Plug connector-component set

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug-in connector assembly, which has at least two plug-in connectors, each with a housing, wherein each plug-in connector can be connected to a mating plug-in connector along the z-axis, wherein an electrical contact can be arranged inside each housing, wherein at least one lever is arranged on the housing of at least two of the plug-in connectors, wherein each lever is rotatably supported on the associated housing at a bearing point, wherein the lever can be rotated between a starting position and an end position, wherein the plug-in connectors are coupled by at least one coupling element, so that the plug-in connectors are fixed relative to each other in their relative position at least in a plane perpendicular to the z-axis. In this case, an actuating element is provided, which is operatively coupled to all the levers in such a way that the levers can be transferred from the starting position to the end position or vice versa by moving the actuating element in a single direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a plug connector-component assembly. The plug connector-component assembly is configured to be electrically connected to a mating plug connector-component assembly. In addition, the present invention relates to a plug connector assembly having such a plug connector-component assembly and a mating plug connector-component assembly. Background Art

[0002] A plug-in connector assembly is known from DE 10 2013 212 914 A1. Plug-in connectors are used, for example, in the automotive and commercial vehicle sectors. Plug-in connector assemblies can have a plug-in connector with a plug-in connector housing, referred to as a housing, and contacts arranged therein. They can also have a mating plug-in connector with a mating plug-in connector housing and mating contacts arranged therein. When the plug-in connector and the mating plug-in connector are connected, for example by plugging them together along the z-axis or by inserting the plug-in connector into the mating plug-in connector or by plugging the plug-in connector onto the mating plug-in connector, a plug connection is established. In this case, the insertion force, for example when the contact strips are ejected, is generated. The contact force or the sealing force of the sealing gasket arranged in the element must be overcome. In order to keep the plug force to be applied at a reasonable level, for example 75N, a lever can be provided on the plug connector, which is provided to reduce the plug force, for which a longer actuation path is accepted. The lever can be supported on the housing, for example, by means of an axle in a known manner and has a gear or tooth geometry on the inner side of the housing. This tooth geometry can engage in a complementary tooth geometry on the housing of the mating plug connector, which acts as a toothed rack. However, it is also possible to form a guide groove on the lever, into which a pin on the housing of the mating plug connector engages.

[0003] When the plug connector is plugged onto the mating plug connector, the lever is usually in a first position, which can also be referred to as the starting position. By shifting the lever, for example by rotating it clockwise, the gear of the lever meshes with the toothed rack of the mating plug connector housing and thus pulls the housing onto the mating plug connector housing. Here, the contacts come into mechanical and electrical contact with the mating contacts and the connection is closed.

[0004] FIG. 1 exemplarily shows a plug connector assembly according to the prior art, in which a connection is established between a plug connector 3 and a mating plug connector.

[0005] FIG1 schematically shows a spatial representation of a plurality of plug connectors 3, which can be used, for example, to electrically contact a cable harness with a control device of a vehicle. The plug connectors 3 each have a housing 2 in which electrical contacts are located. In addition, a U-shaped lever 4 is mounted on the housing of each plug connector 3, which lever is rotatably supported on the housing 2 at a bearing point 10.

[0006] In FIG. 1 , the plug-in connector 3 is already connected to a mating plug-in connector, which is covered by the plug-in connector 3 , and the lever 4 is moved into the second position or end position. Summary of the invention

[0007] The plug-in connector component assembly according to the invention enables a quick and simple assembly of a plurality of plug-in connectors on a mating plug-in connector. In particular, the individual manipulation of each lever is avoided. Advantageously, therefore, a plurality of plug-in connectors can be connected to the corresponding mating plug-in connector in a single assembly step or by means of a single movement process, either simultaneously or successively in a simplified manner. If the plug-in connectors are connected successively to the corresponding mating plug-in connectors, it can be understood here, for example, that the individual plug-in connectors briefly successively pass such positions in the z direction during the assembly process, at which there is a (local) maximum of the plug force (for example, due to the springing of the contact piece), so as to better distribute the operating forces during the movement process.

[0008] According to the present invention, a plug connector component assembly is provided, which comprises or has at least two plug connectors. The plug connectors each have a housing. Each plug connector can be connected to a mating plug connector along the z-axis, for example by insertion or plug-in. Electrical contacts can be arranged inside each housing. The electrical contacts are used to electrically contact the mating contacts of the mating plug connector. In this way, an electrical connection between the plug connector and the mating plug connector can be achieved.

[0009] At least one lever is arranged on the housing of at least two of the plug connectors for reducing the operating force when connecting the plug connector to the corresponding mating plug connector. Since at least one lever is arranged on at least two plug connectors, tilting when plugging into the mating plug connector is prevented.

[0010] As mentioned above, the lever can have, for example, at least one tooth or a sliding groove. The tooth or the sliding groove can, for example, engage in a complementary element on the mating plug connector. Therefore, a mechanical connection of the plug connector and the mating plug connector can be achieved by the lever.

[0011] In order to realize the mechanical connection between the plug-in connector and the mating plug-in connector, each lever is rotatably supported on the housing to which it belongs at the bearing point. Here, the rotation can be performed, for example, around the lever rotation axis. The lever rotation axis is, for example, oriented parallel to the x-axis, wherein the x-axis is oriented perpendicular to the z-axis. The lever can rotate between the starting position or the first position and the terminal position or the second position. When the plug-in connector and the mating plug-in connector are plugged together, the plug-in connector is set (aufsetzen) on the mating plug-in connector in the starting position using the lever. In the starting position, the plug-in connector and the mating plug-in connector can also be separated again. In this position, it is stipulated that the tooth or the slide groove is, for example, located not far before the mechanical engagement with the complementary element on the mating plug-in connector. If the lever is subsequently rotated into the terminal position, the complementary elements on the plug-in connector lever and the mating plug-in connector (for example, teeth and rack or slide groove and pin) are engaged with each other, and the plug-in connector and the mating plug-in connector are thus connected to each other. In other words, the relative movement between the plug connector and the mating plug connector along the z-axis is achieved by rotating the lever, so that the plug connector and the mating plug connector move toward each other to their final relative position. As a result, the electrical contacting of the electrical contact and the mating contact can be simplified in the following way, that is, the operating force is reduced based on the lever transmission ratio.

[0012] The plug connectors are coupled by at least one coupling element so that the plug connectors are fixed as much as possible relative to each other in their relative positions at least in a plane perpendicular to the z-axis. Such coupling elements connect the plug connectors either directly to each other, that is, each plug connector is directly connected to its adjacent plug connector. Or they are connected indirectly by means of a superior structure in which the plug connector is arranged. A mixed form can also be considered, that is, a single plug connector is directly connected to each other by means of a single coupling element and a single plug connector is connected to the coupling element of the superior. Coupling and approximate fixation can also exist along the z-axis, but the coupling and approximate fixation can have a certain gap, that is, not as strongly fixed in the xy plane perpendicular to the z-axis. This can be used as a tolerance compensation for different heights of the mating plug connectors.

