WO2018042040A1

WO2018042040A1 - Grounding device, in particular grounding eyelet

Info

Publication number: WO2018042040A1
Application number: PCT/EP2017/072126
Authority: WO
Inventors: Joerg Reuss; Hartmut Ripper
Original assignee: Te Connectivity Germany Gmbh
Priority date: 2016-09-05
Filing date: 2017-09-04
Publication date: 2018-03-08
Also published as: DE102016116526A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a grounding device (1), in particular to a grounding eyelet (1), preferably for a grounding cable and/or a counter grounding device, having a connecting section (20) that can be connected to the grounding cable, and a grounding section (30), the grounding section (30) having a premounting apparatus (32) for a premounting and a through-recess (310) for a final mounting of the grounding device (1) at/on the counter grounding device, wherein the grounding device (1), by means of the premounting device (32), can be premounted in a premounting position at/on the counter grounding device locked in at least one translatory degree of freedom and/or locked in at least one rotatory degree of freedom. The invention further relates to a grounding apparatus having a counter grounding device and an inventive grounding device, the counter grounding device (5) having an anti-twist protection, wherein the grounding device or its premounting apparatus (32) can be premounted in the premounting position at/on the counter grounding device locked in at least one additional rotatory direction and/or locked in at least one additional rotatory degree of freedom by means of the anti- twist protection.

Description

Grounding device, in particular grounding eyelet

The invention relates to a grounding device, in particular a grounding eyelet, preferably for a grounding cable and/or a counter grounding device. The invention further relates to a grounding apparatus having a counter grounding device and an inventive grounding device. The invention furthermore relates to a device, an apparatus, a module, a component, an

appliance, an instrument, a mechanism or a system, in

particular for the automotive sector, with a grounding device according to the invention and/or a grounding apparatus according to the invention.

In the electrical sector (electrical engineering, electrics, electrical power engineering etc.), a large number of

electrical connector devices or connector apparatuses, socket and/or pin connectors etc. are known which serve the purpose of transmitting electric currents, voltages and/or signals at a wide range of currents, voltages and/or frequencies. In the low-voltage, medium-voltage or high-voltage range and/or in the low-current, medium-current or high-current range, connectors of this kind have to ensure transmission of current, voltage and/or signals in warm, possibly hot, contaminated, humid and/or chemically aggressive environments permanently, repeatedly and/or after a comparatively long service life, possibly at short notice.

Due to a wide range of applications, a large number of specially configured connectors are known. Such connectors can be installed at an electrical cable, a line etc. and/or an electric apparatus or device, such as at/in a housing of a (power-) electric component or such an appliance, assembly etc. for example. - A device, an apparatus (e.g. a printed circuit board, a sensor, etc.), a module (e.g. a number of printed circuit boards, etc.), a component (e.g. an electric motor, etc.), an appliance (e.g. a control appliance, a power conversion appliance, etc.), an instrument, a mechanism or a system require an electrical connection to the so-called ground which can take place by means of grounding devices, in particular grounding eyelets.

A grounding device, in particular a grounding eyelet, serves to render, for example, a printed circuit board within an electrical appliance able to be connected in an electrically conductive manner to a grounding connector of this appliance. Insufficient grounding results in the electromagnetic

compatibility of this appliance not being ensured in a satisfactory manner. - In the prior art, a grounding device has a bracket with a through-hole located therein, wherein the bracket can be laid onto a counter grounding device and can be fixed at/on the counter grounding device by means of a mounting screw which can be inserted through the through- hole. In particular under confined conditions, a mounting of the grounding device at/on the counter grounding device is problematic because the grounding device, chronologically prior to an insertion of the mounting screw is inhibited only in one translatory direction of movement at/on the counter grounding device.

An object of the invention is to specify an improved

grounding device, in particular an improved grounding eyelet; an improved grounding apparatus having a counter grounding device and a grounding device; and a corresponding device, a corresponding apparatus, a corresponding module, a

corresponding component, a corresponding appliance, a

corresponding instrument, a corresponding mechanism or a corresponding system, in particular for the automotive sector. In this case, in particular in the case of confined conditions, a mounting of the grounding device at/on a counter grounding device is intended to be improved. The object of the invention is solved in accordance with the independent claims by means of a grounding device, in

particular a grounding eyelet, preferably for a grounding cable and/or a counter grounding device; by means of a grounding apparatus having a counter grounding device and an inventive grounding device; and by means of a device, an apparatus, a module, a component, an appliance, an

instrument, a mechanism or a system, in particular for the automotive sector. - Advantageous developments, additional features and/or advantages of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims and the following description.

