EP4210179A1 - Electrical connector with a fastening element and electrical plug-in connection comprising the electrical connector - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical connector (1), having a connector housing (2), a locking device (5) for locking the connector (1) with a corresponding electrical mating connector (6), and a locking element (12 ). The safety element (12) blocks the locking safety device (5) in the safety position in order to prevent the mating connector (6) from being unlocked. The connector housing (2) forms a feed (14) along which the securing element (12) can be displaced from outside the connector housing (2) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the connector housing (2) into the pre-locking position.

Description

The invention relates to an electrical connector, having a connector housing, a locking device for locking the connector with a corresponding mating electrical connector and a locking element that can be displaced between a pre-locking position and a locking position, according to the preamble of claim 1.

The invention also relates to a security element for an electrical connector.

The invention also relates to an electrical plug connection, having an electrical plug connector and a mating electrical connector corresponding to the plug connector, according to the preamble of claim 14.

An electrical plug connector or an electrical mating connector can be a plug, a built-in plug, a socket, a coupling or an adapter. The term "connector" or "mating connector" used in the context of the invention is representative of all variants.

In particular, connectors for the motor vehicle industry are subject to high demands in terms of their robustness and the safety of the connectors. A plug-in connection must sometimes withstand high loads, for example mechanical loads, and remain closed in a defined manner. It must be ensured that the electrical connection is not disconnected unintentionally, for example while a vehicle is in operation. Furthermore, the plug connectors must ensure problem-free transmission of electrical power, electrical signals and/or data even in contaminated, damp and/or chemically aggressive environments.

Sometimes a so-called plug-in acknowledgment must also be provided for a fitter of the plug-in connection. This can be done, for example, by the mating connector only being able to be plugged into the connector if the connector has previously been installed correctly.

Especially in the autonomous operation of vehicles and for assistance systems, ensuring safety is paramount.

In particular, the aging of a plug connection can lead to a safety-critical problem. As a rule, electrical plug connectors, in particular for the automotive sector, have security elements which prevent a plug connection from being unlocked unintentionally and thus prevent the mating connector from being separated from the plug connector. For this purpose, the security elements are generally exposed to long-term mechanical and thermal stress, which causes their aging can still accelerate. The fuse elements can eventually become brittle and break, which means that they can no longer fulfill their intended function. The problem exists in particular with a permanent mechanical load on a safety element made of plastic.

Securing elements that nevertheless ensure a sufficient service life are complex and expensive to produce. Alternative security elements, the mechanical stress on which is reduced during operation, on the other hand, require a comparatively large amount of space in the plug connector and are also complicated to assemble.

For the technological background relating to electrical connectors and security elements for electrical connectors, reference is made to the following publications.

The U.S. 2019/044278 A1 relates to a connection device comprising: a terminal, a housing that houses and holds the terminal and is engaged with a mating housing by being releasably locked by causing a locking portion to be locked to a locked portion shown in is provided to the mating housing when an engaged state with a mating connector is a fully engaged state; and a detection element mounted on the housing and disengaged in an engaging direction and a disengaging direction with respect to the housing between a main locking position when the engaged state is the fully engaged state and a lock release position when the engaged state is an engaged state in the fully engaged state, is relatively mobile.

The US 9,929,509 B1 relates to a connector assembly having a first connector with a primary locking lever pivotally attached to the first connector. The second connector includes a primary striker that locks the first and second connectors together with the primary latch. The assembly further includes a Connector Position Assurance (CPA) device slidably mounted to the first connector and a CPA lever defining a secondary latch. The secondary latch engages the side rib to prevent movement of the CPA device from an initial position to a final position until the first and second connectors are fully mated.

The WO 2010/032088 A1 and the US 6,491,542 B1 each also relates to an electrical connector with a CPA element and relates in particular to electrical connectors for use in motor vehicles.

In view of the known state of the art, the object of the present invention is to provide an electrical connector with an improved safety element, in order in particular to increase the ease of assembly and the service life of the connector.

The present invention is also based on the object of providing an improved security element for an electrical plug connector.

Finally, it is also the object of the invention to provide an electrical plug connection made from a mating connector and a plug connector with an improved safety element, in order in particular to increase the ease of assembly and the service life of the plug connection.

The object is achieved for the electrical connector with the features listed in claim 1. With regard to the electrical plug connection, the object is achieved by the features of claim 14.

The dependent claims and the features described below relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of the invention.

An electrical connector is provided, having a connector housing, a locking device for locking the connector with a corresponding electrical mating connector, and a locking element that can be displaced between a pre-locking position and a locking position. The locking element blocks the locking lock in the locking position to prevent unlocking of the mating connector.

When the electrical connector is latched to the corresponding mating electrical connector, the connector and the mating connector are preferably electrically and mechanically operatively connected for the intended use of power and/or signal transmission.

The locking device can preferably form a so-called primary latching of the plug connection with a corresponding latching element of the mating connector, for example a latching hook of the mating connector.

The securing element can ensure that the electrical plug connector and the electrical mating connector are held securely in their plugged-in state, since movement of the locking device for unlocking the mating connector is blocked by the securing element. This principle is sometimes referred to as "housing locking" or "connector position assurance" (CPA).

The locking device can have a latching section for latching with the mating connector, in particular with a latching hook of the mating connector. The latching section can preferably be arranged in the area of a front end of the locking device that faces the mating connector. For example, in the insertion direction of the mating connector, a recess can be provided in the locking device immediately behind the latching section, into which the latching hook of the mating connector can penetrate for locking with the connector. The latching section can thus be gripped from behind by the mating connector or by its latching hook.