[0013] Since the plug connector-component group has at least two plug connectors, at least two levers are provided. In order to simplify the manipulation of these levers, an operating element is provided. The operating element is so coupled to all the levers of the plug connector-component group that the lever can be transferred from the starting position to the terminal position or vice versa from the terminal position to the starting position by the movement of the operating element in a unique direction. Here, for example, a single movement may be sufficient, that is, no "pumping" is required. The movement may, for example, refer to a translational movement or a rotational movement. The expression "in a unique direction" should be understood as the assembler not having to reciprocate the operating element, that is, not having to "pump" to transfer the lever from the starting position to the terminal position, but exemplarily only a movement from left to right or, for example, a clockwise rotation is sufficient to shift the lever from the starting position to the terminal position. For example, for the shift from the terminal position to the starting position, the opposite direction of movement of the operating element can be implemented.

[0014] In this case, for example, a force of a lever acting in the z-direction can be transmitted to all plug-in connectors by means of at least one coupling element.

[0015] Therefore, in particular, it is not necessary to operate each lever individually, and a lever is not required at each plug connector. Instead, the lever of the plug connector component group can be moved only by the movement of the operating element. The plug connectors that are not provided with levers then move together along the z-axis by means of coupling. In this way, the assembly time is advantageously shortened and costs can be saved: on the one hand, it is not necessary to install a lever on each plug connector, which saves assembly time and material costs. On the other hand, a plurality of plug connectors can be connected to a mating plug connector at the same time by means of a single movement of the operating element. The operation of the individual levers by means of the operating element can be carried out simultaneously or successively during the movement process of the operating element.

[0016] In addition, it can also be advantageously achieved that the assembly sequence that is given in advance and is to be compulsorily followed will not be destroyed, because the movement of each lever can no longer be carried out independently of each other due to the operating element. On the contrary, the order in which each lever is operated is clearly determined by the design of the operating element. In addition, it is advantageously achieved that the plug-in connector of the plug-in connector-component group can be provided in a prefabricated manner. Even if not every plug-in connector has a lever, a plug-in connector-component group can also be provided by means of a coupling element, which can then be transported as a unique element. Thus, compared with each plug-in connector having to be individually installed on the mating plug-in connector to which it belongs or connected thereto, this plug-in connector-component group is easier to transport and can be more easily assembled on the mating plug-in connector, for example, in difficult or narrow installation situations.

[0017] The dependent claims contain preferred developments of the invention.

[0018] In one development, it is provided that at least one coupling element is formed by a cover element, to which a plurality of plug-in connectors are connected in a captive manner. As a result, the cover element can be advantageously used to protect against penetrating dirt, contamination and moisture, and such a cover element can also advantageously allow a different number of plug-in connectors to be mounted thereon. The captive arrangement should ensure that the plug-in connectors arranged in or on the cover element may have a slight play relative to one another in their position, primarily in the z direction. At the same time, the plug-in connectors should not be able to be removed unintentionally from the cover element.

[0019] In other words, a plurality of plug connectors can be accommodated on the cover element or can be connected to it or plugged onto it or inserted into it. The cover element is preferably arranged on the side of the housing of the plug connector that does not come into contact with the mating plug connector. In other words, the cover element is mounted on the side of the plug connector that faces away from the mating plug connector.

[0020] By accommodating a plurality of plug-in connectors by the cover element, prefabrication is advantageously achieved, that is, the plug-in connectors of the plug-in connector component assembly (and optionally other plug-in connectors, for example, without levers) can first be connected with the cover element, for example in a good working environment. Subsequently, the ensemble formed in this way can be provided as a complete unit, for example for assembly on a mating plug-in connector component assembly, and assembled on the mating plug-in connector component assembly. Since this step can take place in confined space conditions and / or under poor visibility conditions, it is advantageous that only one unit must be installed here and the cover element (which can be used as a coupling element) that protects the plug-in connector from dirt, dirt and water is already connected to the plug-in connector of the plug-in connector component assembly in advance. Thus, by making the unit or the ensemble, for example, engage on the cover element and slide onto the mating plug-in connector component assembly, it is advantageously possible to bring a plurality of plug-in connectors into contact with a plurality of mating plug-in connectors at the same time, which in turn shortens the assembly time. Preferably, a plurality of plug connectors are accommodated in the cover element in such a way that the cover element is connected to the corresponding housing of the plug connector in a form-locking or force-locking manner. It can be provided that a single plug connector is arranged or fixed on the cover element in a way that prevents loss, for example, in the z direction, but with a certain movement clearance. Thus, the connection of a single plug connector to a mating plug connector can be advantageously not simultaneously, but successively, in order to resist the high operating force that may occur in all plug connectors when, for example, a spring-opening force occurs at the same time. With the help of the cover element, for example, a fixed relative positioning of the plug connectors in the x-direction and the y-direction can be caused. Here, other plug connectors that are not provided with a lever can also be fixed in their relative position relative to the plug connector-component group in the cover element or on the cover element, especially in the x-direction and the y-direction.

[0021] Preferably, it is provided that the actuating element has at least one connecting rail. The connecting rail mechanically connects all the levers, wherein the levers are rotatably mounted on the connecting rail at a respective receiving point.

[0022] Preferably, the displacement is carried out in such a way that the lever and the connecting rail can be rotated relative to each other about the receiving point rotation axis. The receiving point rotation axis can be oriented, for example, parallel to the x-axis. The mechanical connection between the connecting rail and the lever can be realized, for example, in a force-locking and / or form-locking manner, for example by clipping the connecting rail to the receiving point. As a result, the connecting rail can be connected to the corresponding lever in a simple manner, for example, after the plug connectors are arranged or positioned relative to each other. For example, the connecting rail can have a plurality of openings, into which the pins of the individual levers engage.

[0023] The connecting rail advantageously allows the actuation of the individual levers simultaneously or successively by means of a mechanical connection, wherein only the connecting rail can be moved, for example, by means of an actuating element, for example, by an assembler. Thus, by moving the connecting rail in a single direction (for example, translational or rotational), i.e. without "pumping", all levers can be actuated and, when closing the plug connection, all levers can be moved between a starting position and an end position or, when releasing the plug connection, all levers can be moved from an end position to a starting position.

[0024] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that separate levers are mounted on two opposite sides of the housing along the x-axis. Thus, each housing is provided with a lever pair. All levers on each side are connected via a respective connecting track, so that there is a connecting track on each side of the housing. This means that each lever pair of different plug-in connectors is arranged in such a way that one of the levers of the lever pair is connected to a respective connecting track. The connecting tracks are therefore advantageously located on opposite sides of the housing of the plug-in connector along the x-axis. This advantageously enables all levers to move simultaneously on both sides, thereby avoiding tilting of the plug-in connector to the mating plug-in connector.

[0025] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the connecting rails are connected via connecting elements. The connecting rails and connecting elements are preferably designed in one piece. In this context, "in one piece" means in particular that the connecting rails and connecting elements cannot be separated from one another without damage. The unit consisting of the connecting rails and the connecting elements is, for example, an injection molded part. This enables a simple and cost-effective production of the actuating element, which in this embodiment is formed by the connecting rails and the connecting elements.

