EP4246738A1 - Round plug connector, use of a round plug connector, and method for producing a round plug connector - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a circular connector (100) comprising: - an electrically conductive connector housing (20); - a plurality of contact conductors (10; 12), the plurality of contact conductors (10; 12) comprising a potential equalization conductor (12); - a Insulator (40), the plurality of contact conductors (10; 12) being embedded at least in sections in the insulator (40); and - a potential equalization element (50); is electrically connected to the connector housing (20) by means of a contact shell (30). The invention further relates to the use of such a circular connector (100) and a method for producing such a circular connector (100).

Description

The present invention relates to a circular connector, a use of a circular connector and a method for producing a circular connector.

Cold appliance plugs as exemplary circular plugs are known in the prior art. Cold appliance plugs usually have at least one grounding conductor, which can also be referred to as a potential equalization conductor, in order to contact a potential equalization conductor of a complementary connection and to ground a connected device. In the case of electrically conductive housings of a round plug, the problem of potential equalization of the housing of the round plug arises in particular in order to reduce possible dangers for a user when handling the round plug.

It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a circular connector with improved potential equalization and to provide a method for producing a circular connector with improved potential equalization. In other words, it is a particular task to provide a circular connector that has an electrically conductive housing with improved potential equalization, as well as to provide a method for producing a circular connector that is configured with an electrically conductive housing with improved potential equalization.

The task is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are set out in the dependent claims.

• ein elektrisch leitfähiges Steckverbindergehäuse;
• eine Mehrzahl von Kontaktleitern, wobei die Mehrzahl von Kontaktleitern einen Potentialausgleichsleiter umfasst;
• einen Isolator, wobei die Mehrzahl von Kontaktleitern zumindest abschnittsweise in dem Isolator eingebettet ist; und
• ein Potentialausgleichselement;
  • -- wobei das Potentialausgleichselement den Isolator abschnittsweise aufnimmt,
  • -- wobei das Potentialausgleichselement elektrisch leitend den Potentialausgleichsleiter kontaktiert, und
  • -- wobei das Potentialausgleichselement mittels einer Kontaktschale elektrisch leitend mit dem Steckverbindergehäuse verbunden ist.

One aspect of the invention relates to a circular connector comprising:

• an electrically conductive connector housing;
• a plurality of contact conductors, the plurality of contact conductors comprising a potential equalization conductor;
• an insulator, wherein the plurality of contact conductors is at least partially embedded in the insulator; and
• a potential equalization element;
  • -- the potential equalization element accommodates the insulator in sections,
  • -- wherein the potential equalization element contacts the potential equalization conductor in an electrically conductive manner, and
  • -- wherein the potential equalization element is electrically conductively connected to the connector housing by means of a contact shell.

Advantageously, the present circular connector provides in particular a potential equalization, in particular a protective potential equalization, for the electrically conductive connector housing, the electrically conductive connector housing being conductively connected to the potential equalization conductor, in particular in this row, via the contact shell and the potential equalization element. As a result, a fault current, a fault voltage or another overvoltage can advantageously be diverted or dissipated from the electrically conductive connector housing, via the potential equalization element, to the potential equalization conductor, so that a user in particular can be advantageously protected. The potential equalization conductor can in particular correspond to a grounding conductor, which in the present case is configured to ground the circular connector and in particular the connector housing of the circular connector.

The present circular connector makes it possible, by means of the potential equalization element, which accommodates the insulator in sections and electrically conductively contacts the potential equalization conductor and is electrically conductively connected to the connector housing, to advantageously provide an improved potential equalization for the circular connector, in particular for the Circular connector with electrically conductive connector housing. This can advantageously provide potential equalization of the electrically conductive connector housing, thereby enabling safe handling of the circular connector for a user.

In exemplary embodiments, the connector housing can be electrically conductive, in particular have or consist of a metal, or have or consist of an electrically conductive plastic, and therefore be particularly electrically conductive. The electrically conductive connector housing, which for example has or consists of a metal, advantageously enables a shielding to be provided for the plurality of contact conductors, so that the present circular connector advantageously enables a connection that is both safe to use and has little interference or at least is less susceptible to interference.

The potential equalization conductor of the present circular connector can in particular be configured to provide potential equalization in order to short-circuit a potential voltage and to dissipate a current via the potential equalization conductor rather than via a user. For this purpose, the potential equalization conductor is advantageously connected to the electrically conductive connector housing via the potential equalization element and the contact shell. The potential equalization conductor, which is connected to the electrically conductive connector housing by means of the potential equalization element and the contact shell, makes it possible in particular to advantageously divert or dissipate an overvoltage from the connector housing, for example by a loaded user, or a residual current running on or in the connector housing.

In preferred embodiments, the contact shell can be configured to make electrically conductive contact with the potential equalization element at least in sections peripherally, i.e. in particular in sections on an outer circumference of the potential equalization element. This advantageously provides and ensures a short, electrically conductive connection between the potential equalization conductor and the connector housing over a large area.

In exemplary embodiments, at least one, several, or all contact conductors of the plurality of contact conductors can penetrate the insulator, in particular penetrate the insulator in a longitudinal or plug-in direction of the circular connector. The insulator can preferably surround or enclose the at least one, the several, or all contact conductors of the plurality of contact conductors in a circumferential direction.

In particular, the insulator can be configured to space or delimit the one or more contact conductors, which do not include the potential equalization conductor, from the potential equalization element and/or from the potential equalization conductor.

In the following, various terms are used repeatedly, the understanding of which is intended to be made easier by the following definitions.

Circular connector: In the present case, the circular connector essentially represents a connector, in particular a connector with an electrically conductive connector housing. The circular connector can in particular have, at least in sections, a substantially cylindrical shape or contour, but is not limited to this, and can also have any contour in cross-section to a longitudinal direction or insertion direction of the circular connector, in particular be polygonal or be round and angular in sections. The circular connector can be of both male and female type, and is in particular configured to be electrically conductively connected to a complementary circular connector. In exemplary embodiments, the circular connector can in particular be or form the front connectable or pluggable end of a coaxial cable. The circular connector can in particular provide a screw connection and/or a push-push connection and/or a push-pull connection to a complementary circular connector or form it with a complementary circular connector.

Contact conductor: In the present case, the contact conductor is mostly used as part of a plurality of contact conductors. The contact conductor or contact conductors colloquially represent one or more poles of the circular connector. The majority of contact conductors always have the potential equalization conductor and at least one contact conductor, in particular any number of contact conductors. The plurality of contact conductors can therefore in particular include a potential equalization conductor and a contact conductor, a potential equalization conductor and two contact conductors, a potential equalization conductor and three contact conductors, etc.

Longitudinal direction: The longitudinal direction describes in particular a direction in which the circular connector has its greatest extent. The longitudinal direction can also lie in particular in a direction along which the contact conductors essentially extend, or in which the contact conductors are configured to be connected or contacted. The longitudinal direction can therefore essentially correspond to a plugging direction of the circular connector. The plugging direction represents the direction in which the circular connector is moved relative to a complementary circular connector in order to provide an electrically conductive contact between the circular connector and a complementary circular connector.