The grounding device according to the invention comprises a connecting section that can be connected to a grounding cable, and a grounding section, the grounding section having a premounting apparatus for a premounting and a through- recess for a final mounting of the grounding device at/on the counter grounding device, wherein the grounding device can be premounted, by means of the premounting apparatus, in a premounting position at/on the counter grounding device locked in at least one translatory degree of freedom and/or locked in at least one rotatory degree of freedom. The connecting section is configured as an electrical and/or mechanical (electromechanical) connecting section, and the grounding section is configured as an electrical and/or mechanical (electromechanical) grounding section.

The premounting apparatus can be configured as a bearing partner or a hinge partner which can be premounted locked at/on the counter grounding device configured as a counter bearing partner or a counter hinge partner. A hinge partner may also be subsumed under a bearing partner and a counter hinge partner may also be subsumed under a counter bearing partner. The (counter) bearing partner or (counter) hinge partner can be configured as a partner of a pivot bearing or a pivot hinge, of a sliding bearing or sliding hinge or of a pivot sliding bearing or a pivot sliding hinge. The grounding device can be able to be premounted at/on the counter grounding device locked in two or three translatory degrees of freedom and in two or three rotatory degrees of freedom; or in three, four, five or six translatory

directions and in three, four, five or six rotatory

directions by means of its premounting apparatus. Degree of freedom designates that number of the independent translatory and/or rotatory movement possibilities of the grounding device or grounding section at/on the counter grounding device. For one grounding device in isolation in the space, there are generally three translatory degrees of freedom and three rotatory degrees of freedom.

The three translatory degrees of freedom are a linear

movement along a vertical axis (vertical movement

upwards/downwards), a linear movement along a transverse axis (transverse movement leftwards/rightwards) and a linear movement along a longitudinal axis (plane movement

forwards/backwards) . The three rotatory degrees of freedom are a rotation movement around the vertical axis (yaw

movement leftwards/rightwards), a rotation movement around the transverse axis (pitching movement up/down) and a

rotation movement around the longitudinal axis (rolling movement leftwards/rightwards) . - Each degree of freedom thereby possesses two translatory and two rotatory directions respectively so that a total of twelve directions (six translatory and six rotatory) - see the brackets above - can be distinguished from one another. It is thus, for example, possible to premount the grounding device, by means of its premounting apparatus, locked at/on the counter grounding device in five translatory (linear bearing with axial stop) and four rotatory directions (radial bearing) (rotating sliding bearing/rotating sliding hinge), or in five translatory (linear bearing with axial stop) and six rotatory directions (rotation fixing) (thrust bearing, thrust hinge) , or in six translatory (fixing) and four rotatory directions (radial bearing) (pivot bearing, pivot hinge) . Of course, other combinations can be used.

The premounting apparatus can be configured as a clamp loop such that the grounding device with the premounting apparatus at the front can be slid laterally at/onto the counter grounding device and/or can be plugged at/onto the counter grounding device from above or below. In a correctly slid-on or plugged-on position of the grounding device or premounting apparatus at/on the counter grounding device, the grounding device is in its premounting position in which the through- recess of the grounding section is preferably substantially aligned with a through-recess or a recess in the counter grounding device. In the premounting position, the grounding device or premounting apparatus partially clasps the counter grounding device, with a premounting region of the counter grounding device being received in a premounting space and/or in a locking slot of the grounding device or premounting apparatus (see also below) .

The premounting apparatus can comprise a base section and a locking device for a mounting of the grounding device at/on the counter grounding device, the base section preferably having the through-recess for the final mounting, and the locking device preferably being configured as a locking bracket. In embodiments, the base section is linked to the connecting section, in particular via a transition section.

In embodiments, a/the locking bracket of the premounting apparatus can have at least one locking section spaced apart opposite to the base section, with a premounting region of the counter grounding device being able to be received in a locked manner between the base section and the locking section. In this case, the premounting space for the

premounting of the premounting region of the counter

grounding device in the premounting apparatus or clamp loop arises between the locking device or locking bracket or locking section and the base section.

