Plug connection unit with locking mechanism and method for controlling the locking mechanism thereof

Abstract

The locking mechanism (4) for the plug connection unit (1) includes a first locking component (4a) and a second locking component (4'a), wherein the locking mechanism (4) in the locked position prevents the first locking component (4a) from being inserted into the second locking component (4'a) or prevents the first locking component (4a) inserted into the second locking component (4'a) from being pulled out, and wherein the locking mechanism (4) in the unlocked position allows the first locking component (4a) to be inserted into the second locking component (4'a) or to be pulled out of the first locking component (4a) inserted into the second locking component (4'a). The first locking component (4a) has a locking head (6a) with a specific geometry, and the second locking component (4'a) has a receiving portion (9a) with a through hole (10a) of a specific geometry, wherein in the locked position the specific geometry of the through hole (10a) is adjusted and / or twisted relative to the specific geometry of the locking head (6a) such that there is no overlap of the specific geometry, and wherein in the unlocked position the specific geometry of the through hole (10a) is adjusted and / or twisted relative to the specific geometry of the locking head (6a) such that there is overlap of the specific geometry. A plug connection unit (1) having a locking mechanism (4) and a method for controlling the locking mechanism are also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a plug connection unit having a first plug connector, a second plug connector and a locking mechanism, and a method for controlling the locking mechanism of the plug connection unit. Background Technology

[0002] Industrial plug connectors constitute the electrical connection components between different modules in industrial production equipment. These connectors support simple and rapid replacement of production modules, enabling the installation of complex and, if necessary, mesh-like infrastructures. Energy, signals, and data are preferably transmitted at the interface. The infrastructure involves not only AC and DC power supply but also information technology or other auxiliary media, such as 24V control voltage or compressed air.

[0003] Due to the variable production equipment and the modularity of production lines, the infrastructure must also be significantly more variable than it is now. Imagine establishing decentralized infrastructure nodes in production, interconnected and supplying individual production modules. This results in a variable infrastructure supply topology. Furthermore, assume that non-experts might alter the assembly of production modules or change access to the decentralized infrastructure. Here, plug connectors can serve as safety elements to eliminate hazards to the operator's life and limbs.

[0004] Therefore, plug connectors need access to the control layer of the infrastructure's safety technologies. One application example is a DC voltage network, where power line disconnection must be unconditionally prevented. These infrastructures require plug connectors, whose operation must be released by the infrastructure's control layer.

[0005] For decades, locking mechanisms for plug connectors have been existing technology, ensuring the necessary operational safety of industrial equipment. Increasingly complex infrastructure and the rising power transmitted through plug connectors, coupled with operation by inexperienced users, have made automated locking necessary. The inexperience of operation by inexperienced users is evident in the field of charging plugs for electric vehicles. Particularly in this area, there are numerous applications of automated locking mechanisms that integrate the plug housing into the functional mechanism.

[0006] Document DE 10 2016 105 975 A1 describes a locking device for a plug connector, comprising a first locking member and a second locking member. The two locking members are interlocked and latched together. At least one locking element is provided to latch the first locking member and the second locking member. This locking element is adapted for mechanical latching and can be actuated and released via an actuator. To prevent failure of the locking device, an actuator is also provided in either the first or second locking member. Even if the actuator fails, the latching of the two locking members can be released by the actuator. The first and second locking members are provided for use in a plug and a corresponding mating plug.

[0007] Known solutions have been validated. However, there is a desire to further develop locking devices that achieve greater functionality with higher security, a more compact structure, and fewer components. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The objective of this invention is to solve this problem. To this end, the invention proposes a plug connection unit having a first plug connector, a second plug connector, and a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism has a first locking component and a second locking component, wherein in a locked position the locking mechanism prevents the first locking component from engaging with the second locking component or prevents the first locking component inserted into the second locking component from being pulled out, and wherein in an unlocked position the locking mechanism allows the first locking component to engage with the second locking component or to be pulled out, wherein the first locking component has a locking head of a specific geometry, and the second locking component has a receiving portion with a through-hole of a specific geometry, wherein in the locked position the specific geometry of the through-hole is adjusted relative to the specific geometry of the locking head such that there is no overlap of the specific geometry, and wherein in the unlocked position the specific geometry of the through-hole is adjusted relative to the specific geometry of the locking head such that there is overlap of the specific geometry, wherein a receiving shaft having the receiving portion is adjustable relative to a locking axis in a bearing housing in one of the two locking components, wherein the receiving shaft can be adjusted about the locking axis of the receiving shaft by means of a tool.