Circumferential direction: The circumferential direction represents a direction that is essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction or insertion direction. The circumferential direction can in particular essentially correspond to a direction along a circumference of the circular connector or a direction along an outer contour of the circular connector in a cross section of the circular connector, or correspond to a direction along the outer contour of an element of the circular connector in a cross section of the circular connector, wherein the cross section essentially corresponds runs perpendicular to the longitudinal direction or plugging direction of the circular connector. The circumferential direction can correspond in particular to a direction along a tangent to a circumference of the circular connector or an element of the circular connector, in particular to a direction along a tangent to a contour of the Circular connector or an element of the circular connector in a cross section. In other words, the circumferential direction can be particularly similar to a circumferential direction of a cylinder, with the present circular connector not being limited to a strictly cylindrical contour.

Radial direction: The radial direction represents a direction which is essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction or insertion direction and/or the circumferential direction. The radial direction can in particular point from an axis of the circular connector towards an outer contour or lateral surface, in particular towards an outer contour or lateral surface of the circular connector or an element of the circular connector.

The longitudinal direction or insertion direction, together with the circumferential direction and the radial direction, can in particular form a right-hand system, in particular a cylindrical coordinate system.

If a direction or an angle is represented with the addition “essentially” or “approximately” or “approximately,” this addition means in particular a deviation from the relevant direction or angle in the range from 0° to 5° or to understand.

If a spatial measure, a spatial ratio or another relationship is represented with the addition “essentially” or “approximately” or “approximately”, this addition is in particular a deviation from the relevant measure or the relevant ratio in the range of 0 % to 10% meant or understood.

In preferred embodiments of the circular connector, the potential equalization element can have a substantially annular cross section, which is configured to contact the contact shell at least in sections along a circumferential direction of the potential equalization element.

In other words, the potential equalization element can in particular be configured to form an at least partially annular contact cross section with the contact shell. The sectionally annular contact cross section between the potential equalization element and the contact shell can extend in particular over a predetermined length in the longitudinal direction or insertion direction of the circular connector.

The at least partial contact between the potential equalization element and the contact shell along the circumferential direction advantageously enables flat contact between the potential equalization element and the contact shell.

In exemplary embodiments, the contact shell can be configured to contact the potential equalization element at a distal end of the potential equalization element, in particular at a longitudinally distal end of a lateral surface of the potential equalization element.

In further exemplary embodiments, the potential equalization element can be completely accommodated in the contact shell with regard to its extent in the longitudinal direction. Additionally or alternatively, the contact shell can in particular be configured to hold or fix the potential equalization element in the longitudinal direction.

• wobei das Potentialausgleichselement bevorzugt einen Potentialausgleichsleiterkragen aufweist, wobei der Potentialausgleichsleiterkragen um die Potentialausgleichsleiteröffnung angeordnet ist, und wobei der Potentialausgleichsleiter zumindest abschnittsweise in dem Potentialausgleichsleiterkragen aufgenommen ist, und
• wobei vorzugsweise das Potentialausgleichselement an den Potentialausgleichsleiter gecrimpt ist, und/oder an den Isolator gecrimpt ist.

In preferred embodiments of the circular connector, the potential equalization element can have a potential equalization conductor opening in which the potential equalization conductor is accommodated at least in sections,

• wherein the potential equalization element preferably has a potential equalization conductor collar, wherein the potential equalization conductor collar is arranged around the potential equalization conductor opening, and wherein the potential equalization conductor is accommodated at least in sections in the potential equalization conductor collar, and
• wherein preferably the potential equalization element is connected to the Potential equalization conductor is crimped and/or crimped to the insulator.

Through the potential equalization element, which accommodates the insulator in sections, the insulator with the embedded contact conductors can be advantageously positioned or aligned relative to the potential equalization element.

By means of the potential equalization conductor collar, the potential equalization conductor can further advantageously be guided and, in particular, electrically conductively contacted over the surface.

Furthermore, by crimping the potential equalization element to the potential equalization conductor, the potential equalization conductor can be contacted firmly and safely in an electrically conductive manner. In particular, by crimping the potential equalization element to the potential equalization conductor, the potential equalization element and the potential equalization conductor can be connected to one another in a form-fitting and/or frictional manner. Alternatively or additionally, the potential equalization element and the potential equalization conductor can be connected in a materially bonded manner, for example by soldering and/or by gluing with an electrically conductive adhesive.

The types of connection mentioned advantageously ensure electrically conductive contacting of the potential equalization element and the potential equalization conductor, so that advantageous potential equalization of the circular connector, in particular grounding of the circular connector, can be ensured by means of the potential equalization element.

By crimping the potential equalization element to the insulator, the insulator can advantageously be securely fixed to the potential equalization element. In particular, the insulator can be configured to penetrate the potential equalization element in sections, in particular to penetrate in the longitudinal direction. The potential equalization element can, in particular, after the partially penetrating arrangement of the insulator on the potential equalization element, on the Insulator can be crimped and/or connected to the insulator in a cohesive, frictional and/or form-fitting manner in some other way. This allows a predetermined position of the insulator to be fixed and ensured on the potential equalization element, which in particular facilitates further assembly of the circular connector, such as attaching connections to the plurality of contact conductors.

In exemplary embodiments, the potential equalization conductor opening can be arranged on an end face of the potential equalization element, in particular on an end face facing away from the insertion direction of the circular connector.

In particular, the potential equalization element can have a sectionally closed section on one end face, in particular on the end face facing away from the plug-in direction of the circular connector, with the potential equalization conductor opening preferably being arranged in the sectionally closed section. Further preferably, the partially closed section is configured to separate and/or space the potential equalization conductor from the one or more contact conductors of the plurality of contact conductors.

As a result, the potential equalization element can advantageously space the potential equalization conductor from the other contact conductor or contact conductors and facilitate the further assembly of the circular connector, in particular the connection of connections to the plurality of contact conductors.

In exemplary embodiments, in particular the potential equalization conductor collar of the potential equalization element can be or will be crimped to the potential equalization conductor. The potential equalization conductor collar can in particular extend from the potential equalization conductor opening in a direction which is essentially parallel and opposite to the longitudinal direction or plugging direction of the circular connector. Furthermore, the potential equalization conductor collar can be in particular from the partially closed section of the Potential equalization element extend, in particular in a direction which is essentially parallel opposite to the plugging direction of the circular connector.

This can advantageously ensure secure guidance of the potential equalization conductor and a reliable electrically conductive connection between the potential equalization conductor and the potential equalization element. In addition, the potential equalization conductor collar makes it particularly easy to crimp the potential equalization element to the potential equalization conductor, thanks to particularly good accessibility.