[0026] In one embodiment, it is particularly advantageous to provide that the connecting rails are mutually independent components. It is also provided that the two levers mounted on one of the housings, that is to say in particular one of the lever pairs, are configured as U-shaped additional levers. The U-shaped additional lever is rotatably supported not only on the housing at two bearing points but also on the two connecting rails at corresponding receiving points. The support can be realized, for example, in such a way that a relative rotation of the additional lever and the housing as well as the additional lever and the connecting element about a rotation axis oriented parallel to the x-axis is possible. The rotation axis can be, for example, a receiving point-rotation axis or a bearing point-rotation axis.

[0027] Advantageously, it is achieved that all levers of the plug connector-component group are operated by operating a unique lever, that is, an additional lever. In other words, by transferring the additional lever from the starting position to the end position, it is possible to realize that all other levers are also transferred from the starting position to the end position. Of course, this also applies to the opposite movement, that is, to the additional lever and the remaining levers being transferred from the end position to the starting position. It is thus possible to realize that the plug connector-component group is simply and cost-effectively assembled on the counterpart plug connector-component group. Advantageously, the movement of the additional lever can be realized in a rotational movement. Advantageously, the usual motion process is maintained for the assembler. In addition, advantageously, the assembler can always implement a pulling force or a pressure perpendicular to the axis of the lever, thereby maximizing the torque. On the contrary, when the force is applied purely in translation, the component perpendicular to the axis of the lever depends on the angle of the axis of the lever relative to the translation direction.

[0028] The additional lever advantageously projects beyond the lever, which in particular has the same dimensions, so that the additional lever advantageously projects beyond the connecting rail. The additional lever thus has a greater length than the lever, wherein the length is the distance between the support point and the point furthest from the support point in the yz plane. This advantageously achieves a greater transmission ratio, that is to say: the fitter needs to exert less actuating force to connect the plug connector component assembly to the mating plug connector component assembly.

[0029] For example, the additional lever has a length which is at least 20%, preferably at least 40%, particularly preferably at least 50%, and most particularly preferably at least 100% (i.e. double the length) longer than the length of the lever. Here, the length can be determined from the bearing point to the uppermost end of the lever or of the additional lever.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the additional lever is integrally constructed. Thus, it can be advantageously particularly simply manufactured, for example as an injection molded part. The additional lever can be designed, for example, in a U-shape and then fixed on a bearing point on both sides of the housing.

[0031] In a preferred alternative design, the additional lever is formed by two levers and a U-shaped sleeve portion (Aufsatz) on the lever. Therefore, the levers of the plug-in connector-component group are indistinguishable. In order to form the additional lever, the sleeve portion is only installed on a lever pair, that is to say, installed on two levers arranged on the housing. It is particularly advantageous that the sleeve portion can be removed without damage, for example, by unclamping, releasing the plug, etc. It can be achieved in particular that the sleeve portion can be removed after the plug-in connector-component group is assembled on the mating plug-in connector-component group. This advantageously means that the sleeve portion is only used to transfer the lever from the starting position to the terminal position. Once the lever is in the terminal position, the sleeve portion is removed, which makes it possible to save the structural space of the plug-in connector-component group.

[0032] Thus, for example, control devices can be installed more closely to each other in a motor vehicle. In order to realize the possible release of the plug connection, the sleeve portion can then be placed on the lever pair again, so as to construct an additional lever. In addition, it is advantageously achieved by the sleeve portion that different lever pairs are used as additional levers according to the installation situation. If, for example, three plug connectors are arranged in the plug connector-component group, the sleeve portion can be placed on one of the external lever pairs or can also be placed on the middle lever pair. In addition, the sleeve portion advantageously enables the assembly of the cover or cover element before or after the establishment of the plug connection in time. Because once the sleeve portion is removed, the upper side of the plug connector facing away from the mating plug connector is accessible and the single cover of the plug connector or the cover element overlapping all the plug connectors can also be assembled without problems. This advantageously improves flexibility during assembly.

[0033] The sleeve part can be particularly advantageously adjusted relative to the lever on which the sleeve part is mounted. The length of the additional lever can thereby be adjusted. The length is in turn particularly advantageously the distance between the support point and the point furthest from the support point in the yz plane. The assembly force can advantageously also be varied by varying the length of the additional lever. Thus, due to the increased length of the additional lever, the displacement to be traversed by the additional lever between the starting position and the end position increases, but at the same time, the actuating force to be applied to the additional lever decreases. Thus, the optimum ratio between the actuating travel and the actuating force of the additional lever can advantageously be adjusted by the variable length. Depending on the type of plug-in connector or mating plug-in connector used, the mechanical stability of the complementary structures on the lever (gear element, slideway, etc.) and the mating plug-in connector (toothed rack, pin, etc.) can also be adjusted so that they are not overloaded.

[0034] In a further development, it is provided that the cover element has a latching element which serves to lock the additional lever when the additional lever is in the locked position. The additional lever can thus be held in the locked position, wherein an unintentional return of the additional lever to the released position is prevented. Since the additional lever also controls the other levers, it is achieved that all other levers of the plug connector component assembly are also held in the locked position. This achieves a safe and reliable electrical contact between the plug connector and the mating plug connector.

[0035] In one refinement, it is provided that, in addition to the relative rotation, the receiving point also enables a relative movement between the lever and the connecting rail. The relative movement can be achieved, for example, along the z-axis and / or along the y-axis. This advantageously enables tolerance compensation, which prevents bending of the connecting rail if, for example, the individual mating connectors are not arranged at exactly the same height in the z-direction on the side of the mating connector.

[0036] In a modified scheme, it is provided that the receiving point is formed by a long hole in the connecting track. Advantageously, the pin of the lever or the additional lever engages in the long hole. These long holes advantageously extend linearly along the z-axis or extend linearly at an angle between -30° and +30° with the z-axis or extend curvedly about the z-axis. Therefore, the bending is realized in the direction of the y-axis in particular. Here, when bending, the tangent at the starting point of the long hole occupies an angle of, for example, a maximum of 45°, preferably a maximum of 35° and most preferably a maximum of 25° relative to the tangent at the end of the long hole. Through the curved rail, in particular, each lever or lever pair can move in a time-staggered manner. Therefore, not all levers or lever pairs are transferred to the end position at the same time, but are spaced apart in time, thereby slowing down or avoiding peaks in particular when applying an operating force. In addition, through the extension range of the curved long hole, the length of the connecting track in the direction of the y-axis can be reduced, wherein, despite this, the same movement process of the lever and the additional lever can still be realized. Because a part of the movement that the lever can be displaced is then realized by the movement of the receiving point within the long hole, the connecting track does not have to go through the entire displacement. As a result, it can be advantageously provided that the connecting rail protrudes only slightly or not at all beyond the housing of the outermost plug-in connector in the y-direction.

[0037] In a further development, it is provided that the long holes for each pair of levers arranged on the same housing have different geometries. As described above, a pair of levers is understood to be the arrangement of two levers, which are arranged on the same housing, but for example arranged on the sides opposite to each other. The different geometries are particularly implemented to manipulate these lever pairs at a time point determined by the geometry. Thus, the time point at which the corresponding lever pairs are manipulated can be adjusted relative to each other. In addition, only a single movement of the operating element is required, wherein the single movement realizes the manipulation of a single lever or a lever pair not at the same time but at different time points, i.e., in particular, the transfer from the starting position to the end position. In this way, the maximum value can be moved in the case of the operating force to be applied. Thus, the peak value in the operating force to be applied can be avoided.