[0009] The present invention also proposes a method for controlling a locking mechanism according to the aforementioned plug connection unit, comprising the following method steps:

[0010] S1 detects information about the first plug connector, which is to be mated with the second plug connector, wherein the information of the first plug connector is read from the identification element of the first plug connector by the identification device of the second plug connector;

[0011] S2 compares the information thus read with the data of the second plug connector previously stored in the controller, and if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector is released for engagement with the second plug connector, the locking mechanism is adjusted from the locked position to the unlocked position by means of the drive unit relative to the locking axis; or if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector is not released for engagement with the second plug connector, the locking mechanism is held in the locked position.

[0012] S3 If the comparison indicates that the first plug connector is released for mating with the second plug connector, then the first plug connector is mated with the second plug connector, and the locking mechanism is adjusted from the unlocked position to the locked position relative to the locking axis by means of the drive unit.

[0013] The locking mechanism for a plug connection unit according to the present invention includes a first locking component and a second locking component, wherein in a locked position the locking mechanism prevents the first locking component from being inserted into the second locking component, or prevents the first locking component inserted into the second locking component from being pulled out, and wherein in an unlocked position the locking mechanism allows the first locking component to be inserted into the second locking component, or to be pulled out. The first locking component has a latching head with a specific geometry, and the second locking component has a receiving portion with a through-hole of a specific geometry, wherein in the locked position the specific geometry of the through-hole is adjusted and / or twisted relative to the specific geometry of the latching head such that there is no overlap of the specific geometry, and wherein in the unlocked position the specific geometry of the through-hole is adjusted and / or twisted relative to the specific geometry of the latching head such that there is overlap of the specific geometry.

[0014] The unique advantage here is that the particular geometry is easy to manufacture, and locking and unlocking can be achieved with a small structural space by advantageously and simply adjusting and / or twisting the coding elements involved.

[0015] The superposition of the specific geometry can be advantageously and simply achieved through adjusting motion. This adjusting motion can be a simple linear and / or curvilinear motion. The adjusting motion can also include pitch or tilt motion. Furthermore, the adjusting motion can also be a torsional or oscillating motion. Of course, combinations of adjusting motion with torsional or oscillating motion are also conceivable.

[0016] The plug connection unit according to the invention, having a first plug connector and a second plug connector, has the locking mechanism described above. In this way, the locking mechanism can be fully integrated into the plug connector.

[0017] The method for controlling the locking mechanism of the plug connection unit according to the present invention includes the following steps: (S1) detecting information of a first plug connector to be engaged with a second plug connector, wherein the information of the first plug connector is read from an identification element of the first plug connector by an identification device of the second plug connector; (S2) comparing the information thus read with data of the second plug connector previously stored in a controller, and if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector is released for engagement with the second plug connector, adjusting and / or twisting the locking mechanism from a locked position to an unlocked position relative to the locking axis by means of a drive unit, or if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector is not released for engagement with the second plug connector, holding the locking mechanism in the locked position; (S3) if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector is released for engagement with the second plug connector, engaging the first plug connector with the second plug connector, and adjusting and / or twisting the locking mechanism from the unlocked position to the locked position relative to the locking axis by means of a drive unit.

[0018] This achieves a so-called fail-safe mechanism that prevents the plug connector from being inserted or released in all operating states when there is a power or information failure (except for mechanical emergency unlocking / locking).

[0019] In one embodiment, the specific geometry of the through-hole of the locking head is the outer contour of the locking head, and the specific geometry of the through-hole of the receiving portion is the inner contour of the through-hole of the receiving portion. This results in an advantageous space-saving structure.

