Fixing sleeve with positive locking element

Abstract

The invention relates to a fixing sleeve (1) for fixing a contact between an electrical conductor (56) and a shield contact (68). The fixing sleeve (1) comprises a fixing portion (2) whose bottom (6) is located between two wings (4) for supporting the electrical conductor (56), wherein in an open state (8) before fastening to the electrical conductor (56) the wings (4) are spaced apart at their free ends (10) facing away from the bottom (6) by a slot (12) extending in the axial direction (X), and wherein the wings (4) are provided at their free ends (10) with complementary positive locking elements (14) which fix the fixing sleeve (1) in a closed state (55).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a fixing sleeve for contacting a shield of an electrical conductor at a shield contact. BACKGROUND

[0002] Fixing sleeves of the above-mentioned type are known from the prior art. They are used, for example, in electric vehicles for high-voltage applications. The fixing sleeve can be pushed onto the shield and the shield is then clamped between the fixing sleeve and the shield contact, for example by a crimping process, so that a constant contact can be made even under high vibration loads. In particular in high-voltage applications, it is important that a high shield current can be conducted through the shielding without a large transition resistance. The fixing sleeve is essentially cylindrical in most cases and is pushed onto the electrical conductor. This can lead to a large assembly effort, in particular for longer conductor pieces. Furthermore, a number of further processing steps are required before the fixing sleeve is finally crimped.

[0003] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a fixing sleeve which can be fastened to an electrical conductor without effort. SUMMARY

[0004] This object is achieved by a fixing sleeve according to the invention, comprising a fixing portion, the bottom of which is located between two wings for supporting an electrical conductor, wherein in an open state before fastening to a shield, the wings are spaced apart at their free end facing away from the bottom by a slot extending in axial direction, wherein the wings are provided at their free end with complementary forced locking elements which fix the fixing sleeve in a closed state in circumferential direction.

[0005] With the solution according to the invention, the electrical conductor can be inserted through the slot between the two wings in radial direction after the necessary processing steps have been completed. The fixing sleeve can thus be inserted directly into its position to be closed around the shield without having to be pushed over a possibly long portion of the electrical conductor. By means of the complementary forced locking elements, the fixing sleeve can be fixed in the closed state. There is no longer a need for a fixation, for example by a predominantly plastic deformation in crimping, to fix the fixing sleeve in the closed state. The free end can thus be prevented from cutting into the shield, and the fixing sleeve can be easily reopened, for example for replacement.

[0006] In the following, further developments will be given, which can be combined with one another independently and arbitrarily, and each of which is advantageous.

[0007] For example, the fixing sleeve can particularly not be crimped in the closed state. Preferably, the complementary force locking elements can not be crimped to each other in the closed state. Thus, by the fixing sleeve, the serviceability of the contact arrangement can be improved compared to a contact arrangement with a crimping sleeve. For a crimping contact arrangement, in the event of a fault or a wrong position of the crimping sleeve, the complete contact arrangement would have to be replaced. Since the fixing sleeve is not crimped in the closed state, it can be easily reopened. Thus, the fixing sleeve in the contact arrangement can be easily replaced.

[0008] The complementary force locking elements can interlock under tensile stress in the closed state. The force locking elements can compensate for an elastic restoring force between the two wings in the closed state, wherein, by releasing the locking, the fixing sleeve will be at least partially opened by the elastic restoring force. Thereby, the replacement of the fixing sleeve in the contact arrangement can be further facilitated.

[0009] The fixing sleeve can be elastically deformable, wherein the fixing sleeve is in the non-deformed state in the starting position in the open state and is at least partially elastically deformed in the closed state. The elastic deformation can be ensured by the complementary force locking elements.

[0010] The fixing sleeve can be elastically deformed only in the closed state, whereby, after releasing the locking of the complementary force locking elements, the fixing sleeve will return to its non-deformed state in the starting position under the action of the elastic restoring force.

[0011] Preferably, the fixing sleeve can comprise a plastically deformed portion in its closed state in addition to the elastically deformed portion. For example, at least the bottom can be plastically deformed and at least one portion of the wings, particularly the free ends of the wings, can be elastically deformed. By the elastically deformed portion, the fixing sleeve can generate a normal contact force which acts on the shielding and the shield contact. Thus, by the fixing sleeve, a sufficient normal contact force for contacting the shielding with the shield contact can be achieved.

[0012] Since the fixing sleeve should not be crimped, the fixing sleeve can have a lower strength, particularly a material thickness, compared to the crimping sleeve. For example, the fixing sleeve can be formed from a thinner material compared to the crimping sleeve. The fixing sleeve can be provided for an electrical conductor having a predetermined diameter and can have a lower strength, particularly a material thickness, compared to a standardized crimping sleeve for an electrical conductor having a predetermined diameter. Thereby, material costs can be saved and the weight of the fixing sleeve can be reduced.