In preferred embodiments of the circular connector, the potential equalization element can be arranged in a form-fitting manner on the insulator in the plugging direction of the circular connector, and/or
The potential equalization element can be arranged in a form-fitting manner on the insulator in the circumferential direction of the circular connector.

In other words, the potential equalization element can be arranged in a form-fitting manner on the insulator with respect to the plug-in direction or the longitudinal direction of the circular plug-in connector, and additionally or alternatively can be arranged in a form-fitting manner on the insulator with respect to the circumferential direction of the circular plug-in connector.

As a result, the insulator can advantageously be securely fixed to the potential equalization element, so that in particular both the potential equalization conductor embedded in the insulator is fixed to the potential equalization element and the insulator itself is fixed to the potential equalization element. This can advantageously ensure an improved longevity of the connection between the potential equalization element and the potential equalization conductor, in particular the electrically conductive connection between the potential equalization element and the potential equalization conductor.

In order to further enhance this effect, the insulator and potential equalization conductor can preferably be positively connected at different points on the potential equalization element be arranged, in particular be arranged in a form-fitting manner at different points of the potential equalization element with respect to the longitudinal direction or the plug-in direction.

In exemplary embodiments, one of the insulator and the potential equalization element may have a projection, and the other of the insulator and the potential equalization element may have a recess, the projection and the recess being configured to engage, in particular such that the projection and the Recess form a positive fit with respect to the plugging direction of the circular connector and/or form a positive fit with respect to the circumferential direction of the circular connector.

In preferred embodiments, the insulator in particular can have the projection and be configured to engage with a recess of the potential equalization element, in particular in such a way that the projection of the insulator is arranged in a form-fitting manner on the recess of the potential equalization element with respect to the circumferential direction. Additionally or alternatively, the projection can be configured to be arranged on the recess in a form-fitting manner with respect to the insertion direction or longitudinal direction.

In exemplary embodiments, the recess can in particular provide or form a stop in the insertion direction or longitudinal direction for the projection.

Due to the aforementioned configurations of the projection and the recess, the insulator can be securely connected to the potential equalization element. In addition, the insulator and potential equalization element can be aligned or positioned with respect to one another in a simple manner, which in particular also facilitates the further assembly of the circular connector, in particular the attachment of connections to the plurality of contact conductors which are embedded in the insulator.

Preferably, the recess or the projection of the insulator can be arranged or formed on an outside, in particular a radially outer side of the insulator. More preferably, the recess or the projection of the potential equalization element can be arranged or formed on an outside, in particular a radially outer side of the potential equalization element. If at least one of the connecting elements mentioned is arranged on a radially outer side of the respective element, the assembly of the potential equalization conductor and insulator can advantageously be facilitated by good security and accessibility.

• wobei sich der erste Abschnitt des Isolators bevorzugt abschnittsweise durch die erste Öffnung des Potentialausgleichselements erstreckt, und
• wobei die Kontaktleiter der Mehrzahl von Kontaktleitern ohne den Potentialausgleichsleiter in dem ersten Abschnitt des Isolators zumindest teilweise eingebettet sind.

In preferred embodiments of the circular connector, the potential equalization element may have a first opening which is configured to receive a first portion of the insulator,

• wherein the first section of the insulator preferably extends in sections through the first opening of the potential equalization element, and
• wherein the contact conductors of the plurality of contact conductors are at least partially embedded in the first section of the insulator without the potential equalization conductor.

Because the first section of the insulator is received by the first opening of the potential equalization element, positioning of the insulator on the potential equalization element can advantageously be ensured, with the potential equalization element only making electrically conductive contact with the potential equalization conductor of the plurality of contact conductors.

Because the first section of the insulator extends in sections through the first opening of the potential equalization element, a secure, positive connection can advantageously be provided between the potential equalization element and the insulator, wherein a positive connection can be provided with respect to one or more directions, which are essentially is or are perpendicular to the direction along which the insulator extends in sections through the first opening.

By at least partially embedding the contact conductors of the plurality of contact conductors without the potential equalization conductor in the received first section of the insulator, with the first section of the insulator being received in the first opening of the potential equalization element, precise positioning or arrangement of the contact conductors in the circular connector can advantageously be ensured become. This can advantageously facilitate further assembly of the circular connector, in particular the arrangement of connections on the contact conductors. In addition, by at least partially embedding in the first section of the insulator only those contact conductors which do not correspond to the potential equalization conductor, a secure spacing of the potential equalization conductor from the other contact conductor or contact conductors can advantageously be provided, as well as a secure spacing of the potential equalization element from that or provided to the other contact conductors or contact conductors.

In preferred embodiments, the first opening can be arranged on an end face of the potential equalization element, in particular on an end face facing away from the insertion direction of the circular connector.

In exemplary embodiments, the first opening can in particular be arranged at a distance from the potential equalization conductor opening, in particular can be arranged at a distance from the potential equalization conductor opening in the radial direction. This can advantageously ensure a spaced arrangement of the potential equalization conductor from the other contact conductor or contact conductors.

In exemplary embodiments, the first opening may be substantially semicircular. In other words, the first opening can form a substantially semicircular opening in an end face of the potential equalization element, in particular on or in an end face facing away from the insertion direction of the circular connector. In exemplary embodiments, the first opening of the potential equalization element can be configured with the first in sections closed section of the potential equalization element to form an end face, in particular to form the end face of the potential equalization element, which is arranged on the end face facing away in the plugging direction of the circular connector.

In preferred embodiments of the circular connector, the potential equalization element can have a recess, wherein the recess is configured to engage with a projection of the insulator in the plugging direction of the circular connector, so that the projection is configured when the insulator and the potential equalization element are mounted in front of the first Section of the insulator to engage with the potential equalization element.

In other words, the potential equalization element can have a recess, wherein when the potential equalization element is mounted with the insulator in the plug-in direction, a projection of the insulator is configured to at least partially engage with the recess before a first section of the insulator, in which in particular the contact conductors can be partially embedded without the potential equalization conductor, partially engages with a first opening of the potential equalization element, in particular on an end face of the potential equalization element.

As a result, a coding for assembly can advantageously be provided by means of the recess of the potential equalization element in cooperation with the projection of the insulator, which can in particular be configured to enable a precisely fitting assembly of the insulator with the first opening on the end face of the potential equalization element.

In exemplary embodiments, the recess of the potential equalization element can be formed in particular on an outer surface, in particular a radially outer surface of the potential equalization element, in other words on a lateral surface of the potential equalization element. This can advantageously facilitate visibility when installing the projection on the recess.

The engagement of the projection in the recess and of the first section of the insulator in the first opening of the potential equalization element is to be understood in particular as entering at least in sections. The intervention can, but does not necessarily have to, include reaching behind. In exemplary embodiments, however, connections behind, in particular, can also be provided between the recess and the projection, and/or between the first section and the first opening. If the insulator has an elastomer or another deformable material, such as a plastic, the engagement can in particular be a frictional engagement, which includes reaching behind in sections due to a possible resilient deformation, in particular elastically resilient deformation and demoulding of the insulator.