[0020] One particular advantage is that the lock is mechanically encoded by different geometries of the locking head (similar to a key) to mechanically avoid unacceptable combinations.

[0021] This is particularly advantageous because existing plug connector housings can be used without reducing the protection level of the plug connection unit.

[0022] Another embodiment specifies that the receiving shaft with a receiving portion is mounted in the bearing housing, and one of the two locking components can be supported in the bearing housing in an adjustable and / or torsionally manner relative to the locking axis. The shaft can advantageously and conveniently be supported in the housing. Furthermore, this housing can consist of two parts connected by a snap-lock mechanism. This advantageously reduces installation space and assembly time.

[0023] In another implementation, the receiving shaft with a receiving portion works in conjunction with a drive unit connected to the receiving shaft. In this way, locking and unlocking can be advantageously automated.

[0024] Another advantage is that the housing shaft is connected to the drive unit via a gear transmission mechanism. This transmission mechanism is readily available on the market at low cost and high quality. Furthermore, different drive units can be adapted to different mechanical devices in this way.

[0025] The drive unit can be electric, electromagnetic, or pneumatic. Such drives are also readily available on the market at low cost and with high quality.

[0026] For purely mechanical operations (emergency operations) to achieve insertion (starting) or disconnection (plug connector failure, emergency), the receiving shaft can be adjustable and / or torsion relative to the locking axis of the receiving shaft by means of a tool.

[0027] The locking cylinder can also be adjusted and / or twisted relative to the locking axis using tools. This is advantageous because, in this way, the receiving axis or the locking cylinder is accessible for emergency operation, depending on the installation location.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the locking head is connected to a plug shaft, which is adjustablely and / or rotatably supported in the bearing housing of the other of the two locking assemblies. The advantage of this arrangement is that simple support can be achieved within a two-part housing, similar to how a shaft is housed. This housing can also be closed, for example, by a locking mechanism.

[0029] The locking head itself, either alone or connected to the insertion shaft, is arranged in a manner that makes it difficult to adjust and / or twist, to prevent unwanted adjustment and / or twisting. Therefore, adjustment and / or twisting can only be performed using suitable tools. An additional braking element is also conceivable, which can be released using tools in case of emergency operation.

[0030] Another embodiment specifies that the locking mechanism has an identification device and at least one identification element, wherein the identification device is arranged in one of the locking components, and the at least one identification element is arranged in another locking component. This provides the advantage of enabling automated operation.

[0031] Advantageously, the locking mechanism has a display device for the status of the plug connector, because in this way there is a clear indication before a failed attempt to engage, thus preventing such engagement.

[0032] Another implementation specifies that the locking mechanism has a centralized and / or decentralized controller comprising a drive unit, an identification device, and a display device. This enables advantageous release via intelligent control through electrical actuators and (de)centralized control.

[0033] The plug connection unit can have a detection device that detects the position of the plug connector when it is inserted deep enough. This improves the safety of the plug connection unit.

[0034] In another embodiment of the method, in the comparison of method step (S2), if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector is released for mating with the second plug connector, then a display device on the second plug connector indicates that the first plug connector can be mated with the second plug connector; or if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector is not released for mating with the second plug connector, then the first plug connector cannot be mated with the second plug connector. This provides advantageous safety by allowing early identification of the status and taking appropriate measures, such as using a suitable or mating plug connector, if necessary.

[0035] Another embodiment of the method specifies that, in method step (S3), the position of the plug connector that is inserted sufficiently deeply is detected before the locking mechanism is adjusted and / or twisted relative to the locking axis from the unlocked position to the locked position by means of the drive unit. This is advantageous for automating the locking process.

[0036] It produces the following advantages.

[0037] - Locking / locking mechanism fully integrated into the plug connector

[0038] - Use existing plug connector housings without compromising protection levels.

[0039] - Mechanism used to lock the mating process

[0040] - Mechanism used to prevent the pulling process

[0041] - Check if the plug is inserted deep enough into the socket.