[0013] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the fixing sleeve can be provided at least partially with a profiled surface. For example, the radially inner surface of the fixing sleeve can at least partially comprise a sawtooth-like, honeycomb-like structure, a microstructure or the like. By means of the profiled surface, an increased surface roughness can be achieved, which can prevent the fixing sleeve from sliding along the electrical conductor.

[0014] The groove can for example have a width in the circumferential direction between the free ends of the wings in the region of the shield in the open state which is greater than the predetermined diameter of the electrical conductor. Thereby, the electrical conductor can be easily inserted into the fixing sleeve without being caught at the free ends of the wings. Thus, it is most important that the probability of failure in automated assembly can be reduced.

[0015] The at least one wing can comprise a cantilevered, radially protruding latching tab with the positive locking element. By means of the cantilevered latching tab, the at least one positive interlocking element can be deflected and easily pushed over or under the complementary positive locking element, for example during closure.

[0016] The radially protruding latching tab can form for example a part of or the entire free end. In other words, the free end of the at least one wing can be formed as a cantilevered, radially protruding latching tab. If both wings are provided with a radially protruding latching tab, the latching tab of one wing can be deflected further out in the radial direction than the latching tab of the other wing, such that they can radially overlap at least in the closed state.

[0017] Preferably, the at least one latching tab can comprise a straight portion which is straight at least in the open state and which overlaps in the closed state with the free end of the other side wing. For example, the free end can rest in the closed state on the straight portion of the at least one radially protruding latching tab and vice versa. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the fixing sleeve from protruding in the radial direction in the closed state. Furthermore, this overlap can prevent elements which are located radially inwards in the closed state from pivoting radially outwards, for example by means of a vibration load.

[0018] The positive locking element can preferably be arranged at the free end of the at least one radially protruding latching tab. For example, the at least one latching tab can be provided with a radially inwardly protruding latching hook. The free end of the latching hook can face radially inwards. Preferably, the latching hook does not curve back in the circumferential direction, so that no cavity is formed into which a complementary positive locking element can be inserted. Thus, the complementary positive locking element does not have to be moved first in the circumferential direction over and beyond the free end of the latching hook in order to hook in the cavity. Thus, the fixing sleeve has to be compressed more during the closing operation by the fixing sleeve compared to the closed state. Thus, the load on the electrical conductor or the shield contact can be too high during the closing operation by the fixing sleeve, so that components can be damaged. It can furthermore be prevented that the contact force acting from the fixing sleeve onto the shield and / or the shield contact is too low in the closed state.

[0019] Between two finger portions which extend parallel in the circumferential direction, at least one latching tab can be arranged. The finger portions and the latching tab can form a free end of one wing. Preferably, the finger portions and the latching tab can have equal lengths in the circumferential direction, so that they substantially limit the gap in the radial plane in the open state.

[0020] The at least one latching tab can be, for example, a strip which is punched out from the free end of the wing between two finger portions, which strip is connected to the rest of the wing by its base on the one hand and extends from the base in the radial direction to the outside at an inclined angle. The base can be a hinge, in particular a monolithic hinge, about which the latching tab is rotatably connected to the rest of the wing.

[0021] By deflecting the latching tab via its free end two in the radial direction to the outside relative to the finger portions, a gap can be formed between the latching tab and the finger portions which opens towards the slot in the open state. In the closed state, the opposing wing can be inserted into the gap between the finger portions and the at least one latching tab. Thereby, the opposing wing, in particular the opposing free end, can be arranged in the radial direction between the wing and the at least one latching tab.

[0022] The finger portions can preferably each comprise one latching projection which is guided against the latching hook of the at least one latching tab. Thereby, a complementary positive locking element can form a positive locking by the latching hook and the latching projection simultaneously in the closed state, so that an additional retention is provided if the connection at the latching hook or at the latching projection comes loose.

[0023] The latching projection of the respective finger portion can be arranged at one height in the circumferential direction. Preferably, the latching projection can be arranged offset in the circumferential direction relative to the latching hook in order to engage with a complementary positive locking element into a positive locking at various positions. The complementary positive locking element can be, for example, a wide latching tab which extends in the axial direction across the entire width of the wing. Thus, this latching tab can simultaneously contact the finger portions and the latching tabs of the other wing.

[0024] The wide latching tab of the other wing can be inserted into the gap between the latching tab and the finger of the first wing, so that the latching hook of the wide latching tab and the latching protrusion of the finger engage. According to an advantageous embodiment, the latching protrusion of the finger and the latching hook of the wide latching tab can clamp into one another in the closed state and abut one another, and their outer surfaces face one another in a flat manner. The latching tab can rest on the radially outer surface of the wide latching tab, wherein the latching hook of the latching tab clamps behind the straight portion of the wide latching tab and abuts against the inclined portion of the wide latching tab.