[0038] In a further development, it is provided that the connecting rails each have at least one guide element. The guide elements are guided in a respective counter-guide of the cover element so as to be displaceable along the y-axis. The y-axis is oriented perpendicularly to the x-axis and the z-axis.

[0039] The guide elements advantageously prevent the connecting track from tilting. This can, for example, substantially fix the movement of the connecting track in the y direction, thereby preventing the connecting track from moving in the z direction and hooking on the housing or an element extending from the housing. In addition, the guide elements can advantageously resist the twisting of the additional lever or the handle of the additional lever. When the additional lever is configured in a U-shape, there is a crossbeam that extends between two lever arms that are respectively arranged on one connecting track and the assembler can act on the crossbeam. For example, if the assembler twists the additional lever on its handle, that is, one side of the lever will move further in the direction of rotation than the other side, and then the connecting track will be displaced in the z direction relative to the other connecting track. The guide elements limit this displacement and thus resist the twisting of the additional lever. Thus, it is advantageous to prevent the plug connector from tilting relative to the mating plug connector by evenly displacing the corresponding lever pairs on both sides, for example from the starting position to the end position.

[0040] The present invention also relates to a plug connector assembly. The plug connector assembly comprises a plug connector-component group as described above. In addition, the plug connector assembly comprises a mating plug connector-component group, wherein the mating plug connector-component group has at least two mating plug connectors. The plug connector-component group can be connected to the mating plug connector-component group or can be plugged together with it. This means that the plug connector of the plug connector-component group can be inserted into the mating plug connector of the mating plug connector-component group along the z-axis or can be plugged onto the mating plug connector. The connection can be carried out by means of a lever. The mating plug connector has an electrical mating contact that can be electrically contacted with an electrical contact of the plug connector of the plug connector-component group. In particular, when the plug connector cooperates or connects with the mating plug connector and the connection of the plug connector with the mating plug connector is achieved by the lever, the electrical contact and the electrical mating contact are electrically contacted. Therefore, a reliable electrical connection is generated, and when the lever is transferred to the starting position, the electrical connection (especially only when the lever is transferred to the starting position) can be released. In particular, this avoids unintentional disconnection of the electrical connection. Such plug connector assemblies are present, for example, in vehicles. The mating plug connector component assembly can be, for example, a mating plug connector of a control device of the vehicle, while the plug connector of the plug connector component assembly is a plug connector of a cable harness of the vehicle.

[0041] Such a plug-in connector assembly can be assembled particularly easily. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0043] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a plurality of plug connectors according to the prior art,

[0044] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a plug connector assembly in a state where the plug connector assembly is not fully plugged together, wherein the lever is in a starting position,

[0045] Figure 3 Shows the connected state Figure 2 A plug connector assembly, wherein the lever is in the end position,

[0046] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing a part of a plug connector-component set according to a first embodiment of the present invention,

[0047] Figure 5 shows a schematic spatial representation of a plug connector component assembly according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention,

[0048] Figure 6A schematic diagram of a plug connector component assembly is shown, wherein the lever is in the starting position,

[0049] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a plug connector component assembly according to a first embodiment is shown, wherein the lever is in an end position,

[0050] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing a part of a plug connector component assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention,

[0051] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of a plug connector-component assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the lever is in a starting position,

[0052] Fig.10 A schematic diagram of a plug connector component assembly according to a second embodiment is shown, wherein the lever is in the end position,

[0053] Fig.11 A schematic detail view of a partial region of a plug-in connector component assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown,

[0054] Fig.12 A schematic diagram showing a plug connector component assembly according to a third embodiment,

[0055] Fig.13a A schematic diagram showing a part of a plug connector-component assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown, Fig.13b Shown according to Fig.13a Another schematic diagram of a part of a plug connector-component assembly of an embodiment of the present invention, Fig.13c Another schematic diagram showing a part of a plug connector component assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention, Fig.13d Another schematic diagram showing a part of a plug connector component assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention, Fig.14 A schematic spatial representation of a plug connector component assembly according to another embodiment is shown from a first perspective, Fig.15 Shown from a second perspective Fig.14 Schematic spatial representation of a plug connector-component assembly,

[0056] Fig.16 Different embodiments of levers and additional levers of a plug-in connector are shown, and

[0057] Fig.17 A schematic diagram of an additional lever of a plug-in connector component assembly is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Figure 1 shows a plurality of plug connectors according to the prior art. This figure has already been described at the beginning.

[0059] Figure 2 A schematic cross section through a plug-in connector assembly 21 is shown, which consists of a plug-in connector component assembly 1 and a mating plug-in connector component assembly 17. The plug-in connector assembly is shown in the unconnected state.

[0060] The plug-in connector-component group 1 has a plurality of plug-in connectors 3, one of which is completely visible and the other is located to the right thereof. Each plug-in connector 3 has a housing 2, wherein each plug-in connector 3 can be connected to a mating plug-in connector 18 of a mating plug-in connector-component group 17 having at least two mating plug-in connectors 18 along the z-axis (from top to bottom in this case). An electrical contact 19 for electrically contacting a mating contact 20 of a corresponding mating plug-in connector 18 is arranged inside each housing 2. Here, one contact 19 as a female contact and a mating contact as a pin or contact blade are shown as an example. At least one lever 4 is arranged on each housing 2 of the plug-in connector belonging to the plug-in connector-component group 1, and the lever is used to reduce the operating force when connecting the plug-in connector to the corresponding mating plug-in connector. Each lever 4 is rotatably supported on the housing 2 to which it belongs at a support point 10, wherein the lever 4 is displaceable or rotatable between a starting position or a first position and a terminal position or a second position. The actuating element 5, which actually also belongs to the plug connector component assembly 1, is not shown here for reasons of clarity. Figure 2 The lever is shown in its starting position.

[0061] The plug connectors 3 of the plug connector component set 1 are connected to one another via coupling elements, which are not visible here. In this embodiment, the plug connectors can be connected to one another, for example, via connecting structures on the housing, as in a chain, for example, via a pin-slot connection. They are then essentially fixed in their relative position relative to one another. It is also conceivable to replace the covers 16 of the individual plug connectors with a common cover element (see, for example, Fig.12 ), and then accommodate a single plug connector 3 in or on the cover element. Through this connection, when a single plug connector 3 moves in the z direction, the adjacent plug connector 3 (and therefore all plug connectors 3) can also be displaced together in the z direction. In this way, it is possible to dispense with fastening the lever 4 to each plug connector 3.

[0062] The contacts 19 are connected to cables or conductors (not shown here) which in the figure protrude upwards from the plug connector 3. In order to avoid the ingress of dirt, dirt and moisture or splashing water as much as possible, the plug connector has a cover 16. The cables (not shown here) protrude to the left from the cover in the figure. Unlike the U-shaped levers of the individual plug connectors, the plug connector component set also enables the cover 16 to be rotated 180° and assembled, so that the cable bundle then protrudes to the right from the plug connector.

