plug system

Abstract

Plug system for connecting several electrical and / or electronic devices (110, 120) of an orthopaedic system with - at least one plug socket (111, 121) that is coupled to an electrical and / or electronic device, - the plug receptacle (111, 121) has a plug receptacle side (312) with a plurality of contacts (5), - with an end connector coupled to a data and / or power source (20), - the end plug (21) has a plug end with a plurality of contacts (5) which are arranged corresponding to the contacts (5) of the plug receptacle (111, 121), wherein - the contacts (5) of the plug side and the plug receiving side (312) are arranged so that they can be brought into contact with each other in at least one joining direction (F), - with at least one cascade connector (31) having a connector side (311) that corresponds to the connector side of the end connector (21), wherein the cascade connector (31) has a connector receiving side (312) opposite the connector side (311) that corresponds to the connector receiving side (1112, 1212) of the connector receptacle (111, 121), characterized in that at least one second cascade connector (35) or at least one end connector is attached to the cascade connector (31) via at least one line (35).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connector system for connecting several electrical and / or electronic devices of an orthopaedic system with at least one plug receptacle that is coupled to the electrical and / or electronic device, wherein the plug receptacle has a plug receptacle side with a plurality of contacts, and with an end plug that is coupled to a data and / or energy source, wherein the end plug has a plug side with a plurality of contacts that are arranged corresponding to the contacts of the plug receptacle, wherein the contacts of the plug side and the plug receptacle side are arranged such that they can be brought into contact with each other in a joining direction.

[0002] An orthotic system consists of several orthotic components that are assembled into an orthotic unit and possess functionality beyond that of the individual components. An orthotic system is, for example, an orthosis, prosthesis, or wheelchair. Orthotic components are parts of such a system, such as prosthetic or orthotic joints, tube adapters, prosthetic hands, swivel adapters, prosthetic sockets, orthotic splints, foot shells, hip shells, fastening devices for securing orthoses to limbs, actuators, data loggers, radio modules, feedback elements, energy storage devices, damping devices with hydraulic, magnetorheological, and / or pneumatic dampers, drives, gears, sensors, and operating devices.An orthotic system can, for example, consist of a thigh prosthesis with a prosthetic socket, a prosthetic knee joint, and a lower leg tube with a prosthetic foot attached to it. A lower leg prosthesis can be formed from a lower leg socket with a prosthetic foot, optionally with a prosthetic ankle joint. If a thigh socket is articulated to a lower leg tube via a prosthetic knee joint, a drive and / or a damping device can be arranged between the thigh socket and the lower leg tube. These devices can be controlled, for example, by a processor based on sensor values. Depending on sensor data, drives are activated or deactivated, or damping properties are changed, for example, flexion resistance is reduced or increased.

[0003] A similar design can be provided for orthoses. Wheelchairs can form an orthopedic technical system, either as a supplement to orthotic and / or prosthetic care for patients or as a standalone solution.

[0004] Especially in complex orthotic systems, several electrical components may be included, such as electrical loads, motors, actuators, sensors, processors, coils for modifying the properties of magnetorheological fluids, or steering mechanisms in wheelchairs. When combining multiple orthotic components to form an orthotic system, coordination may be necessary to harmonize individual functionalities and, if required, to activate or deactivate the functionalities of individual components depending on the presence or absence of other components.

[0005] Computer-controlled prosthetic joints with energy storage devices are known from the prior art. These devices can be connected to a charger and / or a computer via a plug connection to supply energy and / or data to the processor within the prosthetic knee joint, or to read data from a memory. Active prosthetic joints are also known that are motor-driven and powered by a battery. This battery is recharged via a charging port.

[0006] DE 10 2016 005 508 A1 relates to connectors for a high-voltage plug connection for electrical connection of high-voltage components, for example an electric drive system of a motor vehicle with an electrical contact arrangement comprising at least one annular contact element, a first inner protective element projecting beyond the contact element within the contact element and a first outer protective element that at least partially surrounds the contact element and projects beyond the contact element, wherein the first inner protective element and the first outer protective element form touch protection for the contact element.

[0007] DE 10 2015 216 543 A1 relates to a contact arrangement for a plug for connecting to a busbar with touch protection, comprising a fastening element for securing the contact arrangement to the busbar and a contact element having a hole through which the fastening element extends. The fastening element extends through a busbar contact sleeve made of electrically conductive material for direct contact with the busbar. An insulating element is arranged between the fastening element and the contact element, isolating the fastening element from the contact element.

[0008] GB 2 449 236 A relates to a removable battery and a holder for attaching and removing a 9V battery, for example in effects pedals for an electric guitar. To remove the battery, a cable or cord, which runs between the two contacts, is stretched against a ring.

[0009] CN 105390879 A relates to a device for releasing a plug in which a pull ring is attached to a loop, so that the plug can be easily pulled out of the socket by actuating the pull ring.

[0010] US Patent 2007 / 0227757 A1 concerns an electrical connection with a first and a second electrical connector, each connected to an electrical cable. Initially, one of the two connectors has a conductive elastomer material in which conductive particles are distributed. When the two connectors are joined, the elastomer material is deformed to provide an improved electrical connection. This deformation removes moisture from the contact surfaces.