[0025] In order to enable the fixing sleeve to abut as flat as possible around the shield in the closed state, a portion of one wing can have a radial outward offset. Preferably, the free end of one wing can be offset radially outward relative to the remainder of the wing. The offset can correspond approximately to the material thickness of the opposing wing, in particular of its free end. In the closed state, the portion of the opposing wing can abut the offset portion radially inward. In order to enable the opposing wing to occupy as large an offset region as possible in the closed state, the portion can be offset stepwise relative to the remainder of the wing.

[0026] According to a further advantageous embodiment, at least one wing can comprise at least one rigid latching nose projecting in the radial direction, at which a positive locking element is formed. Here, "rigid" means that the latching nose can be elastically deflected compared to the at least one latching tab. This can be achieved, for example, in that the at least one latching nose is fastened to the remainder of the wing on either side in the circumferential direction. This means that the latching nose can be realized in a non-cantilevered manner.

[0027] The at least one latching nose can comprise a guide ramp towards the opposing wing, wherein during the closing operation the opposing positive locking element, in particular the latching tab, can slide along the guide ramp to be pushed past and beyond the latching nose. The guide ramp can be inclined radially outward from the opposing wing in the circumferential direction. A straight surface portion of the latching nose can follow a radially outer end of the guide ramp, so that the opposing positive locking element can abut flat against the straight surface portion in the closed state.

[0028] The straight surface portion can end in a step, which points radially inward away from the opposing wing in the circumferential direction, by which the latching nose is connected to the remainder of the wing. Thereby, a stop face can be formed which points essentially in the radial direction, against which the opposing positive locking element abuts in the closed state, and which prevents opening of the fixing sleeve at least by positive locking.

[0029] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the complementary positive locking elements of the wings can be pressed at least partially against one another in the closed state. Thereby, a plastic deformation can occur, which prevents the positive locking elements from being released unintentionally under the action of a load, in particular by means of a vibration load. By means of the combination of plastic deformation and elastic deformation during the closing operation, a stable fastening to the electrical conductor can be ensured, wherein, if necessary, the fixing sleeve can be reopened.

[0030] If the fixing sleeve is additionally fastened to a further portion of the electrical conductor, for example to an insulation layer thereof, the fixing sleeve can comprise a further fixing portion having two further wings extending away from the base portion in the circumferential direction, which further fixing portion is spaced apart from the fixing portion in the axial direction, wherein the free ends of the further wings are spaced apart by a slot extending in the axial direction in the open state. The further wings can also be provided with complementary positive locking elements, which fix the fixing sleeve in the closed state.

[0031] The fixing portion and the further fixing portion can be provided for different regions of the electrical conductor having different predetermined diameters. It can therefore be advantageous for the fixing portion and the further fixing portion to enclose different predetermined diameters in the closed state. This can be achieved, for example, in that the wings of the first fixing portion and the wings of the further fixing portion have different lengths and / or curvatures in the circumferential direction at least in the open state.

[0032] The base portion can taper in the radial direction in a web portion between the two fixing portions, whereby a diameter difference of the electrical conductor in the fixing portion and in the further fixing portion can be compensated or an offset can be formed. If the diameter of the electrical conductor with the exposed shielding is larger compared to the region with the insulation layer, for example by means of an inner support sleeve of the shielding contact inserted below the shielding, the base portion of the web region can taper radially from the fixing portion towards the further fixing portion.

[0033] The wings of the first contact portion and the further wings of the further contact portion can have different or also identical positive locking elements. Preferably, the wings of the respective fixing portion can be designed such that the fixing sleeve can be closed in one common step.

[0034] In order to ensure as simple a production as possible, in particular in mass production, the fixing sleeve can be manufactured integrally as a one-piece component. The fixing sleeve can preferably be a stamped and bent part, whereby a plurality of fixing sleeves can be formed onto one single support strip.

[0035] The fixing sleeve can be formed from an electrically conductive material. Thereby, in addition to the fixing of the shielding contact for electromagnetic compatibility, a high shielding current can also be conducted by means of the fixing sleeve.

[0036] Alternatively, the fixing sleeve can also be formed of an electrically non-conductive material. The fixing sleeve can be made of plastic, for example as a molded part.

[0037] The contact arrangement can comprise an electrical conductor with a shield, a shield contact and a fixing sleeve of the application according to one of the preceding embodiments.

[0038] The contact arrangement can be designed, for example, to transmit up to about 50% of the rated current of the electrical conductor.

