Plug connector arrangement and plug connector system

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug connector arrangement (100) comprising: -- a plug connector (1) having a plug connector housing (2) which comprises a cable outlet portion (3); -- a mating plug connector (4) which comprises a mating plug connector housing (5) and / or which is mounted on a component housing (81); -- a locking structure (6) which is located on the plug connector housing (2), preferably in the cable outlet portion (3); -- a locking mating structure (7) which is located on the mating plug connector housing (5) and / or on the component housing (81); -- an elastically reversibly deformable clamping arrangement (8); wherein: the locking structure (6) and the locking mating structure (7) can be coupled to one another; the locking structure (6) and the locking mating structure (7) can, in the coupled state, assume a locking position (PA) in which they are in mechanical contact with one another, so that movement of the cable outlet portion (3) is prevented; when the locking structure (6) and the locking mating structure (7) are in the coupled state (PK), the clamping arrangement (8) is elastically deformed and forces the locking structure (6) and / or the locking mating structure (7) into the locking position (PA).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] title

[0003] Field of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to a connector arrangement and a connector system.

[0005] State of the art

[0006] Connector assemblies comprising a connector and a mating connector for high-voltage applications (e.g., at least 40 V or at least 100 V or at least 400 V) and / or high-current applications (e.g., at least 5 A or at least 10 A or at least 50 A or at least 100 A), e.g., for (battery-)electrically powered vehicles, are known from the prior art. The mating connector is arranged or fastened, for example, on or in a component, e.g., an inverter, a battery, an electric machine, an e-axle (electric axle), etc. The connector is plugged together with the mating connector along a plugging direction. The cables connected to the connector and / or the mating connector often have large conductor cross-sections, e.g., of at least 10 mm 2 or even at least 50 mm 2. A movable operating element is often provided on the connector or the mating connector, which can be used to reduce the operating force required when plugging together.

[0007] A connector arrangement with an operating element is known from DE 10 2012 218 034 A1.

[0008] DE 10 2019 122 598 A1 discloses a further connector arrangement in which the tightness and vibration resistance of a plug connection, once established, are to be reliably ensured by means of a housing lock having a pivoting locking bracket. DE 10 2012 018 270 A1 discloses a further connector arrangement which has a rotary slide lever. To connect the plug connector and mating connector, the rotary slide lever is first rotated about an axis transverse to the plugging direction, thus pulling the plug connector and mating connector together. In its end position, the rotary slide lever is then displaced linearly in a plane perpendicular to the plugging direction, increasing the contact pressure between the plug connector and mating connector. This is intended to provide a type of securing of the operating element orBy securing the connector to the mating connector, it can be ensured that the connector housing and the mating connector housing are connected to each other in a stable and low-vibration manner by the contact force generated by the rotary valve lever.

[0009] Another connector assembly with a rotary lever is known from DE 10 2018 009 478 A1. A first driver element is arranged on the rotary lever, which interacts positively with a second driver element upon rotation of the rotary lever. The second driver element is arranged on a slider that is guided for linear movement on the second connector housing. A second locking element is arranged on the slider, which is displaced translationally relative to a first locking element arranged on the first connector housing by a movement of the slider, whereby a positive locking can be established or released. This positive locking is intended to reduce the risk of the connector tilting due to the high cable weight during mating.

[0010] Disclosure of the invention

[0011] The invention is based on the realisation that large cable cross-sections result in high weight and that such cables are often not (or no longer) particularly flexible and can therefore transmit vibrations almost undamped. If oscillations or vibrations occur during operation which are transmitted to such a cable, then due to the large mass of the cable this mechanical effect can be transmitted from the cable via the connector housing to the actual plug connection between a contact element of the connector and a mating contact element of the mating connector and can impair the plug connection to an undesirable extent. The invention is further based on the realisation that securing an operating element or the connector on the mating connector predominantly or exclusively in the area orIn the immediate vicinity of the contact point, the leverage effect of the relatively long housing may not adequately protect against the introduction of vibrations by the cable if the cable outlet is not secured, particularly in the case of angled plugs where the cable outlet is rotated between 60° and 120° relative to the plugging direction. The invention is further based on the finding that a solution using sliding elements to form-fit two (locking) elements is complex and can lead to problems when plugging and unplugging, which can impede short cycle times in production.

[0012] There may therefore be a need to provide a connector arrangement which reduces or minimises the transmission of oscillations and / or vibrations from elements connected to the connector and / or the mating connector, in particular cables, in a simple, cost-effective, reliable and production-safe manner (in particular, a permanent relative movement of the contact points of the contact element and the mating contact element is to be prevented or minimised) and in which the connector and the mating connector can not only be connected to one another but can also be separated from one another again in a simple and quick manner, in particular by means of one-handed operation.

[0013] Advantages of the invention

[0014] This need can be met by the subject matter of the present invention according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0015] According to a first aspect of the invention, a connector assembly is proposed.

[0016] The connector assembly comprises a connector with a connector housing, wherein the connector housing has a cable outlet section. The connector assembly further comprises a mating connector, wherein the mating connector has a mating connector housing and / or wherein the mating connector is mounted on a component housing. The connector assembly comprises a locking structure arranged on the connector housing. The connector assembly has a locking counterstructure arranged on the mating connector housing and / or on the component housing. The connector assembly further comprises an elastically reversibly deformable clamping arrangement. The locking structure and the locking counterstructure can be coupled to one another, in particular mechanically coupled.

[0017] When coupled, the locking structure and the locking counterstructure can assume a locking position in which they are in mechanical contact with each other, preventing movement of the cable outlet section. When the locking structure and locking counterstructure are coupled, the tensioning arrangement is elastically deformed and urges the locking structure and / or the locking counterstructure into the locking position.

[0018] This advantageously and simply ensures that the connector housing is mechanically fixed by means of the interaction of the locking structure with the locking counter-structure and the clamping of these two structures into the locking position by means of the clamping arrangement (in addition to the mechanical connection between the connector housing and the mating connector housing during electrical contacting). Vibrations or oscillations, which are introduced via the cable, for example, or other mechanical loads (e.g., thermal cycling, etc.), therefore advantageously do not lead to significant movements of the connector housing relative to the mating connector housing. This advantageously protects the mechanical and / or electrical connection points of the connector and mating connector and thus increases the service life of the connector assembly.This can minimize stress on the contact point (between a contact element of the connector and a mating contact element of the mating connector), particularly in the case of a cable outlet section that extends transversely to the plugging direction of the connector and mating connector (e.g., right-angle connectors and / or 90° connectors, etc.) and / or is very long. This is because, in such configurations, the cable outlet section can exert a particularly strong torque on the contact point and / or housing components of the connector and / or mating connector, acting like a lever, if it is not supported or secured.

[0019] The clamping of the locking structure and the locking counter-structure by means of the clamping arrangement into the locking position also advantageously makes it possible to design the locking structure and the locking counter-structure in such a way that they have some play with each other during the coupling process or during the assembly process towards the coupled state and are therefore easy to couple (when plugging together the connector and the mating connector) and at the same time to ensure that this play is no longer effective in the coupled state since it is eliminated by the clamping.Another advantage of this bracing is that particularly stiff materials and / or particularly thick materials can be used for the locking structure and / or the locking counter-structure, which makes the locking particularly stable even over long periods of operation. A design of this type with very stiff materials and / or great material thickness usually requires a defined amount of play between the locking structure and the locking counter-structure in order to enable secure coupling even in all tolerance situations. This play would normally allow the introduction of vibratory movements, e.g. via the cable. However, by bracing using the clamping arrangement, this (necessary) play can be rendered ineffective in the coupled state, as described above. The play is therefore still necessary and effective primarily for the assembly (mating together) of the connector on the mating connector.It is particularly advantageous if the clamping arrangement blocks, reduces, or impedes movement of the cable outlet section in a direction opposite to the movement-blocking direction by the locking structure and locking counterstructure in the locking position. Then, movement of the cable outlet section in both directions is restricted or blocked (for example, the locking arrangement can block relative movement of the cable outlet section or the connector away from the mating connector or away from the component, while the clamping arrangement blocks movement of the cable outlet section or the connector toward the mating connector or toward the component).