[0011] German patent DE 10 2015 008 452 A1 relates to a divisible socket unit with two subunits that can be separated from each other and fixed together. The first subunit has a socket section for receiving a plug and at least one connector for electrically connecting the first subunit to one of the second subunits. The second subunit has at least one counterpart connector for connecting to the connector and at least one plug for electrically connecting to a socket.

[0012] US Patent 2016 / 0 141 809 A1 relates to a connector for coupling a connection terminal of an electronic device to a coupling surface and a connection end piece on the coupling surface with at least one first magnetic component located near the connection end piece. The magnetic component is coupled to at least one first metallic component located in the connection terminal. A detection device is located on the coupling surface and detects a connection between the connector and the connection terminal.

[0013] DE 10 2016 102 042 A1 relates to a circular connector with two plugs, featuring arranged magnetic retaining and coding elements which, after the plugs are connected, can be aligned relative to each other by moving at least one of the housing sections. In the aligned position, depending on the coding of the paired magnetic retaining and coding elements, a holding force is exerted in or a repulsive force is exerted against the insertion direction of the plugs.

[0014] DE 10 2013 204 158 A1 relates, among other things, to an electrical connector with a body having a first terminal defined by a first terminal element with a first configuration. The body has a second terminal defined by a second terminal element with a second configuration complementary to the first. Furthermore, it has a third terminal that differs from the first and second terminals. Several through conductors extend from the first terminal to the second terminal. A lateral conductor establishes an electrical connection from the first terminal to the third terminal.

[0015] US Patent 2012 / 0220166 A1 relates to a connector with a housing comprising a first cavity and a second cavity, with a socket located in the first cavity, the socket having a pull-screw opening and a first upper pin opening. A primary contact pin with an upper section and a lower section is provided, the upper section being positioned within the first upper pin opening. The upper section has a cavity for receiving second contact pins. A pull screw is positioned within the pull-screw opening of the socket.

[0016] US Patent 2015 / 0093922 A1 relates to a stackable connector comprising a body with a first connector, contacts arranged on the first connector, and a first magnet whose poles are arranged to align the first connector with a corresponding second connector and join the contacts together. A connection detection circuit is designed to determine whether the first connector is connected to the second connector. A routing circuit connected to the connection detection circuit is configured to route signals between the contacts when it is detected that the first connector is connected to the second connector. The object of the present invention is to provide a connector system that enables simple data and / or power exchange, even in complex orthotic systems.

[0017] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a connector system with the features of the main claim. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims, the description, and the figures.

[0018] The connector system according to the invention for connecting several electrical and / or electronic devices of an orthopaedic system with at least one connector receptacle, which can also be referred to as a socket, which is preferably permanently coupled to the electrical and / or electronic device, wherein the connector receptacle has a connector receiving side with a plurality of contacts, with an end connector which is preferably coupled to a data and / or power source by means of a cable, wherein the end connector has a connector side with a plurality of contacts which are arranged corresponding to the contacts of the connector receptacle, wherein the contacts of the connector side and the connector receiving side are arranged such that they can be brought into contact with each other in at least one, preferably straight, joining direction, provides that at least one cascade connector is part of the system, which has a connector side,which is configured correspondingly to the plug side of the end plug, wherein the cascade plug has a plug receptacle opposite the plug side, which is configured correspondingly to the plug receptacle of the plug receptacle. The at least one insertion direction is, in particular, a straight insertion direction, so that the plug side and the plug receptacle can be brought into contact in exactly one straight insertion direction. Preferably, the plug side of the cascade plug is configured identically or almost identically to the plug side of the end plug with respect to the contacts and shape. A corresponding configuration of the plug sides means that a plug of an end plug or of a cascade plug with the same receptacle can be coupled, even if identical contacting and / or pin assignment of the contacts on the plug side is not necessarily required. For a corresponding configuration, it is sufficient thatIf the plug can be mechanically inserted into the plug receptacle to couple the contacts provided for this purpose, the plug receptacle opposite the plug end is preferably designed in the same or nearly identical way to the plug receptacle side of the plug receptacle. Between a plug and the plug receptacle or socket, if the plug receptacle is directly attached to the orthopaedic component or designed as a coupling for receiving the plug, an intermediate piece or a cascade connector is provided, which is designed as a plug receptacle on one side and as a plug on the other. This makes it possible to provide a high level of electrical safety during contact in orthopaedic systems and, via the cascade connector, a large number of branching options.to contact other electrical and / or electronic devices. Thus, a single terminal connector can supply virtually any number of orthotic components and their associated or connected electrical and / or electronic devices with power and / or data, enabling power and data exchange. The terminal connector may also have a receptacle for a plug. Alternatively, the terminal connector may be configured as a cascade connector with a receptacle, which may be covered or sealed with a cap or closure. The terminal connector must be capable of supplying data and / or power to the orthotic system, with the power being supplied by a power supply unit or a mobile power source, such as a battery.The end connector does not necessarily have to form the end of a cascade system, but can also be located between two connected cascade connectors or between a connector receptacle directly on the orthotic device and a cascade connector.

[0019] At least one cable is connected to the cascade connector, linking it to at least one second cascade connector or at least one end connector. The second cascade connector or end connector can be connected to the end of the cable opposite the first cascade connector. The cable is specifically designed as a multi-core cable. Several electrical and / or electronic devices can be connected to a single power supply or data source via the at least second cascade connector or via the at least one further end connector, which does not have a rear connection for another connector but instead transmits data and / or power from the first cascade connector, so that the end connector is connected, for example, to a power supply or a computer via the cascade connector and another end connector.The cascade-like design makes it possible to connect several cascade plugs to the first, primary end plug, charging unit or computer, or to enable a series connection of plugs with cables, so that two, three or more electrical and / or electronic devices can be connected to several orthopaedic components of an orthopaedic system.

