Electrical connection device

Abstract

The invention, which is the subject of the present application, relates to an electrical connection device (5) for flat flexible conductive elements (9), in particular conductive fabrics, and to an electrical connection system (3). The invention is also based on an assembly (1) and a method for assembling such an electrical connection system. The device comprises an upper jaw (15), a lower jaw (17) comprising recesses (41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 51a, 51b, 51c, 51b), the recesses (41a, 41b, 41c, 41b) of the first jaw (15) and / or the corresponding recesses (51a, 51b, 51c, 51b) of the second jaw (17) comprising a bar (55) at their edge (43, 53).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention, which is the subject of this application, relates to an electrical connection device for flat, flexible conductive elements, particularly conductive fabrics, and an electrical connection system. The invention also relates to components and methods for assembling such an electrical connection system. Background Technology

[0002] Flat, flexible conductive elements are known in the art and are recognized, for example, in the field of vehicle heating due to their interesting thermal properties. These elements can have conductive paths in the form of surface-impregnated metal layers. In this regard, conductive graphite or carbon paths are preferably printed onto cotton or synthetic fiber materials by screen printing.

[0003] When energized, the conduction path of the flat, flexible element can generate quasi-instantaneous heat, independent of the vehicle's state, particularly the engine coolant temperature. Dissipating heat through ohmic heating, which is related to the resistance of the conduction path, consumes significantly less power than required to operate, for example, a vehicle ventilation system. Furthermore, the flat, flexible conductive element can be mounted under various surfaces and distributes heat evenly according to the surface geometry. They can be particularly advantageous due to their varying flexibility and applicability. Therefore, the use of such a flat, flexible element in vehicle heating can be equivalent to improving passenger comfort and vehicle energy efficiency.

[0004] Powering flat, flexible conductive components presents unique challenges related to the structural fragility of these materials. In fact, the delicate and flexible nature of these components poses a risk of deformation and breakage under mechanical stress, such as pressure from metals, electrical connectors, or contacts. These risks are amplified in vehicle environments subjected to factors such as mechanical vibration, acceleration and deceleration, or accidental impacts.

[0005] Therefore, patent application FR3105615A1 discloses a first device for electrically connecting a fabric to at least one electrical contact, achieving a solution with an opening for inserting the fabric, the fabric extending along a body and folded around the end of the body. During its insertion into a corresponding housing, friction between the housing and the electrical contacts on the fabric extends along the body. Furthermore, the device establishes an electrical connection through the vertical pressure of the electrical contacts on the conductive fabric against the device's bearing surface. However, further improvements are needed to enhance the long-term reliability of the electrical contact established with the conductive fabric. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved electrical connection solution for flat flexible conductive elements, and in particular a solution to increase connection strength.

[0007] In this regard, the present invention relates to an electrical connection device for a flat flexible conductive element, particularly a conductive fabric, the electrical connection device being configured for insertion into a connection housing in an insertion direction (x), the electrical connection device including a first jaw and a second jaw, the first jaw and the second jaw facing each other in a closed state.

[0008] The connecting device of the present invention is characterized in that the first gripper has a surface facing the second gripper and substantially parallel to the insertion direction (x), an insertion surface configured to be introduced into the housing and substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction (x), a surface opposite to the insertion surface, and a recess extending at least partially toward the opposite surface from an edge formed by the joint between the surface facing the second gripper and the insertion surface of the first gripper; the second gripper has a surface facing the first gripper and substantially parallel to the insertion direction (x), an insertion surface configured to be introduced into the housing and substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction (x), a surface opposite to the insertion surface, and a recess extending at least partially toward the opposite surface from an edge formed by the joint between the surface facing the first gripper and the insertion surface of the second gripper, arranged such that in the closed state, the respective recesses of the first and second grippers face each other; and the recess of the first gripper and / or the respective recess of the second gripper include a rod at its edge.

[0009] The device of the present invention has numerous technical advantages that result in a more stable and less expensive connection solution for flat flexible conductive elements. In fact, the device is capable of compressing a flat flexible conductive element between two grippers. Because the compressive force is distributed across both sides of the element, the flat flexible element is thus more securely attached to the device. The increased compression surface allows for advantageous distribution of the compressive force, and thus reduces point forces. The compression between the two grippers eliminates the need for folding the flat flexible element around the body, as previously known. Therefore, the amount of flat flexible element material required for connection can be reduced. Consequently, the cost associated with obtaining conductive materials such as graphite can be reduced.

[0010] Furthermore, the presence of the recesses arranged as shown in this invention allows either side of the flat, flexible element compressed between the two grippers to be exposed. This dual exposure provided by the recesses in the first and second grippers enables dual electrical contact on either side of the compressed surface of the flat, flexible conductive element.