[0020] The connector arrangement can be designed, for example, for the transmission of high electrical power (e.g. at least one kW) or for the transmission of high currents and / or high voltages.

[0021] The connector can, for example, be configured for connection to a mating connector. The connector and mating connector can be plugged together or connected together along a plugging or insertion direction. The connector can, for example, have an electrical contact element. The mating connector can, for example, have an electrical counter-contact element. The cable outlet section can, for example, extend along a cable outlet direction.

[0022] The plug-in direction can be referred to, for example, as the Z direction. Together with the X and Y directions, it forms a Cartesian coordinate system. The cable outlet direction can be referred to, for example, as the K direction – it can run parallel to the plug-in direction or at an angle, e.g., rotated 90° to the plug-in direction.

[0023] The locking structure and the locking counterstructure can be referred to as a locking arrangement or can be elements of a locking arrangement. A locking arrangement can thus include or have the locking structure and the locking counterstructure.

[0024] The locking position can be assumed by the locking arrangement or the locking arrangement can be in the locking position - then the locking structure and the locking counter-structure are in mechanical contact, in particular in a blocking position.

[0025] The locking structure, the locking counter-structure or the locking arrangement on the one hand and the clamping arrangement on the other hand can, for example, be separate components or elements.

[0026] The locking structure and locking counterstructure, or the locking arrangement on the one hand, and the clamping arrangement on the other, can be spaced apart from one another even when the locking structure and locking counterstructure are coupled. In other words, they can be spatially separated from one another. They can be configured adjacent to one another, e.g., only a few millimeters apart. In this way, a functional separation is achieved between the individual components. This advantageously allows the materials and / or geometry (e.g., material thicknesses, etc.) to be configured differently for the purpose of locking than for the purpose of bracing.

[0027] The locking structure can be arranged, for example, in or on the cable outlet section.

[0028] The clamping arrangement can, for example, be arranged between the connector housing on the one hand and the mating connector housing and / or the component housing on the other. The locking structure and the locking counterstructure can, for example, be designed to be latchable to one another and / or to be coupled to one another in a form-fitting manner and / or to be coupled to one another in a force-fitting manner. This advantageously enables particularly simple and rapid coupling and, in particular, decoupling of the two structures, in particular without additional tools such as screwdrivers, etc. For example, it is not necessary to carry out complex screwing.

[0029] In the locking position, movement of the cable outlet section relative to the mating connector housing and / or the component housing is restricted or prevented. In particular, movement transverse to a cable outlet direction is restricted or prevented. This particularly advantageously reduces or prevents stress on the electrical contacts or the contact point of the connector and mating connector, as well as on mechanical components of the connector housing and / or the mating connector housing.

[0030] For the effective functioning of the locking structure and locking counterstructure, it is also possible for the locking counterstructure to be arranged not directly on the mating connector, but on an element that is firmly connected to the mating connector or the mating connector housing, e.g., a component. In this case, the locking counterstructure can be functionally assigned to the mating connector in terms of its relocatability. The mating connector can, for example, be mounted on or in this element, e.g., the component. In principle, in such a case, the element on or in which the mating connector is or can be mounted can be attributed, in the broadest sense, to the mating connector housing.

[0031] The locking structure and / or the locking counter-structure may comprise a material, in particular predominantly, selected from the group: a plastic, metal, spring steel.

[0032] The locking structure can, for example, be formed integrally with the connector housing. It can, for example, be formed from the same material, preferably in the same manufacturing process, as the connector housing. The locking counterstructure can, for example, be formed integrally with the mating connector housing and / or the component housing. It can, for example, be formed from the same material, preferably in the same manufacturing process, as the mating connector housing and / or the component housing.

[0033] The term “have” is used synonymously with the term “include” unless otherwise stated.

[0034] In a further development, it is provided that when the connector and mating connector are plugged together, the locking structure and the locking counter-structure are coupled to one another.

[0035] This advantageously ensures that when the connector and mating connector are mated together, as much of the external vibration, oscillation or other mechanical stress as possible is particularly well deflected from the contact point or does not affect it.

[0036] It can be provided that the locking structure and the locking counter-structure are not coupled to each other when not mated or not fully mated. This can advantageously enable, for example, a particularly low-force mating of the connector and mating connector, since potential coupling forces do not overlap with the mating forces of the electrical contact.

[0037] In a further development, the locking structure is designed as a latching hook, and the locking counterstructure is designed as a tab with a latching opening. This advantageously provides a particularly simple, cost-effective, robust, and secure locking arrangement that can be easily closed and opened again (when removing the connector).

[0038] The locking hook can be designed, for example, as a fixed or rigid locking hook or as an elastically reversibly movable locking hook. It can be designed, for example, as a particularly stable and / or elastically non-movable locking hook. In other embodiments, the locking hook can be designed to be elastically reversibly movable.

[0039] The tab can be designed, for example, as an elastically reversibly movable tab or as a fixed or rigid tab. Alternatively or additionally, the locking counterstructure is designed as a latching hook, and the locking structure is designed as a tab with a latching opening.

[0040] The locking hook can be designed, for example, as a fixed or rigid locking hook or as an elastically reversibly movable locking hook. It can be designed, for example, as a particularly stable and / or elastically non-movable locking hook. In other embodiments, the locking hook can be designed to be elastically reversibly movable.

[0041] The tab can be designed, for example, as an elastically reversibly displaceable tab or as a fixed or rigid tab.

[0042] In a further development, it is provided that the connector arrangement has a plurality of pairs of locking structure and locking counter-structure.

[0043] This advantageously creates redundancy, so that in the event of damage or failure of a locking arrangement (a pair of locking structure and locking counter-structure), the contact point is still protected from external mechanical loads (e.g. vibrations, etc.). Furthermore, this can advantageously create particularly good shielding of the contact point from external mechanical loads. Furthermore, it is advantageous to use smaller locking arrangements in confined spaces, for example, where the effective forces to be applied are achieved by the plurality of structures. Finally, this can advantageously, for example,Even in the case of larger connectors and / or mating connectors, a locking arrangement must be provided at all or at least several critical points where the application of external mechanical forces and / or a particularly high torque effect on the contact point is to be expected, thus effectively preventing or at least minimizing the application of mechanical loads to the contact point.

[0044] In a further development, the clamping arrangement comprises a clamping structure and a clamping counterstructure, wherein the clamping structure is designed to be elastically reversible, and when the locking structure and the locking counterstructure are coupled, the clamping counterstructure elastically deforms the clamping structure. This advantageously ensures that the clamping arrangement is actuated by the interaction of two partners that interact in a defined manner.Another advantageous effect is that the clamping arrangement reliably and permanently pushes the locking arrangement into the locking position. In other words: at the latest when the coupling state between the locking structure and the locking counter-structure is reached, the clamping arrangement is elastically deformed, in particular in such a way that, due to the elasticity, it exerts a restoring force in the opposite direction to the force application (in particular on the plug connector and / or the counter-connector) and in this way pushes the locking arrangement into the locking position.

[0045] It goes without saying that the tensioning counterstructure can be designed to be rigid (not elastically reversible), for example. However, it can also be designed to be elastically reversible.

[0046] In a further development, the clamping structure is arranged on the connector housing. And the counter-clamping structure is arranged on the mating connector housing and / or on the component housing.

[0047] This advantageously ensures that an elastically reversible component (the clamping structure) is always present – ​​because an installer can already determine whether the elastic component is present or not when assembling the connector on the cable(s). A costly production line stoppage, for example in vehicle production due to a missing clamping element, can be prevented by simply performing a visual inspection of the connector beforehand.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the clamping counter structure is arranged on the connector housing and the clamping structure is arranged on the mating connector housing and / or on the component housing.

[0049] This advantageously ensures that the connector housing can be manufactured particularly easily and cost-effectively. The arrangement of the clamping structure on the mating connector housing and / or on the component housing advantageously ensures that the clamping structure can be replaced relatively easily if it is damaged, since there is no need to remove or replace a pre-assembled cable harness. In a further development, it is provided that the clamping structure and / or the counter-clamping structure comprises a material, in particular predominantly selected from the group: rubber, a plastic, metal, and spring steel.

[0050] The use of rubber advantageously provides a particularly simple and cost-effective clamping structure and / or clamping counterstructure.