In order for the locking bracket to be spaced apart opposite the base section, the locking bracket can be bound to the base section by means of a transition section. Preferably, the locking bracket is bent laterally at the base section on the base section by means of the transition section (U-shaped region in cross-section) and preferably extends substantially over the entire length of the base section along the relevant longitudinal side. This is preferably appropriately arranged at both longitudinal sides of the base section.

The locking device can have two locking sections spaced apart from the base section, the two locking sections being spaced apart from one another via the locking slot for receiving a/the premounting region of the counter grounding device. A cross-section of the locking slot (base bar) and of the premounting space (transverse bar) blended with it is configured in a substantially flat T shape. Consequently, the premounting apparatus, with the exception of the through- recess in its base section, extends around this on the one hand and in a longitudinal direction of the grounding device on the other hand.

In embodiments at least one locking section can have a locking protrusion by means of which a translatory mounting movement of the grounding device at/onto the counter

grounding device can be blocked, the premounting apparatus preferably being configured such that the locking protrusion decreases the width of the locking slot. In this case, the locking device is preferably located at a rear section (in the mounting movement) of the locking device or of the locking section or of the locking bracket over the base section. The at least one locking protrusion in this case reduces a dimension of the locking slot in the locking device or between the two locking sections or between the two locking brackets.

The premounting apparatus or the locking bracket can have a latching element with which the grounding device can be latched at/onto the counter grounding device, the latching element preferably being arranged at/in a locking recess of the premounting apparatus in the premounting apparatus. The premounting apparatus preferably possesses two such latching elements with which the grounding device can be latched at/on the counter grounding device. Here, the latching elements are located diametrically opposite relative to the locking recess. Apart from the latching elements, the locking recess can be configured such that the premounting apparatus or the grounding device can be centred at/on the counter grounding device .

In one embodiment, the abovementioned locking brackets are each lengthened in a transverse direction such that they preferably meet in a middle region of the premounting

apparatus. In this case, the locking recess is provided between the locking brackets, with one rim of the relevant locking bracket having the latching element which preferably points inwards into the premounting apparatus and has a latching shoulder at its free end, for example. The counter grounding device can have a latching shoulder which is complementary thereto and which is configured as a latching ring, for example, at the counter grounding device. Other embodiments of latching apparatuses or latching elements which correspond to one another and which are partially complementary can be used of course.

According to the invention, the connecting section can be configured as a crimping section; the locking bracket can be configured simply, in one piece, materially in one piece or integrally with the base section; the grounding device can be configured simply, in one piece, materially in one piece or integrally; and/or the latching element can be configured as a latching hook. - Through a listing, one list item (mostly beginning after a semi-colon and/or ending with a semi-colon) can be realised in embodiments, any number of list items or all list items can be realised in embodiments (see also below) .

The grounding apparatus according to the invention comprises a counter grounding device and a grounding device according to the invention, the counter grounding device having an anti-twist protection and by means of the anti-twist

protection the grounding device or the premounting apparatus thereof can be premounted in the premounting position at/on the counter grounding device, locked in at least one

additional rotatory direction and/or locked in at least one additional rotatory degree of freedom.

According to the invention, the counter grounding device can be configured simply, in one piece, materially in one piece or integrally; the counter grounding device can be configured as a counter bearing partner or a counter hinge partner (see also above) ; the counter grounding device can be configured as a grounding loop; the premounting region of the counter grounding device can have the anti-twist protection; the anti-twist protection can be configured as a preferably block-like protrusion; the counter grounding device can be configured such that the anti-twist protection can engage in the locking slot; and/or the counter grounding device can be configured such that the counter grounding device can be provided at/in a substrate.

The substrate can be any substrate, which is preferably electrically conductive. The counter grounding device is configured such that it can be brought into electrically conductive connection with the substrate. In this case, the counter grounding device and a section of the substrate are configured, for example, such that the counter grounding device can be slid, plugged, clipped, etc., into the

substrate. Other fastening methods such as soldering, gluing, etc. can be used of course. The substrate can be configured as a sheet metal plate, a printed circuit board, etc.

The invention is explained in greater detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached

schematic drawing, which is not true to scale. Sections, elements, parts, units, diagrams and/or components which possess an identical, univocal or similar design and/or function, are identified by the same reference symbols in the description of the figures (see below) , the reference symbol list, the patent claims and in the figures (Figs.) of the drawing. In addition, a possible alternative which is not explained in the description (description of the invention (see above) , description of the figures (see below) ) and which is not depicted in the drawings and/or which is not exclusive, a static and/or kinematic reversal, a combination etc. regarding the exemplary embodiments of the invention or a component, a diagram, a unit, a part, an element or a section thereof can be further inferred from the list of reference symbols.