[0039] The fixing sleeve can enclose the region of the electrical conductor around which the shield is exposed with its fixing portion. If the fixing sleeve has a further fixing portion, this further fixing portion can enclose the region of the electrical conductor with the insulation layer. The fixing sleeve can thus be rigidly fixed with the electrical conductor. The shield contact can be pushed at least partially under the shield so that the shield contact can be contacted by a pressing force acting from the fixing sleeve onto the shield. In this case, the shield can be arranged between the shield contact and the fixing sleeve, in particular clamped therebetween.

[0040] Alternatively, the contact arrangement can also comprise a plurality of fixing sleeves which enclose respective regions of the electrical conductor. For example, one fixing sleeve can enclose the insulation layer of the electrical conductor and a further fixing sleeve can enclose the shield of the electrical conductor.

[0041] The fixing sleeve can preferably abut against the side surface region of the electrical conductor over its entire length in the axial direction.

[0042] The electrical conductor can be, for example, an electrical cable with a shielded braid and an insulation layer. The shielded braid can be exposed and flared at one point, wherein the shield contact is at least partially pushed under the shielded braid. The electrical conductor can be, for example, single-pole or multi-pole. For example, the electrical conductor can comprise a single conductor wire surrounded by a shield. Alternatively, the electrical conductor can also comprise a plurality of conductor wires surrounded by a common shield. The shield can comprise, for example, aluminum, copper or tinned copper.

[0043] The shield contact can be, for example, an aluminum contact. Of course, the shield contact can be formed of another electrically conductive material, for example copper or tinned copper.

[0044] According to a further advantageous embodiment, a support sleeve can be pushed under the shield, in particular the shielded braid. The support sleeve can contribute to an increase in mechanical strength and form a support so that the fixing sleeve can be pressed together with the shielded braid and the shield contact during the closing operation. In this case, the shield contact can also be arranged between the shielded braid and the fixing sleeve.

[0045] The closure of the fixing sleeve can lead to a plastic deformation of the shield, wherein the shield is pressed against the shield cover contact. A plastic deformation of the shield contact can also occur in the process. Alternatively, the shield contact can not be plastically deformed during the closure.

[0046] Preferably, during the closure operation of the fixing sleeve, a plastic deformation can first occur at the bottom, whereby the free ends are pivoted towards each other. Subsequently, the wings can be elastically deflected towards each other, so that the complementary positive locking elements interlock and prevent the wings from returning due to the elastic restoring force. Here, due to the elastic springback of the wings, a normal contact force can act from the fixing sleeve onto the shield, by which the shield is pushed against the shield contact.

[0047] The use of a fixing sleeve according to one of the preceding embodiments can lead to an installation convenience, since the fixing sleeve no longer has to be pushed onto the electrical conductor in the axial direction. The fixing sleeve can be inserted directly into the position where it is to be connected to the electrical conductor. Thus, processing steps that no longer allow the fixing sleeve to be pushed onto the electrical conductor in the axial direction can be carried out before the fixing sleeve is inserted. Furthermore, in contrast to a cylindrical crimp sleeve, the fixing sleeve can be reopened in the closed state, so that it can be easily replaced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0048] In the following, the application will be described in more detail by way of examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, elements that correspond to each other with regard to their construction and / or function are provided with the same reference signs.

[0049] The combination of features shown and described in the individual embodiments is provided for illustrative purposes only. According to the above statements, the features of an embodiment can be omitted if the technical effect of the embodiment is irrelevant to a particular application. Conversely, according to the above statements, another feature can be added to an embodiment if the technical effect of the other feature is advantageous or necessary for a particular application.

[0050] In the drawings:

[0051] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fixing sleeve according to the application is shown in an open state.

[0052] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a contact arrangement according to the application is shown, which has Figure 1 The fixing sleeve shown.

[0053] Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a contact arrangement according to the application is shown, which has Figure 2 The contact arrangement shown. And

[0054] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a contact arrangement according to the application is shown, which hasFigure 2 and 3 schematic perspective view of a contact arrangement as shown in DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] With reference first to Figure 1 , an exemplary embodiment of a fixing sleeve 1 according to the present application is described.

[0056] The fixing sleeve 1 according to the present application comprises a fixing portion 2, the bottom 6 of which is located between two wings 4 for supporting an electrical conductor, wherein the wings 4 are spaced apart at their free ends 10 facing away from the bottom 6 by slots 12 extending in axial direction X in an open state 8 before being fastened to the electrical conductor, and wherein the wings 4 are provided at their free ends 10 with complementary forced locking elements 14 fixing the fixing sleeve 1 in a closed state (see Figure 1 ). Figure 4

[0057] According to this exemplary embodiment, the fixing sleeve 1 is to be fastened to individual portions of an electrical conductor, thus the fixing sleeve 1 can comprise a further fixing portion 16 spaced apart from the fixing portion 2 in axial direction X. This further fixing portion 16 can also comprise a further pair of wings 18, wherein the further wings 18 extend in circumferential direction U away from the bottom 6. Similar to the first fixing portion 2, in the open state 8 the further wings 18 can be spaced apart at their free ends 10 facing away from the bottom 6 by slots 12, wherein the further wings 18 can also be provided at their free ends 10 with complementary forced locking elements 14.