[0042] - Intelligent and automatic control of release via electrical actuators / decentralized control

[0043] - Concepts for modular plug connectors (compact construction, add-on, configurable)

[0044] - A purely mechanical operation (emergency operation) used to achieve insertion (start-up) or disconnection (connector failure, emergency).

[0045] - The lock is mechanically encoded using different geometries of the locking mechanism (similar to a key) to mechanically prevent unacceptable combinations.

[0046] - Fail-safe mechanism that prevents plug connector from being inserted or released in the event of a power or information failure in all operating states (except for mechanical emergency unlocking / locking). Attached Figure Description

[0047] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. The drawings show:

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a plug connection unit according to the invention, having a locking mechanism according to the invention;

[0049] Figure 2 It is based on Figure 1 A schematic exploded perspective view of the first plug connector of the plug connection unit according to the present invention;

[0050] Figure 3 It is based on Figure 1 A schematic exploded perspective view of the second plug connector of the plug connection unit according to the present invention;

[0051] Figure 4 It is based on Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of the locking assembly of the first plug connector;

[0052] Figure 5 It is based on Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the mating plug connection unit; and

[0053] Figure 6 This is an illustrative flowchart of an embodiment of the method according to the present invention.

[0054] The terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” and “right” refer to the corresponding arrangement of components in the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0055] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the plug connection unit 1 according to the invention, having a locking mechanism 4 according to the invention, is shown. Figure 2 The text shows the data based on... Figure 1 A schematic exploded perspective view of the first plug connector 2 of the plug connection unit 1 according to the present invention. Figure 3 It shows according to Figure 1 A schematic exploded perspective view of the second plug connector 3 of the plug connection unit 1 according to the present invention. Figure 4 The text shows the data based on... Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of the locking component 4 of the first plug connector 2. Figure 5 It shows according to Figure 1A schematic cross-sectional view of the plug connection unit 1.

[0056] The plug connection unit 1 includes a first plug connector 2, a second plug connector 3, and a locking mechanism 4.

[0057] Plug connectors 2 and 3 each have housings 2a and 3a and frames 2b and 3b arranged therein. Frames 2b and 3b serve as carriers for various plugs, such as conductive plug contacts, socket contacts, optical, pneumatic, and hydraulic connection structures.

[0058] The housing 2a of the first plug connector 2 is configured as a cover having an open insertion side 2c and a cover 2f opposite to the insertion side 2c. The cover 2f and the side portion mounted thereon form the housing 2a of the first plug connector 2.

[0059] The locking mechanism 4 has two locking components 4a and 4'a.

[0060] In the embodiment shown here, the first locking component 4a is fixed in the frame 2b of the first plug connector 2, and the second locking component 4'a is fixed in the frame 3b of the second plug connector 3.

[0061] In addition to the plug connection unit 1 shown only as an example here, the locking mechanism 4 can also be used and / or added to other types of plug connection units.

[0062] The first locking component 4a is here secured within its frame 2b in the first plug connector 2. This securing can be accomplished, for example, by a snap-lock or threaded connection. The first locking component 4a, together with the frame 2b, is inserted into the housing 2a of the first plug connector 2 through the open insertion side 2c and secured within the housing in a manner not shown in detail. This can also be accomplished, for example, by a snap-lock.

[0063] The first locking assembly 4a includes a bearing housing 5, 5a and a key shaft 6 ( Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 ).

[0064] Bearing housings 5 ​​and 5a consist of two halves that are separated or assembled within a plane located on locking axis 7. Locking axis 7 is also the central axis of key shaft 6. Each half of bearing housings 5 ​​and 5a has a generally square bearing section 5c with a support portion 5b. On the end face of the square bearing section 5c facing away from the insertion side 2c of housing 2a, a slender rectangular guide section 5d is formed in the middle.

[0065] The key shaft 6 has a locking head 6a formed on one end of a centrally located cylindrical body 6b. The locking head 6a has a specific shape and outer contour, which will be described in more detail below. A circumferential flange 6c is provided in the end region of the cylindrical body 6b. The outer diameter of the flange 6c is approximately 1.5 times the outer diameter of the cylindrical body 6b. The other end of the cylindrical body 6b, serving as a drive end 6d, is provided with a groove 6e for a tool 17, such as a screwdriver.