[0063] The lever 4 shown in the figure (on the opposite side another lever 4 can be formed, which forms a lever pair with the lever) passes through the housing 2 with a shaft, which can be located on the lever rotation axis, and has a gear wheel 22 on the inner side of the housing 2, which has only two teeth here. This gear wheel 22 can interact with a complementary element designed as a toothed rack 23, which is arranged on the mating plug housing. The toothed rack is also arranged here on the other side in a mirror-symmetrical manner with respect to the z-axis.

[0064] This allows the lever 4 to be rotated 180° to a stop (then pointing to the right in the starting position) and the cover 16 to point in another direction. The toothed rack 23 is designed here to have only one tooth. In principle, other force transmission structures between the lever and the mating plug connector are also conceivable, such as a guide groove on the lever and a pin on the mating plug connector housing.

[0065] In particular, the levers 4 are mounted on opposite sides of the housing 2 along the x-axis. The x-axis is an axis perpendicular to the z-axis and is shown outward from the plane of the drawing.

[0066] Figure 3 Show Figure 2 The plug connector assembly 21 in the figure is in a connected state: the plug connection is now closed. The contact 19 is in mechanical and electrical contact with the mating contact 20. In order to establish this connection, the lever is displaced from the starting position to its end position by rotating counterclockwise in the figure.

[0067] The mating plug connector component assembly 17 can be, for example, a connection region of a control unit. The plug connector component assembly 1 is, for example, a terminal of a cable harness. The plug connector assembly 21 can be used, for example, in a vehicle.

[0068] exist Figure 4 Schematically shows a part of a plug-in connector component assembly 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It is provided here that there are four plug-in connectors 3, wherein there are also four lever pairs each having two levers 4. Figure 4Detailed illustration of the housing 2 of the plug-in connector 3 is omitted, and only a lever 4 is shown, which is supported at a bearing point 10 on the corresponding housing 2. Furthermore, an actuating element 5 is provided.

[0069] In the first embodiment, the operating element 5 includes two connecting rails 6 and a connecting element 9 connecting the connecting rails 6. In particular, it is provided that the connecting rails 6 extend along the y-axis and the connecting element 9 extends along the x-axis. As mentioned above, the z-axis corresponds to the insertion direction. The x-axis, the y-axis and the z-axis are oriented perpendicular to each other. The connecting rails 6 here each constitute a coupling element 28. It is understandable that other coupling elements can also be provided between the plug-in connectors. It is also possible to provide a cover element in or on which the plug-in connector 3 is accommodated or connected or mounted or fixed, for example, see Fig.12 .

[0070] The actuating element 5 is substantially U-shaped. In particular, the actuating element 5 is formed in one piece, which is particularly advantageously an injection-molded part. This means in particular that the connecting rail 6 and the connecting element 9 cannot be released from each other without damage.

[0071] All levers 4 are supported on one of the connecting rails 6 at a corresponding receiving point 11. In addition, this support allows the lever 4 and the connecting rail 6 to rotate relative to each other around a rotation axis oriented parallel to the x-axis. If an operating force is applied to the operating element 5, for example, to the connecting element 9, the translation movement 100 is carried out along the y-axis. In addition, the movement of the operating element 5 along the z-axis is realized. By this movement of the operating element 5, the lever 4 is transferred from the starting position to the end position or vice versa. Therefore, only the operating element 5 is operated, wherein all levers 4 can be operated thereby. In particular, all levers 4 are transferred from the starting position to the end position simultaneously or vice versa. As a result, the assembly of the plug connector 3 on the mating plug connector 18 can be simplified.

[0072] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a spatial representation of a plug connector component assembly 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 5, the receiving point 11 is formed in that the connecting rail 6 has a circular opening into which the pin of the lever 4 engages. In this way, there is a form-locking or force-locking connection between the connecting rail 6 and the lever 4. By applying an actuating force to the actuating element 5, the lever 4 can thus be moved simultaneously and reliably. The opening can, for example, have a slot on its underside that extends all the way to the lower end of the connecting rail 6. In this way, the connecting rail can, for example, be pushed from above onto the receiving point 11, which is then locked in the, for example, circular opening. However, the opening can also be designed without such an outwardly extending slot, and the receiving point 11 can then, for example, be designed as a button-like element so that the receiving point 11 can be clipped into the opening.

[0073] It is understood that instead of a single cover 16 a cover element 8 can also be provided, in which the plug connector is accommodated and which can serve as a coupling element.

[0074] Furthermore, it is of course possible to provide that one of the three plug-in connectors 3 shown has no lever on its housing 2 , if cover elements and / or connecting elements are provided between the plug-in connectors as coupling elements.

[0075] Figure 6 The plug-in connector component assembly 1 is schematically shown, wherein the lever 4 is in the starting position and Figure 7 The plug-in connector component assembly 1 is shown, wherein the lever 4 is in the end position. Figure 6 The starting position shown is shifted to Figure 7 In the end position shown, the actuating element 5 must be moved along the y-axis. Therefore, the actuating force must be applied by the fitter substantially along the y-axis. Here, the actuating element 5 projects with its outermost end in the y-direction by the dimension A or the distance A or the projection A beyond the outermost end of the outermost plug-in connector housing 2. When the end position of the lever 4 is reached, the actuating element can be arranged without projection relative to the outermost plug-in connector, as seen in the y-direction (see Figure 7 ).

[0076] Preferably, the plug connector 3 has a cover 16 on the side along the z-axis that is not provided for connection with a mating plug connector 18. The covers 16 serve to individually cover the individual plug connectors 3. It is further provided that a latching element 15 is provided on at least one of the covers 16, wherein the latching element 15 serves to lock one of the levers 4 on the respective cover 16 when the lever 4 is arranged in the end position.

[0077] By actuating all levers 4 quickly and in particular simultaneously, the assembly effort can be significantly simplified. In particular, the assembly time is shortened. Thus, even a large number of plug connectors 3 can be assembled simply and cost-effectively.

[0078] In connection with the first embodiment, it has always been described that all levers 4 are actuated simultaneously. However, the actuating element 5 can also be designed in such a way that the levers 4 are displaced successively through the same position during the movement of the actuating element. For example, the offset can be installed in such a way that only with increasing movement of the actuating element 5 in the y-axis direction are certain levers 4 actuated in the same way, or not every plug-in connector 3 reaches the same z-position relative to the corresponding mating plug-in connector at the same time.

[0079] Thus, for example, it can be achieved that, for example, in the three plug-in connectors 3 of the plug-in connector component group, the z position is not reached simultaneously for all three plug-in connectors 3 with the highest plug-in force, but, for example, is first reached by the first plug-in connector, then by the second plug-in connector after exceeding the maximum plug-in force of the first plug-in connector, and then by the third plug-in connector after exceeding the maximum plug-in force of the second plug-in connector. Thus, the actuation force to be applied can be varied and reduced in particular in terms of the maximum parameter. This can be achieved by a suitable design of the connecting track 6: that is, the structure designed in a targeted manner on the connecting track 6 can be converted into a time offset when reaching the same z position of each plug-in connector in the y direction and / or the z direction. It is understood that at the end of the movement of the actuating element, all plug-in connectors are reliably connected and electrically contacted with the corresponding mating plug-in connectors.