[0011] Another advantage is that the rod is more stable than a flat flexible element, which helps to insert the device into the corresponding connecting housing, as the risk of the flat flexible element wrinkling or bending due to insertion impact is thus reduced.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the first jaw of the connecting device may include at least one additional recess, and the second jaw may also include at least one additional recess, with each recess of the first jaw facing the recess of the second jaw in the closed state. Therefore, double contacts can be established at multiple locations of the flat, flexible conductive element compressed between the first and second jaws, for example, at multiple locations of elements with different conductive paths. Specifically, two points of double contacts with opposite polarities can be established at two different locations along the conductive path, thereby achieving subsequent closure of the circuit. This allows power to be supplied to different conductive paths using a single device. It also allows for a distribution of current intensity supplied to multiple locations of the flat, flexible conductive element, thereby increasing the total transferable power according to the thermal resistance of each location.

[0013] In another embodiment of the invention, the rod in the recess of the first gripper and / or the corresponding recess of the second gripper may include at least one chamfer on the edge of the rod, the chamfer being oriented in the insertion direction (x). Therefore, the chamfer arranged on the edge of the rod can facilitate insertion of the device into the connecting housing along the insertion direction. Thus, during the insertion of the device into the connecting housing along the insertion direction (x), the chamfered rod can cushion mechanical impacts on the rod.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment, the device may further include a coupling mechanism to compress a flat, flexible conductive element, particularly a conductive fabric, between the first and second grippers. Therefore, the device can secure the flat, flexible element between the two grippers and ensure a more stable connection.

[0015] In a variant, the connecting device may include a form-fitting fixing device, particularly a snap-fit ​​device between the first and second grippers. Therefore, the device can secure a flat, flexible element between the two grippers using an easy-to-implement and inexpensive method.

[0016] In an advantageous variation, the snap-fit ​​device may include at least one protrusion on the side surface of the first or second gripper and at least one recess complementary to the protrusion in the side edge of the corresponding other gripper. Therefore, the coupling device can be formed directly on the first and second grippers during the manufacturing process, enabling rapid production of grippers that can be coupled.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first or second gripper may include at least one protrusion on a surface facing the other corresponding gripper, and the other corresponding gripper may include at least one recess on a surface facing the first or second gripper that is complementary to the protrusion. The protrusion and recess may represent increased pressure or friction points for compressing the flat, flexible element between the two grippers. Therefore, the flat, flexible element can be held in a more stable position.

[0018] The object of the invention is also achieved by a second aspect of the invention, namely an electrical connection system for a flat flexible conductive element, particularly a conductive fabric, comprising an electrical connection device according to the foregoing aspect, and a connection housing having an opening to receive the device and including at least one electrical contact comprising two branches forming a clamp, particularly a timer-type contact, the electrical contact being arranged in the housing so that, during the insertion of the device into the housing through the opening along the insertion direction (x), the branch on either side of the rod is inserted into a recess of the device.

[0019] Using electrical contacts that include two branches forming clamps, particularly timer-type contacts, it is possible to insert the branches into recesses on either side of a flat, flexible element that is compressed between the jaws of the electrical connection device for this purpose. Therefore, double contact can be established between the electrical contacts and, for example, a conductive path arranged on the flat, flexible element. This has the advantage of ensuring greater contact adhesion by replicating the pressure point and improving conductivity by replicating the conductive surface.

[0020] In particular, the achievable dual contact has the advantage of metallic dual contact, where either side of the flat, flexible element is metallic. This allows for a more uniform and precise application of normal pressure to the electrical contacts, whereas it might be possible, for example, on a plastic support surface. This surface can be made of a deformable material or have a non-uniform flatness, thus representing non-uniform pressure support for the electrical contacts.

[0021] Using such electrical contacts, which include two branches forming a clamp, also allows the system to accommodate flat, flexible elements of varying thicknesses, with the branches having a degree of flexibility to establish contact.

[0022] In a variation of the second aspect, each branch of the electrical contact may have an end opposite to the insertion direction (x), which has a generally circular extended edge. This generally circular extended edge can advantageously facilitate the opening of the branch during insertion of the connecting device along the insertion direction (x). Therefore, during the advancement of the rod forming the insertion point, the circular end can slide on the surface of the advancing rod. This effect is particularly amplified if the rod is chamfered.

[0023] In an advantageous variation, the electrical contact may include at least one spring, particularly a leaf spring. The spring serves as a mechanism for closing the branches of the contact when at rest. Such a spring ensures stable and secure double contact with the surfaces of a flat, flexible element inserted between the two branches of the electrical contact.

[0024] In another variation, the electrical connection system may further include a coupling device for connecting the housing to the device, the coupling device including a form-fit fixing device, particularly a snap-fit ​​device between the housing and the device. Therefore, the system enables a more stable connection between the connecting housing and the coupling device inserted into the opening of the connecting housing in the insertion direction.