[0051] The use of plastic advantageously enables the clamping structure and / or clamping counterstructure to be manufactured by injection molding, thus making it particularly cost-effective, particularly together with the connector housing and / or the mating connector housing and / or together with the component housing. This particularly advantageously enables the structures to be formed (at least partially) in one piece with the corresponding housings.

[0052] The use of metal advantageously provides a particularly robust clamping structure and / or clamping counterstructure. This also advantageously allows for a one-piece manufacturing with the component housing, which in some cases is made of metal or includes metal.

[0053] The use of spring steel advantageously provides a particularly elastic and / or robust clamping structure and / or clamping counterstructure. This allows for particularly high clamping forces to be achieved even with small dimensions of the structure(s).

[0054] In a further development, it is provided that the clamping counter-structure has a clamping counter-structure projection projecting towards the clamping structure, wherein the clamping structure has a receiving structure for receiving the clamping counter-structure projection, wherein the clamping counter-structure projection is received in the receiving structure in the coupled state of the locking structure and the locking counter-structure and elastically deforms the clamping structure, wherein the receiving structure limits a lateral movement of the clamping counter-structure projection.

[0055] This not only advantageously prevents the introduction of larger movement amplitudes parallel to the clamping direction (by means of the locking arrangement in the locking position), but also limits or prevents movements perpendicular to this direction. This permanently, reliably, and effectively protects the (electrical) contact point from wear (e.g., due to chafing or friction) as well as from (temporary) contact losses or contact failures and / or arcing. Furthermore, the mechanical connection between the connector housing and the mating connector housing is also advantageously protected from damage or degradation of its material stability. In other words, this provides a particularly robust and durable connector arrangement.

[0056] The clamping counter-structure projection can be designed, for example, as a rib.

[0057] The elastic deformation of the clamping structure can, for example, occur parallel to the plugging direction of the connector and mating connector.

[0058] For example, it can be particularly advantageously provided that the receiving structure limits a movement of the clamping counter-structure projection relative to the mating connector housing and / or relative to the component housing transversely to a cable outlet direction.

[0059] In a further development, it is provided that the clamping structure has a clamping structure projection projecting towards the connector housing, wherein the clamping structure has a deformation element running substantially transversely to the clamping structure projection, in particular elastically reversibly deformable, which is connected to the clamping structure projection, wherein in particular a cavity is formed between the deformation element and the mating connector housing and / or the component housing.

[0060] This advantageously allows for a particularly effective clamping arrangement with minimal material expenditure. The cavity advantageously allows for particularly large (spatial) elastic deformation, which, for example, simplifies the compensation of tolerances in the locking arrangement.

[0061] It goes without saying that exactly one clamping structure projection can be provided. This allows, for example, the shape of an inverted "L" or a "T" shape to be used. This advantageously enables a particularly simple and space-saving design.

[0062] It is further understood that in other embodiments, more than one tensioning structure projection may be provided. The deformation element can, for example, be arranged like a bridge deck over the projections as bridge piers. This advantageously enables a particularly stable and flexibly adjustable design of the tensioning structure.

[0063] In a further development, it is provided that the deformation element is formed integrally with the clamping structure projection.

[0064] This advantageously enables a clamping structure that is particularly easy to manufacture in a single manufacturing process.

[0065] Alternatively, it can be provided that the deformation element is arranged on the (at least one) clamping structure projection.

[0066] This advantageously means that the (at least one) clamping structure projection and the deformation element can be manufactured in different steps (which can, for example, considerably simplify the design of an injection molding tool). Furthermore, different materials can advantageously be used for the (at least one) clamping structure projection on the one hand and the deformation element on the other. This means that the different functions can advantageously be represented in separate elements and / or materials. For example, the (at least one) clamping structure projection can be made of a robust plastic with a comparatively thick wall thickness - here, for example, it is only a matter of introducing (essentially static) forces. The deformation element, on the other hand, can be made of a metal, e.g., spring steel. It can, for example, be comparatively thin (e.g., a maximum material thickness of 1 mm).This is essentially about high elasticity (large distance over which no plastic deformation occurs, high restoring forces, etc.).

[0067] The deformation element can, for example, be arranged on the clamping structure projection in a non-destructively removable manner. This advantageously facilitates easy assembly and disassembly (for maintenance).

[0068] In a further development, it is provided that the plug connector or the mating connector has an operating element that can be displaced between a first position and a second position for reducing the operating force when plugging together the plug connector and the mating connector, in particular a lever and / or a slider, wherein the operating element has a locking element that is designed to effect the coupling between the locking structure and the locking counterstructure by displacing the locking counterstructure from a non-coupled position in the direction of the locking structure into a coupled position.

[0069] The interaction of the locking element and the locking counter structure has the advantageous effect that the locking counter structure is displaced and thus mechanically stressed, especially when the connector is coupled or plugged together with the mating connector.

[0070] Overall, this advantageously ensures that the locking structure and locking counter-structure are only mechanically coupled to one another in a defined position of the operating element, even if an overlap between the locking structure and the locking counter-structure already exists in an earlier position of the operating element (or between the plug connector and the mating connector relative to one another), but the coupling has not yet been effected. This can advantageously result in a reduced operating force expenditure, since, for example, the high insertion forces between, for example, at least one contact element and at least one mating contact element (e.g., beak peaks, etc.) are overcome first and there is no need to overcome additional mechanical friction forces between the locking structure and the locking counter-structure. Another advantageous feature is that a true form fit can be applied between the locking structure and the locking counter-structure (e.g.,90° edges and 90° undercuts), which cannot be used in the conventional design (sliding overlap until coupling), since a sliding opening, in particular of the locking structure and locking counter-structure, when releasing the plug connection is not possible here (with 90° edges and 90° undercuts) or would increase the risk of damage to the locking structure and / or locking counter-structure.

[0071] In the proposed embodiment, it can be provided, for example, that the locking counter-structure is designed to be elastically reversible and in the rest position (without force exerted by the locking element) does not couple with the locking structure (even in the case of overlap).

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, the operating element and / or the locking element can be designed such that in a first position it displaces the locking counterstructure from the uncoupled position into the coupled position and in a second position or on the way to a second position (e.g. starting from the first position) it displaces the locking counterstructure from the coupled position into the uncoupled position (e.g. by means of a link structure which interacts with a projection). In this constellation, for example, secure locking (e.g. when closing the operating element, e.g. the lever or the slide) or secure release of the locking (e.g. when opening the operating element, e.g. the lever or the slide) can be brought about using simple means, even if the locking counterstructure is not designed to be elastically reversible, for example, that it is forced into a position not coupled to the locking structure without the application of force.

[0073] Alternatively or additionally, the operating element can have a locking element which is designed to effect the coupling between the locking structure and the locking counter-structure by displacing the locking structure from a non-coupled position towards the locking counter-structure into a coupled position.

[0074] The interaction of locking element and locking structure has the advantage that the cooperation of locking element and locking structure can be tested before the connector is mounted on the mating connector (provided, as is often the case, that the operating element is arranged on the connector).

[0075] Overall, this advantageously ensures that the locking structure and locking counter-structure are only mechanically coupled to one another in a defined position of the operating element, even if an overlap between the locking structure and the locking counter-structure already exists in an earlier position of the operating element (or between the plug connector and the mating connector relative to one another), but the coupling has not yet been effected. This can advantageously result in a reduced operating force expenditure, since, for example, the high insertion forces between, for example, at least one contact element and at least one mating contact element (e.g., beak peaks, etc.) are overcome first and there is no need to overcome additional mechanical friction forces between the locking structure and the locking counter-structure. Another advantageous feature is that a true form fit can be applied between the locking structure and the locking counter-structure (e.g.,90° edges and 90° undercuts), which cannot be used in the conventional design (sliding overlap until coupling), since a sliding opening, in particular of the locking structure and locking counter-structure, when releasing the plug connection is not possible here (with 90° edges and 90° undercuts) or would increase the risk of damage to the locking structure and / or locking counter-structure.

[0076] In the proposed embodiment, it can be provided, for example, that the locking structure is designed to be elastically reversible and, in the rest position (without force being exerted by the locking element), does not couple with the locking counter-structure (even in the case of overlap).