[0080] Figure 8 A part of a plug-in connector component assembly 1 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. The illustration of the housing 2 is again omitted.

[0081] In contrast to the first exemplary embodiment, there are two separate connecting rails 6. These connecting rails 6 are not connected by connecting elements 9 as in the first exemplary embodiment. Instead, the connecting rails 6 remain as completely independent components.

[0082] One of the lever pairs of the levers 4 of the same plug-in connector 3 is designed as a substantially U-shaped additional lever 7. The additional lever 7 projects beyond the other levers 4 and serves to actuate the entire actuating element 5. Figure 8In the second embodiment shown, the actuating element 5 is therefore composed of an additional lever 7 and two connecting rails 6. Therefore, in order to transfer the lever 4 and the additional lever 7 from the starting position to the end position, the assembler must perform essentially the same rotational movement 200 on the additional lever 7, which is to be performed on the individual levers 4 in the prior art. Due to the fact that the additional lever 7 protrudes beyond the other levers 4, it is necessary to apply a reduced actuating force to the additional lever 7. Therefore, the length of the additional lever 7 is extended. The length of the additional lever 7 is determined as the distance between the support point 10 and the point of the lever 4 that has the maximum distance to the support point 10 in the yz plane. In particular, the length is designed so that the additional lever 7 protrudes beyond the existing cover 16. In this case, the additional lever protrudes beyond the cover 16 in particular in any position between the starting position and the end position. The additional lever 7 can have a length L here that is at least 20% longer, preferably at least 40% longer, particularly preferably at least 60% longer, and very particularly preferably at least 100% longer (double the length of the lever 4) than the length of the lever 4.

[0083] Fig. 9 A spatial representation of a plug-in connector component assembly 1 according to a second exemplary embodiment is shown, wherein the lever 4 and the additional lever 7 are arranged in a starting position. Fig.10 The same component assembly 1 is shown in a state in which the lever 4 and the auxiliary lever 7 are arranged in the end position.

[0084] In the second embodiment, it is also preferably provided that the plug connector-component group 1 has a cover element 8 that can be used as a coupling element 28. The cover elements 8, 28 replace all the covers 16, so that only one separate element is set as the cover element 8, 28. This element can be set on the housing 2 of a single plug connector 3. The housing 2 can be arranged on the cover elements 8, 28 in a way that it cannot be lost. The housing 2 can be fixed relative to each other in the x direction and / or y direction with respect to its relative position, for example. The housing 2 can be fixed on the cover elements 8, 28 in a form-locking or force-locking manner, but in particular a certain gap can be designed along the z direction as a tolerance compensation during assembly and in order to be able to achieve different steps (Durchschreitung) of the same z position of the plug connector. Therefore, the plug connector 3 can be prefabricated by fixing it on the cover elements 8, 28, so that all plug connectors 3 can be connected to the mating plug connector 18 as a unit.

[0085] The additional lever 7 projects beyond the other levers 4, as has already been described. Therefore, it is provided in particular that the additional lever 7 is arranged above the cover elements 8, 28 in the z direction in the end position. Figures 5 to 7In contrast to the embodiment of the present invention, the operating force can be further reduced by extending the additional lever 7 upward. Because in the end position of the lever 4, when the cover elements 8, 28 are already installed, the operating element 5 ( Figures 5 to 7 ) should not collide with the cover elements 8 , 28 , so the interference fit of the solution with the actuating element 5 cannot be reduced due to structural reasons.

[0086] Since the additional lever 7 does not have to be arranged on the outermost plug-in connector 3, the interference dimension B is the same as in Figures 5 to 7 When the force in the same way is reduced, the required interference dimension A is smaller. Fig. 9 As can be seen in the figure, the interference dimension C of the connecting rail 6 is smaller than the interference dimension B of the additional lever 7. However, if the additional lever 7 is still mounted on the left side, the interference dimension of the additional lever 7 will no longer exist. Therefore, the design with the additional lever provides the possibility of reducing the interference dimension and at the same time reducing the operating force by a longer lever arm. In addition, the additional lever 7 can be arranged so that it always protrudes beyond the cover element 8 and is thus different from the embodiment with the operating element 5 ( Figures 5 to 7 ) can keep the interference size smaller.

[0087] If the additional lever 7 is arranged in Fig.10 In the end position shown in FIG. 1 , in particular, locking with the latching element 15 of the cover element 8 is achieved (see also FIG. 1 ). Fig.11 Detailed section in FIG. 1 ). The latch element 15 prevents the additional lever 7 from returning to the starting position. Thus, a safe and reliable electrical and mechanical connection between the plug connector component assembly 1 and the mating plug connector component assembly 17 is achieved.

[0088] Fig.12 A schematic diagram of a plug connector-component group 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown. Here, four plug connectors 3 are shown in a side view, which are coupled to each other by means of cover elements 8, 28 or are fixed relative to each other in their relative positions at least in the x-direction and y-direction. The cover element 8 thus serves as a coupling element 28. Therefore, the entirety consisting of the cover elements 8, 28 and the four plug connectors 3 is prefabricated and can, for example, be fitted as an independent unit onto an assembly consisting of four mating plug connectors, which constitute the plug connector-component group 1. At the left end of the cover element, the cover element slightly protrudes beyond the outermost contour of the plug connector 3 on the left outer side. In this area, the cable bundle can leave the cover elements 8, 28 or extend from the cover element. The cable bundle can be formed by four separate cable bundles of the plug connector 3.

[0089] Two of the plug connectors 3 (the first and third plug connectors 3 viewed from the left) have a lever 4 on their housing 2 (another lever 4 can be arranged on the opposite side that is not visible here). Each two levers 4 on both sides are coupled to each other through a connecting track 6. The lever pair on the right side of the figure is configured as an additional lever 7. When the additional lever 7 is operated, the additional lever can be shifted from its starting position (pointing to the right here) to its end position (pointing to the left here). It is understandable that the starting position and the end position can also be interchanged. Here, the other lever pair is also shifted together by the connecting track 6 (shown by the dotted line). If the plug connector-component group 1 (which can also be called an integral body) is put on the mating plug connector, the plug connection can also be closed by the movement of the additional lever 7 in a single direction (the plug connector 3 and the mating plug connector then move toward each other along the z direction, as described above). By coupling two plug connectors 3 without levers to two plug connectors 3 with levers 4 by means of cover elements 8, 28, it is advantageously possible to establish connections of all four plug connectors 3 with the corresponding mating plug connectors. The plugging force is then applied to the plug connector 3 which is not provided with a lever by means of the cover element 8, 28. In this way, additional components (levers for two plug connectors 3) can be saved. It may be necessary to dimension the force transmission structures / e.g. gear elements and toothed racks on the lever 4 and on the mating plug connector 18 accordingly in order to be able to absorb the plugging forces of more than one plug connector 3.

