection assembly 4 according to the invention.
Figures 1 to 3 show housing assembly 1 according to a translationally activated embodiment 14 which shall be explained in more detail below. Figures 4 to 8 show housing assembly 1 according to a rotationally activated embodiment 16 which shall likewise be explained in more detail below. In both configurations 14, 16, housing assembly 1 comprises a connector housing 18 and a connector position assurance 20.
Connector housing 18 comprise a cable feedthrough 22 for passing cable 8 into a housing interior 24 (see Figure 7). Furthermore, connector housing 18 comprises a coupling device 26 which is configured to be movable toward cable feedthrough 22 for plugging plug connector 2 to mating plug connector 6 in a final plugged position 28 (see Figure 2).
Coupling device 26 may be, for example, a manually operated lever 30 which is held to be pivotable on connector housing 18 about a pivot axis 32 running perpendicular to cable feedthrough 22. Lever 30 may comprise, for example, two lever flanks 34 extending in parallel, each of which comprises a drive element 36 that is arranged around pivot axis 32 and that in turn engages with a driven element 38 of mating plug connector 6 that is configured to be complementary and thereby assists the plugging process mechanically between plug connector 2 and mating plug connector 6.
As may also be seen from Figures 1 and 2, lever flanks 34 are connected to one another integrally by way of a connecting member 42 at their ends 40 facing away from respective drive element 36. Lever 30 therefore substantially has a U-shape engaging around the remainder of connector housing 18.
On connecting member 42, lever 30 shown comprises a retaining projection 44 which extends perpendicular away from pivot axis 32. As a result, when lever 30 pivots to final plugged position 28, retaining projection 44 is moved in radial direction 46 with respect to cable feedthrough 22 at least to the immediate vicinity of final plugged position 28. Accordingly, lever 30 may only be moved out of final plugged position 28 if the movability of retaining projection 44 in radial direction 46 is given. As shall be explained in more detail below, this movability of retaining projection 44 in radial direction 46 may be prevented in a selective manner with the aid of connector position assurance 20. For this purpose, connector position assurance 20 is configured to be movable relative to connector housing 18 to a retaining position 48 (see Figures 3 and 7).
Connector position assurance 20 comprises a cable clamping section 50 which surrounds a passage opening 52 for cable 8 at least in part. Passage opening 52 preferably runs centrally through connector position assurance 20.
Furthermore, cable clamping section 50 may be configured to be sleeve-shaped at least in sections, as shown in Figures 1 and 2 Alternatively, cable clamping section 50 may instead also may be configured to be ring-shaped. This shape allows cable clamping section 50 to be inserted or introduced into cable feedthrough 22, in particular into a ring-shaped gap 54 between cable 8 and connector housing 18 (see Figure 3). In this manner, connector position assurance 20 fulfills a function of fastening the cable at connector housing 18. This results in greater vibration resistance, in particular for connection assembly 4 according to the invention, since the play between connector housing 18 and cable 8 is at least reduced so that a more favorable vibration behavior of cable 8 is achieved.
It may also be seen from Figure 1 that cable clamping section 50 comprises at least one discontinuation 58 with respect to passage opening 52 in circumferential direction 56, in particular a cable introduction gap 60. Connector position assurance 20 may therefore be mounted laterally onto cable 8 in that a length of cable 8 is inserted through cable introduction gap 60 into passage opening 52. Alternatively, sleeve-shaped or ring-shaped cable clamping section 50 may also be configured to be closed (not shown). In other words, cable clamping section 50 may also completely surround passage opening 52.
Cable clamping section 50 of position assurance device 20 shown in Figures 1 to 3 comprises centering ribs 62 pointing outwardly and clamping ribs 64 pointing inwardly with respect to passage opening 52, wherein centering ribs 62 and clamping ribs 64 run in axial direction 66 with respect to passage opening 52. Centering ribs 62 serve to facilitate the insertion or introduction of cable clamping section 50 into cable feedthrough 22. Clamping ribs 64 increase the cable clamping force that cable clamping section 50 exerts upon cable 8. Centering ribs 62 as well as clamping ribs 64 may be beveled or rounded. This is indicated in Figure 1 by a bevel 68 as an example for a centering rib 62.