[0077] Alternatively or additionally, the operating element and / or the locking element can be designed such that in a first position it moves the locking structure from the uncoupled position into the coupled position and in a second position or on the way to a second position (e.g. starting from the first position) it moves the locking structure from the coupled position into the uncoupled position (e.g. by means of a link structure which interacts with a projection). In this constellation, for example, secure locking (e.g. when closing the operating element, e.g. the lever or the slide) or secure release of the locking (e.g. when opening the operating element, e.g. the lever or the slide) can be brought about using simple means, even if the locking structure is not designed to be elastically reversible, for example, that it is forced into a position not coupled to the locking counter-structure without the application of force.

[0078] It is conceivable that more than one locking arrangement is provided, and that, in one locking arrangement (e.g., on one side of the connector), a first locking element interacts with the locking counterstructure of this locking arrangement, and that, in another locking arrangement (e.g., on another side of the connector), a second locking element interacts with the locking structure of this locking arrangement. Of course, in such configurations, it is also conceivable for the locking elements to interact with the locking counterstructures or with the locking structures.

[0079] In a further development, it is provided that the operating element is designed to plug the plug connector and the mating plug connector together when moved from the first position towards the second position, wherein in a third position which lies between the first position and the second position, the plugging process for contacting the plug connector and the mating plug connector is completed, wherein the operating element is designed such that when moved from the third position into the second position, the locking element couples to the locking counter structure and moves it towards the locking structure.

[0080] The advantage of this is that no additional force is required to couple the locking structure and locking counterstructure until the third position, in which the actual mating process (for the electrical coupling of the connector and mating connector) is completed. This facilitates the process of mating the connector and mating connector. It also reduces the risk of the locking structure and locking counterstructure coming into undesired contact and becoming damaged or hindering the mating process, e.g. due to manufacturing or assembly tolerances. This means that different functions can be performed along the path of the operating element. If problems arise on the path from the third position to the second position, at least the electrical connection is established.

[0081] Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the operating element is designed in such a way that when displaced from the third position to the second position, the locking element couples to the locking structure and displaces it in the direction of the locking counter-structure.

[0082] The same considerations and advantages apply to this case as to the first alternative.

[0083] A second aspect of the invention relates to a connector system.

[0084] The connector system comprises a component with a component housing and a connector assembly as described above, wherein the mating connector is mounted on the component housing.

[0085] The invention advantageously provides a particularly simple, cost-effective, reliable, and robust connector system with a long service life that is resistant to external mechanical influences. The component can be, for example, an inverter, a (high-voltage) battery, an electric motor, an electric axle, or the like.

[0086] Drawings

[0087] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of exemplary embodiments, which, however, are not to be construed as limiting the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0088] They show:

[0089] Fig. 1 : a schematic cross-section through a connector system;

[0090] Fig. 2a: a schematic perspective view of a connector system;

[0091] Fig. 2b: a schematic cross-section through part of the connector arrangement of the connector system from Fig. 2a;

[0092] Fig. 2c: an enlarged detail of the connector arrangement from Fig. 2b;

[0093] Fig. 3: a schematic cross-section through part of a connector arrangement;

[0094] Figs. 4a: a perspective view of part of a connector assembly;

[0095] Fig. 4b: a perspective detailed view of a part of the mating connector of the connector arrangement from Fig. 4a;

[0096] Fig. 4c: a schematic cross-section through a part of a connector assembly from Fig. 4a; Fig. 5a: a schematic side view of a connector assembly and a schematic front view of a detail of the connector assembly;

[0097] Fig. 5b: a schematic front view of the connector arrangement from Fig. 5a in a third position of an operating element;

[0098] Fig. 5c: a schematic front view of the connector arrangement from Fig. 5a in a second position of the operating element.

[0099] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-section through a connector system 200 from internal simulations and tests of the applicant and serves to explain general relationships in connection with the invention.

[0100] The connector system 200 comprises a component 80, here, for example, an inverter 82 for an electric vehicle, with a component housing 81. The connector system 200 further comprises a connector assembly 100.

[0101] The connector assembly 100 comprises a connector 1 with a connector housing 2 having a cable outlet section 3. It further comprises a mating connector 4 having a mating connector housing 5, wherein the mating connector 4 or the mating connector housing 5 is mounted to the component housing 81, for example by a plurality of screws 51. The connector assembly 100 further comprises a locking structure 6, here in the form of a latching hook 9, which is designed here as a fixed latching hook 9 or a non-(independently) displaceable or non-flexible latching hook 9. The locking structure 6 is arranged on the connector housing 2, here for example in the cable outlet section 3. The connector arrangement 100 further comprises a locking counter-structure 7, here for example designed as a (relatively thin) tab 10 with a latching opening 11, in particular as an elastically reversibly displaceable tab 10.The locking counterstructure 7 is arranged here, for example, on the mating connector housing 5; in other cases, however, it can alternatively or additionally be arranged on the component housing 81. The locking structure 6 and the locking counterstructure 7 are coupled to one another here (generally: can be coupled to one another); here, they are locked together in the manner of a snap-in closure or clip closure. The coupled state or the coupled position is designated below with the reference symbol PK. In the coupled state, the locking structure 6 and the locking counterstructure 7 can assume a locking position PA (two locking positions PA are shown here: one at the upper end of the tab 10 and one at the upper end of the through-opening 11 of the tab 10), in which they are in mechanical contact with one another, so that movement of the cable outlet section 3 is prevented, in particular relative to the mating connector housing 5 and / or the component housing 81.

[0102] The locking hook 9 has a locking projection 54 which engages in the locking opening 11.

[0103] The connector 1 is mated with the mating connector 4 along a mating direction Z (also referred to as the Z-direction Z). The mating direction Z, together with an X-direction X and a Y-direction Y, forms a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0104] Connector 1 and mating connector 4 are configured here to transmit high currents (at least 1 A, preferably at least 10 A, particularly preferably at least 50 A) and / or high voltages (at least 40 V, preferably at least 100 V, particularly preferably at least 200 V and very particularly preferably at least 400 V or even at least 800 V).

[0105] The connector housing 2 has a cable outlet section 3, into which a cable 40 with insulation 41 and a current-carrying line 42 is inserted or from which this cable 40 leaves the connector 1. It is understood that the connector housing 2 can accommodate precisely one cable 40 or a plurality of cables 40. The line 42 is connected inside the connector housing 2 to a contact element 43, which here, for example, has at least one contact blade 44. The contact element 43 is designed here, for example, as a female contact element. The contact element 43 is electrically connected to a mating contact element 50 of the mating connector 4; a contact section 52 is formed. The mating contact element 50 is designed here, for example, as a male contact element.In order to make the high insertion forces easier for a fitter to handle, an operating element 20 for reducing the operating force, here in the form of a lever 21, is arranged on the connector 1. The lever 21 can be pivoted from a first position P1 (starting position) to a second position P2 (end position). In an arm (not visible here) or a part of an arm of the lever 21 (not visible here), for example, a link structure can be introduced which can interact with a bolt or pin (likewise not visible here) of the mating connector 4; in other cases, gear-rack combinations or the like can also be provided. By moving the lever 21 from the first position P1 to the second position P2, the connector 1 is pulled towards the mating connector 4 and the contact element 43 is mechanically coupled to the mating contact element 50 and thereby electrically connected.

[0106] The cable outlet section 3 runs parallel to a cable outlet direction K, which here runs parallel to the X-direction X and thus perpendicular to the plug-in direction Z. The connector 1 is thus designed here as an angled connector or a 90° connector. A 180° connector, for example, would have a cable outlet section 3 that runs parallel to the plug-in direction Z.