In preferred embodiments of the circular connector, the potential equalization element can be arranged in a form-fitting manner on the contact shell.

In particular, the potential equalization element can be arranged in a form-fitting manner on the contact shell with respect to the plugging direction of the circular connector.

In exemplary embodiments, one of the contact shell and the potential equalization element may have a groove, in particular a groove which extends essentially in the circumferential direction, in particular extends substantially in the circumferential direction in sections, and the other of the contact shell and the potential equalization element may have a projection, in particular one Have a projection which projects essentially in the radial direction, and preferably extends essentially in the circumferential direction, in particular extends in sections essentially in the circumferential direction. The projection can be configured to engage in the groove on the potential equalization element when the contact shell is mounted. In other words, in the state in which the contact shell is mounted on the potential equalization element, the groove can be configured to accommodate the projection at least in sections.

The projection which projects essentially in the radial direction and the groove which extends essentially along the circumferential direction can advantageously provide a positive connection between the contact shell and the potential equalization element, particularly with regard to the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction of the circular connector.

Due to the positive arrangement of the potential equalization element on the contact shell, the potential equalization element can advantageously be securely positioned and held on the contact shell.

In exemplary embodiments, the potential equalization element can have the projection, wherein the projection projects in particular substantially outwards in the radial direction and extends at least in sections along the circumferential direction. The projection can in particular be a radially outwardly projecting step, which in particular projects radially outwards compared to the remaining part of the potential equalization element. Furthermore, the projection can be arranged in particular at a distal end of the potential equalization element, in particular at an end of the potential equalization element that is distal in the plugging direction. The contact shell can in particular have a groove which is configured to accommodate the projection of the potential equalization element at least in sections. The groove can in particular be configured to accommodate the projection in a form-fitting manner, in particular with regard to the insertion direction of the circular connector. The groove of the contact shell can extend in particular essentially in the circumferential direction. In particular, the groove can be arranged on an inner peripheral side of the contact shell and/or the projection of the potential equalization element can be arranged on an outer peripheral side of the potential equalization element.

In order to engage positively, the projection and groove can form or form, for example, a bayonet lock.

Alternatively or additionally, the contact shell can be designed in several pieces in order to encompass the projection on several sides during assembly in the radial direction, corresponding to the multi-piece nature of the contact shell. The multi-piece configuration of the contact shell can in particular correspond to a configuration similar to several circle segments. The contact shell can in particular have a substantially hollow cylindrical or hollow truncated cone shape or contour. A piece of the multi-piece essentially hollow cylindrical or hollow truncated cone-shaped shape or contour of the contact shell can in particular be a segment along the circumferential direction of the essentially hollow cylindrical or hollow truncated cone-shaped shape or contour of the contact shell or correspond to this. In particular, a piece of, for example, a two-piece contact shell, without being limited thereto, can form essentially 180° of the circumference of the contact shell, or a piece of, for example, a three-piece contact shell, without being limited thereto, can form, for example, essentially 120° of the circumference of the contact shell. This angle-related division can apply in particular to several or all pieces of a multi-piece contact shell. Deviating from this, in exemplary embodiments, a piece of, for example, a two-piece, three-piece or four-piece contact shell can form an angle in the range of approximately 10° to approximately 180° of the circumference of the contact shell, and the other pieces of the contact shell can be configured to extend the circumference of the contact shell up to 360 ° to form or complete. In further exemplary embodiments, the contact shell can be formed in one piece, but with several partial sections or partial shells, which can be connected to one another, for example, by means of one or more film hinges, in particular can be connected to one another in the circumferential direction by means of one or more film hinges.

In preferred embodiments of the circular connector, the contact shell can comprise two or more partial shells, which form the contact shell in an assembled state.

In that the contact shell comprises two or more partial shells, in particular two or more partial shells are formed, assembly of the contact shell and potential equalization element can advantageously be facilitated, in particular positive connections between potential equalization element and contact shell can be realized in a simple manner.

In preferred embodiments, the contact shell has two partial shells, which form the contact shell in the assembled state. The two partial shells can be designed in one piece or in several pieces. In other words, the two partial shells can be designed as separate partial shells or, for example, can be designed in one piece, with the two partial shells being connected to one another by film hinges.

Additionally or alternatively, the partial shells can in particular be configured to be connected to one another in a frictional, positive, and/or cohesive manner, such as by means of resilient, in particular engaging spring arms, by means of clips, by means of a soldered or welded connection, etc. In addition, the partial shells can be configured to form a contact shell that is at least partially continuous in the circumferential direction only in the assembled state in the circular connector.

If the partial shells are configured in one piece, this advantageously facilitates handling during assembly by placing one partial shell on the potential equalization element and the further partial shell(s) can be folded or placed on the potential equalization element.

If the partial shells are configured in several pieces, this increases the manufacturing tolerance so that they can be assembled together in the connector housing of the circular connector during assembly. In this case, the partial shells can, for example, be configured to only contact each other in the circumferential direction in the assembled state in the connector housing, in particular to contact each other in an electrically conductive manner.

In preferred embodiments of the circular connector, the The circular connector can be a cold appliance plug, preferably a 230 V cold appliance plug, and
The circular connector can preferably have three contact conductors.

The configuration of the circular connector as a cold appliance plug, in particular as a 230 V cold appliance plug, for example with three contact conductors, advantageously makes it possible to provide a cold appliance plug provided with an electrically conductive connector housing, which has both improved shielding and secure potential equalization, in particular secure grounding, and thus enables safe handling.

While the exemplary preferred cold appliance plug has three contact conductors, i.e. a potential equalization conductor and two contact conductors which are not a potential equalization conductor, an alternative cold appliance plug can in particular have a potential equalization conductor and any number of further contact conductors. For example, the circular connector can in particular include a potential equalization conductor and additionally one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve or more contact conductors, with this additional contact conductor(s) not being a potential equalization conductor is or are.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a use of a circular connector according to the preceding aspect with regard to the circular connector for electrically connecting to a connection that is complementary to the circular connector.

The above-mentioned aspects regarding the circular connector, as well as its preferred, exemplary and alternative embodiments, as well as their effects, relate equally to the use of the circular connector, and vice versa.

• Bereitstellen einer Mehrzahl von Kontaktleitern und eines elektrisch leitfähigen Steckverbindergehäuses;
• Anordnen der Mehrzahl von Kontaktleitern in einem Isolator;
• Anpressen eines Potentialausgleichselements an den Isolator;
• elektrisches Verbinden des Potentialausgleichselements mit einem Potentialausgleichsleiter der Mehrzahl von Kontaktleitern; und
• Anordnen des Potentialausgleichselements an einer Kontaktschale, welche konfiguriert ist, das Potentialausgleichselement mit dem Steckverbindergehäuse elektrisch leitend zu verbinden.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for producing a circular connector, in particular for producing a circular connector according to the preceding aspect regarding the circular connector, the method comprising the steps:

• Providing a plurality of contact conductors and an electrically conductive connector housing;
• arranging the plurality of contact conductors in an insulator;
• Pressing a potential equalization element onto the insulator;
• electrically connecting the potential equalization element to a potential equalization conductor of the plurality of contact conductors; and
• Arranging the potential equalization element on a contact shell, which is configured to electrically conductively connect the potential equalization element to the connector housing.