[0020] The contacts of the cascade connector can have the same pinout on the plug side as on the receptacle side, thus ensuring that power and / or data are transmitted from the end plug to the socket or receptacle essentially unchanged. In contrast to an identical contact configuration with simple pass-through, possibly with a branch to a second cascade connector or an end plug, it is possible to provide a different pinout on the plug side compared to the receptacle side of the cascade connector. This allows for a change in contact configuration through the insertion of one or more cascade connectors, or, if necessary, the blocking of data or power lines.

[0021] The contour of the cascade connector is preferably designed to correspond on the plug side to the contour on the plug receptacle side, in order to ensure complete and reliable contact even when a cascade connector is interposed. With regard to its shape, the cascade connector on the plug side does not differ from the shape of the end plug or at least allows coupling with a plug receptacle or socket into which a plug from an end plug can also be inserted and used for power and data transmission.

[0022] In a further development of the invention, at least one magnetic coupling is formed between the plug side and the plug receptacle side via two magnets, one magnet, or a ferromagnetic counterpart. The plug side and the plug receptacle side can be configured between an end plug and a cascade plug, between a cascade plug and a plug receptacle, or between an end plug and a plug receptacle. This ensures that even with multiple cascade plugs arranged in series and stacked, reliable assignment and contact are maintained after the initial connection of the plugs. The magnetic arrangement makes it possible to ensure a predetermined plug orientation and thus prevent incorrect contacts due to misalignment.By appropriately polarizing the magnets, it is possible to prevent the correct orientation of the respective components when, for example, the connector receptacle and end connector or cascade connector are arranged in a non-rotationally symmetrical configuration. With a rotationally symmetrical design of the connector receptacle, the connector surface, and the contacts, the appropriate polarization of the magnets ensures a unique alignment even in a rotational orientation. This guarantees not only a holding force that prevents the connectors from separating against the direction of insertion, but also the desired alignment of the respective contacts. The magnets, or the magnet and its counterpart, thus enable the coupling of the connector receptacle, cascade connector, and end connector in precisely one orientation.

[0023] As an alternative or supplement to the magnetic coupling design of the connector system, a further development provides for projections and recesses on the connector and receptacle sides that allow coupling of the receptacle, cascade connector, and end connector to each other in only one orientation. The projections and recesses thus serve as alignment elements that prevent incorrect assembly and therefore faulty contact.

[0024] In a further development of the invention, at least one positive locking device for coupling the connector receptacle, cascade connector, and end connector can be arranged on the plug side and the plug receptacle side. This positive locking device makes it possible to establish an alternative or additional connection and securing mechanism between the respective plug side and the respective plug receptacle side. The positive locking device is preferably releasable, for example, by means of clips, hooks, or projections that engage in corresponding recesses, thus enabling physical alignment and therefore secure contact. Additionally, a permanent and releasable connection can be achieved by screwing the plug receptacle, cascade connector, and / or end connector together.It is also possible to achieve a form-fitting lock using a Velcro fastener on the plug side and on the plug receptacle side via hook areas or loop areas.

[0025] The holding force between the connector receptacle and the connector end can decrease from the receptacle to the end connector, so that whenever a pulling or unlocking force is applied externally to the end connector, the outermost connector component (whether end connector or cascade connector) is removed. This can be achieved, for example, by decreasing magnetic field strength or similar factors.

[0026] A further development of the invention provides that a feedback device, which can be optical, haptic, or acoustic, or a transmission device such as a cable or transmitter, is arranged in a connector receptacle, cascade connector, and / or end connector to indicate contact. This ensures that feedback for the user only occurs when the connector receptacle, cascade connector, and / or end connector is fully connected. This feedback does not necessarily have to be located at the connection point of the connectors, but can also confirm successful contact at a remote location thanks to the transmission device. The transmission device can operate via a cable or wirelessly.

[0027] At least one sealing element can be arranged between the connector receptacle, the cascade connector, and / or the end connector to protect the contacts from environmental influences. Advantageously, this sealing element is arranged around the entire perimeter of the contacts, either individually around each contact or around a contact area formed by a multitude of contacts.

[0028] The connector receptacle can be arranged in a holder that can be fixed to the orthotic component, wherein the holder or the connector receptacle within the holder is designed to be movable and lockable relative to the orthotic component. The holder can be designed, for example, as a thread, a through-hole, a clip, or similar, allowing the holder and connector receptacle to be positioned almost freely on the orthotic component. Alternatively or additionally, the connector receptacle can be movably arranged in or on the holder, in particular rotatably, to allow the connector receptacle to be rotated relative to the holder. This makes it possible to position the holder itself at the most convenient location for fixing it to the respective component at the desired position.The relative adjustability of the connector receptacle within the holder allows for optimization of the connector orientation or the orientation of the connector receptacle itself for the individual user. Once the desired orientation is found, it can then be fixed, for example, by locking the connector receptacle into the holder.

[0029] The contacts can be made of a conductive polymer or coated with a conductive polymer to avoid exposing the electrical contacts to the risk of corrosion.