[0107] The line 42 may, for example, comprise or include a metal in order to conduct electrical current with as little resistance as possible. It may, for example, comprise copper, a copper alloy, or aluminum, in particular predominantly. The line 42 may have a large cross-section, e.g., at least 5 mm 2 or at least 10 mm 2 or at least 25 mm 2 or at least 50 mm 2 or at least 90 mm 2, in order to be able to transmit the high currents and / or voltages with low resistance, in particular without heating up too much. Due to this large cross section, the cable 42 is relatively rigid or inflexible, and it is also very heavy. This weight rests on the connector housing 2 via the cable outlet section 3. Even without external vibrations or mechanical loads, it causes a large torque on the connector housing 2 and on its mechanical interface to the mating connector housing 5. This torque also acts on the electrical contact section 52 or the contact point made up of contact element 43 and mating contact element 50. If oscillations or vibrations occur in the system in which the connector arrangement 100 is mounted, e.g. in an electrically powered vehicle, these can be transmitted via the cable 40 orvia cable 42 into the cable outlet section 3 and thus into the connector housing 2. Due to the high impulse (high mass of cable 42) and the lever arm of the cable outlet section 3, such vibration can affect the electrical interface and impair its function or lead to premature wear. This problem can also occur with a 180° connector (not shown here), although in this case, at least the lever arm of the acting moving mass is smaller.

[0108] In order to prevent mechanical stresses (e.g. oscillations or vibrations or thermal cycling, which can lead to tension) on the contact section 52 or generally on or in the connector housing

[0109] 2, the connector assembly 100 has the locking structure 6 and the locking counterstructure 7 described above, which can be elements of a locking assembly 30. This locking assembly 30 provides support or (most extensive) fixation of the cable outlet section.

[0110] 3 relative to the mating connector 4 or relative to the component 80. As a result, vibrations introduced via the line 42 or the cable 40 can no longer move the entire connector housing 2 so easily, and the torque input to the contact section 52 can be reduced.

[0111] In the plug connector arrangement 100 of Fig. 1, the locking structure 6 is supported on the one hand on the upper end (the free end) of the tab 10 (specifically with a projection of the locking hook 9, which is separated from the locking hook 9 by a notch) and forms a (first) locking position PA here. This blocks any movement of the cable outlet section 3 along the plug-in direction Z (here: downwards). The locking structure 6 is supported on the other hand on the (in Fig. 1) upper end of the locking opening 11 and forms a (second) locking position PA here. This blocks any movement of the cable outlet section 3 counter to the plug-in direction Z (here: upwards). The tab 10 is oriented such that the locking opening 11 points in the X direction X.

[0112] However, in the connector arrangement 100 of Fig. 1, it has proven problematic that, given the exclusively rigid or hard materials and geometries of the two housings (connector housing 2 on the one hand and mating connector housing 5 or component housing 81 on the other hand) and taking manufacturing tolerances etc. into account, a small gap is present or necessary at least at one of the two locking positions PA, since otherwise the assembly or mating will not work or the coupling between locking structure 6 and locking counter-structure 7 will not function sufficiently and thus the objective of reducing vibration inputs cannot be reliably and permanently achieved. Due to this gap, however, a certain upward and / or downward movement of the connector housing or connector housing 2 is still possible (parallel to the plugging direction Z). This can have a negative impact in the long term, especially with large lever arms (e.g.long cable outlet sections 3 and / or long distances from the connector 1 to a first fixing of the cable 40 outside the connector 1, e.g. on a body of a vehicle, on a component 80, etc.) can have a negative effect on the contact section 52 or even cause fatigue of the connector housing 2 or the mating connector housing 5 at their mechanical interface.

[0113] For the same reason, a lateral movement (parallel to the Y-direction Y) is still possible, since the locking opening 11 must also be sufficiently larger in the Y-direction Y than the locking hook 9 in order to enable coupling of the locking hook 9 with the locking opening 11 at all.

[0114] A further problem arises that in the (second) lower locking position PA in Fig. 1, the locking hook 9 must have an angle of less than 90° or an insertion bevel or extension bevel at the contact point with the tab 11, so that when the plug connection is opened (displacement of the lever 21 from the second position P2 towards the first position P1), the locking hook 9 can displace the tab 10 upwards (opposite the plug-in direction Z) laterally with sufficient force, and the locking hook 9 is thus released from the engagement or coupling with the tab 10, in particular without being damaged. Thus, an angle of (almost) 90° of the locking hook 9, which is actually advantageous for blocking an upward movement of the plug connector 1 or the cable outlet section 3, cannot be realized here. In this 90° shape, which is advantageous for locking, the locking hook 9 in Fig.1 at the upper end (below the notch) run essentially parallel to the X-direction X and thus form a real form fit with the tab 10.

[0115] Figure 2a shows a schematic perspective view of a connector system 200 with a connector arrangement 100 and a component 80. The component 80 is designed here as an inverter 82. Figure 2b shows a schematic cross section through a part of the

[0116] Connector assembly 100 of the connector system 200 of Fig. 2a.

[0117] Figure 2c shows an enlarged detail of the connector assembly 100 from Fig. 2b.

[0118] Figures 2a, 2b and 2c are described together below.

[0119] The plug connector arrangement 100 of Figures 2a to 2c has, as in Fig. 1, a plug connector 1 with a plug connector housing 2 (here again designed as a ^'' plug connector) and a mating plug connector 4 with a mating plug connector housing 5, wherein the mating plug connector 4 is mounted on a component housing 81 of the component 80. Furthermore, the plug connector arrangement 100 has a locking structure 6 which is arranged on the plug connector housing 2, preferably in the cable outlet section 3 of the plug housing 2, and it has a locking counter structure 7 which is arranged here by way of example on the mating plug connector housing 5, but in other cases can alternatively or additionally also be arranged on the component housing 81.2a to 2c, an elastically reversibly deformable clamping arrangement 8, which is arranged here by way of example between the connector housing 2 on the one hand and the mating connector housing 5 on the other hand (in other cases, it can alternatively or additionally also be arranged, for example, between the connector housing 2 and the component housing 81). The locking structure 6 and the locking counter-structure 7 can be coupled to one another (here: already coupled in the coupled position PK), in particular can be latched to one another (here: latched); wherein the locking structure 6 and the locking counter-structure 7, in the coupled state PK, can assume a locking position PA in which they are in mechanical contact with one another, such that movement of the cable outlet section 3 is prevented, in particular relative to the mating connector housing 5 and / or to the component housing 81.The clamping arrangement 8 is elastically deformed in the coupled state of the locking structure 6 and the locking counter-structure 7 and urges the locking structure 6 and / or the locking counter-structure 7 into the locking position PA.

[0120] In this way, the problem of play between locking structure 6 and locking counterstructure 7 in the connector assembly 100 of Fig. 1 is eliminated, because the clamping assembly 8 ensures that the play is removed from the locking assembly 30 and that the locking assembly 30 is permanently located in only one locking position PA (here: the locking position PA between the lower end of the locking hook 9 and the lower end of the locking opening 11 of the tab 10, see also Fig. 2b). This reduces the introduction of vibrations or movements into the cable outlet section 3 and thus into the connector housing 2, which also advantageously reduces the mechanical stress on the contact point 52 (not visible here, but see Fig. 1).

[0121] As can be clearly seen in Figs. 2a and 2b, when the connector 1 and the mating connector 4 are plugged together, the locking structure 6 and the locking counter structure 7 are coupled to one another.

[0122] In the connector assembly 100 of Figs. 2a to 2c, the locking counterstructure 7 is designed as a latching hook 9, here merely by way of example as a fixed latching hook 9 (a displaceable or elastically reversibly displaceable or pivotable latching hook 9 can also be provided). The locking structure 6 is designed here by way of example as a tab 10 with a latching opening 11, here by way of example as an elastically reversibly displaceable tab 10 (a fixed or rigid tab 10 can also be provided). The latching hook 9 has a latching projection 54 that engages in the latching opening 11.

[0123] As can be seen in Figs. 2a and 2b, the plug connector assembly 100 has a plurality of pairs of locking structure 6 and locking counter-structure 7, i.e., a plurality of locking assemblies 30. In the exemplary plug connector assembly 100 shown, two locking assemblies 30 are provided. The plug connector housing 2 here has, for example, two contact elements 43 (not visible here) and correspondingly two cables 40. The two cables 40 are each guided through a cable outlet 53 of the plug housing 2. The locking assemblies 30 are each arranged, in particular approximately centrally, under each of the two cable outlets 53. The locking openings 11 of the tabs 10 are aligned parallel to the Y-direction Y and thus perpendicular to the plug-in direction Z and perpendicular to a cable outlet direction K, as are the locking hooks 9 of the locking counter-structure 7 (in contrast to the plug connector assembly from Fig.1, in which only a single locking arrangement 30 is provided, in which the locking opening was aligned parallel to the X-direction X, i.e., parallel to the cable outlet direction K). The locking hooks 9 face each other (they are directed inward). The cables 40 can, for example, be guided along the cable outlet direction K from the connector housing 2 or, here, from the two cable outlets 53.