In preferred embodiments of the method for producing a circular connector, the method includes the steps mentioned, in particular in exactly this order, i.e. in particular first providing the plurality of contact conductors, then arranging the plurality of contact conductors in the insulator, then electrically connecting the potential equalization element the potential equalization conductor, and then arranging the potential equalization element on the contact shell.

In exemplary embodiments, the method can in particular include a step of arranging a contact shell with a potential equalization element in a connector housing, in particular after the step of arranging the potential equalization element on the contact shell.

This advantageously enables the plug contact to be made efficiently.

In preferred embodiments, arranging the potential equalization element on the contact shell can in particular include a form-fitting arrangement of the potential equalization element on the contact shell. This enables the contact shell and potential equalization element to be securely mounted together in the connector housing.

Additionally or alternatively, the step of electrically connecting the potential equalization element to the potential equalization conductor may in particular include a step of crimping the potential equalization conductor, in particular a step of crimping the potential equalization conductor to a potential equalization conductor opening and/or a potential equalization conductor collar of the potential equalization element.

Further additionally or alternatively, the step of pressing the potential equalization element onto the insulator can in particular include a step of arranging the insulator on the potential equalization element in a form-fitting manner with respect to the circumferential direction and/or with respect to the plug-in direction of the circular connector.

Even further additionally or alternatively, the step of arranging the plurality of contact conductors in the insulator can in particular include a step of at least partially embedding the contact conductors in the insulator.

The above-mentioned aspects regarding the circular connector and the use of the circular connector, as well as their preferred, exemplary and alternative embodiments, as well as their effects, relate equally to the method for producing a circular connector, and vice versa.

Embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. It is understood that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and that individual features of the embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments within the scope of the appended claims.

Figur 1

eine Schrägansicht auf einen Schnitt durch einen Rundsteckverbinder, gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Figur 2a

eine Schrägansicht auf einen teilweisen Schnitt durch einen Rundsteckverbinder, gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Figur 2b

eine Schrägansicht auf einen weiteren teilweisen Schnitt durch einen Rundsteckverbinder, gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Figur 3a

eine Schrägansicht auf ein Potentialausgleichselement und einen Isolator eines Rundsteckverbinders, gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Figur 3b

eine Schrägansicht auf ein Potentialausgleichselement und einen Teil einer Kontaktschale eines Rundsteckverbinders, gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Figur 4

eine Schrägansicht auf ein Potentialausgleichselement eines Rundsteckverbinders, gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung; und

Figur 5

ein Flussdiagramm eines Verfahrens zur Herstellung eines Rundsteckverbinders, gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung.

It shows:

Figure 1

an oblique view of a section through a circular connector, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2a

an oblique view of a partial section through a circular connector, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2b

an oblique view of a further partial section through a circular connector, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3a

an oblique view of a potential equalization element and an insulator of a circular connector, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3b

an oblique view of a potential equalization element and part of a contact shell of a circular connector, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4

an oblique view of a potential equalization element of a circular connector, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

Figure 5

a flowchart of a method for producing a circular connector according to the present invention.

Fig. 1 shows an oblique view of a section through a circular connector 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. As in Fig. 1 shown, the circular connector 100 has a substantially elongated extension and a substantially cylindrical shape or a substantially round cross-sectional shape. An example is in Fig. 1 a female configuration of the circular connector 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. The representations in and explanations for these Figures 1 to 5 refer to, apart from the male or female configuration of the plug-in direction or Ports 15, 16 arranged in the longitudinal direction L at the front, on both a female and a male configuration of the circular connector 100.

As in Fig. 1 shown, the circular connector 100 has at its front end in the longitudinal direction L in particular the connections 15, 16 for coupling to a complementary circular connector. The connections 15, 16 include, as in Fig. 1 shown, in particular a ground terminal 16 that is configured, when coupled with a complementary circular connector, to connect the ground conductor 12 of the present circular connector 100 to a complementary ground conductor. The ground conductor 12 as in Fig. 1 and the other figures shown and explained in connection with the figures, represents an exemplary potential equalization conductor. Furthermore, and as in Fig. 1 shown, the connections 15, 16 include the connection 15 for contact conductors for conventional power supply, which is configured to connect a contact conductor 10 of the present circular plug connector 100 to a complementary contact conductor when coupled with a complementary circular connector. The contact conductor 10, as in Fig. 1 and the other figures shown and explained in connection with the figures, denotes a contact conductor for conventional power supply and in the present case is in particular not the grounding conductor 12. In this description, the correspondence between the contact conductor (s) 10 for the conventional power line and the grounding conductor 12 is referred to as Different potential equalization conductors. The grounding conductor 12 and the contact conductor(s) 10 together form the plurality of contact conductors 10, 12. The circular connector 100, as in Fig. 1 shown, in particular has exactly two contact conductors 10 and one grounding conductor 12. In further exemplary embodiments, the circular connector 100 can in particular have exactly one grounding conductor 12 and additionally any number of contact conductors 10, in particular at least one contact conductor 10.

As in Fig. 1 shown, the contact conductors 10 and the grounding conductor 12 are at least partially embedded in an insulator 40. The insulator 40 can in particular have or consist of a plastic, in particular have or consist of an elastomer, a thermoplastic, or a thermoset consist. Alternatively, the insulator 40 can have or consist of, for example, a ceramic, a cork or a different insulating material. Furthermore, the insulator 40 can in particular have or consist of a material which is selected based on its tracking current resistance in order to ensure a maximum leakage current relating to a predetermined creepage distance of the elements adjacent to the insulator 40.

The contact conductors 10, 12 can, as in Fig. 1 shown, be embedded in the insulator 40 in such a way that they are each spaced apart from one another by the insulator 40. Additionally or alternatively, and as in Fig. 1 shown, the contact conductors 10, 12 can be embedded in the insulator 40 in such a way that they extend through the insulator 40 in the longitudinal direction L or in the plugging direction of the circular connector 100. In other words, the contact conductors 10, 12 can be configured in particular to penetrate the insulator, in particular in the longitudinal direction L or in the plugging direction of the circular connector 100.

As in Fig. 1 shown, a plugging direction of the circular connector 100 can in particular be essentially parallel to the longitudinal direction L. In other words, the circular connector 100, as in Fig. 1 shown, in particular by means of a movement essentially in the longitudinal direction L, can be plugged into or connected to a complementary circular connector, so that the plugging direction of the circular connector 100 can in particular be essentially parallel to the longitudinal direction L.