[0058] The fixing sleeve 1 can preferably be designed as a monolithic component 20, e.g. a stamped and bent portion 22, in one piece. This can ensure a fast and cheap production, especially in mass production. In order to contribute to the electromagnetic compatibility of the contact arrangement besides ensuring a shielded contact, the fixing sleeve 1 can be formed of an electrically conductive material, e.g. aluminum, copper or tinned copper. Thereby, a high shielding current can be conducted through the fixing sleeve.

[0059] The fixing portion 2 and the further fixing portion 16 can be connected to each other via the bottom 6. To this end, the bottom 6 can comprise a web portion 24 extending in axial direction X between the two fixing portions 2, 16.

[0060] As the fixing portions 2, 16 can be arranged at individual positions of an electrical conductor, the fixing portions 2, 16 can enclose different predetermined diameters at least in the closed state. To this end, the wings 4 of the fixing portion 2 can have a different curvature and / or length compared to the further wings 18 of the further fixing portion 16, and vice versa.

[0061] ​The fixing portions 2, 16 can be offset in radial direction relative to each other. This can be achieved, for example, in that the web portion 24 tapers radially in axial direction from the web portion 2 to the further web portion 16.

[0062] Alternatively, the contact arrangement can also comprise a plurality of fixing sleeves 1 enclosing individual regions of the electrical conductor. For example, a fixing sleeve 1 can enclose an insulation layer of the electrical conductor, while a further fixing sleeve 1 can enclose a shield of the electrical conductor (not shown).

[0063] According to a further advantageous embodiment, the fixing sleeve 1 can be at least partially provided with a profiled surface. For example, the radially inner surface 25 of the fixing sleeve can at least partially comprise a sawtooth-like, honeycomb-like structure, a microstructure or the like. By means of the profiled surface, an increased surface roughness can be achieved, which can avoid the fixing sleeve from sliding along the electrical conductor.

[0064] In the following, the complementary positive locking element 14 of the fixing portion 2 will be described. Of course, the further wing 18 of the further fixing portion 16 can comprise the same positive locking element 14 as the wing 4 of the fixing portion 2.

[0065] The at least one wing 4 can be provided with at least one radially protruding latching tab 26. The at least one latching tab 26 can in particular be cantilevered, thereby facilitating an elastic deflection of the at least one latching tab 26. The at least one radially protruding latching tab 26 can be provided with the positive locking element 14. The positive locking element 14 can be, for example, a radially inwardly protruding latching hook 28. Preferably, the latching hook 28 can be arranged at the free end of the latching tab 26.

[0066] It can be seen from Figure 1 that the radially protruding latching tab 26 can form a part of the free end or extend over the entire width in axial direction X of the free end 10 and form the free end 10 itself. According to Figure 1 the exemplary embodiment in , the wing 4 can comprise a wide latching tab 30 forming the free end 10 of the wing 4, and the other wing 4 can comprise a narrow latching tab 32 forming a cross-section in axial direction X of the free end 10 of the wing 4.

[0067] The wide latching tab 30 and the narrow latching tab 32 can be deflected in radial direction by different angles in the open state, such that during the closing operation one latching tab 26 can slide over and beyond the other latching tab 26. In this exemplary embodiment, the narrow latching tab 32 is deflected more outward in radial direction than the wide latching tab 30.

[0068] The latching piece 26 may include: an inclined portion 34 through which the latching piece 26 is connected to the remaining wing 4, and the inclined portion 34 extends outward in the radial direction; and a support portion 36 adjacent to the inclined portion 34 to rest on the other wing 4 in the closed piling. The support portion is preferably straight, such that the latching piece 26 can rest flat against the other wing in the closed state. Preferably, both the wide latching piece 30 and the narrow latching piece 32 may be provided with complementary support portions 36, wherein, in the closed state, the narrow latching piece 32 rests on the support portion 36 of the wide latching piece 30 with its support portion 36. The latching hook 28 of the radially inwardly projecting narrow latching piece 32 abuts against the inclined portion 34 of the wide latching piece 30, thereby clamping the narrow latching piece 32 behind the wide latching piece 30 in the circumferential direction U, thereby preventing the wing 4 from opening in the circumferential direction U by forced locking. Furthermore, by supporting the narrow latch plate 32 on the wide latch plate 30, the wide latch plate 30 can be prevented from moving radially outward in the closed state, for example, by vibration load.