[0090] Furthermore, the additional lever 7 projects beyond the cover element 8, 28 in any position. As a result, the cover element 8, 28 can be mounted in principle in any orientation, i.e., with the cable harness outlet facing left or right. This advantageously increases the flexibility during the installation of the entire or plug-in connector component assembly 1. Because this flexibility does not require the lever engagement geometry to be changed when the cover element 8, 28 is rotated, the additional lever is simply pivoted by the rotating cover element 8, 28.

[0091] In addition, Fig.12 In the embodiment, at least one latching element 15 is provided both for the starting position and for the end position in each case, in order to thereby prevent an unintentional displacement of the auxiliary lever 7 into its respective extreme position.

[0092] exist Fig.12 In the embodiment, the plug-in connector component set 1 is formed by all four plug-in connectors 3 , namely by two plug-in connectors provided with levers 4 or additional levers 7 and by two further plug-in connectors 3 without levers and by the cover elements 8 , 28 .

[0093] Fig.13a and Fig.13b as well as Fig.13c and Fig.13dA schematic diagram of a portion of a plug connector component assembly 1 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown. Here, one outer end (here the right end) of a connecting rail 6 is shown, each having a receiving point 11 for different positions of a lever 4 or an additional lever 7 associated with the receiving point 11. The initial position is shown at the far right (solid line); one or more other positions are shown with different dashed lines.

[0094] In this embodiment, it is provided that at the receiving point 11, the lever 4 and the additional lever 7 are connected to the corresponding connecting track 6, and in addition to the relative rotation, a relative translation between the additional lever 7 and the connecting track 6 and between the lever 4 and the connecting track 6 is also realized. Here, the relative translation is carried out along the z-axis. This advantageously achieves a decoupling of the movement directions of the additional lever 7 and the lever 4 and the connecting track 6. This can cause the connecting track to move as far as possible along the y-direction, while the lever 4 and the additional lever 7 perform a rotational movement. This can prevent tilting. In addition, if, for example, the mating plug connectors are not all arranged in their rated positions in the z-direction, tolerance compensation in the z-direction can be achieved. If multiple plug connectors 3 (for example, more than 3) are connected to the mating plug connector at the same time, the connecting track 6 or the operating element 5 can be bent without a slot.

[0095] This relative movement along the z-axis is achieved in that the receiving point 11 is formed by an elongated hole 12 in the connecting rail 6. Advantageously, the pins of the lever 4 and of the additional lever 7 engage in the elongated hole 12, so that the above-described relative rotation about an axis of rotation parallel to the x-axis is also possible.

[0096] The long hole 12 may extend along the z-axis ( Fig.13a and Fig.13b ). Likewise, the elongated hole can extend at an angle of, for example, between -30° and +30° relative to the z-axis.

[0097] Finally, a curved portion of the slot 12 may also be provided ( Fig.13c and 13d ), in that the elongated hole is advantageously bent in any direction of the y-axis, for example by a maximum of 30° (angle between a tangent at the end of the elongated hole and a tangent at the beginning of the elongated hole).

[0098] exist Fig.13b , the distance E represents the extent to which the connecting track is displaced in the y direction when the lever 4 or the additional lever 7 is displaced from a first position, such as a starting position, to a second position, such as an end position, by means of a rotational movement 200. In this rotational movement 200, the receiving point 11 is displaced from the lower end of the elongated hole 12 to the upper end of the elongated hole 12.

[0099] By Fig.13cand 13d The bend shown in FIG. 4 makes it possible that the distance D during the actuation process of the lever 4 or the auxiliary lever 7 can be greater than in the case of a straight-running elongated hole 12 ( Fig.13b ) has a smaller spacing E ( Fig.13c , wherein the long hole 12 is bent to the left or along the rotational movement 200) or larger ( Fig.13d , wherein the elongated hole 12 is bent to the right or against the rotational movement 200 ).

[0100] and Fig.13b Compared with the spacing E of the straight long holes 12 in Fig.13c The design of the elongated hole 12 in the lever 4 (bent to the left or along the rotational movement 200) results in a shorter displacement path D. This allows the connecting rail 6 to be designed to be shorter, since part of the displacement path is now produced in the y direction by a displacement within the connecting rail 6. As a result, it is possible to save construction space in the y direction, since during the transition of the lever 4 from the starting position to the end position or from the end position to the starting position, the entire actuating element 5 or the connecting rail 6 performs a reduced movement and therefore requires less construction space. A shorter displacement is accompanied by an increase in the force to be expended at the lever 4 or the additional lever 7.

[0101] and Fig.13b Compared with the spacing E of the straight long holes 12 in Fig.13d The design of the elongated hole 12 in the y-axis (bent to the right or counter to the rotational movement 200) leads to a longer displacement path D. In this way, although it is necessary to design the connecting track 6 longer, this also leads to a reduction in the force to be expended at the lever 4 or the additional lever 7. Thus, for example, the length of the lever 4 or the additional lever 7 can be shorter and the projection of the lever 4 or the additional lever 7 beyond the cover element 8 in the y direction can be smaller with the same actuating force requirement.

[0102] Depending on the structural conditions or the current installation situation, the necessary actuation force and the necessary projection in the y-direction can therefore be optimized by configuring the shape of the elongated hole 12 .

[0103] It can be provided that the connecting rails 6 are guided on the cover element 8. This is achieved in that each connecting rail has at least one guide element 13, which is guided displaceably along the y-axis in a respective counter-guide of the cover element 8. In particular, tilting of the connecting rails 6 is avoided by the guide elements 13 and the counter-guides 14. As a result, a reliable movement of the actuating element 5 can be achieved.

[0104] As a result, even if the lever 4 undergoes a rotational movement, a guidance of the actuating element 5 or of the connecting rail 6 that is as linear as possible in the y-direction can be achieved.

[0105] Fig.14 A plug-in connector component assembly 1 according to a further exemplary embodiment is schematically shown, wherein the lever 4 and the additional lever 7 are in a starting position.

[0106] Fig.15 Shown from different perspectives Fig.14 Same spatial representation.

[0107] Therefore, this embodiment is different from the second embodiment ( Figures 9 to 11 ) only in that there is an elongated hole 12, wherein the connecting rail 6 additionally has guide elements 13, by means of which the connecting rail 6 is guided in a mating guide 14 of the cover element 8. This leads not only to a reduction in the structural space required for the movement of the actuating element 5, but also to a simplified actuation of the actuating element 5, since in particular tilting is prevented. Damages due to such tilting can thus also be avoided. Furthermore, tolerance compensation with respect to the mating plug connector can be achieved.

[0108] Fig.16 Different lever types for the actuating element 5 are shown. Thus, a lever 4 is shown, which extends only between a bearing point 10 and a receiving point 11. This lever 4 serves to reduce the operating force when connecting the plug connector 3 and the mating plug connector 18. In addition, an additional lever 7 is shown, which is produced by applying a sleeve portion 7a to the lever 4 described above. As a result, the additional lever 7 is longer than the lever 4, so that the additional lever 7 extends beyond the lever 4. In addition to the function of the lever 4, the additional lever 7 has the function that an actuating force can be applied to it in order to move the actuating element 5. In addition, the sleeve portion can cause a coupling of the lever pair. The additional lever 7 can be designed to be adjustable in its length, in that the sleeve portion 7a is adjustable relative to the lever 4.