[0030] On the connector receptacle side, a base surface can be formed, creating a top edge. Extending from this base surface is a recess in the insertion direction, with the contacts located within this recess beneath the base surface. These contacts, positioned within the recess or protrusion beneath the base surface, provide integral contact protection on the connector receptacle side, preventing the patient from making contact perpendicular to the insertion direction. Furthermore, the arrangement within the recess prevents unintentional contact with the patient, even in the insertion direction. In particular, if the contacts in the recess are arranged on a shoulder with at least one side surface angled to the insertion direction, accidental contact with the contacts is impossible or virtually impossible.

[0031] The recess may have a chamfer to facilitate the insertion of the connector receptacle to the connector side. The chamfer achieves or at least supports self-centering and self-alignment.

[0032] On the connector side, a base surface can be formed from which a projection extends in the joining direction. This projection includes a recess within which the contacts on the connector side are arranged. The projection and the recess within it also provide an internal arrangement of contacts on the connector side, thus preventing contact from occurring during an approach movement perpendicular to the joining direction. Preferably, the recess completely surrounds the contacts perpendicular to the joining direction, so that no contact movement perpendicular to the joining direction poses a risk of unintentional contact.

[0033] The contacts can be arranged in the recess on or in a side surface oriented obliquely to the joining direction. The side surfaces in the recess are preferably arranged correspondingly to the side surfaces on the shoulder within the recess, resulting in a matching arrangement of the side surfaces and a positive locking connection transverse to the joining direction.

[0034] The end connector or cascade connector may incorporate a release mechanism that, when a tensile force is applied, exerts a force on the end connector or cascade connector opposite to the insertion direction. This release mechanism actively unlocks the end connector or cascade connector. The release mechanism may be coupled to a line or cable, so that a force applied perpendicular to the insertion direction results in decoupling or the application of a decoupling force opposite to the insertion direction. For example, a cable may be guided in a loop over a spring-loaded bolt that, when a tensile force is applied, moves from a storage position to an activation position, with the displacement movement resulting in the application of a force opposite to the insertion direction.

[0035] A further development of the invention provides that at least one touch protection device or element, e.g., a touch protection wall, is arranged on the plug side and the plug receptacle side, preventing contact perpendicular to the insertion direction. At least one touch protection device, such as projecting ribs or a touch protection wall, is arranged on each plug receptacle side and plug side, thus preventing lateral contact, particularly with the contacts of the plug side. This makes it possible to provide a high level of electrical safety during contacting in orthopedic systems and, via the cascade connector, a multitude of branching options for connecting further electrical and / or electronic devices.

[0036] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. They show... Fig. 1 - a first variant of the system; Fig. 2- two perspective views of a cascade plug, Fig. 3 - two top views and one side view of a cascade connector; Fig. 4 - two interconnected cascade plugs in a perspective view; Fig. 5 - two coupled cascade plugs in sectional view; Fig. 6 - two coupled cascade plugs on a bracket in perspective view; Fig. 7 - an order according to Fig. 6 with an end plug; as well as Fig. 8 - a joined plug system with end plug, two cascade plugs and bracket.

[0037] In the Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a lower extremity prosthesis with several orthotic components 10, 11, 12, 15. The first orthotic component 10 is a femoral socket with a connecting adapter for attachment to the upper part of a prosthetic knee joint. A second orthotic component 11, in the form of a lower leg section, is pivotally mounted on the prosthetic knee joint about a pivot axis 13. A third orthotic component 12, in the form of a prosthetic ankle joint, is attached to the lower leg section (the second orthotic component 11). A fourth orthotic component, a prosthetic foot 15, is pivotally mounted on the ankle joint about a pivot axis 14.The femoral socket, as the first orthotic component, is a purely passive component and serves to hold a femoral stump in order to securely fix the prosthetic leg to the patient. The femoral socket, with a prosthetic liner located within it, can be used, for example, via a vacuum system to mechanically fix the prosthetic leg to the patient. As an alternative to a multi-part prosthesis, the system can be designed as an orthosis. Similarly, a wheelchair or a prosthetic or orthotic device for an upper extremity, such as a prosthetic arm, an arm orthosis, or a shoulder orthosis, can be used as an orthotic component. Combinations of prostheses, orthoses, and wheelchairs or other mobility aids are also considered systems.

[0038] In the depicted system, a first electrical and / or electronic device 110 in the form of a hydraulic actuator is arranged in the second orthotic component 11. The hydraulic actuator can be designed as a passive component and include a hydraulic damper with actuators that open or close valves to adjust extension and / or flexion resistance. An energy storage device 115 for storing electrical energy can also be arranged on or associated with the hydraulic actuator to supply energy to the actuators. If the electrical and / or electronic device 110 is configured as an active actuator, a pump or mechanical energy storage device, e.g., a spring or pressure accumulator, is associated with the hydraulic damper, which makes it possible to effect or assist movement of the femoral shaft relative to the lower leg.For this purpose, the energy from the energy storage unit 115 is converted into kinetic energy, so that, for example, a piston rod is moved out of the hydraulic actuator to assist or effect an extension movement. Conversely, hydraulic fluid can be pumped by a pump or pressure accumulator, so that a piston rod is retracted into a housing of the hydraulic actuator, thus shortening the distance between two attachment points of the hydraulic actuator on the upper and lower parts of the prosthetic joint to perform a flexion movement.