The locking device can preferably be designed as a locking rocker. The latching rocker can have the latching section for latching with the mating connector or with its latching element. For example, the latching rocker can have a recess behind the latching section in the region of a front end of the latching rocker that faces the mating connector. The latching hook of the mating connector can thus engage in the recess of the latching rocker and thus lock the connector. The locking rocker can have an actuating section, in which case the locking rocker can be pivoted about an axis of rotation formed between the latching section and the actuating section by actuating the actuating section, for example by a user of the plug-in connection, in order to unlock the plug-in connection by "lifting" the latching section - at least if the securing element is not in its securing position. The locking device can preferably be designed as a locking rocker of a FAKRA connector.

According to a first variant of the invention, it is provided that the connector housing forms a feed along which the securing element can be displaced from outside the connector housing in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector housing into the pre-locking position.

This “radial” insertion of the securing element in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector housing, particularly (but not exclusively) in the case of a substantially orthogonal insertion movement, can advantageously reduce the size of the connector housing in the longitudinal direction.

The feed is preferably designed to move the securing element into the pre-locking position by means of a linear movement in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector housing. In principle, however, a curved movement can also be provided.

According to a second variant of the invention, it is provided that the securing element is positioned in the pre-locking position in the connector housing in such a way that the securing element is brought into a pre-securing position by plugging in the mating connector, in which the securing element is mechanically braced, with the connector housing forming a guide , along which the securing element can be displaced from the pre-securing position into the securing position and is thereby mechanically relaxed, preferably completely mechanically braced.

Due to the mechanical bracing of the securing element in the pre-securing position, which represents an intermediate position between the securing position and the pre-locking position, the securing element can - optionally after an intended release by a user - move from the pre-securing position into the securing position, while the securing element relaxes mechanically . After the mating connector has been removed, however, it can also be provided that the securing element—optionally after an intended release by a user—moves from the pre-securing position back into the pre-locking position, while the securing element relaxes mechanically.

Thus, due to the mechanical stress, the securing element, starting from the pre-securing position, strives for either the securing position or the pre-locking position.

The pre-secured position can initially be a stable position, whereby the "automatic" movement of the securing element caused by elasticity or spring force into the secured position or into the pre-locking position can be triggered or controlled by intervention by the user of the plug connection. However, the pre-fuse position can also be an unstable position, as a result of which the "automatic", elasticity or spring force-related movement of the fuse element into the safety position or back into the pre-locking position takes place immediately after the pre-fuse position has been reached - depending on whether the mating connector is in the connector is plugged in or not.

Within the scope of the invention, a “pre-latching position”, a “pre-securing position” or a “securing position” can mean a position (e.g. axially and/or radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the connector housing) and/or an orientation (e.g. tilting) of the securing element .

As part of the overall inventive concept, the first variant of the invention can be implemented as an alternative or in addition to the second variant of the invention. The two variants are related to each other in that they can increase the security of the plug connection while maintaining a simple assembly (each individually or in combination). All of the features, configurations and developments described below can advantageously relate to both variants of the invention.

In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the displacement path for the securing element ends in the securing position in which the securing element is positioned between a latching section of the locking device and an outer wall of the connector housing in order to block the locking device.

In the securing position, the securing element preferably does not protrude with its front end facing the mating connector beyond the latching section of the locking safeguard. In the securing position, the front end of the securing element can terminate, for example, in a coplanar manner with the outer housing of the connector, in which case the securing element can also be set back in the connector housing or can form a recess.

The displacement path of the securing element in the connector housing between the pre-locking position and the securing position is preferably limited, in particular the axial displacement path along the longitudinal axis of the connector housing. The securing element can thus preferably no longer be pushed further, for example after the securing position has been reached.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the securing element is arranged in the pre-locking position in the connector housing in such a way that the securing element is completely unstressed mechanically.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the securing element is arranged in the securing position in the connector housing in such a way that the securing element is mechanically completely unstressed.

The securing element is particularly preferably completely mechanically relaxed in the securing position and in the pre-locking position.

In particular, if the securing element is not mechanically tensioned either in the securing position or in the pre-locking position, the service life of the securing element can be significantly increased, since prolonged mechanical stress (when using the plugged-in connection or when storing the individual plug-in connector) can be avoided.

The securing element is preferably mechanically braced in the pre-securing position.

According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the feed is designed in the connector housing in such a way that the securing element can be displaced into the pre-locking position by a movement running essentially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the connector housing.

The securing element thus preferably performs a radial movement or a lateral movement in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector housing during insertion into the connector housing. The movement can be straight or curved.

However, in addition to an orthogonal or radial or lateral directional component of the movement of the securing element when it is inserted into the connector housing, an axial directional component can also be provided. For example, it can be provided that the securing element can be displaced by a movement along a straight line in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector housing, with the straight line having a feed angle of 1° to 90°, preferably 10° to 90°, particularly preferably 20°, with the longitudinal axis to 90°, more preferably 45° to 90°, more preferably 70° to 90°, and even more preferably 80° to 90°.

The fuse element may have a front end portion and a rear end portion opposite to the front end portion along the longitudinal axis of the connector housing when the fuse element is inserted into the connector housing.

At the end facing the mating connector or at the front end section, the securing element can have a securing area with which it is able to block the locking safeguard.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the displacement path for the securing element ends in the securing position in which the securing area of the securing element is positioned between the latching section of the locking device and the outer wall of the connector housing in order to block the locking device. The securing area of the securing element in the securing position therefore preferably does not protrude beyond the latching section of the locking safeguard. In the securing position, the securing area of the securing element can terminate coplanarly with the outer housing of the connector, for example, but the securing area of the securing element can also be set back in the connector housing or can form a recess.