In the invention, a feature (section, element, part, unit, component, function, variable, etc.) can be configured to be positive, i.e. present, or negative, i.e. absent, with a negative feature not being explicitly explained as a feature if the fact that it is absent is not deemed to be

significant. A feature of this specification (description, list of reference symbols, patent claims, drawing) can be applied not only in a specified manner but rather can also be applied in another manner (isolation, abstract, replacement, addition, alone, omission, etc.). In particular, using a reference symbol and a feature attributed to this, and vice versa, in the description, the list of reference symbols, the patent claims and/or the drawing of the invention, it is possible to replace, add or omit a feature in the patent claims and/or the description. Furthermore, a feature in a patent claim can be interpreted and/or specified in greater detail as a result. The features of this specification are (in view of the

(largely unknown) prior art) can also be interpreted as optional features; i.e. each feature can be regarded as an optional, arbitrary or preferred feature, i.e. a non-binding feature. It is thus also possible to detach a feature, where necessary including its periphery, from an exemplary

embodiment, this feature then being able to be transferred onto a generalised inventive concept. The lack of a feature (negative feature) in an exemplary embodiment shows that the feature is optional with regard to the invention.

Furthermore, in the case of a type term for a feature, a generic term for the feature can also be read alongside this (where applicable additional hierarchical classification into subgenus, section, etc.), as a result of which it is possible to generalise a or this feature, e.g. taking into account identical effect and/or equivalence. - In the figures, which are merely exemplary:

Fig. 1 shows, in a perspective view, a first embodiment of a counter grounding device according to the invention configured as a counter hinge partner for a first embodiment of an inventive grounding apparatus ;

Fig. 2 shows, in a perspective view, a first embodiment of a grounding device according to the invention having a premounting apparatus according to the invention configured as a hinge partner for the first embodiment of the grounding apparatus;

Fig. 3 shows a bottom view onto the grounding device from

Fig. 2, wherein the premounting apparatus is configured as a clamp loop with two locking devices;

Fig. 4 shows a bottom view onto the first embodiment of the grounding apparatus, wherein the grounding device from Fig. 3 is provided in a premounting position at/on the counter grounding device;

Fig. 5 shows a depiction, sectioned laterally and centrally in the region of a through-recess of the premounting apparatus, of the first embodiment of the grounding apparatus in the premounting position of the grounding device at/on the counter grounding device; Fig. 6 a plan view onto the first embodiment of the

grounding apparatus in a final mounting position of the grounding device at/on the counter grounding device, with this depiction also applying to the two other embodiments of the grounding apparatus;

Fig. 7 shows, in a perspective view, a second embodiment of a counter grounding device according to the invention configured as a counter hinge partner for a second embodiment of the grounding apparatus according to the invention;

Fig. 8 shows a depiction, sectioned laterally and centrally in the region of a through-recess of a premounting apparatus, of the second embodiment of the grounding apparatus in a premounting position of the first embodiment of the grounding device at/on the second embodiment of the counter grounding device; Fig. 9 shows a bottom view onto a second embodiment of the grounding device according to the invention for a third embodiment of the grounding apparatus according to the invention, wherein a premounting apparatus is also configured as a clamp loop with two locking devices;

Fig. 10 shows a third embodiment, sectioned laterally and centrally in the region of a through-recess of the premounting apparatus, of the grounding apparatus in a premounting position of the second embodiment of the grounding device at/on a third embodiment of the counter grounding device; and

Fig. 11 shows, in a perspective view, the third embodiment of the grounding apparatus with the premounting apparatus configured as a bearing partner, the grounding device being moved onto the counter grounding device from above. The invention is explained in greater detail hereafter using three embodiments of an electrical grounding apparatus 0 according to the invention comprising an electrical grounding device 1 according to the invention and an electrical counter grounding device 5 according to the invention. The grounding device 1 for the counter grounding device 5 and/or a

grounding cable 4 (only indicated in Fig. 6) is configured in particular as a grounding eyelet 1, wherein the grounding device 1 can be configured in a straight line, angled and/or curved. The counter grounding device 5 is preferably

configured as a counter bearing partner 5 or a counter hinge partner 5 for the grounding device 1. In this case, the counter grounding device 5 is preferably configured as a grounding loop 5. Figs. 1 to 6 show the first embodiment of the grounding apparatus 0, this comprising a first embodiment of a

grounding device 1 and a first embodiment of a counter grounding device 5. Furthermore, Figs. 6 to 8 show a second embodiment of the grounding apparatus 0, this comprising the first embodiment of the grounding device 1 and a second embodiment of the counter grounding device 5. In addition, Figs. 6 and 9 to 11 show a third embodiment of the grounding apparatus 0, this comprising a second embodiment of a

grounding device 1 and a third embodiment of a counter grounding device 5.