[0066] The key shaft 6 is positioned between the halves of the bearing housings 5 ​​and 5a by means of a support 5b in the square bearing section 5c. Here, the locking head 6a protrudes a certain distance from the opening on the insertion side 2c of the first plug connector 2. This will be described in more detail below.

[0067] The drive end 6d of the key shaft 6 is arranged in a drilled hole in the transition section from the square bearing section 5c to the slender guide section 5d of the bearing housing 5, 5a, pointing toward the cover 2d of the housing 2a.

[0068] The key shaft 6 with the locking head 6a can be adjusted by different adjustment movements. The illustrated embodiment shows a torsional movement or a oscillating movement. A linear adjustment movement can also be performed by combining torsional movements.

[0069] The support portion 5b is formed by ribs extending transversely to the locking axis 7. These ribs also serve to reinforce the bearing housings 5, 5a. The flange 6c of the key shaft 6 is axially fixed between these ribs, thus axially fixing the key shaft 6. Furthermore, the key shaft 6, its body 6b, and its flange 6c are arranged in the support portion 5b in a manner that prevents rotation, so that the key shaft 6 can only be twisted from one side of the cover 2f of the housing 2a of the first plug connector 2 in an emergency using the tool 17 provided for this purpose. Figure 5 The opening 2d in the cover 2f of the housing 2a is for this purpose, and the opening is closed, for example, by a matching plug, which can only be removed, for example, by tool 17.

[0070] The tool is then inserted along the locking axis 7 through the opening 2d in the guide section 5d of the bearing housing 5, 5a until it engages with the groove 6d of the drive end 6d of the key shaft 6. This is in Figure 5 It is clearly shown in the text.

[0071] Two bolts 2e are provided on the long side of the housing 2a of the first plug connector 2. In the mating state, the bolts work together with the fastening leg 3d of the second plug connector 3 on each side to firmly hold the first plug connector 2 and the second plug connector 3 together.

[0072] The second locking component 4'a is here fixed in its frame 3b within the second plug connector 3. Figure 1, Figure 3 , Figure 5 This fixing can be accomplished, for example, by a locking mechanism, a threaded connection, etc. The second locking component 4'a, together with the frame 3b, is inserted into the housing 3a of the second plug connector 3 through the open insertion side 3c and secured therein in a manner not shown in detail. This can also be accomplished, for example, by a locking mechanism and / or a threaded connection.

[0073] The second locking assembly 4'a includes bearing housings 8 and 8a, receiving shaft 9, drive shaft 13, transmission mechanism, preferably gear transmission mechanism, and drive unit 14.

[0074] The bearing housings 8 and 8a consist of two substantially square halves that are separated or assembled in a plane located at locking axis 7'. Locking axis 7' is also the central axis that accommodates shaft 9. In the engaged state of the plug connection unit 1, locking axes 7 and 7' form a common axis.

[0075] Each half of the bearing housings 8 and 8a has a support portion 8b. The support portion 8b is composed of ribs extending transversely to the locking axis 7'. Here, these ribs also have the additional function of reinforcing the bearing housings 8 and 8a. The bearing bore 8c is centrally formed on the end face of the bearing housing 8 and 8a facing the insertion side 3c of the housing 3a.

[0076] The receiving shaft 9 includes a hollow cylindrical receiving portion 9a, a hollow cylindrical body 9b, and a surrounding flange 9c.

[0077] The receiving portion 9a has a cylindrical internal space 9d, which is covered by a plate section 10 in the end region of the receiving portion 9a toward the insertion side 3c. A through hole 10a is formed in the plate section 10. The through hole 10a has a specific shape, namely an inner contour, which corresponds to the outer contour of the locking head 6a of the key shaft 6.

[0078] In the illustrated example, the specific shape is the outer contour of a geometry with an elongated hole, whose longitudinal axis extends transversely to the locking axis 7'. In the axial direction of the locking axis 7', the wall thickness of the plate segment 10 is approximately 1.5 times the thickness of the wall surrounding the interior space 9d of the receiving portion 9a.