[0025] In a preferred variant, the snap-fit ​​mechanism between the housing and the device may include at least one protrusion and at least one recess complementary to the protrusion. Therefore, the coupling device can be formed directly on the housing and the coupling device during the manufacturing process, enabling rapid production of both the housing and the coupling device.

[0026] This objective is also achieved by an assembly of an electrical connection system according to the second aspect, involving a flat, flexible conductive element, particularly a conductive fabric. According to this assembly, which is the subject of the invention, the flat, flexible conductive element is compressed between the first and second grippers of the device, which is introduced into a housing such that branches of the electrical contacts of the housing press against either side of the compressed flat, flexible element, and the ends of the branches are arranged behind the rod in the insertion direction.

[0027] This component combines the advantages of the aforementioned device and connection system. Furthermore, it reduces friction between the electrical contacts and the flat flexible element during insertion. This friction and insertion impact can be mitigated by transferring the impact of the electrical contact branches to the rod forming the support of the flat flexible element, and by closing the branches behind the rod after insertion.

[0028] A more robust connection scheme can be achieved at a lower cost due to the use of a fewer number of flat flexible elements in this more robust assembly, and due to the reduced friction and impact on the flat flexible elements during insertion of the device into the housing.

[0029] Finally, the invention also relates to a method for assembling a system according to the second aspect with a flat, flexible conductive element, particularly a conductive fabric, comprising the steps of: a) compressing the flat, flexible element between first and second grippers of the device such that at least one edge of the element contacts a rod; and b) inserting the device into a housing such that branches of electrical contacts are inserted into recesses of the device and pressed against either side of the flat, flexible element. This method enables the production of assemblies with the aforementioned advantages, particularly for connections of flat, flexible conductive elements, which are more stable and less expensive. Attached Figure Description

[0030] By studying the following more detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention and the accompanying drawings, the objects, features, and advantages of the invention as outlined above will be more fully understood and appreciated.

[0031] Figure 1This is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electrical connection system component according to the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2A This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the electrical connection device of the present invention in a closed state.

[0033] Figure 2B It is along Figure 2A A sectional view of axis B.

[0034] Figure 2C This is a perspective view of the gripper of the electrical connection device of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2D This is a perspective view of another gripper of the electrical connection device of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 3A yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection system during assembly.

[0037] Figure 3B The electrical connection system in its final state is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Below, the same reference numerals are used to identify elements of the same nature. The figures are schematic representations intended for clarity and legibility and may not be drawn to scale. Specifically, the dimensions of elements shown in the Cartesian direction may not be drawn to scale, neither relative to each other nor relative to the dimensions of said elements in another Cartesian direction.

[0039] Below, refer to Figure 1 Advantageous embodiments of components of the electrical connection system according to the present invention are described.

[0040] Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of component 1 of the electrical connection system 3 with the flat flexible conductive element 9, which includes an electrical connection device 5 and a connection housing 7.

[0041] The component 1 shown is in the final electrical connection state, also known as the insertion state. The connecting device 5 has been inserted into the connecting housing 7 through the opening 23 in the insertion direction x, so as to establish an electrical connection between the flat flexible element 9 and the contacts in the connecting housing 7.

[0042] Figure 1 The diagram shows a flat, flexible element 9 compressed between the first jaw 15 and the second jaw 17 of an electrical connection device 5 inserted into a housing 7.

[0043] Furthermore, component 1 has wired connections of four electrical conductors 25a, 25b, 25c, and 25d, which pass through openings in surface 27 opposite to opening 23 of housing 7 (in Figure 1(Not visible in the middle) Connected to the outer casing 7. Electrical conductors 25a, 25b, 25c, and 25d are conventional cables, such as insulated copper or aluminum wires.

[0044] The flat flexible conductive element 9 has a thickness d along the normal direction z perpendicular to the insertion direction x. This thickness is very thin, for example, less than 1%, relative to all other dimensions in the xy plane of the flat flexible element. The flat flexible element 9 may be made of, for example, organic or synthetic fabric or flexible plastic.

[0045] Here, the flat flexible element 9 includes four conductive paths 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d, separated from each other by three non-conductive or insulating paths 13a, 13b, and 13c. All paths extend along the flat flexible element 9 arranged in the xy plane in the insertion direction x. The conductive paths 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d can be, for example, in the form of a surface-impregnated metal layer, particularly by screen printing. The conductive material of the conductive paths can be, for example, graphite, carbon, silver, or tungsten. The non-conductive paths 13a, 13b, and 13c can correspond to the surface of the flat flexible element 9 without conductive material impregnation, or they can correspond to the surface of the flat flexible element 9 impregnated with insulating material.