[0124] This arrangement of the locking assemblies 30 advantageously prevents the introduction of mechanical movements into the cable outlet section 3 and onto the connector housing 2, since each cable outlet 53 is assigned its own locking assembly 30. This also advantageously creates redundancy if, for example, one of the two locking assemblies 30 is damaged. The alignment of the tabs 10 and locking hooks 9 transversely to the cable outlet direction K and transversely to the plug-in direction Z not only advantageously blocks movement parallel to the plug-in direction Z, but movement parallel to the Y-direction Y can also be reduced or blocked, since the two locking assemblies 30 act like guard rails against lateral movement. The connector assembly 100 is therefore particularly robust against the introduction of external mechanical influences and is very stable and durable.

[0125] The clamping arrangement 8 here has, for example, a clamping structure 12 and a clamping counter-structure 13, wherein the clamping structure 12 is designed to be elastically reversible, wherein in the coupled state PK of the locking structure 6 and the locking counter-structure 7, the clamping counter-structure 13 elastically deforms the clamping structure 12.

[0126] It is understood that the connector assembly 100 may also have more than a single clamping assembly 8.

[0127] The clamping counterstructure 13 is arranged here, for example, on the connector housing 2. The clamping structure 12 is arranged here, for example, on the mating connector housing 5; alternatively or additionally, it can also be arranged on the component housing 81.

[0128] In other embodiments, it may be provided (alternatively or additionally) that the (at least one) clamping structure 12 is arranged on the connector housing 2 and the (at least one) clamping counter-structure 13 is arranged on the mating connector housing 5 and / or on the component housing 81.

[0129] In the connector assembly 100 of Figs. 2a to 2c, the clamping structure 12 is formed integrally with the mating connector housing 5 and thus also from the same material as the latter, wherein this material may comprise, for example, plastic, e.g., PBT, PA, PP, etc.

[0130] The clamping counter structure 13 is here, for example, formed in one piece with the connector housing 2 and thus also from the same material as the latter, whereby this material can comprise, for example, plastic, e.g. PBT, PA, PP, etc.

[0131] The clamping counterstructure 13 here has, for example, a clamping counterstructure projection 14 projecting toward the clamping structure 12, here designed as a rib 15. This rib 15 projects downward from the cable outlet 53 (toward the mating connector 4). The clamping structure 12 has a receiving structure 16 for receiving the clamping counterstructure projection 14. The clamping counterstructure projection 14 is (as shown here) received in the receiving structure 16 in the coupled state PK of the locking structure 6 and the locking counterstructure 7 and deforms the clamping structure 12 elastically (in particular elastically reversibly), in particular parallel to the plug-in direction Z. The receiving structure 16 limits a lateral movement of the clamping counterstructure projection 14, in particular a movement relative to the mating connector housing 5 and / or relative to the component housing 81 transverse to the cable outlet direction K.

[0132] This further improves the lateral stability of the connector housing 2. In addition to the guardrail function provided by the two locking arrangements 30, a further guardrail function is provided by the receiving structure 16, which laterally limits or blocks any movement of the clamping counter-structure projection 14 and thus also any movement of the cable outlet section 3 and thus also of the connector housing 2.

[0133] The receiving structure 16 is designed here, for example, with a U-shape, with the rib 15 being received between the two legs of the U. The two legs of the U-shape are, for example, spaced apart by just as much as the rib 15 is wide. This ensures particularly good and tight lateral guidance. At the open end of the U-shape, an insertion bevel is provided on each leg, for example, so that the rib 15 is inserted safely and reliably between the two legs during the plugging process. The rib 15 or the clamping counter-structure projection 14 is arranged here, for example, essentially centrally in the cable outlet section 3 (with respect to the Y-direction Y), i.e., here between the two cable outlets 53. The clamping structure 12 has at least one clamping structure projection 17 projecting towards the connector housing 2 (two such clamping structure projections 17 are provided in Figs. 2a to 2c).The clamping structure 12 has a deformation element 18 which runs essentially transversely to the clamping structure projections 17 and is in particular elastically reversibly deformable and which is connected to the clamping structure projection 17. Between the deformation element 18 and the mating connector housing 5 and / or the component housing 81, a cavity 19 is formed here merely by way of example.

[0134] The deformation element 18 is here, for example, formed integrally with the clamping structure projection 17 (here merely as an example: with both clamping structure projections 17).

[0135] The tensioning structure 12 is designed here, for example—in other words—like a bridge, or rather, like an inverted U, with the tensioning structure projections 17 representing the bridge piers or the legs of the U-shape, and the deformation element 18 representing the bridge's roadway or the floor of the U-shape. Due to the receiving structure 16 formed in the deformation element 18, the shape of the tensioning structure 12 can also be considered a kind of "M."

[0136] During the mating process, the connector housing 2 is mated onto the mating connector housing 5 in the mating direction Z. This creates initial contact between the (flexible) tabs 10 of the connector housing 2 and the (fixed) locking hooks 9 of the mating connector housing 5, resulting in the tabs 10 being elastically bent inward. From a defined mating depth or mating position, the clamping counterstructure 13 (here in the form of the clamping counterstructure projection 14) comes into contact with the clamping structure 12 of the mating connector housing 5.

[0137] The further plugging process (movement of the connector housing 2 in the plugging direction Z, i.e. further downwards here) is made possible by the elastic clamping structure 12 of the mating connector housing 5, whereby the clamping structure 12 is elastically deformed in the process.

[0138] In a defined further plug-in position, the locking recesses or locking openings 11 in the tabs 10 of the connector housing 2 have migrated completely over the locking projections 54 of the locking hooks 9 and the tabs 10 spring back.

[0139] Now, the restoring force of the flexible, elastic, or elastically reversible clamping structure 12 of the mating connector housing 5 comes into play. The clamping structure 12 strives to return to its original shape and consequently generates a force and thus a movement of the connector housing 2 from the "overpressed" position back upward (in Figs. 2a to 2c), which results in a gapless contact between the flexible tabs 10 and the locking hooks 9 or their locking projections 54 - the (upper) locking position PA of the locking arrangement 30 is set.Together with the permanent contact of the clamping arrangement 8, i.e. here for example between the clamping counter structure 13 (here: the rib 15) of the connector housing 2 and the flexible clamping structure 12 of the mating connector housing 5, there is thus a gapless contact in both directions, which restricts and / or dampens movement in both directions (here: upwards and downwards, i.e. parallel to the plugging direction Z).

[0140] The two side walls of the receiving structure 16, into which the rib 15 of the connector housing 2 is inserted, also limit the movement to the left and right (parallel to the Y-direction), as shown above. As the clamping structure 12 deforms downward during the mating process, these two side walls move further toward each other, further restricting the lateral movement of the rib 15 and thus of the cable outlet section 3 – this is indicated by the arrows in Fig. 2c.

[0141] Figure 3 shows a schematic cross-section through part of a connector assembly 100, which differs from the connector assembly 100 of Figs. 2a to 2c, particularly in the type of clamping assembly 8, in particular the clamping structure 12. Otherwise, the connector assembly 100 of Fig. 3 is very similar to that of Figs. 2a to 2c.

[0142] In the connector assembly 100 of Fig. 3, the clamping structure 12 is designed in the form of an elastomer element 23. The elastomer element 23 or the clamping structure 12 is formed here, for example, from a homogeneous elastic material, e.g., rubber, silicone, or the like. The clamping structure 12 is, for example, block-shaped. It does not have a (bridged) cavity 19 (pores should not be considered a cavity 19 here).

[0143] The clamping structure 12 can, for example, either be designed as a separate part (from the mating connector housing 5 or the component housing 81). Alternatively, it can be produced, for example, by means of a two-component injection molding and thus be integrally connected, for example, to the mating connector housing 5. In yet other cases, it can be formed by (spatially) expanding an existing elastic element (e.g., a rubber part), such as an axial seal between the connector housing 2 and the mating connector housing 5.