The invention is not restricted to embodiments of this kind, but is more basic in nature, with the result that it can be applied to other grounding apparatuses or grounding devices in the automotive sector or a non-automotive sector, e.g. an electrical engineering sector, a power engineering sector, etc. That is to say, other variations can be derived therefrom, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention. - The following comments relate to a vertical axis H (vertical movement upwards/downwards, yaw movement leftwards/rightwards, height), a longitudinal axis L (plane movement forwards/backwards, rolling movement

leftwards/rightwards, length) and a transverse axis Q

(transverse movement leftwards/rightwards, pitching movement up/down, width) . A relevant counter grounding device 5, see in particular Figs. 1, 5, 8 and 10, is preferably configured in a

rotationally symmetrical manner, with a recess 510, in particular a through-recess 510, being located centrally inside the counter grounding device 5. When the grounding device 1 is in an end premounting position E at/on the counter grounding device 5, a mounting screw 6 (see Fig. 6) or an end mounting screw 6 engages in or through the recess 510. In this case, the recess 510 can have an internal thread which is complementary to the mounting screw 6. It is further possible that the mounting screw 6 intersects its counter thread in the recess 510 during the final mounting of the grounding device 1 itself. Moreover, a counter thread, e.g. a nut, can be provided for the mounting screw 6 aside from the counter grounding device 5.

Inside a section in a direction of the vertical axis H of the counter grounding device 5 there is configured a mounting region 570 which serves to provide the counter grounding device 5 at/in a substrate 7. In this case, the mounting region 570 can be configured as a radial slot 570 which is completely circumferential substantially around the vertical axis H. In this case, the substrate 7 has a recess which corresponds to or which is at least partially complementary to an inner diameter of the radial slot 570 (Figs. 5, 8 and 10) and at/in which the counter grounding device 5 can be provided. - The substrate 7 can be configured as a sheet metal plate 7, a printed circuit board 7, etc. A vertical end section along the vertical axis H of the counter grounding device 5 is configured as a premounting region 550 which serves to allow the grounding device 1 to be premounted locked at/on the counter grounding device 5 or vice versa. In this case, the grounding device 1 is

preferably slid (see the arrow in Fig. 2) or plugged (see the arrow in Fig. 11) onto the counter grounding device 5. The premounting region 550 can in this case have a radial

contraction 552 or radial slot 552 at least partially

circumferential substantially around the vertical axis H for the premounting of the grounding device 1.

For mounting (pre-mounting and final mounting) a relevant grounding device 1, see in particular Figs. 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8 to 11, at/on the counter grounding device 5, the grounding device 1 has a premounting apparatus 32 and a through-recess 310. The premounting apparatus 32 is for a premounting and the through-recess 310 is for a final mounting of the

grounding device 1 at/on the counter grounding device 5. In this case, the through-recess 310 is integrated in the premounting apparatus 32. The premounting apparatus 32 has a premounting space 350 which corresponds to a dimension of the premounting apparatus 550 in a direction of the vertical axis H (Figs. 1, 5, 7, 8, 10 and 11) and includes a preferably at least partially complementary locking recess 327, 352, at/in which the counter grounding device 5 can be provided.

The premounting apparatus 32 is provided at an

electromechanical grounding section 30 of the grounding device 1. In a direction of the longitudinal axis L, an electromechanical connecting section 20 for the grounding cable 4 connects to the grounding section 30 (Fig. 6), a transition section 25 being provided between the grounding section 30 and the connecting section 20. The connecting section 20 preferably has a crimping section 200 for crimping onto the grounding cable 4. The crimping section 200 can in this case be provided on the same side or a different side, in particular an opposite side, of the grounding device 1. The premounting apparatus 32 is preferably configured as a bearing partner 32 or a hinge partner 32 for the counter grounding device 5. In this case, the premounting apparatus 32 is preferably configured as a clamp loop 32.