According to a development of the invention, it can be provided that the securing element has the securing area, a support area and a spring area located in between, the securing area on the front end section of the securing element facing the mating connector and the support area on the opposite side of the front end section along the longitudinal axis of the connector housing , Rear end portion of the fuse element is arranged when the fuse element is inserted into the connector housing.

The spring area can be designed to be deformable or at least partially elastic in order to introduce mechanical stress into the securing element. The deformability or the elasticity of the spring area can be selected in such a way that the securing element can bend sufficiently reversibly for its intended use without undergoing (irreversible) plastic deformation.

The spring area can preferably be formed by one or more spring arms, which extend from the front end section or a middle section of the securing element in the direction of the rear end section. The support area can preferably (but not exclusively) be formed directly on the free ends of the spring arm or spring arms, for example by means of laterally protruding lugs.

Preferably, two spring arms can be provided to form the spring area, which run on opposite sides of the securing element. However, three spring arms or more spring arms, four spring arms or even more spring arms can also be provided.

In a further development of the invention, provision can be made for the securing element to be positioned in the connector housing in the pre-locking position in such a way that the insertion of the mating connector results in a displacement of the securing area of the securing element running essentially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis, while the securing element is in contact with the support area supported on the connector housing, preferably such that the intermediate spring area is mechanically braced.

By shifting the securing area of the securing element through the mating connector while at the same time supporting the securing element with its support area on the connector housing For example, the mating connector can cause a lifting or pivoting movement of the securing element in its front end section, while the distance between the support area and the longitudinal axis of the connector housing remains (at least essentially) unchanged.

The optional (but preferred) bracing of the spring area during the displacement of the securing area can be achieved, for example, by bending the securing element in the connector housing instead of rotating the securing element. In order to cause the bending and thus to introduce the mechanical stress into the securing element, rotation of the securing element can be mechanically prevented and, for this purpose, a central section between the front end section and the rear end section of the securing element can be held axially and/or radially in the connector housing while the mating connector moves the fuse element.

The pre-locking position preferably differs from the pre-locking position in the connector housing only by the alignment of the locking element and by the bracing of the spring area.

In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the securing area of the securing element is positioned in a recess in the locking device in the pre-locking position in such a way that the securing area is in a displacement path of a latching hook of the mating connector so that, during the insertion of the mating connector from the latching hook into to be moved to the pre-fuse position.

The safety area can preferably be positioned in the recess of the locking safety device, which is also engaged behind by the latching hook of the mating connector for locking the plug connection.

Because the securing area of the securing element is positioned in its pre-latching position in the recess of the locking device, for example in the recess of the aforementioned locking rocker, the securing area can be “lifted out” of the recess in a very targeted manner (preferably exclusively) using the locking hook of the mating connector. The securing element can thus preferably not be moved in any other way from the pre-locking position into the pre-locking position or into the locking position to secure the primary locking. According to the present invention, a "backup prevention function" can be realized as a result.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the securing element in the securing position blocks the locking safeguard with the securing area in a form-fitting manner.

In particular, a form-fitting blocking of the locking device by the safety element can lead to a force-free mounting of the safety element in the safety position and at the same time to a secure locking of the plug connection.

For example, it can be provided that the securing element in its securing position positively blocks a locking device of the electrical connector designed as a locking rocker, whereby unintentional unlocking or actuation of the locking rocker by an object or a user of the plug connection can be prevented. The fuse element can this z. B. in the securing position between the locking rocker and an outer shell or outer wall of the connector housing can be inserted in a form-fitting manner, whereby the locking rocker can no longer be moved rotationally in the direction of the outer shell and is thereby secured.

In a further development of the invention it can be provided that the securing element is spaced apart from the mating connector in the securing position.

Provision can preferably be made for at least the latching hook of the mating connector to be spaced apart from the securing element in the securing position of the securing element, in order not to subject the securing element to permanent mechanical stress.

In principle, the mating connector and the securing element can also touch (without force). However, a safety distance may be preferable, in particular for reasons of tolerances in the manufacture of the plug connector, in order to guarantee the force-free state of the security element.

In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the securing element has at least one guide pin.

Two guide pins are preferably provided, with the guide pins projecting laterally out of the securing element.

The at least one guide pin can be brought into engagement with the feed of the connector housing for moving the securing element into the pre-locking position, in order to guide the securing element into the pre-locking position during the shifting.

In this case, the feed can preferably be designed in the form of one or more guide grooves or grooves. The guide groove or grooves can preferably run on an inner surface of a side wall of the outer shell or a side wall of the connector housing. The side wall of the connector housing preferably runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector housing, at least in a section that is relevant for the securing element. Two guide grooves are preferably provided, which run on opposite inner surfaces of the side wall of the connector housing.

The guide groove or grooves can specify the above-described movement for moving the securing element from outside the connector housing into the pre-locking position. The movement and thus the guide groove(s) can preferably run in a straight line or in a curve. The guide groove(s) can run in such a way that the movement of the Securing element when inserted into the connector housing also has an axial directional component in addition to an orthogonal or radial or lateral directional component, as already described above.

The feed can have a funnel-shaped insertion area and/or a ramp in order to advantageously insert the guide pin or pins, in particular into the guide grooves.

Provision can also be made for the feed to be designed as at least one elongated hole within the connector housing. However, the variant described with the guide grooves is preferred. In principle, however, it does not necessarily depend on the specific characteristics of the feed.

The at least one guide pin can also be in engagement with a side guide of the connector housing for moving the securing element from the pre-secured position into the securing position, in order to guide the securing element into the securing position during the movement.