As an alternative to beveled or rounded centering ribs 62, cable clamping section 50 may have an outer surface that is conical at least in sections. Cable feedthrough 22 may an alternative or in addition comprise an inner surface that is conical at least in sections. In particular, cable clamping section 50 as well as cable feedthrough 22 may comprise the conical surfaces and be connected in a self-locking manner.
Furthermore, connector position assurance 20 comprises a locking section 70 disposed on the exterior of cable clamping section 50. Locking section 70 serves to lock coupling device 26 in retaining position 48 when in final plugged position 28. For this purpose, locking section 70 comprises a retaining groove 72 configured to be complementary to retaining projection 44 of lever 30. The retaining groove is preferably open downwardly towards coupling device 26 when cable clamping section 50 is inserted into cable feedthrough 22.
In the translationally activated configuration 14 from Figures 1 to 3 already mentioned, retaining groove 72 is configured as a depression 74 in locking section 70 extending parallel to passage opening 52. Consequently, retaining projection 44 may be inserted into depression 74 exclusively in axial direction 66 and may accordingly only be removed from depression 74 in axial direction 66. When cable clamping section 50 is inserted or introduced into cable feedthrough 22 in axial direction 66, this means that retaining projection 44 of coupling device 26 being in the final plugged position is simultaneously inserted into depression 74. As a result, coupling device 26 is locked in final plugged position 28.
In rotationally activated configuration 16 from Figures 4 to 8 already mentioned, connector position assurance 20 is arranged to be rotatable on connector housing 18. In particular, connector position assurance 20 may be rotated to retaining position 48. Axis of rotation 76 is there preferably aligned parallel to cable feedthrough 22 and to passage opening 52. Retaining groove 72 is furthermore curved around passage opening 52. Retaining groove 72 preferably extends at least in sections in the shape of a segment of a circle between an entrance 78 of the retaining groove and an end 80 of the retaining groove, wherein axis of rotation 76 runs through the center point of this segment of a circle.
Provided coupling device 26 is in its final plugged position 28 and cable clamping section 50 has been inserted or introduced into cable feedthrough 22, then retaining projection 44 may be introduced into retaining groove 72 at entrance 78 of the retaining groove by a rotation 82 of connector position assurance 20 relative to connector housing 18 along circumferential direction 56. This may be seen in Figures 5 and 6. Once retaining projection 44 has been introduced into retaining groove 72 in the shape of a segment of a circle, retaining projection 44 may no longer be moved in particular in radial direction 46. As a result, coupling device 26 is locked in final plugged position 28.
It may also be seen in Figure 6 that connector position assurance 20 comprises a receptacle 84 extending at least in sections around cable clamping section 50 and being open in circumferential direction 56. Receptacle 84 tapers in the direction opposite to its opening direction and is arranged with respect to cable clamping section 50 diametrically opposite locking section 70. As indicated in Figure 7, secondary cables 86, which lead parallel to cable 8 into housing interior 24, may be bundled and fastened in receptacle 84.
For this purpose, receptacle 84 is preferably configured as a receptacle slot 88 that is curved around passage opening 52. Receptacle slot 88 is furthermore spaced from passage opening 52 in radial direction 46 so that receptacle slot 88 describes a circular path 90 around passage opening 52 during rotation 82 of connector position assurance 20 as described above. Secondary cables 86 preferably traverse this circular path 90 and may then be bundled and fastened in the context of rotation 82. It is particularly advantageous there to have receptacle slot 88 and retaining groove 72 in the shape of a segment of a circle each be open in same direction of rotation 92 in circumferential direction 56.