[0144] Figure 4a shows a perspective view of a part of a connector assembly 100.

[0145] Figure 4b shows a perspective detailed view of a part of the mating connector 4 of the connector assembly 100 from Fig. 4a.

[0146] Figure 4c shows a schematic cross-section through part of a connector arrangement from Fig. 4a.

[0147] Figures 4a to 4c are described together below.

[0148] The connector assembly 100 of Figs. 4a to 4c is very similar to that of Figs. 2a to 2c. It differs primarily in the design of the clamping structure 12.

[0149] The clamping structure 12 has—as can be seen in Figs. 4a to 4c—two inner clamping structure projections 17. These projections each have, by way of example only, a free end 29 facing the cable outlet section 3. At the free end 29, they further have, by way of example only, a neck 28. The neck 28 is surrounded on both sides by a shoulder 27, by way of example only.

[0150] Furthermore, the clamping structure 12 has two fastening projections 24, each of which is arranged laterally (in the Y direction Y) outside a respective clamping structure projection 17. This results in the following sequence of elements viewed along the Y direction Y: first fastening projection 24 - first clamping structure projection 17 - second clamping structure projection 17 - second fastening projection 24. The fastening projections 24 also protrude from the mating connector housing 5 in the direction of the cable outlet section 3. They each have an inwardly facing locking lug 25. Here, for example, they are approximately aligned with the clamping structure projections 17. The fastening projections 17 are, for example, approximately as high as the shoulder height of the clamping structure projections 17.Fastening projections 24 and clamping structure projections 17 are here - merely by way of example - formed in one piece and cannot be removed non-destructively from the mating connector housing 5; here, by way of example, they consist of the same material.

[0151] The clamping structure 12 further comprises a deformation element 18. This deformation element 18 is formed here, for example, from a thin metal sheet, e.g., from spring steel. The material thickness is, for example, at most 2 mm, preferably at most 1 mm. The deformation element 18 here, for example, has the shape of an inverted "U" with a very long and flat "U" bend, which forms a support element 31. The support element 31 runs, merely by way of example, essentially horizontally or parallel to the Y-direction Y or in the XY plane (Figs. 4a to 4c). Two legs 32 protrude from the "U" bend or from the support element 31, each of which has a locking recess 26. The support element 31 has an opening 33 in each of its two outer sections (viewed along the Y-direction Y).The deformation element 18 further comprises in its central section a receiving structure 16 which is formed from two upwardly bent limiting tabs 55. The limiting tabs 55 initially run towards each other when viewed opposite to the plug-in direction Z. They then have a bend in an upper section and then run away from each other. They thus form (in the upper area, here e.g. approximately in the upper third or upper quarter) a type of insertion bevel or an insertion funnel for the clamping counter-structure 31. The limiting tabs 55 act like a type of clamp and thus limit or prevent lateral movement (in particular parallel to the Y-direction Y) of the plug-in connector 1 relative to the mating plug-in connector 4 in the coupled state PK. Upon deformation of the deformation element 18 in the plug-in direction Z by means of the clamping counter-structure 13 (in particular in the coupled state PK), the two limiting tabs 55 can, for example,are moved towards each other and clamp the clamping counter-structure 13 or the clamping counter-structure projection 14 or the rib 15 between them or at least reduce the possible (lateral) play of the clamping counter-structure 13 between the limiting tabs 55.

[0152] The deformation element 18 can be designed, for example, as a stamped and bent part. Here, the limiting tabs 55 are, for example, punched out of the two outer sections of the support element 31 and bent upward. This forms the openings 33.

[0153] In Figs. 4a to 4c it is clearly visible that the deformation element 18, in particular detachable without destruction, is arranged on the two clamping structure projections 17.

[0154] For this purpose, the deformation element 18 is placed with its support section or support element 31 over the two clamping structure projections 17, with its outer edges or edge sections resting on the shoulders 27 of the clamping structure projections 17. The necks 28 of the clamping structure projections 17 extend through the openings 33 and limit movement of the support section or support element 31 in the XY plane or secure it in this plane.

[0155] The locking recesses 26 of the legs 32, in turn, are locked with the locking lugs 25 of the fastening projections 24. A movement of the deformation element 18 parallel to the plug-in direction Z is thus limited or blocked, on the one hand, by the support element 31 resting on the shoulders 27 and, on the other hand, by the locking of the locking lugs 25 with the locking recesses 26 of the legs 32. The deformation element 18 can thus be elastically clamped by the clamping counterstructure 13 when plugging together the connector 1 and the mating connector 4, in order to push the locking arrangement 30 into the locking position PA (here: to push it upwards, so that the lower end of the locking opening 11 of the tab 10 is in permanent mechanical contact with the lower end of the locking hook 9).The force applied to the deformation element 18 by the clamping counterstructure 13, for example, in the center, is absorbed on the one hand by the shoulders 27 and on the other hand by the locking lugs 25. The provision of the two outer fastening projections 24 allows for greater flexibility in the manufacture and assembly of the deformation element 18, since no sharp (90°) bend needs to be made immediately behind or at the opening 33. In addition, when force is exerted by the clamping counterstructure 13, the two legs 33 are advantageously pushed more forcefully into the locking engagement with the locking lugs 25, since the legs 33 spread outwards. This strengthens the fastening. Thus, smaller locking lugs 25 can advantageously be used than if they were arranged on the outer sides of the clamping structure projections 17.

[0156] Figure 5a shows a schematic side view of a connector assembly 100 and a schematic front view of a detail of the connector assembly 100.

[0157] Figure 5b shows a schematic front view of the connector assembly 100 from Fig. 5a in a third position P3 of an operating element 20.

[0158] Figure 5c shows a schematic front view of the connector assembly 100 from Fig. 5a in a second position P2 of the operating element 20.

[0159] Figures 5a to 5c are described together below.

[0160] The plug connector 1 (in other embodiments: the mating plug connector 4) has an operating element 20 that can be moved between a first position P1 (e.g., an initial position or a start position) and a second position P2 (e.g., end position) to reduce the operating force when plugging together the plug connector 1 and the mating plug connector 4. This operating element, here merely by way of example, is a lever 21 (alternatively or additionally, a slider or another element can also be provided). The operating element 20 has a locking element 22 that is designed to effect the coupling between the locking structure 6 and the locking counter-structure 7 by moving the locking counter-structure 7 from a non-coupled position PN toward the locking structure 6 into a coupled position PK.

[0161] To effect mating, the lever 21 is rotatably mounted on a shaft 36 of the connector housing 2. The lever 21 has, for example, a guide track 35 on one lever arm, which has a variable distance from the shaft 36 and interacts with a projection, pin, or bolt 34 arranged on the connector housing 2. When the lever 21 is rotated from the first position P1 to the second position P2, the bolt 34 is displaced ever closer to the shaft 36, following the guide track 35, thus pulling the connector 2 toward the mating connector 4.

[0162] It is understood that in other embodiments, the operating element 20 may have a locking element 22 which is alternatively or additionally designed to effect the coupling between the locking structure 6 and the locking counter-structure 7 by displacing the locking structure 6 from a non-coupled position PN in the direction of the locking counter-structure 7 into a coupled position PK.

[0163] The operating element 20 is configured here, for example, to plug together the plug connector 1 and the mating plug connector 4 upon displacement from the first position P1 toward the second position P2 (as already described above), wherein the plugging process for contacting the plug connector 1 and the mating plug connector 4 is terminated in a third position P3, which lies between the first position P1 and the second position P2. The operating element 20 is designed here, for example, such that upon displacement from the third position P3 (see Fig. 5b) to the second position P2 (see Fig. 5c), the locking element 22 couples to the locking counterstructure 7 and displaces it toward the locking structure 6.

[0164] The three positions P1, P2, P3 of the operating element 20 are all schematically illustrated in Fig. 5a, with the first position P1 and the second position P2 shown in dashed lines. On the left side of Fig. 5a, a section of a front view of the connector assembly 100 is shown, showing the interaction of the locking element 22 with the locking counterstructure 7.