The present explanations for the circular connector 100 and in particular the grounding element 50, the insulator 40 and the contact shell 30 relate in particular to a circular connector 100, as in Fig. 1 shown, in particular with regard to the exemplary orientation with regard to the plugging direction or longitudinal direction L, radial direction R and circumferential direction U, but are not limited to this. Rather, the present explanations regarding the grounding element 50, the insulator 40 and the contact shell 30 apply equally in particular to an angled plug connector or circular plug connector, as long as their functionality as highlighted herein is not affected.

How further in Fig. 1 As can be seen, the circular connector 100 has, in particular, a strain relief 24 at its end facing away from the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction L or at the end opposite the connections 15, 16. The circular connector 100, as in Fig. 1 shown, can in particular be configured to accommodate a coaxial cable or the like on the side facing the strain relief 24, which can be attached or electrically conductively connected with its respective wires, in particular to the contact conductors 10, 12.

How further in Fig. 1 shown, the circular connector 100 in particular has a connector housing 20, which in particular surrounds the contact shell 30 in the radial direction R. In other words, the circular connector 100 has, in particular, a connector housing 20, which is configured to surround, in particular, the contact shell 30 in the circumferential direction U. As in Fig. 1 shown, the contact shell 30 can in particular be essentially cylindrical. The connector housing 20 is in particular electrically conductive, at least partially electrically conductive.

As in Fig. 1 outlined, the connector housing 20 can be designed in multiple layers. The plurality of layers can in particular be connected to one another in such a way that at least one outer layer in the radial direction R and an inner layer in the radial direction R or a layer facing the contact shell 30 are connected to one another in an electrically conductive manner. Alternatively, the connector housing 20 can be formed essentially in one layer and can be configured to be or will be connected to the contact shell 30 in an electrically conductive manner.

In order to make the circular plug connector 100 safe to handle, the plug connector housing 20 is connected to the grounding conductor 12 in particular by means of the contact element 30 and the grounding element 50. This advantageously enables a leakage current to be diverted via the grounding conductor 12, and thus protection for a user when touching the connector housing 20. At the same time, the electrically conductive connector housing 20 makes it possible to provide an advantageous shielding for the contact conductor(s) 10, so that the present circular connector 100 advantageously enables a connection or connection with or to a complementary circular connector that is both safe to operate and has little interference or at least is less susceptible to interference. The connector housing 20 can in particular have cable shielding, in particular for shielding the contact conductors 10 and/or the elements or cables connected thereto. In addition, the connector housing 20 may have a connection section for attaching a cable shield thereto.

As in Fig. 1 shown by way of example, the connector housing 20 can, for example, include one or more grip areas 22, which in particular can have or consist of an electrically conductive material, in particular a metal.

How further in Fig. 1 shown, a grounding element 50 is arranged on the insulator 40 as a potential equalization element, which at least partially accommodates the grounding conductor 12 and, in particular, contacts it in an electrically conductive manner. The grounding element 50 in particular has a grounding conductor opening 57 as a potential equalization conductor opening, which is configured to receive and/or guide the grounding conductor 12 and in particular to contact it in sections.

In particular, a grounding conductor collar 53 can be arranged or designed as a potential equalization conductor collar at the grounding conductor opening 57. The ground conductor collar 53 can be as shown in Fig. 1 shown, in particular extend essentially in the plugging direction or longitudinal direction L. In particular, the ground conductor collar 53 can extend from the ground conductor opening 57 and essentially parallel in the opposite direction to the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction L. In other words, the grounding conductor collar 53 can extend in particular from an end face of the grounding element 50 facing away in the longitudinal direction L, in particular in one Direction substantially parallel opposite to the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction L, and be configured to accommodate the grounding conductor 12 at least in sections. As a result, a flat contact between the grounding conductor 12 and the grounding element 50 can advantageously be provided. In preferred embodiments, but not limited to, the ground conductor collar 53 is formed integrally with the ground member 50. In particular, the grounding conductor collar 53 can be crimped with the grounding conductor 12, in particular in the assembled state of the circular connector 100, thereby providing a particularly secure fixation or holding of the grounding conductor 12 on the grounding element 50, which also electrically secures the grounding element 50 in a safe and long-lasting manner conductively connects to the ground conductor 12.

How further in Fig. 1 shown, the grounding element 50 can have a first opening 58, wherein the first opening 58 can be arranged at a distance from the grounding conductor opening 57, in particular in the radial direction R. The first opening 58 of the grounding element 50 can in particular be configured to accommodate a first section 41 of the insulator 40 at least in sections, the first section 41 of the insulator 40 preferably being configured to embed the contact conductor or conductors 10, i.e. in particular the contact conductor or conductors 10, which or which is not the grounding conductor 12.

More details as in Fig. 1 to be seen, particularly in connection with the Figures 2a to 4 explained further.

The Figures 2a and 2b each show an oblique view of a partial section through a circular connector 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The Figures 2a and 2b essentially give a configuration of the circular connector 100, as already in Fig. 1 shown again.

The Figures 3a and 3b each show an oblique view of a grounding element 50 of a circular connector 100, according to an embodiment of the present Invention, whereby in Fig. 3a In addition to the grounding element 50, in particular the insulator 40 is shown, and in Fig. 3b In addition to the grounding element 50, in particular the contact shell 30 is also partially shown. The Figures 3a and 3b essentially give a configuration of the circular connector 100, as already shown in the Figures 1 , 2a and 2b shown again.

Fig. 4 shows an oblique view of a grounding element 50 of a circular connector 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The Fig. 4 essentially gives a configuration of the grounding element 50 of the circular connector 100, as already in the Figures 1 , 2a , 2 B , 3a and 3b shown again.

In Fig. 2a In particular, a part of the connector housing 20 is shown in section, with the insulator 40, the contact shell 30 and the grounding element 50 being shown uncut. In contrast, in Fig. 2b In particular, both a part of the connector housing 20 is shown in section, and a part of the insulator 40, the contact shell 30 and the grounding element 50 is shown in section.

Like through the Figures 2a and 2b shown and subsequently also by the Figures 3a, 3b and 4 clarified, the grounding element 50 in particular has a recess 52, the recess 52 being formed or arranged in particular on a radially outer side of the grounding element 50. In other words, how can through the Figures 2a, 2b , 3a, 3b and 4 shown, the recess 52 can be formed or arranged in a lateral surface of the grounding element 50. The recess 52 is in particular configured to accommodate a projection 42 of the insulator 40, in particular to accommodate it in sections.

By accommodating or arranging the projection 42 in the recess 52 at least in sections, the projection 42 and the recess 52 advantageously form a positive fit with respect to the circumferential direction U, so that the insulator 40 can be mounted on the grounding element 50 in a clearly visible manner from the outside. The In other words, positive locking with respect to the circumferential direction U describes how the Figures 2a, 2b , 3a and 3b clarifies that the insulator 40 is arranged on the grounding element 50 so that it cannot rotate. Furthermore, and as in the Figures 2a, 2b , 3a, 3b and 4 clarified, the projection 42 forms a positive connection with the recess 52 with respect to the insertion direction or longitudinal direction L, in that the recess 52 has a limitation or a stop in the longitudinal direction L, so that the projection 42 is configured in particular in a direction essentially oppositely parallel to abut the recess 52 in the plugging direction or longitudinal direction L.