[0079] The internal space 9d also communicates with the internal space 9e of the hollow cylindrical body 9b. This internal space 9e has an internal contour, such as a quadrilateral or hexagonal shape. A surrounding flange 9c is formed on the end of the body 9b that receives the shaft 9, opposite to the receiving portion 9a. The outer diameter of the flange 9c approximately corresponds to the outer diameter of the receiving portion 9a, wherein the outer diameter of the body 9b is smaller than the outer diameter of the flange 9c.

[0080] The receiving shaft 9, which has the receiving part 9a, can be adjusted by different adjustment movements. The illustrated embodiment shows a torsional movement or a oscillating movement. A linear adjustment movement can also be performed by combining torsional movements.

[0081] In bearing housings 8 and 8a, a receiving shaft 9 is rotatably supported in a support portion 8b, wherein the receiving portion 9a is received in a bearing bore 8c. A flange 9c serves as a stop at a rib R in the support portion 8b. A spring element 15 is arranged around the body 9b between the rib R and the receiving portion 9a, which pre-stresses the receiving shaft 9 relative to the support portion 8b in the direction of the locking axis 7' toward the insertion side 3c. Figure 5 In this way, the receiving portion 9a protrudes from the plane of the insertion side 3c of the second plug connector 3 so as to cooperate with the locking head 6a of the key shaft 6 of the first plug connector 2. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0082] The drive shaft 13 has a connecting section 13a and a drive gear section 13b. The connecting section 13a has a rectangular, preferably square, cross-section with chamfered longitudinal edges and is pushed into the internal space 9e of the receiving shaft 9. The contour of the internal space 9e corresponds to the outer contour of the connecting section 13a of the drive shaft 13 and transmits torque from the drive shaft 13 to the receiving shaft 9.

[0083] Here, the drive gear 13b in the form of a spur gear is mounted on the free end of the connecting section 13a of the drive shaft 13, which protrudes from the internal space 9e of the receiving shaft 9. The drive shaft 13 is rotatably supported in the support portion 8b via the receiving shaft 9 and the bore BR.

[0084] The hub of the drive gear 13b has a receiving portion 13c for the tool 17'. Figure 5 For example, the receiving part 13c can be an internal hexagon. The receiving shaft 9 can be rotated together with the tool 17', and the tool 17' enables emergency unlocking or emergency locking of the locking mechanism.

[0085] The drive gear 13b meshes with the pinion 14b. The pinion 14b is non-rotatably mounted on the output shaft 14a of the drive unit 14.

[0086] The drive unit 14 can be, for example, a stepper motor, a gear motor, an electromagnetic actuator, an electromagnetic rotary switch driver, etc. It can also be conceived as a compressed air driver or a hydraulic driver.

[0087] The drive unit 14 has the function of rotating or swinging the second locking component 4'a of the locking mechanism from the locked or locked position to the unlocked or inserted position and then returning it. This will be described further below.

[0088] Figure 4 It shows according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of the locking assembly 4a of the first plug connector 2, wherein the key shaft 6's locking head 6a is shown in magnification.

[0089] The shape of the locking head 6a is one possible embodiment, but is not limited to this form and geometry.

[0090] The locking head 6a includes a base segment 6f, a middle segment 6g, and an end face 6h. In this example, the base segment 6f has a shape that resembles the outer contour of a rounded slide key with a bottom surface 6i. On the side opposite to the bottom surface 6i, the middle segment 6g is formed on the base segment 6f toward the insertion side 2c. The middle segment 6g has a circumferentially inclined surface and an end face 6h, which also has the shape of a rounded slide key.

[0091] The locking head 6a protrudes from the end face 5e of the bearing housings 5 ​​and 5a toward the insertion side 2c in the direction of the locking axis 7. Figure 1 ).