[0165] In this embodiment, the locking counterstructure 7 can be designed, for example, from an elastically reversible element which automatically moves into or returns to the uncoupled position PN without the application of force by the locking element 22. In this way, the plug connection can be opened without difficulty by first moving the lever 21 from the second position P2 to the third position P3 and the locking element 22 disengaging from the locking counterstructure 7. Subsequently, the lever 21 can be moved to the first position P1, so that the plug connector 1 moves away from the mating connector 4 opposite the plug-in direction Z. The locking counterstructure 7 can, for example, be made of a plastic. It can, for example, be made of a metal, it can, for example, comprise spring steel.

[0166] In other cases, it is alternatively or additionally conceivable that the locking element 22 couples to the locking counterstructure 7, e.g., by means of a gate structure or a guide structure, and displaces the latter along a defined path into the coupled state PK with the locking structure 6. Upon opening of the plug connection, the locking counterstructure 7 can then be transferred from the coupled state PK to the uncoupled state PN along a defined path by means of the guide structure or the gate structure or the like.

[0167] Advantageously, in this embodiment, the latching hook 9 provided here by way of example can also have an angle of 90° or a stepped contour in its contact surface with the locking structure 6 (e.g., without an insertion bevel and / or without an exit bevel). This is because such a shape does not prevent the locking arrangement 30 from being easily opened and transferred into the uncoupled state PN in this embodiment. As a result, the locking position PA can be secured particularly securely against accidental uncoupling of the locking structure 6 and the locking counterstructure 7 during operation of the connector arrangement 100.

[0168] The guide track 35 of the lever 21 is designed here, for example, in such a way that the distance between the guide track and the shaft no longer changes or changes only insignificantly on the path from the third position P3 to the second position P2. In other words: further turning of the lever 21 from the third position P3 to the second position P2 does not lead to any further displacement of the connector 1 and the mating connector 4 relative to one another. It goes without saying that other guide track guides are also possible, e.g., to move the connector 1 even further away from the mating connector 4 at the very end of the path in order to control the locking position PA even more precisely and securely or to particularly reinforce the locking.

[0169] It is understood that, instead of a slotted guide for the lever, a gear-rack design or other concepts for power transmission or other transmission concepts are also conceivable. In other embodiments, it can be provided, alternatively or additionally, that the locking element 22 couples with the locking structure 6 when the operating element 20 is moved from the third position P3 to the second position P2 and displaces it in the direction of the locking counterstructure 7. The considerations made above for the locking counterstructure 7 can be transferred to the locking structure 6 (materials, elastic properties, guidance, shape, etc.).

[0170] It is understood that the plug connector arrangements 100 of Figs. 2a to 4c can also have an operating element 20 for reducing the operating force.

Claims

1 . Connector assembly (100), comprising: - a connector (1) with a connector housing (2) having a cable outlet section (3); - a mating connector (4) having a mating connector housing (5) and / or mounted on a component housing (81); - a locking structure (6) arranged on the connector housing (2), preferably in the cable outlet section (3); - a locking counter structure (7) arranged on the mating connector housing (5) and / or on the component housing (81); - an elastically reversibly deformable clamping arrangement (8), which is arranged in particular between — - the connector housing (2) and — - the mating connector housing (5) and / or the component housing (81); wherein the locking structure (6) and the locking counterstructure (7) can be coupled to one another, in particular can be latched to one another; wherein the locking structure (6) and the locking counterstructure (7) can assume a locking position (PA) in the coupled state, in which they are in mechanical contact with one another, so that movement of the cable outlet section (3) is prevented, in particular relative to the mating connector housing (5) and / or to the component housing (81), wherein the clamping arrangement (8) is elastically deformed in the coupled state (PK) of the locking structure (6) and the locking counterstructure (7) and urges the locking structure (6) and / or the locking counterstructure (7) into the locking position (PA).

2. Connector arrangement (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein in the mating state of the connector (1) and the mating connector (4), the locking structure (6) and the locking counter-structure (7) are coupled to one another.

3. Plug connector arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking structure (6) is designed as a latching hook (9), in particular as a fixed or elastically reversibly displaceable latching hook (9), and the locking counter-structure (7) is designed as a tab (10) with a latching opening (11), in particular as a fixed or elastically reversibly displaceable tab (10), and / or wherein the locking counter-structure (7) is designed as a latching hook (9), in particular as a fixed or elastically reversibly displaceable latching hook (9), and the locking structure (6) is designed as a tab (10) with a latching opening (11), in particular as a fixed or elastically reversibly displaceable tab (10).

4. Connector assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector assembly (100) comprises a plurality of pairs of locking structure (6) and locking counter-structure (7).

5. Connector arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping arrangement (8) has a clamping structure (12) and a clamping counter-structure (13), wherein the clamping structure (12) is designed to be elastically reversible, wherein in the coupled state (PK) of the locking structure (6) and the locking counter-structure (7), the clamping counter-structure (13) elastically deforms the clamping structure (12).

6. Connector assembly (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the clamping structure (12) is arranged on the connector housing (2) and the clamping counter-structure (13) is arranged on the mating connector housing (5) and / or on the component housing (81) and / or wherein the clamping counter-structure (13) is arranged on the connector housing (2) and the clamping structure (12) is arranged on the mating connector housing (5) and / or on the component housing (81).

7. Connector arrangement (100) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the clamping structure (12) and / or the clamping counter-structure (13) comprises a material, in particular predominantly, which is selected from the Group: Rubber, a plastic, metal, spring steel.

8. Connector arrangement (100) according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein the clamping counterstructure (13) has a clamping counterstructure projection (14), in particular a rib (15), projecting towards the clamping structure (12), wherein the clamping structure (12) has a receiving structure (16) for receiving the clamping counterstructure projection (14), wherein the clamping counterstructure projection (14) is received in the receiving structure (16) in the coupled state (PK) of the locking structure (6) and the locking counterstructure (7) and the clamping structure (12) is elastically deformed, in particular parallel to a plug-in direction (Z) of the connector (1) and the mating connector (4), wherein the receiving structure (16) limits a lateral movement of the clamping counterstructure projection (14), in particular a movement relative to the mating connector housing (5) and / or relative to the component housing (81) transverse to a cable outlet direction (K).

9. Connector arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims and the second alternative of claim 6, wherein the clamping structure (12) has a clamping structure projection (17) projecting towards the connector housing (2), wherein the clamping structure (12) has a deformation element (18) which runs substantially transversely to the clamping structure projection (17), in particular is elastically reversibly deformable, and which is connected to the clamping structure projection (17), wherein in particular a cavity (19) is formed between the deformation element (18) and the mating connector housing (5) and / or the component housing (81).

10. Connector assembly (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the deformation element (18) is formed integrally with the clamping structure projection (17), or wherein the deformation element (18), in particular non-destructively detachable, is arranged on the clamping structure projection (17).

11. Plug connector arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plug connector (1) or the mating plug connector (4) has an operating element (20) which can be displaced between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2) for reducing the operating force when plugging together the plug connector (1) and the mating plug connector (4), in particular a lever (21) and / or a slider, wherein the operating element (20) has a locking element (22) which is designed to effect the coupling between the locking structure (6) and the locking counter-structure (7) by displacing the locking counter-structure (7) from a non-coupled position (PN) in the direction of the locking structure (6) into a coupled position (PK) and / or by displacing the locking structure (6) from a non-coupled position (PN) in the direction of the locking counter-structure (7) into a coupled position (PK).

12. Connector arrangement (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the operating element (20) is configured to plug the connector (1) and the mating connector (4) together upon displacement from the first position (P1) toward the second position (P2), wherein in a third position (P3) located between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2), the plugging process for contacting the connector (1) and the mating connector (4) is completed, wherein the operating element (20) is configured such that upon displacement from the third position (P3) into the second position (P2), the locking element (22) - couples it to the locking counter structure (7) and displaces it in the direction of the locking structure (6), and / or - couples it to the locking structure (6) and displaces it in the direction of the locking counter-structure (7).

13. Connector system (200), comprising: -- a component (80), in particular an inverter (82) or a battery or an electrical machine or an electrical axle, with a component housing (81), - a connector arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mating connector (4) is mounted on the component housing (81).

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