[0039] Distal to the first electrical and / or electronic component 110, the second electrical and / or electronic component 120 is arranged in the orthopaedic component 12 in the form of a prosthetic ankle joint. An electrical and / or hydraulic actuator, which can be supplied with electrical energy via an electrical energy storage device 125, may also be arranged within the prosthetic ankle joint. In addition to the electrical energy storage device 125, a control unit 126 is arranged in the prosthetic ankle joint. This control unit 126 is located on the first electrical and / or electronic component 110 and serves, for example, to activate or deactivate a drive 118, 128, or to process data from a sensor 117, 127, store sensor data, and use it for further control purposes. A data storage device and a processing circuit may also be integrated into the control unit 116, 126.

[0040] Both the second orthopaedic component 11 and the third orthopaedic component 12 each have a supply connection 111, 121, through which energy and / or data can be supplied to the respective electrical and / or electronic device 110, 120. The data and the electrical energy can be transferred from a charging station 20 to the respective supply connection 111, 121. For this purpose, a plug 21 is arranged on the charging station 20, which is compatible with the respective supply connection 111, 121. In the illustrated embodiment of the Fig. 1. The plug 21 of the charging station 20 is coupled to a cascading plug system of a connector 30, which connects the two supply terminals 111, 121. Two plugs 31 are arranged on the connector 30, which are connected to each other via a cable 35 and have contacts on one side that are compatible with the contacts of the respective supply terminals 111, 121. On the side facing away from the supply terminals 111, 121, the plugs 31 have receptacles or sockets that are compatible with the contacts of the plug 21 of the charging station 20.

[0041] When the plug 21 of the charging station 20 is inserted into the back of a plug 31, which is connected via a cable to a corresponding plug 31, so that both supply connections 111, 121 are connected, energy and data can be transferred from the charging station 20 to both the first and the second electronic and / or electrical device 110, 120. This replenishes the storage devices 115, 125 for storing electrical energy and supplies the control devices 116, 126 with data such as programs, control data, software updates, or the like.The system, consisting of charging station 20 with plug 21, supply connections 111, 121, and plug connection 30 with plugs 31, provides an electrical connection system for orthopaedic components 11, 12, in particular orthoses, prostheses, and / or wheelchairs. This system allows for charging and connecting the respective electrical and / or electronic devices 110, 120, distributing energy from their respective energy storage devices 115, 125, or coordinating control sequences. The system enables not only the external supply of data from charging station 20 and electrical energy to the orthopaedic system, such as the orthosis, prosthesis, or wheelchair, but also the exchange of energy and / or data between the respective orthopaedic components 11, 12 within the orthopaedic device.

[0042] If the various components 11, 12 with the different electrical and / or electronic devices 110, 120 have different maximum power requirements in the respective consumer, for example, drive 118, 128, or for charging the storage devices 115, 125, the maximum power required by each consumer 118, 128 or control device 116, 126 can be encoded via an electrical resistance. Due to the compatibility of the supply connections 111, 121 with the respective plugs 21, 31, it is possible to provide multiple charging ports on an orthopaedic component to make it easier for a patient to connect the orthopaedic device to a charging station 20.This allows the user to freely select the most convenient power supply connection 111, 121, so that one or more connections are available for the central charging of all electrical and / or electronic devices 110, 120. Charging with electrical energy, as well as data transmission, can occur simultaneously or sequentially. For example, if the electrical and / or electronic devices 110, 120 are not connected to each other via connector 30, data and energy can be transferred sequentially through connector 21 via the charging station 20. Each electronic and / or electrical device 110, 120 is coded so that the charging station 20 recognizes which device is currently being supplied with energy and / or data, ensuring that the correct amount of energy and data are transmitted.

[0043] If charging station 20 is not connected, data and energy exchange between devices 110 and 120 can take place via connector 30. It is also possible to combine several orthotic devices via connector 30, for example, an orthosis or prosthesis with a wheelchair that has a larger energy storage capacity in the form of a battery, so that energy can be transferred from the wheelchair to the orthosis or prosthesis to maintain the patient's mobility.

[0044] In the Fig. Figure 1 shows further charging stations 20 and energy storage devices that provide different voltages, for example, 12V, 5V, or various voltages via a special transformer or manufacturer-specific charger. An energy storage device can also be connected to a charging station 20's power supply via a USB port, thus providing a mobile storage solution for electrical energy. A cigarette lighter socket can also be used as a power supply, which can be connected, for example, to an external energy storage device 50, which can also be a computer or laptop, with a corresponding adapter. Connection to the external energy storage device 50 is also possible without using the cigarette lighter socket.Using one or more adapters 40, each equipped with a plug 41 compatible with the respective supply connections 111, 121, it is possible to utilize a wide variety of energy sources to power the respective electronic and / or electrical device. The adapters 40 can connect different types of energy sources to the respective orthopaedic components, and different voltage levels can be supplied to the respective devices within the adapters 40. The required voltage level can be set within the adapters 40, for example, by increasing or decreasing the voltage received from the respective energy storage device. Each adapter 40 has an input connection 42 for the respective charging station 20 or energy storage device used.