Most preferably, the side guide runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector housing (i.e. in the axial direction). The lateral guide can extend along the side wall or along the side walls of the connector housing, through which the feed line may also run.

For this purpose, the side guide of the connector housing can preferably be designed as at least one elongated hole. In this case, the at least one guide pin can be guided captively, as a result of which the lateral guidance or the guidance of the securing element from the pre-securing position into the securing position can be particularly robust.

Two elongated holes are preferably provided, which run through opposite side walls of the outer shell or side walls of the connector housing and guide the two corresponding lateral guide pins of the securing element.

A slotted hole can also be suitable for mechanically clamping the securing element while the securing area is being lifted (by the mating connector) while at the same time supporting the securing element with its support area, since the slotted hole can block a radial movement component of the securing element.

A slotted hole for guiding the guide pin can also be suitable for enabling a visual inspection in order to be able to easily identify the condition of the securing element, in particular to enable an installer to easily and reliably recognize that the securing element has reached the securing position. If necessary, suitable color contrasts can be selected for this between the connector housing and the guide pin.

In principle, however, provision can also be made for the lateral guide to be in the form of guide grooves or grooves. According to the invention, the specific configuration of the lateral guide is important not necessarily on. However, a configuration of the lateral guide as slotted bores, as described above, is particularly preferred.

The guide pin can also be designed to connect the securing element to the connector housing in a captive manner, preferably in the pre-locking position and/or in the pre-securing position and/or in the securing position. The guide pin particularly preferably connects the securing position to the connector housing in a captive manner in any orientation or position.

In particular, it can be provided that the securing element is captively connected to the connector housing in such a way that it can no longer be removed from the connector housing without being destroyed.

Preferably, the securing element is captively connected in the pre-locked position by the guide pins engaging in the lateral guide of the connector housing, for example by the guide pins snapping into a corresponding slotted hole after the locking element has been pushed in from outside the connector and after the pre-locked position has been reached, or the slotted holes after reaching it reach behind the pre-locking position. For this purpose, a ramp can optionally be provided within the feed and/or in the guide pins.

In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the securing element has at least one latching element on the front end section.

Two latching elements are preferably provided, with the latching elements protruding laterally from the securing element, for example in the manner of latching hooks or latching arms.

The securing area of the securing element is particularly preferably arranged between the two latching elements.

The latching element can be engaged with a lateral guide of the connector housing for moving the securing element from the pre-latching position into the pre-securing position, in order to guide the securing element into the pre-securing position during displacement.

The lateral guide can be formed in the side walls of the connector housing, through which the feed and/or the lateral guide may also run.

The lateral guide can preferably be designed in the manner of one or more lateral guide grooves. Two lateral guide grooves are preferably provided, which run on opposite inner surfaces of the side walls of the connector housing.

The lateral guide groove or the lateral guide grooves can specify the lifting movement described above for the displacement of the securing area of the securing element through the mating connector until the pre-securing position is reached. The movement of the fuse area and thus the lateral guide groove(s) can preferably run in a straight line or in a curve. The lateral guide groove(s) can run in such a way that the movement of the securing area when the mating connector is inserted into the connector housing runs essentially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the connector housing. If necessary, however, an axial directional component can also be provided.

The lateral guide can have a funnel-shaped insertion area and/or a ramp in order to advantageously insert the locking element or elements, in particular into the lateral guide grooves.

The at least one latching element can engage in a latching recess of the connector housing for latching the securing element in the securing position and/or in the pre-latching position.

The locking recess can preferably be formed as a depression in the connector housing, in particular in opposing inner surfaces of the side walls of the outer shell already described.

In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the guide of the connector housing is designed in such a way that the securing element can be displaced from the pre-secured position into the secured position by a substantially axial movement along the longitudinal axis of the connector housing in the direction of the mating connector.

The guide of the connector housing can in particular guide the support area, for example two lugs protruding laterally from the securing element.

According to a development of the invention, it can be provided that the guide of the connector housing is designed to guide the support area of the securing element in such a way that the support area can move radially in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the Connector housing performs.

As a result, the spring area of the securing element can preferably be relaxed (again).

The routing of the connector housing may, for example, have an axial section followed by a mixed radial/axial section (i.e. an "oblique" section), optionally followed by another axial section, particularly in the form of an elongated "S-curve".

The guide can preferably be designed as one or more grooves. An embodiment with one or more elongated holes or some other type of guide can also be provided. The guide is preferably provided in the already mentioned side walls of the connector housing.

The guide preferably has a first guide section which runs essentially axially, preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connector housing, and a first guide section which extends in the direction onto the mating connector, adjoining the first guiding section and running obliquely towards the longitudinal axis of the mating connector. The second guide section preferably runs obliquely in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector housing.

Preferably, the guide of the connector housing together with the support area of the securing element forms a link control, the guide forcibly guiding the support area, in particular lateral lugs of the securing element.

The guide pin together with the feed, the guide pin together with the lateral guide and/or the latching element together with the lateral guide can each be designed in the manner of a link control.

In a further development of the invention it can be provided that the securing element is designed in one piece.

In principle, however, the securing element can also be designed in several parts, in which case, for example, the securing area, the supporting area and/or the spring area lying in between can be formed from components that are independent of one another and which together form the securing element. However, the securing element is particularly preferably designed in one piece.

The securing element can preferably be made of a plastic.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the securing element has an actuation area. The actuation area may preferably be arranged at the rear end portion of the fuse element. The actuation area can be used by a user of the plug connection to move the securing element with a tool or by manual actuation, for example using a finger, starting from the pre-secured position into the secured position - or vice versa (or to trigger an automatic, spring-based displacement ).