Locking section 70 is preferably spaced from receptacle slot 88 on both sides in circumferential direction 56 so that receptacle slot 88 for secondary cables 86 and entrance 78 of the retaining groove are accessible for retaining projection 44. This may be respectively gathered, for example, from Figures 3 and 5.
In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 8, connector position assurance 20 has two circumferential surfaces 94 which are disposed opposite one another with respect to passage opening 52, where respective gripping elements 96 are formed on circumferential surfaces 94. Gripping elements 96 may in particular be corrugations 98 which are arranged on the exterior of locking section 70 and on the exterior of receptacle slot 88. Alternatively, gripping elements 96 may also be realized by nubs, knurls, rubber coatings or other elements that increase the grip of circumferential surfaces 94.
The functional principle of translationally activated configuration 14 from Figures 1 to 3 already mentioned and rotationally activated configuration 16 from Figures 4 to 8 shall be explained briefly below.
It is provided in translationally activated configuration 14 that connector position assurance 20 reaches its retaining position 48 once cable clamping section 50 of connector position assurance 20 has been inserted or introduced into cable feedthrough 22 of connector housing 18. In order to achieve this, connector position assurance 20, after being placed on cable 8 and prior to cable clamping section 50 being inserted or introduced into cable feedthrough 22, is preferably aligned such that retaining groove 72 of locking section 70 and retaining projection 44 of lever 8 are aligned in axial direction 66. First of all, it is necessary that plug connector 2 be plugged to mating plug connector 6 and that lever 30 is made to assume final plugged position 28.
Connector position assurance 20 is subsequently moved relative to connector housing 18 by way of a translation 100 to retaining position 48 shown in Figure 3. At the same time, retaining projection 44 is received in retaining groove 72. As long as connector position assurance 20 remains in its retaining position 48, lever 30 is consequently locked in final plugged position 28.
In contrast thereto, cable clamping section 50 in rotationally activated embodiment 16 from Figures 4 to 8 may already be inserted or introduced into cable feedthrough 22 prior to plug connector 2 being plugged to mating plug connector 6, i.e. while lever 30 is still away from final plugged position 28 is (see Figure 4). In this case, connector position assurance 20 is aligned relative to lever 30 such that retaining projection 44 is aligned in circumferential direction 56 with entrance 78 of the retaining groove once lever 30 has reaches final plugged position 28 (see Figure 5).
Connector position assurance 20 is then rotated by rotation 82 in direction of rotation 92 about axis of rotation 76, as a result of which retaining projection 44 is inserted into retaining groove 72 (see Figure 6) and reaches end 80 of the retaining groove (see Figure 7). As long as connector position assurance 20 remains in its retaining position 48, lever 30 is accordingly locked in final plugged position 28.
Figure 8 illustrates lever 30 in a position 102 which differs only slightly from final plugged position 28 (see Figure 5). As is also indicated in Figure 8, retaining projection 44 in this constellation forms a stop 104 for connector position assurance 20. Housing assembly 1 is therefore configured such that rotation 82 of connector position assurance 20 to retaining position 48 (see Figure 7) is blocked when lever 30 of coupling device 26 is not disposed entirely but only in the immediate vicinity of final plugged position 28.
As an alternative to lever 30, a slide (not shown) that is arranged to be displaceable on connector housing 18 may also be provided as coupling device 26 and comprise the retaining projection. The arrangement of retaining groove 72 and retaining projection 44 is of course also possible the other way around. This means that coupling device 26 may comprise retaining groove 72, whereas locking section 70 comprises retaining projection 44.
Connector housing 18, connector position assurance 20, and/or coupling device 26 are preferably made of plastic material and/or an electrically insulating material.