[0046] Those skilled in the art will understand that the number and arrangement of conductive paths 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d on the flat flexible element 9 are not limited in any way and may vary depending on the application.

[0047] Each of the conductive paths 11a, 11b, 11c, and 11d is arranged on the flat flexible element 9 on an axis in the insertion direction x, which is the same as the connecting axis of the corresponding conductors in the four electrical conductors 25a, 25b, 25c, and 25d.

[0048] The positioning of the device 5 in the housing 7 is ensured by the snap-fit ​​device 29, which is achieved by the protrusion 31 at the device 5. The protrusion 31 enters the through hole 33 in the housing 7, thereby achieving connection through shape matching.

[0049] This embodiment of the component according to the invention establishes an electrical connection between the conductive paths 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d of the flat flexible element 9 (e.g., conductive fabric) and the electrical conductors 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d (e.g., wires). The implementation of this component results in a more stable and less expensive electrical connection solution for flat flexible conductive elements, particularly conductive fabrics, than that known in the art, as explained in more detail below.

[0050] Reference Figures 2A to 2D To describe in more detail Figure 1 Electrical connection device 5 is shown.

[0051] Figure 2AIndicates withdrawal from outer casing 5 Figure 1 The connecting device 5, having a first gripper 15 and a second gripper 17, is in a closed state. In the closed state, the first gripper 15 and the second gripper 17 face each other, thereby pressing the flat flexible element 9 together with the conductive paths 11a to 11d. Figure 2B It is the cross-section along axis BB in the yz plane, such as Figure 2A As shown.

[0052] Figure 2C A perspective view of the first gripper 15 is shown. Figure 2D A perspective view of the second gripper 17 is shown.

[0053] The first gripper 15 includes a surface 35, which, as shown in... Figure 2A In their closed state, the jaws 15 and 17 face the second jaw 17 and are substantially parallel to the insertion direction x. The first jaw also includes an insertion surface 37 configured to be introduced into the housing 7. This insertion surface 37 is substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction x and extends in a plane parallel to the yz plane. Furthermore, the first jaw 15 has a surface 39 opposite to the insertion surface 37 and side surfaces 79A, 79B. The junction of the surface 35 facing the second jaw 17 in the xy plane and the insertion surface 37 in the yz plane forms an edge 43 substantially parallel to the y direction.

[0054] The first gripper 15 includes four rectangular recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, and 41d, which extend from the edge 43 to the opposing surface 39 and partially along the insertion surface 37. The recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, and 41d preferably have a depth x1 of 1 to 2 cm, a height z1 of 2 to 4 mm, and a width y1 of 0.5 to 2 cm.

[0055] The first gripper 15 also includes a plurality of protrusions 85, here six, on the surface 35 facing the second gripper 17. In this embodiment, the protrusions 85 are arranged in threes on the surface 35, on the one hand between the recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, and on the other hand towards the center of the surface 35. Other arrangements with more or fewer protrusions are also possible.

[0056] In addition, the first gripper 15 includes protrusions 77 on each side surface 79a, 79b, there are two of them.

[0057] Figure 2D This is a perspective view of the second gripper 17. In a cross-sectional view on the yz plane, the second gripper 17 has a U-shaped form, with a base 19 and two side wings 21. The base 19 of the second gripper 17 forms a surface 45, which faces the first gripper 15 when the gripper is closed, as shown below. Figure 1As shown. Surface 45 is substantially parallel to the insertion direction x. The second gripper 17 also includes an insertion surface 47, which is configured to be introduced into the housing 7 and is substantially perpendicular to the insertion direction x. The second gripper 17 also has a surface 49 opposite to the insertion surface 47, and side edges 83a, 83b. The junction of surface 45 in the xy plane and insertion surface 47 in the yz plane forms an edge 53 substantially parallel to the y direction.

[0058] The second gripper 17 includes four rectangular recesses 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d that extend partially from the edge 53 to the opposing surface 49 and partially along the insertion surface 47, having dimensions x2, y2, and z2, which are preferably similar to the dimensions x1, y1, and z1 of the recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d of the first gripper 15.

[0059] With the device 5 in the closed state, the recesses 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d are arranged facing the recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, and 41d of the first gripper 15, as shown below. Figure 2A and 2B As shown.

[0060] The second gripper 17 includes recesses 87, for example, six, on the surface 45 facing the first gripper 15. The recesses 87 are arranged, for example, in groups of three on the surface 45, partly between recesses 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d, and partly at the center of the surface 45, such that their positions complement the protrusions 85 of the first gripper 15, particularly in the closed state of the device 5. Furthermore, the recesses 87 are preferably wider than the protrusions 85 in the xy-plane. This is... Figure 2C As shown in the figure. Other arrangements with more or fewer recesses are also possible, as long as they are arranged in the same way as the protrusion 85.