[0109] Finally, in Fig.16 , an integrally formed additional lever 7 is shown. This additional lever 7 has the same function as the additional lever 7 described above, but its length is not adjustable.

[0110] at last, Fig.17 The insert part 7 a for producing the auxiliary lever 7 is shown.

[0111] The sleeve portion 7a can also advantageously be varied in its width, which is Fig.17 Two different widths are shown by way of example, namely a first width F and a second width G.

[0112] Advantageously, the assembly process of the plug connector-component group 1 is carried out as follows: First, the housings 2 of the plug connectors 3 are arranged side by side. Then, the lever 4 is mounted on the corresponding housing 2. This is achieved, for example, by a clip. If there is an integrated additional lever 7, this additional lever is also mounted on the corresponding housing 2, especially by a clip. Subsequently, the connecting track 6 is mounted on the lever 4 and the additional lever 7, wherein the connecting track 6 can be used as a coupling element 28. This is also achieved again by a clip. If the additional lever 7 is manufactured by a sleeve portion 7a, this step can be performed before or after assembling the connecting track 6. Finally, the cover element 8 is sleeved. The plug connector-component group 1 is thus preassembled and can be transported as a unit.

[0113] Furthermore, the following assembly sequence can also be achieved: The plug connectors 3 are positioned relative to each other. The plug connectors 3 are connected to each other in a captive manner, for example, by means of a cover element 8, but other couplings can also be achieved, for example, by means of connecting elements on the housing 2. At least two lever pairs are mounted on at least two plug connectors 3. If necessary, one of the lever pairs is designed as a (longer) additional lever 7. The actuating element 5 or the connecting rail 6 is mounted on the receiving point 11. The prefabricated whole forming the plug connector component group 1 can then be arranged on the mating plug connector 18 of the mating plug connector component group 17 and connected thereto by actuating the actuating element 5.

[0114] If the plug connector assembly is to be assembled, a pre-assembled plug connector component group 1 is provided. In addition, a mating plug connector component group is provided, which is, for example, an interface on a control device of a vehicle. The plug connector component group 1 is inserted into the mating plug connector component group 17. As a result, the lever 4 and the additional lever 7 engage in the complementary shaped mating elements of the mating plug connector 18 of the mating plug connector component group 17. By the movement of the operating element 5 in one direction, all the levers 4 and the additional lever 7 are transferred to the terminal position. In this case, a relative movement along the Z axis is also generated between the plug connector 3 and the mating plug connector 18, so that a safe and reliable electrical and mechanical connection exists between the plug connector component group 1 and the mating plug connector component group 17. If the additional lever 7 is made by the sleeve portion 7a, the sleeve portion 7a can be removed as a last step.

[0115] The plug-in connector component assembly 1 makes it possible to mount a plurality of plug-in connectors on a mating plug-in connector in a simple and low-efficiency manner with low assembly costs and short assembly times. In this case, only a single element, namely the actuating element 5, needs to be moved in a single direction. The number of required assembly steps is thus reduced to a minimum.

Claims

1. A plug-in connector component assembly (1) having at least two plug-in connectors (3), each having a housing (2), in, Each plug connector (3) is connectable to a mating plug connector (18) along the z-axis. An electrical contact (19) can be arranged inside each housing (2) for electrically contacting a mating contact (20) of a corresponding mating plug-in connector (18). At least two of the plug-in connectors (3) are provided with at least one lever (4) on their housing (2), the lever being used to reduce the operating force when connecting the plug-in connector to a corresponding mating plug-in connector (18). Each lever (4) is rotatably supported at a bearing point (10) on an associated housing (2), wherein the lever (4) is rotatable between a starting position and an end position. wherein the plug-in connectors (3) are coupled via at least one coupling element (28) so that the plug-in connectors are fixed in their relative position relative to one another at least in a plane perpendicular to the z-axis, The invention is characterized by an operating element (5) which is operatively coupled to all levers (4) so ​​that by moving the operating element (5) in a single direction the levers (4) can be transferred from a starting position to an end position or vice versa.

2. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that By means of the at least one coupling element (28), a force of the lever (4) acting in the z-direction is transmitted to all plug-in connectors (3).

3. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The at least one coupling element is formed by a cover element (8), to which a plurality of plug-in connectors (3) are connected in a captive manner.

4. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that The operating element (5) has at least one connecting rail (6) which mechanically connects all the levers (4). The levers (4) are each rotatably mounted at a receiving point (11) on the connecting rail (6).

5. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that Individual levers (4) are respectively mounted on two opposite sides of the housing (2) along the x-axis, wherein all the levers (4) on each side are respectively connected via a connecting rail (6).

6. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that The connecting rails (6) are connected via connecting elements (9).

7. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that The connecting rail (6) and the connecting element (9) are designed in one piece.

8. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that The connecting rail (6) is a component that is independent of one another, and the two levers (4) mounted on one of the housings (2) are configured as U-shaped additional levers (7), which are rotatably supported on the housing (2) at two support points (10) and rotatably supported on the connecting rail (6) at corresponding receiving points (11).

9. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that The additional lever (7) extends beyond the lever (4).

10. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that The levers (4) have the same dimensions.

11. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that The additional lever, with respect to the length of the lever (4), protrudes beyond the remaining lever (4) by at least 25%.

12. The plug connector component assembly (1) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that The additional lever (7) is designed in one piece or is formed by two levers (4) and a U-shaped sleeve (7a) on the levers (4).

13. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that The sleeve portion (7a) can be adjusted relative to the lever (4) so ​​as to adjust the length of the additional lever (7).

14. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that The cover element (8) has a locking element (15) for locking the additional lever (7) when the additional lever (7) is displaced into the end position.

15. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that The receiving point (11) enables a relative movement between the lever (4) and the connecting rail (6) in addition to a relative rotation.

16. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that In addition to a relative rotation, the receiving point (11) also enables a relative movement between the lever (4) and the connecting rail (6) along the z-axis and / or the y-axis.

17. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that The receiving point (11) is formed by an elongated hole (12) in the connecting rail (6), wherein the elongated hole (12) extends linearly along the z-axis or linearly at an angle between -30° and +30° relative to the z-axis or extends in a curved manner relative to the z-axis.

18. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that The elongated holes (12) for each pair of levers (4) arranged on the same housing (2) have different geometric shapes.

19. The plug-in connector component assembly (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that The connecting rails (6) each have at least one guide element (13) which is guided displaceably in a corresponding one of the mating guides (14) of the cover element (8) along a y-axis oriented perpendicularly to the x-axis and the z-axis.

20. A plug connector assembly (21) having The plug connector component assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 19, and A mating plug connector component set (17) having at least two mating plug connectors (18), in, The plug-in connector (3) of the plug-in connector-component assembly (1) can be connected to the mating plug-in connector (18) along the z-axis by means of a lever (4) being displaced from a starting position to an end position, and the mating plug-in connector (18) has a mating contact (20) which can be electrically contacted with a contact (19) of the plug-in connector (3) of the plug-in connector-component assembly (1).

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