The premounting apparatus 32 comprises a base section 300, to which the transition section 25 is preferably connected, and at least one locking device 320. The relevant locking device 320 is preferably configured as a locking bracket 320, which e.g. via a transition section 321 shared with the base section 300, merges into an actual locking section 322 of the locking device 320. In this case, the locking section 322 extends laterally along the base section 300, the locking section 322 being spaced apart from the base section 300

(height of the premounting space 350) . In other words, the premounting space 350 for the premounting region 540 of the counter grounding device 5 is arranged between the locking section 322 or (preferably) locking sections 322 and the base section 300. Furthermore, the through-recess 310 for the final mounting of the grounding device 1 is arranged in the base section 300.

The individual embodiments of the grounding device 1 (two) , the counter grounding device 5 (three) and their interaction in the relevant grounding apparatus 0 (three) are explained in greater detail hereafter. The first embodiment of the grounding device 1 and the first embodiment of the counter grounding device 5 are depicted in Figs. 1 to 6 (first embodiment of the grounding apparatus 0), the counter

grounding device 5 being configured as explained above. Here, Figs. 4 and 5 show a premounting position V of the grounding device 1 at/on the counter grounding device 5, with the final mounting position E thereof being depicted in Fig. 6. In the premounting position V, the through-recess 310 of the base section 300 aligns with the through-recess 510 of the counter grounding device 5; this also applies to the other embodiments of the grounding apparatus 0.

The premounting apparatus 32 comprises two locking devices 320 or locking brackets 320, the locking brackets 320 spaced apart from the base section 300 are spaced apart from one another in the transverse direction Q via a locking slot 352 (locking recess 352) . In the premounting position V of the grounding device 1 at/on the counter grounding device 5, see in particular Fig. 5, the premounting region 550 of the counter grounding device 5 is received in the premounting space 350 including the locking slot 352, wherein the free transverse ends of the locking brackets 320 engage the radial contraction 552 of the premounting region 550 of the counter grounding device 5.

In order for the grounding device 1 not to be able to be slid away over the counter grounding device 5, at least one locking bracket 320 has, preferably both locking brackets 320 have a locking protrusion 323 by means of which a path of movement of the grounding device 1 at/on the counter

grounding device 5 can be blocked. The relevant locking protrusion 323 preferably tapers the locking slot 352. - As a result of this, it is possible to premount the grounding device 1, by means of its premounting apparatus 32, locked at/on the counter grounding device 5 in five translatory directions (two and a half translatory degrees of freedom) and four rotatory directions (three rotatory degrees of freedom) .

The first embodiment of the grounding device 1 and the second embodiment of the counter grounding device 5 are depicted in Figs. 6 to 8 (second embodiment of the grounding apparatus 0), wherein, compared to the first embodiment of the

grounding apparatus 0, only the counter grounding device 5 possesses a different configuration. Here, Fig. 8 shows the premounting position V of the grounding device 1 at/on the counter grounding device 5, with the final mounting position E thereof being depicted in Fig. 6 which is the same for the three embodiments of the grounding apparatus 0. The counter grounding device 5 comprises an anti-twist protection 555, in particular a preferably block-like

protrusion 555, the width of which is somewhat smaller than that of the locking slot 352 in a rear region between the locking protrusions 323 (where applicable only one locking protrusion 323) . In the premounting position V of the

grounding device 1 at/on the counter grounding device 5, the anti-twist protection 555 engages there and additionally rotationally fixes the grounding device 1. - As a result of this, it is possible to premount the grounding device 1, by means of its premounting apparatus 32, locked at/on the counter grounding device 5 in five translatory directions (two and a half translatory degrees of freedom) and six rotatory directions (three rotatory degrees of freedom) . The second embodiment of the grounding device 1 and the third embodiment of the counter grounding device 5 are depicted in Figs. 6 and 9 to 11 (third embodiment of the grounding apparatus 0), wherein both the counter grounding device 5 and the grounding device 1 possess a different configuration. Here, Fig. 9 shows the premounting position V of the

grounding device 1 at/on the counter grounding device 5, with the final mounting position E thereof being depicted in Fig. 6 which is the same for the three embodiments of the

grounding apparatus 0.