[0069] The free end of the latch hook 28 is preferably radially inward, wherein no cavity is formed between the latch plate and the free end of the latch hook 28. This prevents forced locking from forming in a cavity, which could lead to excessive compression during closing operation or insufficient contact force in the closed state.

[0070] Narrow latch plates 32 may be arranged parallel to each other in the axial direction X between two fingers 38 extending in the circumferential direction U. The fingers 38 may thus form the remainder of the free end 10 of the wing 4. Each finger 38 may be provided with an additional locking element 14, for example in the form of a latch protrusion 40. The corresponding latch protrusion 40 may be guided against the latch hook 28 of the latch plate 32, and in particular, the corresponding latch protrusion 40 may be guided against the latch hook 28 of the wide latch plate 30, such that the latch hook 28 of the wide latch plate 30 and the corresponding latch protrusion 40 engage in a closed state, wherein their outer surfaces are opposite to the opposing wing in the circumferential direction U, thereby forming a forced lock in the circumferential direction U, which prevents the fixed sleeve 1 from opening.

[0071] The outer surfaces of the corresponding latch protrusions 40 and the latch hooks 28 of the narrow latch plate 32 can be arranged offset relative to each other in the circumferential direction U, such that they engage with the wide latch plate 30 in a forced-locking manner at different positions in the circumferential direction U. For example, the corresponding locking protrusions 40 can be formed by bending back the free ends of the corresponding fingers 38. Here, the bent-back end 42 of the fingers 38 can abut against the remaining fingers 38, thus no cavity is formed here.

[0072] The narrow latching tabs 32 can be deflected in a radial direction relative to the fingers 38 to the outside, thereby forming a gap 44 between at least the free end of the latching tabs 32 and the fingers 38, which opens towards the slot 12 in the open state 8. The gap 44 can correspond at least in the radial direction to the material thickness of the wide latching tabs 30 of the other wing 4 in the radial direction, in particular between the locking protrusion of at least one narrow latching tab 32 and the latching hook 28, so that the wide latching tabs 30 can be inserted into the gap 44 during the closing operation. Thus, in the closed state, the wings 4 can at least partially overlap.

[0073] In order to enable the fixing sleeve 1 to surround the shield as flat as possible in the closed state, the wide latching tabs 30 can be deflected radially outwards relative to the fingers 38. At least the support portion 36 of the wide latching tabs 30 can comprise a deflection relative to the latching protrusion 40 of the fingers 38, which corresponds substantially to the thickness of the fingers 38 in the radial direction at the location of the latching protrusion, so that in the closed state the latching protrusion 40 can abut against the radially inner surface of the wide latching tabs 30. Thus, an as uniform as possible annular inner contour can be produced in the closed state, so that the shield can be contacted as uniformly as possible.

[0074] Now, another embodiment of the positive locking device will be described with reference to the further fixing portion 16.

[0075] As described above, one wing 18 can comprise narrow cantilever latching tabs 26 projecting radially to the outside, which are arranged in the axial direction X between two fingers 38. In contrast to the fingers 38 in the fixing portion 2, the fingers 38 do not comprise any latching protrusion in the further fixing portion 16. Thus, in this embodiment, the positive locking is only produced on the narrow latching tabs 26.

[0076] Opposite the narrow latching tabs 26, the other wing 18 can have complementary latching noses 46. In comparison to the narrow latching tabs 26, the latching tabs 46 can project outwards in the radial direction and have a higher stiffness. The higher stiffness means that the latching noses 46 can be elastically deflected by a smaller angle in comparison to the latching tabs 26 of the opposite wing.

[0077] In order to increase the stiffness of the latching noses 46, the latching noses 46 can be fixed to the rest of the wing 18 at both ends in the circumferential direction. The latching noses 46 can be, for example, punched-out portions of the wing 18, wherein the latching noses 46 are arranged in a window 48 through the wing 18 in the radial direction and their ends are fixed to the frame of the window 48. The latching noses 46 have substantially the same width in the axial direction as the latching noses 26 at the other wing 18.

[0078] The latching nose 46 can be provided on the side facing the other wing 18 with a guide bevel 50, which is inclined radially outward in the circumferential direction U from the other wing 18. Thus, the latching tab 26 of the other wing 18 can be slid along the guide bevel during the closing operation and is finally pushed onto the latching tab 26.