Reference Numerals

1: housing assembly
2: plug connector
4: connection assembly
6: mating plug connector
8: cable
10: electrical cable
12: electrical plug connector
14: translationally activated configuration
16: rotationally activated configuration
18: connector housing
20: connector position assurance
22: cable feedthrough
24: housing interior
26: coupling device
28: final plugged position
30: lever
32: pivot axis
34: lever flank
36: drive element
38: driven element
40: end
42: connecting member
44: retaining projection
46: radial direction
48: retaining position
50: cable clamping section
52: passage opening
54: ring-shaped gap
56: circumferential direction
58: discontinuation
60: cable introduction gap
62: centering rib
64: clamping rib
66: axial direction
68: bevel
70: locking section
72: retaining groove
74: depression
76: axis of rotation
78: entrance to the retaining groove
80: end of the retaining groove
82: rotation
84: receptacle
86: secondary cable
88: receptacle slot
90: circular path
92: rotational direction
94: circumferential surface
96: gripping elements
98: corrugation
100: translation
102: position
104: stop

Claims

Housing assembly (1) for a plug connector (2) that is configured to be plugged to a mating plug connector (6), wherein said housing assembly (1) comprises a connector housing (18) and a connector position assurance (20),
wherein said connector housing (18) comprises a cable feedthrough (22) for passing a cable (8) into a housing interior (24) and a coupling device (26) which is configured to be movable towards said cable feedthrough (22) to a final plugged position (28) for plugging said plug connector (2) to said mating plug connector (6),

wherein said connector position assurance (20) is configured to be movable relative to said connector housing (18) to a retaining position (48) and to be attachable at said cable feedthrough (22),

wherein said connector position assurance (20) comprises a cable clamping section (50) and a locking section (70) disposed on the exterior of said cable clamping section (50),

wherein said cable clamping section (50) surrounds a passage opening (52) for said cable (8) at least in sections, and wherein said locking section (70) in said retaining position (48) locks said coupling device (26) in said final plugged position (28).
Housing assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein said cable clamping section (50) is inserted at least in part into said cable feedthrough (22).
Housing assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said cable clamping section (50) is configured to be sleeve-shaped or ring-shaped at least in sections and comprises clamping ribs (64) pointing inwardly and/or centering ribs (62) pointing outwardly with respect to said passage opening (52).
Housing assembly (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein said cable clamping section (50) comprises an outer surface that is conical at least in sections and/or said cable feedthrough (22) comprises an inner surface that is conical at least in sections.
Housing assembly (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein connector position assurance (20) is arranged to be rotatable on said connector housing (18).
Housing assembly (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein said locking section (70) comprises a retaining groove (72) into which a section of said coupling device (26) may be inserted and locked in said final plugged position (28).
Housing assembly (1) according to claim 6, wherein said retaining groove (72) is curved around said through opening (52).
Housing assembly (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein said coupling device (26) comprises a retaining projection (44) configured to be complementary to said retaining groove (72), and wherein said retaining groove (72) of said connector position assurance (20) being disposed in said retaining position (48) receives said retaining projection (44) of said coupling device (26) being disposed in said final plugged position (28).
Housing assembly (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 8, wherein said connector position assurance (20) comprises a receptacle (84) extending at least in sections around said cable clamping section (50) and being open in the circumferential direction (56).
Housing assembly (1) according to claim 9, wherein said receptacle (84) tapers in a direction opposite to its opening direction.
Housing assembly (1) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein said receptacle (84) is spaced in said circumferential direction (56) from said locking section (70) and/or in said radial direction (46) from said passage opening (52).
Housing assembly (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 11, wherein said connector position assurance (20) has two circumferential surfaces (94) which are disposed opposite one another with respect to said passage opening (52) and on which gripping elements (96) are formed.
Housing assembly (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 12, wherein said cable clamping section (50) comprises at least one discontinuation (58) with respect to said passage opening (52) in said circumferential direction (56).
Plug connector (2) comprising a housing assembly (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 13.
Connection assembly (4) comprising a plug connector (2) according to claim 14 and a cable (8), wherein said cable (8) passes through said cable feedthrough (22) of said connector housing (18), and wherein said cable clamping section (50) of said connector position assurance (20) is inserted at least in part between said cable (8) and said connector housing (18).