[0045] A control unit 60 is arranged on the prosthesis, which identifies all electrical and / or electronic devices 110, 120 wirelessly or via a wired connection and initiates their activation or deactivation. In an alternative embodiment, the control unit 60 can be housed within one of the devices 110, 120 and, as the main control unit or master, identify, activate, and deactivate the other connected components. For this purpose, all electrical and / or electronic devices 110, 120 are triggered by the control unit 60, their respective intended status and functionality are queried, and energy and / or data signals are transmitted to the respective electrical and / or electronic device 110, 120.The control device 60 can be arranged on any component; to avoid cable routing across joints, an arrangement in the component with the electrical and / or electronic device is advantageous.

[0046] Fig. Figure 2 shows two perspective views of a cascade connector 31. The upper view shows a connector receptacle 312 or socket side, while the lower view primarily shows a connector side 311. The cascade connector 31 has a cable 35 leading to another end connector or cascade connector (not shown). The cascade connector 31 has a plurality of contacts 5 that can transmit power or data, both from the connector receptacle 312 to the connector side 311 and via the cable 35 to another cascade connector 31 or another connector that has only one connector side 311. The cascade connector 31 has two parallel long sides connected to each other by semicircular end sections. The contour or circumference corresponds to the shape of a running track in a stadium.A side wall 310 extends substantially perpendicularly from a base surface 90 on the connector receptacle side 312 to the second base surface 70 on the connector side 311. A projection 91 in the form of a sealing element extends upwards from the connector-side base surface 90 and protrudes beyond the base surface 90. The sealing element 90 encloses a recess 95 that projects from the base surface 90 into the cascade connector 31. The contacts 5 on the connector receptacle side 312 are arranged within the recess 95. Two recesses 8 are formed or arranged laterally in the base surface next to the circumferential sealing element 91, extending towards the connector side 311.In the recesses 8, which are located in the semicircular edge areas of the base surface 90, magnets, ferromagnetic counterparts or positive locking elements, in particular spring-loaded locking devices, can be provided, for example, to enable a force-locking and / or positive locking of several cascade plugs 31 on top of each other.

[0047] On the underside or connector side 311, projections 7 are arranged or formed at corresponding locations analogous to the recesses 8 in order to engage in the recesses 8 of a second cascade connector. Spring-loaded positive locking elements, magnets and / or ferromagnetic counterparts to magnets arranged in the recesses 8 can be arranged on or in the projections 7 to effect a mechanical locking of two cascade connectors 31 together.

[0048] Instead of recesses 8, these can be designed as projections; instead of projections 7, these can be designed as recesses. It is also possible, and a variant of the invention, that recesses are formed opposite each other, in which, for example, magnets are arranged to align them and create a holding force between them. Magnets in the recesses can completely fill them or be set back from the edge of the recess.

[0049] A groove 71 is machined or formed on the base surface 70 of the connector side 311, corresponding to the shape and contour of the sealing element 91 or the projection 91. When two cascade connectors 31 are connected, the projection 91 or the sealing element 91 lies in the groove 71 and, in addition to aligning and centering the two cascade connectors 31 relative to each other, provides a seal against external influences, so that the electrical or data transmission via the contacts 5 is not impaired or only minimally affected. Furthermore, the corresponding design of the sealing element 91 and the groove 71 enables error-free coupling of two cascade connectors 31.Different types of cascade connectors cannot be fully coupled together, because if the groove 71 and the sealing element 91 are not designed in a way that corresponds to a non-corresponding design, the two base surfaces 70, 90 do not lie on top of each other and therefore no direct contact can be made between the contacts 5 on the connector side 311 and the connector receiving side 312 of two cascade connectors 31.

[0050] On the connector side 311 of the cascade connector 31, a projection 75 is arranged or formed, which corresponds to the recess 95 on the connector receptacle 312. In the illustrated embodiment, the projection 75 has end sections 79a, 79b on both end faces, which are formed in the manner of a halved, optionally flattened, truncated cone. A longitudinal strut is arranged as a partition between the two end sections 79a, 79b, from which a total of three projections or ribs 78 extend laterally outwards, so that a total of four recesses 76 are formed in the projection 75. The electrical contacts and / or the data-transmitting contacts 5 are arranged within these recesses 76.The end pieces 79a, 79b as well as the ribs 78 provide contact protection, so that both the end pieces 79a, 79b and the ribs 78 serve as contact protection elements, preventing direct contact when approaching, for example by a person perpendicular to a joining direction, which will be explained later.

[0051] Fig. Figure 3 shows three views of a cascade connector 31; the middle illustration is a side view from the direction of the cable 35, the top illustration is a folded-up view of the connector side 311, and the bottom illustration is a top view of the connector receptacle side 312. In the top illustration of the Fig. Figure 3 shows that the groove 71 does not follow the outer contour of the cascade connector 31, but instead of a semicircular connecting area for joining the straight, parallel sections of the groove 71 on the right side, it has an essentially straight connection connected by two rounded arcs, resulting in an asymmetrical contour. Likewise, the right end piece 79a is shaped differently than the left end piece 79b. The three ribs 78 extending upwards and downwards from the central wall, together with the end pieces 79a and 79b, form four recesses 76 on both sides of the central wall. The middle representation of the Fig. Figure 3 shows the raised design of the sealing element 91 as a projection above the base surface 90, the lower representation of the Fig. Figure 3 shows that the contour of the sealing element 91 corresponds to the contour of the groove. The middle illustration shows the downward-extending projection 75 from the base surface 71 on the connector side 311 and the downward-extending contacts 5 within the recesses 76 between the ribs 78 and the end pieces 79a, 79b.