[0061] The second gripper 17 has two recesses 81 on each side edge 83a, 83b, each recess 81 forming a channel hole in the side edge 83a, 83b. The recesses 81 are arranged on the side edges 83a, 83b to complement the protrusion 77 of the first gripper 15. Therefore, the protrusion 77 and the recesses 81 together form a snap-fit ​​device 75 between the first gripper 15 and the second gripper 17, ensuring the relative positioning of the two grippers 15 and 17 in the closed state through a form-fitting arrangement. Figure 2A and 2B As shown. Therefore, accidental disassembly of the two grippers 15 and 17 can be prevented. The flat element 9 located between the two grippers remains in place.

[0062] Figure 1 The protrusions 31 shown are arranged on the outer wall of each side wing 21 of the second gripper 17.

[0063] In this embodiment of the device 5 according to the invention, the recesses 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d of the second gripper 17 include a rod 55 at its edge 53, which is formed by the engagement of a surface 45 facing the first gripper 15 in the xy plane and an insertion surface 47 in the yz plane. In this embodiment, the rod 55 extends along the edge 53 and along a direction y perpendicular to the insertion direction x over the entire width of the base 19. The rod 55 passes through the recesses 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d at the portions of the edge 53 included by the recesses 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d.

[0064] The cross-section of rod 55 has a basically rectangular shape and two chamfers 57, which are arranged on the edge 59 of rod 55 oriented along the insertion direction x, as shown. Figure 2A As shown. The height z3 of the rod is, for example, 10% to 40% of the total height of the base 19 of the second gripper 17 in the x-direction. When the two grippers 15 and 17 are closed, the rod 55 extends beyond the insertion surfaces 37 and 47 in the insertion direction x.

[0065] In other variations of the device 5 of the present invention, the number and shape of the recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d of the grippers 15, 17 can be varied. Therefore, other embodiments may have more or fewer recesses, for example, hemispherical or circular recesses instead of rectangular ones. In other embodiments of the device according to the present invention, the relative dimensions of the recesses themselves can also be varied.

[0066] In other embodiments of the device of the present invention, the rod 55 may be formed by the recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d of the first gripper 15 at edge 43, instead of the recesses 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d of the second gripper 17. Therefore, it may extend, for example, along the edge 43 on the first gripper 15. Alternatively, it may also be contained within the recesses 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d, for example, referring to... Figure 2A , 2B As described in 2C and 2D, and simultaneously included by the recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, and 41d of the first gripper 15 at edge 43. This configuration will cause the two separate segments of the rod 55 to be connected together in the closed state of the device 5 to form a common rod 55.

[0067] The described device 5 performs the connector module function for a flat, flexible conductive element 9, which is configured to insert into a connection housing 7 to establish a sustainable electrical connection. Therefore, considering this insertion, device 5 has the function of securing the flat, flexible element 9 in a suitable position between the two grippers 15, 17. The quality of the retention of element 9 in device 5 is directly related to the total strength of the electrical connection established after insertion into connection housing 7. Device 5 is a particularly stable connector module, especially compared to existing technologies, due to the compressive force distribution on either side of element 9 and the advantageously increased compression surface. Furthermore, device 5 does not require folding the flat, flexible conductive element 9 around the body as previously known. This allows for immediate savings in material costs in realizing device 5.

[0068] In the device 5 arranged as described above, the flat flexible element compressed between the grippers 15 and 17 is doubly exposed within each pair of recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d, which face each other in the closed state. This allows for dual electrical contact on either side of the flat flexible element 9, as described below. The rod 55, contained within the recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d and arranged along the edges 43, 53, has greater rigidity than the flat flexible element 9. Therefore, it protects the element 9 during insertion into the opening 23 of the housing 7 in the insertion direction x. In particular, it protects the flat flexible element 9 from wrinkling or bending after impact.

[0069] The latching device 75, including the protrusion 77 and the recess 81, establishes a connection through mechanical shape engagement when the device 5 is in the closed state. Therefore, a flat, flexible conductive element, such as conductive fabric, can be stably and sustainably fixed between the two grippers 15 and 17 of the device.

[0070] Complementary protrusions 85 and recesses 87 on the inner surfaces 35 and 45 of the grippers 15 and 17 establish pressure points on the flat flexible element 9. Once the protrusion 77 is accommodated in the recess 81, these pressure points are added to the base compression of the grippers 15 and 17. These pressure points temporarily increase friction and prevent the flat flexible element 9 compressed between the two grippers 15 and 17 from moving. The protrusions 85 and recesses 87 are preferably placed near the recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d and 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d because electrical connections of the flat flexible element 9 are achieved at these recesses.