In the case of the premounting apparatus 32 of the grounding device 1, the locking brackets 320 thereof are lengthened in opposing transverse directions such that they preferably meet in a middle region on/over the base section 300 and thus, with the exception of a locking recess 327 and the through- recess 310, the premounting space 350 is substantially closed in the circumferential direction around the longitudinal axis L. Opposite the base section 300 and preferably substantially aligned therewith, there is arranged, in the premounting apparatus 32 or locking brackets 320 thereof, the locking recess 327 by means of which at the front (see the arrow in Fig. 11) the grounding device 1 can be premounted locked at/on the counter grounding device 5. The two locking

brackets 320 can be substituted by a single locking bracket, wherein such a locking bracket can extend away along the tranverse axis Q substantially over the entire base section 300.

Preferably starting from a rim of the locking recess 327, at least one latching apparatus 325 or at least one latching element 325 extends inwards into the premounting space 350. Two such latching apparatuses 325 are preferably provided diametrically opposite one another at the rim of the locking recess 327 and extending into the interior of the premounting space 350. The latching apparatus 325 is configured in sections complementary to a latching element 525 of the counter grounding device 5 and in particular is configured as a latching hook 325. A free end of the latching apparatus 325 is preferably configured as a latching shoulder 326 which can cooperate with a latching shoulder 526 of the counter

grounding device 5.

In the case of the counter grounding device 5, the radial contraction 552 is here largely dispensed with or an edge thereof is configured such that a latching apparatus 525 or latching element 525 is provided at a free height end

section, opposite the mounting region 570 for the substrate 7. The latching apparatus 525 is configured in sections complementary to the latching element 325 of the latching device 320 and in particular is configured as a latching ring 525. A radial surface of the latching ring 525, said radial surface being on the inside in a direction of the vertical axis H, forms the latching shoulder 526 of the counter grounding device 5. As a result of this, it is possible to premount the grounding device 1, by means of its premounting apparatus 32, locked at/on the counter grounding device 5 in six translatory directions (three translatory degrees of freedom) and four rotatory directions (two rotatory degrees of freedom) . Fig. 10 shows the premounting position V of the grounding device 1 at/on the counter grounding device 5, and in this case the grounding device 1 has been plugged or clipped onto the counter grounding device 5, with the grounding device 1 still only being able to twist relative to the counter grounding device 5.

The latching shoulders 326, 526 which in this case relate to one another are situated close to one another, with the grounding device 1 only being able to be removed from the counter grounding device 5 with force. In this case, the respective latching apparatus 325 can, if necessary,

additionally be supported on the substrate 7. The locking recess 327 can be configured such that it centres the

premounting apparatus 32 or the grounding device 1 when the grounding device 1 is moved forward into its premounting position V.

List of reference symbols

0 (electrical) grounding apparatus comprising the

grounding device 1 and the counter grounding device 5

1 (electrical) grounding device, in particular grounding eyelet, preferably for the grounding cable 4 and/or the counter grounding device 5, straight-lined, angled, curved

4 (electrical) grounding cable

5 (electrical) counter grounding device, counter bearing partner or counter hinge partner, grounding loop

6 (final) mounting screws

7 Substrate, sheet-metal plate, printed circuit board, etc .

20 electrical and/or mechanical, electromechanical

connecting section of the grounding device 1

25 transition section between connecting section 20 and grounding section 30

30 electrical and/or mechanical, electromechanical

grounding section of the grounding device 1

32 premounting apparatus, bearing partner or hinge partner (base section 300 and locking device 320), clamp loop for premounting the grounding device 1 at/on the counter grounding device 5

200 crimping section of the connecting section 20,

preferably

300 base section of the grounding section 30

310 through-recess for final mounting of the grounding

device 1 at/on the counter grounding device 5

320 locking device, locking bracket

321 transition section between base section 300 and locking section 322

322 locking section

323 locking protrusion 325 latching apparatus, latching element, configured in sections complementary to the latching apparatus 525, in particular latching hooks

326 latching shoulder

327 locking recess

350 premounting space for the premounting region 550 352 locking recess, locking slot

510 through-recess, recess

525 latching apparatus, latching element, configured in sections complementary to the latching apparatus 325, in particular latching ring