By moving the securing element back axially against the insertion movement of the mating connector, for example using a tool or by moving the actuating area of the securing element, the primary latching or the locking safeguard can be unlocked again if necessary. Before unlocking, it may be necessary to release a latch between the latching elements of the securing element and the latching recesses of the connector housing, for example by using an increased amount of force.

While the securing element is being moved back from the securing position into the pre-securing position, the securing element or the spring area of the securing element can be tensioned again.

As long as the mating connector has not yet been unplugged from the connector or as long as the locking device, for example a locking rocker, for unlocking the mating connector has not yet been unlocked, the locking element, preferably starting from the pre-locking position, cannot move back into the pre-locking position, since the locking hook of the Mating connector still blocked the further movement of the fuse element. Only when the mating connector is unplugged or the latching hook of the mating connector is removed from the recess can the securing element preferably automatically be moved back into the pre-latching position.

The invention also relates to a security element for an electrical connector according to the above and following statements.

A fuse element mounted without stress or a CPA mounted without stress can be provided in an advantageous manner. The securing element is preferably mounted stress-free in the electrical plug connector both in the pre-locking position and in the securing position.

The invention also relates to an electrical plug connection, having an electrical plug connector and a mating electrical connector that corresponds to the plug connector. The connector has a connector housing, a locking device for locking the connector to the mating connector, and a locking element that can be displaced between a pre-locking position and a locking position. The locking element blocks the locking lock in the locking position to prevent unlocking of the mating connector. Provision is made for the connector housing to form a lead along which the securing element can be displaced from outside the connector housing in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector housing into the pre-locking position. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the securing element is positioned in the pre-locking position in the connector housing in such a way that the securing element is brought into a pre-securing position by plugging in the mating connector, in which the securing element is mechanically braced, with the connector housing forming a guide, along which the securing element can be displaced from the pre-securing position into the securing position and is mechanically relaxed in the process.

In the pre-locking position, the securing element is preferably only mechanically loaded by the insertion of the mating connector, in that a front end section of the securing element is “raised” by the mating connector into the pre-securing position.

According to the invention, an electrical plug-in connection with a fuse element or with a CPA can advantageously be implemented in a very small space.

According to a development of the invention, it can be provided that the mating connector has a latching hook which is designed to latch with the locking device of the connector when the mating connector is plugged into the connector.

During the insertion of the mating connector, the latching hook can penetrate into the connector housing of the connector in such a way that the latching hook moves the securing element, starting from the pre-latching position, into the pre-securing position.

Due to the high level of vibration resistance and service life, the plug-in connection is suitable for the transmission of electrical data signals with high priority and/or for the transmission of electrical supply signals with risk potential or with high safety requirements (e.g. in the case of a high-voltage connection). The plug connection according to the invention is therefore particularly suitable for use in a vehicle, in particular in a motor vehicle.

In principle, the plug connection can also be well suited for the transmission of optical signals or for the transmission of electromagnetic waves.

The term "vehicle" describes any means of transportation, in particular vehicles on land, on water or in the air, including spacecraft.

Possible areas of application are autonomous driving, driver assistance systems, navigation systems, "infotainment" systems, rear entertainment systems, internet connections and wireless gigabit (IEEE 802.11 ad standard). Possible applications include high-resolution cameras, such as 4K and 8K cameras, sensors, onboard computers, high-resolution displays, high-resolution dashboards, 3D navigation devices and mobile phones.

In principle, however, the plug-in connection according to the invention is suitable for any application within the entire field of electrical engineering and should not be understood as being restricted to use in vehicle technology.

The electrical plug connector and the electrical plug connection are also not limited to a specific type of plug connector, with the invention being particularly suitable for plug connectors and plug connections for high-frequency technology. In particular, it can be connectors or plug-in connections of the type PL, BNC, TNC, SMBA (FAKRA), SMA, SMB, SMS, SMC, SMP, BMS, HFM (FAKRA-Mini), H-MTD, BMK, Mini- Trade Coax or MATE-AX.

The invention is particularly preferably suitable for use with an electrical plug connector or an electrical plug connection according to a watertight FAKRA standard, for example for the transmission of camera signals and/or for mounting in the area of exterior mirrors or bumpers of a motor vehicle.

The invention can be equally suitable for angled connectors as well as for non-angled or straight connectors.

The invention also relates to an assembly method for an electrical connector, comprising a connector housing, a locking device for locking the connector with a corresponding electrical mating connector, and a sliding between a pre-locking position and a locking position locking element. The assembly method provides for the securing element to be pushed into the pre-locking position along a feed line of the connector housing from outside the connector housing in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector housing.

The invention also relates to a method for securing an electrical plug connection, having an electrical plug connector and a mating electrical connector that corresponds to the plug connector. The connector has a connector housing, a locking device for locking the connector to the mating connector, and a locking element. The securing element is moved from a pre-locking position to a securing position. The securing element blocks the locking safeguard in the securing position in order to prevent the mating connector from being unlocked. Provision is also made for the securing element to be brought into a pre-secured position by plugging in the mating connector and for the securing element to be mechanically braced in the process. Provision is also made for the securing element to be displaced from the pre-secured position into the securing position along a guide on the connector housing, and for the securing element to be mechanically relieved in the process.

Features that have been described in connection with the electrical plug connector according to the invention can of course also be implemented advantageously for the securing element, the electrical plug connection and the methods mentioned—and vice versa. Furthermore, advantages that have already been mentioned in connection with the electrical plug connector according to the invention can also be understood in relation to the securing element, the electrical plug connection and the method—and vice versa.