[0071] Figure 3A and 3B It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of axis AA, showing the relationship with... Figure 1 The same embodiment of the components according to the invention described in the relevant section.

[0072] Figure 3A This is a cross-sectional view of component 1 in the xz plane during the assembly method according to the invention. This view is close to the electrical connection interface between the flat flexible element 9 compressed in the connecting device 5 and the electrical contact 61 in the connecting housing 61.

[0073] Figure 3B This is a sectional view of component 1, which is already assembled and in a fully assembled state.

[0074] It should be noted that component 1 of the connection system 3 includes components for... Figures 2A to 2D The flat flexible element 9 is shown with a connecting device 5 and a connecting housing 7, as well as the flat flexible element 9 itself.

[0075] The following reference Figure 3A and 3B An embodiment of the assembly method according to the present invention is described. The method aims to assemble an electrical connection system 3 having a connecting housing 7 and a connecting device 5 together with a flat, flexible conductive element 9.

[0076] The housing 7 has internal electrical contacts 61, which include two branches 63 and 65 forming a clamp 67, preferably timer-type electrical contacts, such as the TYCO Junior Power Timer (JPT). Figure 1 As shown, electrical contact 61 is connected to electrical conductor 25, which is inserted through face 27 opposite to opening 23 of housing 7. Each branch 63, 65 of electrical contact 61 has end 71, 73 with generally circular extended edges.

[0077] Electrical contacts 61 are equipped with leaf springs 69a and 69b on each branch 63, 65. Each leaf spring 69a and 69b has ends 74a and 74b that abut against the inner edges 70a and 70b of the housing 7. Thus, force can be applied to the other ends 72a and 72b of the springs 69a and 69b in the clamping position 67 where branches 63 or 65 are clamped together.

[0078] Therefore, by having two opposing springs 69 on branches 63 and 65, two forces F1 and F2 can be applied to the pliers 67 in opposite directions. Thus, the two branches 63 and 65 squeeze in opposite directions, giving the electrical contact 61 the closed pliers position 67 when at rest.

[0079] In leading to Figure 2A In the first step shown, the flat flexible element 9 is compressed between the first gripper 15 and the second gripper 17 of the device 5, such that at least one edge of the element 9 contacts the rod 55, after which the device 5 is introduced into the housing 7. During this insertion process, as... Figure 3AAs shown, the rod 55, inserted upstream of surfaces 37 and 47, is first placed between ends 71 ​​and 73, and this guide rod 55 eventually abuts against branches 63 and 65 at clamp 67. By pushing and due to the chamfer 57 on the front of the rod 55, branches 63 and 65 can be separated against forces F1 and F2 applied by springs 69a and 69b.

[0080] The extensions and rounded edges of the ends 71 ​​and 73 allow sliding in the direction z of the insertion direction x, which is substantially perpendicular to the edges of the ends 71 ​​and 73 on the rod 55. The chamfer 57 arranged on the rod 55 is used to reduce sliding friction and thus amplify the opening effect of the branches during the insertion of the device 5 into the housing 7.

[0081] Once branches 63 and 65 are sufficiently spaced, rod 55 can pass behind clamp 67 and further into housing 7. This is in Figure 3B As shown in the image. Figure 3B It is shown that branch 63 is at least partially inserted into the recesses 41a, 41b, 41c, and 41d of the first gripper 15, and branch 65 is at least partially inserted into the recesses 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d of the second gripper 17. Furthermore, due to the restoring force exerted by springs 69a and 69b, the pliers 67 close behind the lever 55.

[0082] Therefore, in the inserted state of component 1, the branches 63 and 65 of the electrical contacts 61 of the housing 7 are supported on both sides of the flat flexible element 9 compressed in the device 5 to achieve double electrical contact through the clamps 67.

[0083] When device 5 reaches its final position within housing 7, it is triggered. Figure 1 The latching device 29 shown allows the protrusion 31 of the second gripper 17 to be positioned within the through-hole 33 of the housing 7. In this final position, the device 5 is thus held on the housing 7 by a latching engagement.

[0084] like Figure 2A As shown, the protrusion 31 is arranged relative to the side wing 21 such that the protrusion 31 is flexible in the y-direction. By pushing the protrusion 31 toward the side wing 21 to disengage the protrusion 31 from the through hole 33 of the housing 7, the device 5 can be disengaged from the outside of the housing 7. Therefore, unlocking is possible. Furthermore, this allows for reversible engagement and disengagement of the snap-fit ​​mechanism without causing plastic damage or deformation to the device 5, thus enabling the device 5 to be advantageously reused.