[0092] The flange 6c of the main body 6b of the key shaft 6 located at the locking head 6a (in) Figure 5 The middle section between the bottom surface 6i of the locking head 6a and the clearly visible part is arranged in the drilled hole 5g in the support portion 5b of the bearing housing 5, 5a. The diameter of the recess 5f, which is coaxially formed with the drilled hole 5g in the wall having the end face 5e of the bearing housing 5, 5a, is larger than the imaginary longitudinal axis of the bottom section 6f of the locking head 6a and corresponds to the outer diameter of the receiving portion 9a of the receiving shaft 9. In the insertion state of the plug connecting unit 1, the end region of the receiving portion 9a is arranged in the recess 5f together with the plate section 10. Figure 5 ).

[0093] In the locked position of the locking mechanism, the receiving portion 9a of the receiving shaft 9 is twisted about the locking axis 7', making it impossible for the locking head 6a of the key shaft 6 to be inserted into the receiving portion 9a through the through hole 10a of the plate section 10. Here, for example, in the case of the elongated hole geometry of the through hole 10a, the imaginary longitudinal axis of the elongated hole 10a is rotated 90° about the locking axis 7' relative to the imaginary longitudinal axis of the locking head 6a. In other words, in the locked position, the inner contour of the through hole 10a does not overlap with the outer contour of the locking head 6a.

[0094] In the unlocked or inserted position, the receiving portion 9a of the receiving shaft 9 rotates about the locking axis 7', allowing the locking head 6a of the key shaft 6 to be inserted into the receiving portion 9a through the through hole 10a of the plate section 10. Here, for example, in the case of the elongated geometry of the through hole 10a, the imaginary longitudinal axis of the elongated through hole 10a rotates parallel to the imaginary longitudinal axis of the locking head 6a. In other words, the inner contour of the through hole 10a overlaps with the outer contour of the locking head 6a.

[0095] exist Figure 5 In the middle, the first plug connector 2 and the second plug connector 3 are engaged. The locking head 6a of the key shaft 6 is accommodated in the internal space 9d of the accommodating portion 9a of the accommodating shaft 9. The end section of the accommodating portion 9a, together with the plate section 10, is arranged in the recess 5f of the end face 5e of the bearing housing 5, 5a. In addition, the plate section 10 is arranged on the bottom surface 6i of the locking head 6a. Figure 4 Between the wall of the bearing housing 5 and 5a, a drill hole 5g for the key shaft 6 is formed in the wall.

[0096] When the first plug connector 2 is as Figure 5 When the second plug connector 3 is engaged and the locking head 6a is in the receiving portion 9a, the receiving portion 9a, together with the receiving shaft 9, is rotated 90° relative to the locking head 6a again by means of the drive unit 14 to enter the locked position. At the same time, the through hole 10a of the plate section 10 of the receiving portion 9a, which is constructed as an elongated hole, is also rotated in the recess 5f between the bottom surface 6i of the locking head 6a and the bearing housings 5, 5a. In this way, the imaginary longitudinal axis of the through hole 10a of the plate section 10 of the receiving portion 9a is no longer parallel to the imaginary longitudinal axis of the base section 6f of the locking head 6a, but extends at right angles to each other. Therefore, the first plug connector 2 can no longer be pulled out from the second plug connector 3. The plug connection unit 1 is locked. The locking reliability of the plug connection unit 1 is further obtained by the combined action of the fastening leg 3d and the bolt 2e.

[0097] The hub of the drive gear 13b has a tool 17' ( Figure 5 The receiving portion 13c is a hexagonal socket. The receiving shaft 9 can be rotated together with the tool 17', and the tool 17' can be used to achieve emergency unlocking or emergency locking of the locking mechanism 4.

[0098] Further emergency unlocking or emergency locking of the locking mechanism 4 is also possible by using tool 17 to twist the key shaft 6 with the locking head 6a.

[0099] The locking mechanism 4 of the plug connection unit 1 is also equipped with an identification device 16, in Figure 3The identification device is shown only symbolically. The identification device 16 is assigned here to the second locking assembly 4'a and has an antenna that interacts with the identification element 16a (not shown but easily imagined) of the first locking assembly 4a. Here, the identification element 16a is only exemplarily installed in the locking head 6a of the key shaft 6. Figure 4 It can also be arranged in other locations of the first locking assembly 4a, such as in the bearing housings 5, 5a.