In addition, it should be pointed out that terms such as "comprising", "having" or "with" do not exclude any other features or steps. Furthermore, terms such as "a" or "that" which indicate a singular number of steps or features do not exclude a plurality of features or steps - and vice versa.

In a puristic embodiment of the invention, however, it can also be provided that the features introduced in the invention with the terms “comprising”, “having” or “with” are listed exhaustively. Accordingly, one or more listings may be considered complete within the scope of the invention, e.g. considered one for each claim. The invention can, for example, exclusively consist of the features mentioned in claim 1.

Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the values and parameters described here are deviations or fluctuations of ±10% or less, preferably ±5% or less, more preferably ±1% or less, and very particularly preferably ±0.1% or less of the respectively named Include value or parameter, provided that these deviations are not excluded in the implementation of the invention in practice. Specifying ranges by starting and ending values also includes all of those Values and fractions enclosed by the specified range, in particular the initial and final values and a respective mean.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the drawing.

The figures each show preferred exemplary embodiments in which individual features of the present invention are shown in combination with one another. Features of an exemplary embodiment can also be implemented separately from the other features of the same exemplary embodiment and can accordingly easily be combined with features of other exemplary embodiments by a person skilled in the art to form further meaningful combinations and sub-combinations.

Elements with the same function are provided with the same reference symbols in the figures.

Figur 1

einen erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Steckverbinder mit einem Steckverbindergehäuse, einer Verriegelungssicherung und einem Sicherungselement in einer Vorrastposition, in einer perspektivischen Darstellung;

Figur 2

den Steckverbinder der Figur 1 in einer Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie II der Figur 4;

Figur 3

den Steckverbinder der Figur 1 in einer Schnittdarstellung entlang der Schnittlinie III der Figur 4;

Figur 4

den Steckverbinder der Figur 1 in einer Ansicht von vorne;

Figur 5

den Steckverbinder der Figur 1 und einen noch nicht in den Steckverbinder eingesteckten, korrespondierenden Gegensteckverbinder in einer Seitenansicht;

Figur 6

eine elektrische Steckverbindung, aufweisend den elektrischen Steckverbinder und den vollständig eingesteckten elektrischen Gegensteckverbinder, mit dem Sicherungselement in der Vorsicherungsposition in einer teilweise geschnittenen Seitenansicht gemäß Schnittlinie II der Figur 4;

Figur 7

die gesicherte elektrische Steckverbindung mit dem Sicherungselement in der Sicherungsposition in einer teilweise geschnittenen Seitenansicht gemäß Schnittlinie II der Figur 4;

Figur 8

die gesicherte Steckverbindung der Figur 7 in einer teilweise geschnittenen Seitenansicht gemäß Schnittlinie III der Figur 4;

Figur 9

die gesicherte Steckverbindung der Figur 7 in einer perspektivischen Darstellung, wobei der Gegensteckverbinder ausgeblendet ist;

Figur 10

die gesicherte Steckverbindung der Figur 7 während des Entsicherns des Sicherungselements in einer Seitenansicht;

Figur 11

eine Ausschnittsvergrößerung des Steckverbinders der Figur 1 in einer perspektivischen Darstellung;

Figur 12

den elektrischen Steckverbinder mit dem Sicherungselement in einer noch nicht montierten Position außerhalb des Steckverbindergehäuses in einer Seitenansicht; und

Figur 13

das Sicherungselement in einer perspektivischen Einzeldarstellung.

They show schematically:

figure 1

an electrical connector according to the invention with a connector housing, a locking device and a securing element in a pre-locked position, in a perspective view;

figure 2

the connector the figure 1 in a sectional view along line II of figure 4 ;

figure 3

the connector the figure 1 in a sectional view along line III of figure 4 ;

figure 4

the connector the figure 1 in a front view;

figure 5

the connector the figure 1 and a side view of a corresponding mating connector that has not yet been inserted into the connector;

figure 6

an electrical connector comprising the electrical connector and the fully inserted mating electrical connector, with the fuse element in the pre-fuse position in a partially sectioned side view along section line II figure 4 ;

figure 7

the secured electrical plug connection with the fuse element in the fuse position in a partially sectioned side view along section line II of Figure 4;

figure 8

the secured plug connection figure 7 in a partially sectioned side view along line III of figure 4 ;

figure 9

the secured plug connection figure 7 in a perspective view, wherein the mating connector is hidden;

figure 10

the secured plug connection figure 7 during the unlocking of the securing element in a side view;

figure 11

an enlarged detail of the connector figure 1 in a perspective view;

figure 12

the electrical connector with the fuse element in a not yet mounted position outside of the connector housing in a side view; and

figure 13

the fuse element in a perspective individual representation.

figure 1 shows an electrical connector 1 according to the invention in a perspective view. The Figures 2 to 4 show connector 1 in the in figure 1 shown state in further representations, also shows figure 11 an enlarged section of the connector 1 in a perspective view.

The electrical connector 1 has a connector housing 2, for example a plastic housing. The connector housing 2 forms an outer shell with two side walls 3 which have inner surfaces 4 lying opposite one another.

The connector 1 also has a locking device 5 for locking the connector 1 to a corresponding mating connector 6 . In the exemplary embodiment, the locking device 5 is designed as a locking rocker.

A locked electrical connector 7 comprising the electrical connector 1 and the mating electrical connector 6 is in the Figures 6 to 8 and 10 shown.