[0085] By utilizing the double contacts 69, the adhesion of the electrical contacts is greater through double the pressure points, and conductivity is improved through double the conductive surface. Furthermore, each branch 63, 65 of the clamp-type electrical contacts 61 is metallic, and the supporting force of the metallic double contacts is more uniform and precise than possible, for example, as known in the prior art. Prior art solutions have unidirectional supporting forces between the supporting surfaces of the metallic contacts, particularly those made of plastic. Plastic can be a deformable material or have uneven flatness, thus providing uneven support for the electrical contacts, which reduces the quality of the contact. Moreover, the two branches 63, 65 of the electrical contacts 61 have a degree of flexibility in the direction z perpendicular to the insertion direction x. This allows the connection system 3 to accommodate different thicknesses d of the flat flexible element 9 without replacing or modifying components.

[0086] The described method enables the acquisition of a connection system component 1, representing an electrical connection solution for flat flexible elements, which is more stable and less expensive than known solutions in the prior art. In particular, this solution eliminates the need for a sufficient number of flexible elements, such as conductive fabrics. Furthermore, this solution reduces friction generated on the flexible element during connection insertion. The solution also improves unidirectional metal contact against the support surface by implementing dual metal contact on either side of the flexible element.

[0087] List of reference numerals

[0088] 1: Components of an electrical connection system with flat, flexible elements

[0089] 3: Electrical connection system

[0090] 5: Electrical connection device

[0091] 7: Connect the outer casing

[0092] 9: Flat flexible components

[0093] 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d: Conductive paths

[0094] 13a, 13b, 13c: Non-conductive or insulating paths

[0095] 15: First gripper

[0096] 17: Second gripper

[0097] 19: Base of the gripper

[0098] 21: The flanks of the gripper

[0099] 23: Connecting the opening in the outer casing

[0100] 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d: Electrical conductors connected to the outer casing

[0101] 27: The surface opposite to the opening connecting the outer casing.

[0102] 29: The system's locking device

[0103] 31: The protrusion of the system's latching device

[0104] 33: Through hole for the system's snap-fit ​​device

[0105] 35: The surface of the first gripper facing the second gripper.

[0106] 37: Insertion surface of the first gripper

[0107] 39: The surface opposite to the insertion surface of the first gripper.

[0108] 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d: Recesses of the first gripper

[0109] 43: The edge of the first gripper formed by the joint between the surface facing the second gripper and the insertion surface of the first gripper.

[0110] 45: The surface of the second gripper facing the first gripper.

[0111] 47: Insertion surface of the second gripper

[0112] 49: The surface opposite to the insertion surface of the second gripper.

[0113] 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d: Recesses of the second gripper

[0114] 53: The edge of the second gripper formed by the joint between the surface facing the first gripper and the insertion surface of the second gripper.

[0115] 55: pole

[0116] 57: Chamfer of the rod

[0117] 59: The edge of the rod oriented in the insertion direction

[0118] 61: Electrical contacts including two clamp-shaped branches

[0119] 63: The first branch of the electrical contact

[0120] 65: The second branch of the electrical contact

[0121] 67: Pliers

[0122] 69a, 69b: Leaf springs for electrical contacts

[0123] 70a, 70b: Inner edges connecting the outer casing

[0124] 71: The end of the first branch of the electrical contact

[0125] 72a, 72b: The ends of the spring on the clamp side

[0126] 73: The end of the second branch of the electrical contact

[0127] 74a, 74b: The ends of the spring on the inner edge side

[0128] 75: Snap-fit ​​device for electrical connection device

[0129] 77: The protrusion of the latching device of the electrical connection device

[0130] 79a, 79b: Side surfaces of the first gripper

[0131] 81: Depression of the latching device of the electrical connection device

[0132] 83a, 83b: Side edges of the second gripper

[0133] 85: The protrusion in the first gripper

[0134] 87: The recess in the second gripper that complements the protrusion in the first gripper.

Claims

1. An electrical connection device for a flat, flexible conductive element, the electrical connection device being configured for insertion into a connection housing along an insertion direction (x), The electrical connection device (5) includes: The first gripper (15) and the second gripper (17) face each other when the grippers are closed. The electrical connection device (5) is characterized in that, The first gripper (15) has: The surface (35) facing the second gripper (17) and parallel to the insertion direction (x), An insertion surface (37) is configured to be introduced into the housing (7) and perpendicular to the insertion direction (x). The surface (39) opposite to the insertion surface (37), and The recesses (41a, 41b, 41c, 41b) extend at least partially toward the opposing surface (39) from the edge (43) formed by the junction between the surface (35) facing the second gripper (17) and the insertion surface (37) of the first gripper (15); and The second gripper (17) has: The surface (45) facing the first gripper (15) and parallel to the insertion direction (x), An insertion surface (47) is configured to be introduced into the housing (7) and perpendicular to the insertion direction (x). The surface (49) opposite to the insertion surface (47), and The recesses (51a, 51b, 51c, 51b), which extend at least partially toward the opposing surface (49) from the edge (53) formed by the junction between the surface (45) facing the first jaw and the insertion surface (47) of the second jaw (17), are arranged such that, in the closed state, the corresponding recesses (41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 51a, 51b, 51c, 51b) of the first jaw (15) and the second jaw (17) face each other, and The recesses (41a, 41b, 41c, 41b) of the first gripper (15) and / or the corresponding recesses (51a, 51b, 51c, 51b) of the second gripper (17) include rods (55) at their edges (43, 53).