[0052] The lower representation of the Fig. Figure 3 shows the design of the recess 95 within the connector receptacle 312, extending from the base surface 90, and the arrangement of the contacts 5 on projections or shoulders 96, which are inclined at an angle to the orientation of the base surface 90. At least one insertion ramp 98 is formed within the recess 95 to facilitate the insertion of the projection 75 with the contacts 5 into the recess 95. The shoulders 96 are designed and arranged so that they can engage in the recesses 76 on the connector side 311. When two cascade connectors 31 are correctly oriented relative to each other and placed side by side, mechanical contact is established between the contacts 5 on both the connector side 311 and the connector receptacle 312.The signals transmitted from, for example, a charging station 20 for the transmission of data and power from a plug 21 to the plug receptacle 312 are passed through to the contacts 5 on the plug receptacle 311 and also to another plug 31, which can also be configured as a cascade plug and is connected to the contacts 5 via the cable 35. Thus, both data and power are distributed, on the one hand, to a plug receptacle 111, 121, or plug receptacle 312 of a cascade plug 31, and on the other hand to another plug at the other end of the cable 35. Data and power are passed through the cascade plug 31 on the one hand and, on the other hand, branched off to another cascade plug or a different plug.

[0053] By arranging the contacts 5 on the connector receptacle 312 within the recess 95, the connector housing or the side wall 310 of the connector 31 forms a contact protection element or a contact protection wall that prevents contact transverse to the insertion direction, i.e., transverse to the insertion direction of the projection 75 into the recess 95. Unintentional contact is therefore impossible. The contacts 5 on the connector receptacle 312 within the recess 95 are preferably located only in the side surfaces of the shoulders 96, so that if the shoulders are touched on their upper surfaces facing the base surface 90, no direct contact with the electrical and data-transmitting contacts 5 can occur.

[0054] Fig. Figure 4 shows two cascade connectors 31 arranged one above the other and coupled together. Data and power introduced into the upper cascade connector 31 are passed through to the second cascade connector 32. Simultaneously, data and power are forwarded via the two cables 35 to further electrical and / or electronic devices and supplied there, for example, via corresponding connectors. Furthermore, the connector side 311 of the lower cascade connector 31 provides the possibility of forwarding and transferring data and / or power supplied at the connector receptacle side 312 of the upper connector to another cascade connector 31 or to a connector receptacle 111, 121 of an electrical or electronic device 110, 120.

[0055] Fig. Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the cascade connectors 31 and thus also perpendicular to a plane of symmetry. The unfilled recess 95 is visible in the upper cascade connector 31. The sealing element 91 or the shoulder extends upwards from the base surface 90. On the underside or connector side of the upper cascade connector 31, the groove 71 with an additional sealing element 91' inserted therein is visible. The contacts 5 within the recess 95 do not extend to the connector-receiving surface of the shoulders 96, but are located on an inclined side wall of the shoulder 96. The contacts are U-shaped and pass through the base body of the cascade connector 31 and are pressed against the partition wall of the projection 75.The contact 5 does not extend over the lower end of the projection, but rather passes through the partition between the end pieces 90a and 90b, as can be seen at the lower cascade connector 31. This provides protection against contact in the opposite direction to the assembly direction F, i.e., from below towards the connector side 311. Lateral contact with the contacts 5 is prevented by the ribs 78. In the assembled state, as shown in the... Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the contacts 5 of the upper cascade connector 31 are in contact with the contacts 5 of the lower cascade connector 31. Due to the angled design of the contacts 5 on the side surface 97, contact only occurs when the two cascade connectors 31 are fully aligned, which is only the case when the projection or sealing element 91 is fully inserted into the groove 71. Should a 180° rotation occur and an attempt be made to insert the projection 75 into the recess 95, no contact would occur because the different shapes of the end pieces 79a, 79b and the corresponding recesses within the recess 95, as well as the interlocking effect of the different contours on the end faces of the groove 71 and the projection 91, prevent complete contact. In the embodiment of the Fig. 5 Two conductors 35 or cables 35 are arranged on the upper cascade connector 31 to supply further electrical and / or electronic components with power and / or data from this cascade connector 31. The cables 35 are preferably multi-core for this purpose. By arranging several cables 35 on one cascade connector 31, several components can be supplied with power and / or data; a star-shaped or network-like distribution of power and / or data and a multiplication of receivers are thus possible.

[0056] Fig. Figure 6 shows two stacked cascade connectors 31 in a joined position, with the lower cascade connector 31 inserted into a connector receptacle 111 within a holder 80. This holder 80 can be arranged on an orthotic component, the connector receptacle being electrically and / or data-transmitting connected to an electrical and / or electronic device 110, 120 of the orthotic system. A mechanical and electrical connection to the electrical and / or electronic device is established via the holder 80, which can be secured and fixed to the orthotic component 10, 20 by means of screws through through holes 81 and by means of a positive locking device in the form of a tab with a recess 82.

[0057] Fig. Figure 7 shows three cascade connectors 31 and the holder 80 before assembly. For assembly, the cascade connectors 31 are moved together or sequentially in the assembly direction F, which is oriented orthogonally to the base surfaces 70, 90 and orthogonally to a base surface in the holder 80, in order to bring the respective connector side 311 into alignment with the connector receiving side 312 and make contact, so that a joined position is achieved. In the Fig. 7 also show the two tabs with the recesses 82 and the two through holes 81, via which the holder 80 can be attached to the orthopaedic component.