[0079] The guide bevel 50 is followed by a straight support portion 36 in the circumferential direction U away from the other wing 18, on which the latching tab 26 can rest in the closed state via its support portion 36. The support portion 36 can stepwise descend radially inward at its end facing away from the opposite wing 18, thereby forming a radially directed stop face 52 facing away from the opposite wing 18, against which the latching hook 28 of the latching tab 26 can abut in the closed device and thus can be prevented from relative movement of the further wing 18 away from one another by positive locking.

[0080] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 2 to 4 The contact device 54 will be shown in more detail. In Figure 2 and Figure 3 the contact device 54 is shown in a schematic perspective view and a schematic sectional view, respectively, with the stationary sleeve 1 in the open state 8. In Figure 4 the contact device 54 is shown in a schematic perspective view in the closed state 55 of the stationary sleeve 1.

[0081] The exemplary embodiment of the contact device 54 according to the application comprises an electrical conductor 56 with a shield 58 and a stationary sleeve 1 according to the embodiment shown in Figure 1 . The electrical conductor 56 can be, inter alia, an electrical cable 60 with a shielded braid 62 and an insulation 64, which covers the shielded braid 62, which is exposed from the insulation 64 in a contact region 66. The shielded braid 62 can be flared in the contact region 66, so that a shield contact 68 for contacting the shielded braid 62 can be pushed underneath the shielded braid (cf. Figure 3 ).

[0082] The stationary sleeve 1 is arranged at the contact region 66 with its stationary portion 2, so that the stationary sleeve 1 presses the shielded braid 62 against the shield contact 68 in the closed state 55, so that a contact between the two components is ensured.

[0083] The further stationary section 16 is arranged in the region of the insulation 64, so that the stationary sleeve 1 can additionally be fastened to the insulation 64 via the further stationary portion 16.

[0084] As Figure 4As shown, the wings 4 and / or the further wings 18 overlap in the closed state 55. Preferably, the overlapping end portions are pressed against one another, so that the wings 4 or the further wings 18, respectively, are held together by plastic deformation in addition to the fixing sleeve being secured by the positive locking elements 14. This can avoid, for example, the latching tabs 26 being deflected radially outward.

[0085] By pressing, a deflection radially outward can be formed at one wing, as can be seen in the further fixing portion 16. The portion of the wing 18 accommodated in the gap 44 rests on the finger 38 of the other wing 18, wherein the unaccommodated portion of the wing 18 is pressed against the electrical conductor 56 during the pressing operation. Thus, a deflection of the material thickness of the finger is automatically created between the wings 18. Thus, the fixing sleeve 1 can rest as uniformly as possible on the surface area of the electrical conductor and in contact therewith by its further fixing portion 16.

[0086] The fixing sleeve 1 can be particularly crimp-free in the closed state 55. Preferably, the complementary positive locking elements 14 can be pressed against one another in the closed state 55. Thus, by the fixing sleeve 1, the serviceability of the contact arrangement 54 can be improved compared to a contact arrangement with a crimp sleeve. Since the fixing sleeve 1 is not crimped in the closed state, it can be easily reopened. Thus, the fixing sleeve 1 in the contact arrangement 55 can be easily replaced.

[0087] The complementary positive locking elements 14 can interlock under tensile stress in the closed state 55. The positive locking elements can compensate for the elastic restoring force between the two wings 4 in the closed state 55, wherein the fixing sleeve 1 is at least partially opened by the elastic restoring force by releasing the locking. Thereby, the replacement of the fixing sleeve 1 in the contact arrangement 55 can be further facilitated.

[0088] The fixing sleeve 1 can be elastically deformable, wherein the fixing sleeve 1 is in the non-deformed state in the starting position in the open state 8 (see Figures 1 to 3 ) and is at least partially elastically deformed in the closed state. The elastic deformation can be ensured by the complementary positive locking elements.

[0089] The fixing sleeve 1 can be elastically deformed only in the closed state 55, whereby, after releasing the locking of the complementary positive locking elements 14, the fixing sleeve 1 will return to its non-deformed state in the starting position under the action of the elastic restoring force.

[0090] Preferably, the fixing sleeve 1 can comprise, in its closed state, a plastically deformed portion in addition to the elastically deformed portion. For example, at least the bottom 6 can be plastically deformed, and at least one portion of the wings 4, in particular the free end 10 of the wings 4, can be elastically deformed. By means of the elastically deformed portion, the fixing sleeve 1 can generate a normal contact force which acts on the shield 58 and the shield contact. Thus, by means of the fixing sleeve 1, a sufficient normal contact force for contacting the shield 58 with the shield contact 68 can be achieved.

[0091] Since the fixing sleeve 1 should not be crimped, the fixing sleeve 1 can have a lower strength, in particular a material thickness, compared to a crimping sleeve. The fixing sleeve can be provided for an electrical conductor having a predetermined diameter and can have a lower strength, in particular a material thickness, compared to a standardized crimping sleeve for an electrical conductor having a predetermined diameter. Thereby, material costs can be saved and the weight of the fixing sleeve 1 can be reduced.