Furthermore, as through the Figures 2a, 2b and 3b clarified, in particular the contact shell 30 can have a recess 32, which is essentially congruent to the recess 52 of the grounding element 50. In other words, the contact shell 30 has in particular a recess 32, which is configured to accommodate the insulator 40, in particular the projection 42 of the insulator 40, at least in sections. The projection 42 forms with the recess 32 of the contact shell 30 preferably in particular a positive connection in the circumferential direction U, and additionally or alternatively in particular a positive connection in the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction L, such that the recess 32 allows a movement of the insulator 40 in a direction opposite to parallel Plugging direction or longitudinal direction L limited or restricted.

As in Fig. 3b shown, the recess 32 of the contact shell 30 can be essentially aligned, in particular with the recess 52 of the grounding element 50. This advantageously allows precise positioning of the insulator 40, grounding element 50 and contact shell 30 relative to each other, which advantageously enables precise and tolerance-compliant positioning in the connector housing 20 of the circular connector 100.

The recess 52 of the grounding element 50 and/or the recess 32 of the contact shell 30 are preferably configured to form an engagement with the projection 42 of the insulator 40, in particular a form-closing one in the circumferential direction U To form an engagement that occurs when the grounding element 50 is mounted on the insulator 40 in the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction L, before a first section 41 of the insulator 40 enters the first opening 58 of the grounding element 50 and / or before the grounding conductor embedded in the insulator 40 12 enters the grounding conductor opening 57 and/or the grounding conductor collar 53. This can advantageously simplify the assembly of the grounding element 50, insulator 40 and contact shell 30 by aligning the insulator 40 with respect to the circumferential direction U at an early stage in an easily visible and therefore controllable manner to the grounding element 50 and/or contact shell 30.

How to continue in the Figures 2a, 2b , 3a, 3b and 4 clarified, the grounding element 50 includes in particular a projection 54 which projects outwards in the radial direction R relative to the remaining part of the grounding element 50. In other words, the grounding element 50 has, on its outer peripheral surface or lateral surface, in particular a projection 54 which projects outwards in the radial direction R.

The lead is 54, as shown by the Figures 2a, 2b and 3b clarified, in particular configured, to be received by a groove 34 of the contact shell 30. In particular, the projection 54 of the grounding element 50 is configured to extend at least in sections along the circumferential direction U. The groove 34 of the contact shell 30 is in particular configured to accommodate the projection 54 in sections or completely along its extension in the circumferential direction U.

How through Fig. 3b shown, the contact shell 30 can preferably be designed in two parts in order to enable a simple assembly of the contact shell 30 on the grounding element 50, in particular to enable a simple assembly surrounding the projection 54. As a result, the grounding element 50 can advantageously be connected safely and easily to the contact shell 30, with the grounding element 50 and the contact shell 30 being connected in particular in a form-fitting manner with respect to the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction L. The positive connection with regard to the insertion direction or longitudinal direction describes how in particular Fig. 3b clarifies, one Connection, in particular a movement in the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction of the grounding element 50 relative to the contact shell 30 is prevented. In particular, the form fit cannot be released in a non-destructive manner.

In the assembled state of the circular connector 100, and as in particular in the Figures 2a and 2b clarified, the grounding element 50 and the contact shell 30 are in particular not detachably connected to one another in a non-destructive manner, which ensures an advantageously secure and long-lasting electrically conductive contacting of the contact shell 30 and the grounding element 50. For example, the groove 34 of the contact shell 30 can provide or configure a press fit with the projection 54 of the grounding element 50 in sections along the circumferential direction U, so that a flat electrically conductive contact between the contact shell 30 and the grounding element 50 is or is provided, which in turn results in an advantageously short surface area electrically conductive path between the connector housing 20 and the grounding conductor 12 is or will be ensured.

How to continue through the Figures 2a, 2b , 3a, 3b and 4 clarified, the grounding element 50 in particular has a first opening 58, which is preferably spaced from the grounding conductor opening 57, in particular in the radial direction R. Next is the first opening 58, as in particular in the Figures 2a, 2b and 3a shown, configured to accommodate a first section 41 of the insulator 40 at least in sections, preferably in such a way that the first section 41 extends through the first opening 58 of the grounding element 50, in particular extends substantially in the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction L through the first opening 58. The contact conductors 10 are preferably embedded in the first section 41 of the insulator 40, whereby the contact conductors 10 are advantageously safely spaced or delimited from the grounding element 50 and the grounding conductor 12 by means of the embedding first section 41.

The first section 41 of the insulator 40, which extends through the first opening 58, advantageously provides a positive connection with respect to the circumferential direction U, so that the insulator 40 can be positioned securely with regard to the grounding element 50 is or will be ensured. The first section 41 can in particular have a substantially semicircular shape or contour in cross section, i.e. essentially perpendicular to the insertion direction or longitudinal direction L, without being strictly limited to this. This advantageously enables, in particular, a plurality of contact conductors 10 to be embedded in the insulator 40 at a distance from one another, and at the same time a spacing of the plurality of contact conductors 10 towards the grounding conductor 12 can be ensured.

The first section 41 is preferably formed on the insulator 40 in such a way that when the grounding element 50 is mounted with the insulator 40, the projection 42 first comes into engagement at least in sections with the recess 54 of the grounding element 50, so that secure guidance of the grounding element 50 is possible during mounting Section 41 is or will be ensured through the first opening 58.

The grounding element 50, as in the Figures 1 to 4 shown, can in particular be essentially annular. In this case, the grounding element 50 can in particular have a lateral surface, in particular a stepped lateral surface, which extends essentially along the longitudinal direction L, the stepped lateral surface in particular having the radially outwardly projecting projection 54. Like through the Figures 1 to 4 clarified, the grounding element 50 can have a partially closed end face on its side facing away from the plug-in direction or longitudinal direction L, i.e. on a side facing the strain relief 24 in the assembled state, the partially closed end face of the grounding element 50 in particular by a partially closed surface, in particular in the Substantially semicircular surface, and the first opening 58, in particular substantially semicircular opening 58, is formed.

The grounding element 50 may include or consist of a metal, for example, include or consist of copper, aluminum, nickel, zinc or an iron. In alternative embodiments, the grounding element 50 may include or consist of another electrically conductive material.

The contact shell 30, as in particular in the Figures 1 , 2a , 2 B and 3b shown can in particular have or consist of a metal, in particular have or consist of copper, aluminum, nickel, zinc or an iron. In alternative embodiments, the contact shell 30 can have or consist of another, in particular electrically conductive, material. For example, the contact shell 30 can have or consist of stainless steel, which advantageously makes it possible to save any coating on the contact shell 30 that might otherwise be necessary.