[0058] In Fig. Figure 7 shows an end connector 21, which comes from a charging station or a device for providing data and / or energy. The end connector 21 is inserted into the recess 95 of the uppermost cascade connector 31. The connector 21 is designed to correspond to the connector side 312 of the cascade connectors 31, so that only a unique orientation of the connector 21 relative to the respective cascade connector 31 enables contact between the electrical contacts 5 of the end connector 21 and the cascade connectors 31, and thus also with the connector receptacle 111. A feedback device 22 is arranged on the end connector 21, which can be designed as a light source, vibration element, or acoustic signal generator and indicates whether contact has been made with the contacts 5 of the cascade connector 31 and / or the connector receptacle 111 in the holder 80.For example, if an LED lights up as a feedback device 22, the user can assume that coupling has taken place with all contacts 5 of all cascade plugs 31 and the plug receptacle 111.

[0059] Advantageously, the pin assignment of all contacts 5 of the end connector 21 is identical to the contacts 5 in the cascade connectors 31 and the contacts within the connector receptacle 111. In principle, it is also possible to provide an alternative or different pin assignment. The end connector 21 does not have to be located at the beginning of the connector cascade; an arrangement in the middle or between two cascade connectors 31, or between a connector receptacle and a cascade connector in an embodiment of the end connector 21 with a connector receptacle, is also provided and part of the invention. The connector receptacle of an end connector can be covered or reversibly closed, for example by a cap. The end connector 21 is then a cascade connector with a supply line, so that power and / or data can be introduced into the system from the outside.

[0060] The final assembled state and contacting of two cascade plugs 31 with an end plug 21 on a holder 80 for connecting a charger (not shown) or, for example, a computer with an electrical or electronic device 110, 120 (not shown) or an orthopaedic component 11, 12 is shown in the Fig. 8 shown.

Claims

[1] Connector system for connecting several electrical and / or electronic devices (110, 120) of an orthopaedic system with - at least one plug receptacle (111, 121) coupled to an electrical and / or electronic device, - the plug receptacle (111, 121) has a plug receptacle side (312) with a plurality of contacts (5), - with a terminal plug coupled to a data and / or power source (20), - the end plug (21) has a plug side with a plurality of contacts (5) which are arranged corresponding to the contacts (5) of the plug receptacle (111, 121), wherein - the contacts (5) of the plug side and the plug receptacle side (312) are arranged such that they can be brought into contact with each other in at least one joining direction (F), - with at least one cascade connector (31) having a connector side (311) configured to correspond to the connector side of the end connector (21), wherein the cascade connector (31) has a connector receiving side (312) opposite the connector side (311) configured to correspond to the connector receiving side (1112, 1212) of the connector receptacle (111, 121), characterized by that at least one second cascade plug (35) or at least one end plug is attached to the cascade plug (31) via at least one line (35). [2] Connector system according to claim 1, characterized by that the contacts (5) of the cascade connector (5) on the connector side (311) have the same assignment as on the connector receptacle side (312). [3] Plug system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the contour of the cascade plug (31) on the plug side (311) is designed to correspond to the contour on the plug receptacle side (312). [4] Connector system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that between the plug side (311) and the plug receptacle side (312) at least one magnetic coupling (6) is formed via two magnets (61) or one magnet (61) and a ferromagnetic counterpart. [5] Connector system according to claim 4, characterized by that the magnets (61) or the magnets (61) and the counterpart are designed such that a coupling of the plug receptacle (111, 121), cascade plug (31) and end plug (21) to one another is only possible in exactly one orientation. [6] Connector system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that projections (7) and recesses (8) are arranged on the plug side (311) and the plug receptacle side (312), which allow a coupling of the plug receptacle (111, 121), cascade plug (31) and end plug (21) to one another only in exactly one orientation. [7] Connector system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one form-locking device for coupling the plug receptacle (111, 121), cascade plug (31) and end plug (21) to one another is arranged on the plug side (311) and the plug receptacle side (312). [8] Plug system according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized by that the holding force between the plug receptacle side (312) and the plug side (311) decreases from the plug receptacle (111, 121) to the end plug (21). [9] Connector system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a feedback device (22) or a forwarding device for indicating contact is arranged in the plug receptacle (111, 121), the cascade plug (31) and / or the end plug (21). [10] Connector system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat at least one sealing element (91) is arranged between the plug receptacle (111, 121), the cascade plug (31) and / or the end plug (21). [11] Connector system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the plug receptacle (111, 121) is arranged in a holder (80) that can be fixed to the orthopaedic component, wherein the holder (80) or the plug receptacle (111, 121) in the holder (80) is designed to be displaceable and lockable relative to the orthopaedic component. [12] Connector system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the contacts (5) are formed from a conductive polymer or are coated with a conductive polymer. [13] Connector system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat an unlocking mechanism is arranged in the end plug (21) or the cascade plug (31), which, when a tensile force is applied, exerts a force opposite to the joining direction (F) on the end plug (21) or cascade plug (31). [14] Connector system according to claim 13, characterized by that the unlocking mechanism is coupled to a wire or cable. [15] Connector system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one contact protection element (78) is arranged on the plug side (311) and the plug receptacle side (312), which prevents contact transversely to the joining direction (F).

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