The mating connector 6 can, for example, engage behind a recess 9 of the locking rocker or the locking device 5 by means of a locking hook 8 and in this way, together with the locking device 5, can form a so-called primary safety device. This is especially good in the figures 6 and 7 recognizable. To unlock the mating connector 6, an actuating section 10 of the locking rocker or the locking device 5 can be actuated in the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the connector 1 in order to lift a locking section 11 of the locking rocker or the locking device 5 opposite the actuating section 10 in order to release the locking hook 8 of the Mating connector 6 release. Such latching rockers or locking safeguards 5 or primary safeguards are already known in principle, which is why the exact functional principle is not discussed in detail.

The electrical plug connector 1 also has a locking element 12 that can be displaced between a pre-locking position and a locking position and that locks the locking lock 5 in the locking position blocked to prevent unintentional unlocking of the mating connector 6. A securing element 12 for securing a primary latch is also known under the name "Connector Position Assurance" (CPA). The fuse element 12 is in figure 13 shown separately in perspective view. In the exemplary embodiment, the securing element 12 is designed in one piece, but in principle it can also be designed in multiple parts. The securing element 12 is preferably made of a plastic.

The Figures 1 to 5 and 11 each show the securing element 12 in the pre-locked position, whereas the Figures 7 to 10 represent the securing element 12 in the securing position.

How particularly good based on figure 7 can be seen, the securing element 12 in the securing position blocks the locking device 5 or the locking rocker with a securing area 13 in a form-fitting manner. For this purpose, the securing area 13 of the securing element 12 is positioned between the latching section 11 of the locking safeguard 5 and an outer wall 2 . 1 of the connector housing 2 . Preferably, the securing element 12 or its securing area 13 can no longer be displaced further axially in the direction of the mating connector 6 starting from the securing position. The displacement path of the securing element 12 preferably ends in such a way that the securing area 13 of the securing element 12 does not protrude beyond the latching section 11 from the connector housing 2 .

It is provided that the connector housing 2 forms a feed. The feed is formed by two guide grooves 14 running on the two inner surfaces 4 of the side walls 3 of the connector housing 2 . The guide grooves 14 are particularly good in figure 9 recognizable and shown in dashed lines in FIG. The securing element 12 can be displaced along the feed or along the guide grooves 14 from outside the connector housing 2 for its assembly in the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the connector housing 2 into the pre-locking position, as shown in FIG figure 12 implied. The securing element 12 can be displaced into the pre-latching position by a movement running essentially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis L of the connector housing 2 .

The securing element 12 has guide pins 15 on both sides, which can be brought into engagement with the feed or with the guide grooves 14 of the connector housing 2 for moving the securing element 12 into the pre-locking position in order to guide the securing element 12 into the pre-locking position during the shift.

Provision can also be made for the securing element 12 to be captively connected to the connector housing 2 in the pre-locking position. For this purpose, in the exemplary embodiment, the guide pins 15 engage behind a lateral guide of the connector housing 2 , which in the exemplary embodiment is formed by two opposite elongated bores or elongated holes 16 in the side walls 3 of the connector housing 2 . In order to make it easier to insert the securing element 12 or the guide pins 15 into the elongated holes 16, the guide pins 15 have an optional bevel.

In the pre-locking position, the securing element 12 is arranged in the connector housing 2 in such a way that the securing element 12 is completely unstressed mechanically.

In the pre-locking position, the securing element 12 is also positioned in the connector housing 2 in such a way that the securing element 12 is brought into a pre-securing position by plugging in the mating connector 6, in which the securing element 12 is mechanically braced. The pre-fuse position is in figure 6 shown.

As emerges from the figure 6 results, the insertion of the mating connector 6 leads to a displacement of the securing area 13 of the securing element 12 (ie a "lifting movement"), which is essentially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L of the connector housing 2, while the securing element 12 is simultaneously with its rear end section on the connector housing 2 supports. For this purpose, the securing element 12 has a support area in its rear end section, which is formed by two laterally protruding lugs 17 (cf., for example, figure 13 ). By supporting the securing element 12 with its support area or with the lugs 17 on the connector housing 2 in combination with the forced guidance of the guide pins 15 of the securing element 12 in the elongated holes 16, a spring area arranged between the securing area 13 and the support area braces itself, which is defined by two Spring arms 18 (cf. figure 13 ) is formed.

It can be seen that the securing area 13 of the securing element 12 is positioned in the pre-locking position in the recess 9 of the locking device 5 or the locking rocker such that the securing area 13 is in the displacement path of the locking hook 8 of the mating connector 6 . By plugging in the mating connector 6, the securing area 13 of the securing element 12 can thus be raised and thus brought into the pre-securing position.

The securing element 12 can have at least one latching element 19, in the exemplary embodiment two latching elements 19, on its front end section (cf., for example, figure 13 ). The securing element 12 is arranged between the two latching elements 19 . The latching elements 19 can be in engagement with a lateral guide of the connector housing 2 for moving the securing element 12 from the pre-latching position into the pre-securing position, in order to guide the securing element 12 into the pre-securing position during displacement. In the exemplary embodiment, the lateral guide is formed by two lateral guide grooves 20 on the inner surfaces 4 of the side walls 3 of the connector housing 2 (cf., for example, figure 1 ).

It is further provided that the connector housing 2 forms a guide along which the securing element 12 can be displaced from the pre-secured position into the secured position while it is mechanically relaxed. In the exemplary embodiment, the guide is formed by two grooves 21 formed in the side walls 3 (cf., for example, figure 1 or figure 9 ). At the same time, the securing element 12 is guided in the slots 16 by its guide pins 15 .

Due to the fact that the securing element 12 is braced in the pre-securing position, it strives for the relaxed securing position and can, optionally by being released by a user, move itself into the securing position.