Fig. 5 shows a flowchart of a method for producing a circular connector 100, according to the present invention. The circular connector 100 according to the method Figure 5 can be produced, in particular the circular connector 100 according to Figures 1 to 4 are equivalent to.

The process for producing the circular connector 100, as in Fig. 5 shown, includes in particular the steps: S10 Providing a plurality of contact conductors 10, 12 and an electrically conductive connector housing 20; S20 arranging the plurality of contact conductors 10, 12 in an insulator 40; S30 pressing a grounding element 50 onto the insulator 40; S40 electrically connecting the grounding element 50 to a grounding conductor 12 of the plurality of contact conductors 10, 12; and S50 Arranging the grounding element 50 on a contact shell 30, which is configured to electrically conductively connect the grounding element 50 to the connector housing 20.

The method according to steps S10, S20, S30, S40 and S50 can in particular be configured to carry out steps S10, S20, S30, S40 and S50 in exactly this order, i.e. first S10, then S20, then S30, then afterwards S40, and then S50.

In exemplary embodiments, step S50 of the method in particular a step of inserting the contact shell 30 with the grounding element 50 into the connector housing 20. The contact shell 30 is preferably configured to move into a predetermined position relative to the connector housing 20, in which the contact shell 30 contacts the connector housing 20 in an electrically conductive manner.

In preferred embodiments, the step S50 of arranging the grounding element 50 on the contact shell 30 may in particular include a form-fitting arrangement of the grounding element 50 on the contact shell 30. In particular, step S50 may include a step of arranging the contact shell 30 on the grounding element 50 in a encompassing manner, in particular a step of arranging the contact shell 30 on the grounding element 50 in a form-fitting manner. As a result, the contact shell 30 and the grounding element 50 can be securely connected to one another and fixed to one another be mounted in the connector housing 20.

Additionally or alternatively, the step S40 of electrically connecting the grounding element 50 to the grounding conductor 12 may in particular include a step of crimping the grounding conductor 12, in particular a step of crimping the grounding conductor 12 to a grounding conductor opening 57 and/or a grounding conductor collar 53 of the grounding element 50. As a result A secure electrically conductive connection can be provided between the grounding element 50 and the grounding conductor 12.

Further additionally or alternatively, the step S30 of pressing the grounding element 50 onto the insulator 40 may in particular include a step of arranging the insulator 40 on the grounding element 50 in a form-fitting manner with respect to the circumferential direction and/or with respect to the plugging direction of the circular connector 100.

Even further additionally or alternatively, the step S20 of arranging the plurality of contact conductors 10, 12 in the insulator 40 can in particular include a step of at least partially embedding the contact conductors 10, 12 in the insulator 40 include.

Reference symbol list

10

Contact conductor (for conventional power lines)

12

Ground conductor

15

Connection for contact conductors

16

Ground connection

20

Connector housing

22

Grip area

24

Strain relief

30

Contact shell

32

Recess (of the contact shell 30)

34

Groove (of the contact shell 30)

40

insulator

41

first section (of the insulator 40)

42

Projection (of insulator 40)

50

Grounding element

52

Recess (of the grounding element 50)

53

Ground conductor collar

54

Projection (of the grounding element 50)

57

Ground conductor opening

58

first opening (of the grounding element 50)

100

Circular connector

L

Longitudinal direction

R

radial direction

S10-S50

Steps of a process for making a circular connector

U

Circumferential direction

Claims (11)

Circular connector (100) comprising: - an electrically conductive connector housing (20); - a plurality of contact conductors (10; 12), the plurality of contact conductors (10; 12) comprising a potential equalization conductor (12); - an insulator (40), the plurality of contact conductors (10; 12) being embedded at least in sections in the insulator (40); and - a potential equalization element (50); -- wherein the potential equalization element (50) accommodates the insulator (40) in sections, -- wherein the potential equalization element (50) contacts the potential equalization conductor (12) in an electrically conductive manner, and -- wherein the potential equalization element (50) is electrically conductively connected to the connector housing (20) by means of a contact shell (30). Circular connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein the potential equalization element (50) has a substantially annular cross section which is configured to contact the contact shell (30) at least in sections along a circumferential direction (U) of the potential equalization element (50). Circular connector (100) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the potential equalization element (50) has a potential equalization conductor opening (57) in which the potential equalization conductor (12) is accommodated at least in sections, wherein the potential equalization element (50) preferably has a potential equalization conductor collar (53), wherein the Potential equalization conductor collar (53) is arranged around the potential equalization conductor opening (57), and wherein the potential equalization conductor (12) is accommodated at least in sections in the potential equalization conductor collar (53), and wherein preferably the potential equalization element (50) is crimped to the potential equalization conductor (12) and/or crimped to the insulator (40). Circular connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the potential equalization element (50) is arranged in a form-fitting manner on the insulator (40) in the insertion direction of the circular connector, and/or
wherein the potential equalization element (50) is arranged in a form-fitting manner on the insulator (40) in the circumferential direction of the circular connector. Circular connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the potential equalization element (50) has a first opening (58) which is configured to receive a first section (41) of the insulator (40), wherein the first section (41) of the insulator (40) preferably extends in sections through the first opening (58) of the potential equalization element (50), and wherein the contact conductors (10) of the plurality of contact conductors (10; 12) are at least partially embedded in the first section (41) of the insulator (40) without the potential equalization conductor (12). Circular connector (100) according to claim 5, wherein the potential equalization element (50) has a recess (52), the recess (50) being configured to engage with a projection (42) of the insulator (40) in the insertion direction of the circular connector, so that the projection (42) is configured to engage with the potential equalization element (50) in front of the first section (41) of the insulator (40) when the insulator (40) and the potential equalization element (50) are mounted. Circular connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the potential equalization element (50) is arranged in a form-fitting manner on the contact shell (30). Circular connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact shell (30) comprises two or more partial shells which form the contact shell (30) in an assembled state. Circular connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the circular connector (100) is a cold appliance plug, preferably a 230 V cold appliance plug, and
wherein the circular connector (100) preferably has three contact conductors (10; 12). Use of a circular connector (100) according to one of claims 1 to 9 for electrical connection to a connection complementary to the circular connector (100). Method for producing a circular connector (100), the method comprising the steps: - Providing a plurality of contact conductors (1ß; 12) and an electrically conductive connector housing (20); - Arranging the plurality of contact conductors (10; 12) in an insulator (40); - Pressing a potential equalization element (50) onto the insulator (40); - electrically connecting the potential equalization element (50) to a potential equalization conductor (12) of the plurality of contact conductors (10; 12); and - Arranging the potential equalization element (50) on a contact shell (30), which is configured to connect the potential equalization element (50) to the connector housing (20) in an electrically conductive manner.

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