2. The electrical connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The first gripper (15) includes at least one additional recess, and the second gripper (17) also includes at least one additional recess. In the closed state, each recess of the first gripper (15) faces the recess of the second gripper (17).

3. The electrical connection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The rod (55) in the recess (41a, 41b, 41c, 41b) of the first gripper (15) and / or the corresponding recess (51a, 51b, 51c, 51b) of the second gripper (17) include at least one chamfer (57) on the edge (59) of the rod (55) oriented in the insertion direction (x).

4. The electrical connection device according to claim 3, further comprising: A coupling device for compressing a flat, flexible conductive element between the first gripper (15) and the second gripper (17).

5. The electrical connection device according to claim 4, wherein, The connecting device includes a shape-fitting fixing device.

6. The electrical connection device of claim 5, wherein, The shape-fitting fixing device is a snap-fitting device (75) between the first clamp (15) and the second clamp (17).

7. The electrical connection device according to claim 6, wherein, The snap-fit ​​device (75) includes at least one protrusion (77) on the side surface (79A, 79B) of the first jaw (15) or the second jaw (17) and at least one recess (81) on the side edge (83) of the other corresponding jaw that is complementary to the protrusion (77).

8. The electrical connection device according to claim 6, wherein, The first gripper (15) or the second gripper (17) includes at least one protrusion (85) on the surface (35, 45) facing the other corresponding gripper (17, 15), and the other gripper (17, 15) includes at least one recess (87) on the surface (45) facing the first gripper (15) or the second gripper (17) that is complementary to the protrusion (85).

9. The electrical connection device according to claim 1, wherein, The flat, flexible conductive element is a conductive fabric.

10. An electrical connection system for a flat, flexible conductive element, comprising: The electrical connection device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 9; as well as The connecting housing (7) has an opening (23) to receive the electrical connection device (5) and includes at least one electrical contact (61) comprising two branches (63, 65) forming a clamp (67). The electrical contacts (61) are arranged in the housing (7) so that, during the process of inserting the electrical connection device (5) into the housing (7) in the insertion direction (x) through the opening (23), the branches (63, 65) on either side of the rod (55) are inserted into the recesses (41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 51a, 51b, 51c, 51b) of the electrical connection device (5).

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein, Each branch (63, 65) of the contact (61) has an end (71, 73) opposite to the insertion direction (x), which has a rounded extended edge.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The electrical contact (61) includes a spring (69) that closes branches (63, 65) of the contact (61) when at rest.

13. The system according to claim 12, further comprising: A connecting device for connecting the housing (7) to the electrical connection device (5), The connecting device includes a shape-fitting fixing device.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein, The shape-fitting fixing device is a snap-fit ​​device (29) between the device (5) and the outer shell (7).

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein, The latching device (29) between the housing (7) and the electrical connection device (5) includes at least one protrusion (31) and at least one hole (33) complementary to the protrusion (31).

16. The system of claim 10, wherein, The flat, flexible conductive element is a conductive fabric.

17. The system according to claim 10, wherein, The electrical contact (61) is a timer-type contact.

18. The system of claim 12, wherein, The spring (69) is a leaf spring.

19. An assembly of a system according to any one of claims 10 to 18 with a flat, flexible conductive element, wherein, The flat, flexible conductive element (9) is compressed between the first jaw (15) and the second jaw (17) of the electrical connection device (5). The electrical connection device (5) is introduced into the housing (7) such that the branches (63, 65) of the electrical contacts (61) of the housing (7) are pressed against either side of the compressed flat flexible conductive element (9), and The ends (71, 73) of the branches (63, 65) are arranged behind the rod (55) in the insertion direction (x).

20. A method for assembling a system according to any one of claims 8 to 12 with a flat, flexible conductive element, the method comprising the steps of: a) Compressing a flat flexible conductive element (9) between the first jaw (15) and the second jaw (17) of the electrical connection device (5) such that at least one edge of the flat flexible conductive element (9) contacts the rod (55); and b) Insert the electrical connection device (5) into the housing (7) such that the branches (63, 65) of the electrical contacts (61) are inserted into the recesses (41a, 41b, 41c, 41d, 51a, 51b, 51c, 51b) of the electrical connection device (5) and pressed against either side of the flat flexible conductive element (9).

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