526 latching shoulder

550 premounting region

552 radial contraction, radial slot

555 anti-twist protection, in particular protrusion

570 mounting region for substrate 7, radial slot

E final mounting position

H vertical axis, vertical movement/direction

upwards/downwards, yaw movement leftwards/rightwards, height

L longitudinal axis, plane movement/direction

forwards/backwards, rolling movement

leftwards/rightwards, length

Q transverse axis (transverse movement/direction

leftwards/rightwards, pitching movement up/down, width V premounting position

Claims

1. A grounding device (1), in particular a grounding eyelet (1), preferably for a grounding cable (4) and/or a counter grounding device (5), having a connecting section (20) that can be connected to the grounding cable (4), and a grounding section (30) ,

the grounding section (30) having a premounting

apparatus (32) for a premounting and a through-recess (310) for a final mounting of the grounding device (1) at/on the counter grounding device (5) , wherein

the grounding device (1), by means of the premounting device (32), can be premounted in a premounting position (V) at/on the counter grounding device (5), locked in at least one translatory degree of freedom and/or locked in at least one rotatory degree of freedom.

2. The grounding device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the premounting apparatus (32) is configured as a bearing partner (32) or a hinge partner (32) which can be premounted locked at/on the counter grounding device (5) which is configured as a counter bearing partner (5) or a counter hinge partner (5) .

3. The grounding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grounding device (1), by means of its premounting apparatus (32),

can be premounted at/on the counter grounding device (5), locked in two or three translatory degrees of freedom and in two or three rotatory degrees of freedom; or in three, four, five or six translatory directions and in three, four, five or six rotatory directions.

4. The grounding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the premounting apparatus (32) is configured as a clamp loop (32) such that, the grounding device (1), with the premounting apparatus (32) at the front, can be slid laterally at/onto the counter grounding device (5) and/or can be plugged at/onto the counter grounding device (5) from above.

5. The grounding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the premounting apparatus (32) comprises a base section (300) and a locking device (320) for a mounting of the grounding device (1) at/on the counter grounding device (5) , wherein

the base section (300) preferably has the through-recess (310) for the final mounting, and the locking device (320) is preferably configured as a locking bracket (320) .

6. The grounding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a/the locking bracket (320) of the premounting apparatus (32) has at least one locking section

(322) which is spaced apart opposite to the base section

(300), and

a premounting region (540) of the counter grounding device

(5) can be received locked between the base section (300) and the locking section (322) .

7. The grounding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking device (320) has two locking sections (322, 322) spaced apart from the base section (300), and

the two locking sections (322, 322) are spaced apart from one another via a locking slot (352) for receiving a/the premounting region (540) of the counter grounding device (5) .

8. The grounding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one locking section (322; 322, 322) has a locking protrusion (323) by means of which a translatory mounting movement of the grounding device (1) at/onto the counter grounding device (5) can be blocked, wherein the premounting apparatus (32) is preferably configured such that the locking protrusion (323) reduces the width of the locking slot (352) .

9. The grounding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the premounting apparatus (32) or the locking bracket (320) has a latching element (325) with which the grounding device (1) can be latched at/onto the counter grounding device (5) , wherein

the latching element (325) is preferably arranged at/in a locking recess (327, 352) of the premounting apparatus (32) in the premounting apparatus (32) .

10. The grounding apparatus (0) having a counter grounding device (5) and a grounding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the counter grounding device

(5) has an anti-twist protection (545) , wherein

by means of the anti-twist protection (545) , the

grounding device (1) or the premounting apparatus (32) thereof can be premounted in the premounting position (V) at/on the counter grounding device (5), locked in at least one additional rotatory direction and/or locked in at least one additional rotatory degree of freedom.

11. The grounding apparatus (0) according to the preceding claim, wherein:

• the counter grounding device (5) is configured simply, in one piece, materially in one piece or integrally;

• the counter grounding device (5) is configured as a

counter bearing partner (5) or a counter hinge partner

(5) ;

• the counter grounding device (5) is configured as a

grounding loop (5) ;

• the premounting region (540) of the counter grounding

device (5) has the anti-twist protection (545) ;

• the anti-twist protection (545) is configured as a

preferably block-like protrusion (545) • the counter grounding device (5) is configured such that the counter grounding device (5) can be provided at/in a substrate (7); and/or

• the counter grounding device (5) is configured such that the anti-twist protection (545) can engage in the locking slot (352) .

12. A device, apparatus, module, component, appliance, instrument, mechanism or system, in particular for the automotive sector, wherein the device, apparatus, module, component, appliance, instrument, mechanism or system has a grounding cable (4) and

a counter grounding device (5) and a grounding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims or a grounding apparatus (0) according to any one of the preceding claims.