The guide or the two grooves 21 of the connector housing 2 are designed in such a way that the securing element 12, in addition to a substantially axial movement along the longitudinal axis L of the connector housing 2 in the direction of the mating connector 6, also experiences a tilting in that the support area or by the two lugs 17 of the fuse element 12 of the longitudinal axis L of the connector housing 2 approach. The grooves 21 thus have an axial section followed by a mixed axial/radial section or an oblique section.

The securing element 12 can advantageously be at a distance from the mating connector 6 in the securing position, in particular at a distance from the latching hook 8 of the mating connector 6, as is shown particularly well in figure 7 is recognizable. In this way, a load on the securing element 12 can be avoided.

It can be provided that the securing element 12 in the securing position engages with its latching elements 19 in corresponding latching recesses 22 of the connector housing 2 (cf. figure 4 ).

It should be emphasized that in the Figures 1 to 12 illustrated electrical connector 1 and the fuse element 12 described are to be understood only as an example.

In principle, the invention is suitable for use with a plug connector 1 of any design or for use with any electrical plug connection 7. However, the electrical plug connector 1 is preferably designed as a FAKRA plug connector (in particular as a watertight FAKRA plug connector), as shown in the exemplary embodiment.

Claims (15)

Electrical connector (1), having a connector housing (2), a locking device (5) for locking the connector (1) with a corresponding electrical mating connector (6), and a locking element (12) that can be displaced between a pre-locking position and a locking position, the Securing element (12) blocks the locking device (5) in the securing position in order to prevent unlocking of the mating connector (6),
characterized in that
the securing element (12) is positioned in the pre-locking position in the connector housing (2) in such a way that the securing element (12) is brought into a pre-securing position by plugging in the mating connector (6), in which the securing element (12) is mechanically braced, wherein the connector housing (2) forms a guide (21) along which the securing element (12) can be displaced from the pre-securing position into the securing position and is mechanically relaxed in the process, the securing element (12) having a securing area (13), a supporting area (17) and an intermediate spring area (18), the securing area (13) on a front end portion of the securing element (12) facing the mating connector (6) and the support area (17) on a front end portion along the longitudinal axis (L) of the connector housing (2) opposite rear end portion of the fuse element (12) when the fuse element (12) is inserted into the connector housing (2), and wherein the guide (21) of the connector housing (2) is formed to surround the support portion (17 ) of the securing element (12) in such a way that the support area (17) performs a radial movement in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the connector housing (2) during the axial displacement of the securing element (12) from the pre-secured position to the secured position. Electrical connector (1) according to claim 1,
characterized in that
the connector housing (2) forms a feed (14) along which the securing element (12) can be displaced from outside the connector housing (2) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the connector housing (2) into the pre-locking position. Electrical connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized in that
the displacement path for the securing element (12) ends in the securing position in which the securing element (12) is positioned between a latching section (11) of the locking safeguard (5) and an outer wall (2.1) of the connector housing (2) in order to lock the locking safeguard (5 ) to block. Electrical connector (1) according to claim 2 or 3,
characterized in that
the feed (14) is formed in the connector housing (2) in such a way that the securing element (12) can be displaced into the pre-locking position by a movement running essentially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis (L) of the connector housing (2). Electrical connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
characterized in that
the securing element (12) is positioned in the pre-locking position in the connector housing (2) in such a way that plugging in the mating connector (6) results in a displacement of the securing area (13) of the securing element (12) running essentially orthogonally to the longitudinal axis (L). , while the securing element (12) is supported with the support area (17) on the connector housing (2) in such a way that the intermediate spring area (18) is mechanically braced. Electrical connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
characterized in that
the securing area (13) of the securing element (12) is positioned in the pre-locking position in a recess (9) in the locking device (5) in such a way that the securing area (13) is in a displacement path of a latching hook (8) of the mating connector (6). , in order to be pushed into the pre-fuse position by the latching hook (8) while the mating connector (6) is being plugged in. Electrical connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
characterized in that
the securing element (12) is spaced apart from the mating connector (6) in the securing position. Electrical connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
characterized in that
the securing element (12) has at least one guide pin (15) which engages with a side guide (16) of the connector housing (2) for moving the securing element (12) from the pre-secured position into the securing position in order to keep the securing element (12) during the To lead shifting in the backup position. Electrical connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
characterized in that
the securing element (12) has at least one guide pin (15) which connects the securing element (12) captively to the connector housing (2). Electrical connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
characterized in that
the securing element (12) has at least one latching element (19) on the front end section, which engages with a lateral guide (20) of the connector housing (2) for moving the securing element (12) from the pre-latching position into the pre-securing position in order to lock the securing element ( 12) while moving to the pre-safety position. Electrical connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
characterized in that
the securing element (12) has at least one latching element (19) on the front end section, which engages in a latching recess (22) of the connector housing (2) to latch the securing element (12) in the securing position. Electrical connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
characterized in that
the guide (21) of the connector housing (2) is designed to guide the support area (17) of the securing element (12) in such a way that the support area (17) during the axial displacement of the securing element (12) from the pre-secured position to the secured position radial movement towards the longitudinal axis (L) of the connector housing (2) performs. Electrical connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
characterized in that
the securing element (12) is designed in one piece. Electrical plug connection (7), having an electrical plug connector (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 13 and the electrical mating connector (6) which corresponds to the plug connector (1). Electrical plug connection (7) according to claim 14,
characterized in that
the mating connector (6) has a latching hook (8) which is designed to latch with the locking device (5) of the connector (1) when the mating connector (6) is plugged into the connector (1), the latching hook ( 8) while the mating connector (6) is being plugged in, it penetrates the connector housing (2) of the connector (1) in such a way that the latching hook (8) moves the securing element (12) from the pre-latching position into the pre-securing position.

Images