[0092] The use of the fixing sleeve 1 according to one of the preceding embodiments can result in a convenient installation, since the fixing sleeve 1 no longer has to be pushed onto the electrical conductor 55 in the axial direction X. The fixing sleeve 1 can be inserted directly into a position in which it is to be connected to the electrical conductor 55. Thus, processing steps which no longer allow the pushing of the fixing sleeve 1 onto the electrical conductor 56 in the axial direction X can be performed before the insertion of the fixing sleeve 1. Furthermore, in contrast to a cylindrical crimping sleeve, the fixing sleeve 1 can be reopened in the closed state, so that it can easily be exchanged.

[0093] Reference signs

[0094] 1 fixing sleeve

[0095] 2 fixing portion

[0096] 4 wing

[0097] 6 bottom

[0098] 8 open state

[0099] 10 free end

[0100] 12 slot

[0101] 14 positive locking element

[0102] 16 further fixing portion

[0103] 18 further wing

[0104] 20 single-part component

[0105] 22 punched and bent portion

[0106] 24 web portion

[0107] 25 radially inner surface

[0108] 26 latching tab

[0109] 28 latching hook

[0110] 30 wide latching tab

[0111] 32 narrow latching tab

[0112] 34 inclined portion

[0113] 36 support portion

[0114] 38 finger

[0115] 40 latching protrusion

[0116] 42 curved back end

[0117] 44 gap

[0118] 46 latching nose

[0119] 48 window

[0120] 50 guide ramp

[0121] 52 stop face

[0122] 54 contact arrangement

[0123] 55 closed state

[0124] 56 electrical conductor

[0125] 58 shield

[0126] 60 electrical cable

[0127] 62 shielded braid

[0128] 64 insulation layer

[0129] 66 contact area

[0130] 68 shielded contact

[0131] U circumferential direction

[0132] X axial direction

Claims

1. A fixing sleeve (1) for fixing a shield (58) of an electrical conductor (56) to a shield contact (68), wherein The fixing sleeve (1) comprises a fixing portion (2) whose bottom (6) is located between two wings (4) for supporting the electrical conductor (56), wherein in an open state (8) before fixing the shield (58) to the shield contact (68), the wings (4) are spaced apart at their free ends (10) facing away from the bottom (6) by a slot (12) extending in the axial direction (X), and wherein the wings (4) are provided at their free ends (10) with complementary positive locking elements (14) which fix the fixing sleeve (1) at least in the circumferential direction (U) in a closed state (55), in the closed state (55) the fixing sleeve (1) is not crimped, wherein the wings are provided with at least one cantilevered, radially protruding latching tab (26) which is provided with a positive locking element (14), wherein the at least one latching tab (26) is arranged between two fingers (38) of the wing (4) which extend parallel to each other in the circumferential direction (U), wherein in the closed state (55) opposite wings (4) are inserted through a gap (44) between the fingers (38) and the at least one latching tab (26), wherein the at least one latching tab (26) is provided with a radially inwardly protruding latching hook (28), wherein the fingers (38) each comprise one latching protrusion (40) which protrudes in the opposite direction to the latching hook (28) such that the latching hook and the respective latching protrusion engage in the closed state.

2. The fixing sleeve (1) according to claim 1, wherein The complementary positive locking elements (14) interlock under tensile stress in the closed state (55).

3. The fixing sleeve (1) according to claim 1, wherein The at least one latching tab (26) comprises a straight support portion (36) against which the at least one latching tab (26) rests on the other wing (4) in the closed state (55).

4. The fixing sleeve (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The at least one latching tab (26) extends over the entire length of the wing (4) in the axial direction (X).

5. The fixing sleeve (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein At least one wing (4) comprises at least one rigid latching nose (46) protruding radially outwardly on which a positive locking element (14) is formed.

6. The fixing sleeve (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The fixing sleeve (1) comprises a further fixing portion (16) with two further wings (18) spaced apart from the fixing portion (2) in the axial direction (X), which further wings (18) extend away from the bottom (6) and are provided with complementary positive locking elements (14).

7. A contact device (54) comprising: An electrical conductor (56) with a shield (58), a shield contact (68) for contacting the shield (58), and a fixing sleeve (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the shield (58) is clamped to the shield contact (68) in the closed state (55) of the fixing sleeve (1).

8. The contact device (54) of claim 7, wherein, The shield (58) is at least partially arranged between the fixing sleeve (1) and the shield contact (68).

9. Use of a fixing sleeve (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 for fixing the contact between an electrical conductor (56) and a shield contact (68).

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