[0100] The identification element 16a is, for example, an RFID device, which stores information about the first plug connector 2. When the first plug connector 2 approaches the vicinity of the second plug connector 3 for an intentional insertion process, the identification device 16 wirelessly communicates with the identification element 16a. The information of the identification element 16a is then read by the identification device 16, which checks whether the first plug connector 2 is configured or adapted to engage with the second plug connector 3.

[0101] If mating is permitted in this manner, the second locking component 4'a is adjusted by the controller, via the drive unit 14, from the previous locked position (in which the first plug connector 2 and the second plug connector 3 cannot be mated) to the unlocked position as described above. At this point, the first plug connector 2 and the second plug connector 3 can be mated.

[0102] If the insertion process is completed correctly, this is detected by another detection device (e.g., a limit switch, not shown) that is easily conceived. For this purpose, guiding devices F, F' (not further described here) can be used. Figure 1 Subsequently, the controller causes the drive unit 14 to reset the second locking component 4'a from the unlocked position to the locked position as described above. In this way, the mated plug connection unit 1 is protected to prevent the first plug connector 2 from separating from the second plug connector 3.

[0103] If the identification device 16 does not allow insertion, the locking mechanism 4 remains in the locked position. Therefore, insertion of the plug connection unit 1 is not possible.

[0104] Power can be supplied to the controller, identification device 16, and drive unit 14 in different ways via the power supply line in the second plug connector 3. A rechargeable power storage device is also feasible. Inductive power supply is also conceivable.

[0105] The controller may have a microcomputer in the plug connection unit 1, for example, integrated in the second plug connector 3, or in the drive unit 14. Alternatively, the controller may be decentralized as part of a higher-level control device, wherein the microcomputer in the plug connection unit 1 can be connected to the higher-level control device.

[0106] Display devices 11 and 12 are provided to quickly identify the position of the locking mechanism 4 or the second locking component 4'a in the second plug connector 3.

[0107] Two display devices 11 and 12 are mounted in the end face 8d of the bearing housings 8 and 8a of the second locking assembly 4'a. For example, they can be implemented as red and green LEDs. When a release has been previously triggered by an inspection using the identification device 16, the green LED illuminates to indicate the unlocked position for inserting the first plug connector 2 into the second plug connector 3. If no such release occurs, the red LED illuminates and indicates the locked position. Insertion is impossible because the second locking assembly 4'a prevents insertion by its locked position.

[0108] Figure 6 A schematic flowchart of an embodiment of a method for controlling a locking mechanism 4 of a plug connection unit 1 according to the present invention is shown.

[0109] In the first method step S1, information about the first plug connector 2 to be mated with the second plug connector 3 is detected. Here, the information about the first plug connector 2 is read from the identification element 16a of the first plug connector 2 by the identification device 16 of the second plug connector 3.

[0110] Then, in the second method step S2, the information read in this manner is compared with the data of the second plug connector 3 previously stored in the controller. Based on this comparison, it is determined whether it is permissible to connect the first plug connector 2, intended for mating, to the second plug connector 3. If mating can be achieved in this manner, the locking mechanism 4, i.e., the second locking component 4'a here, is adjusted and / or twisted from the locked position to the unlocked position, wherein the receiving shaft 9 having the receiving portion 9a is adjusted and / or twisted from the locked position about the locking axis 7' to the unlocked position by means of the drive unit 14. If the comparison does not result in release for mating, the locking mechanism 4, i.e., the receiving portion 9a here, remains in the locked position.

[0111] In the third method step S3, the locking mechanism is adjusted and / or twisted from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0112] In the third method step S3, the position of the plug connectors 2 and 3 that are inserted sufficiently deep is also detected before the locking mechanism 4, i.e. the receiving shaft 9 with the receiving part 9a, is adjusted and / or twisted from the unlocked position relative to the locking axis by means of the drive unit 14.

[0113] When the plug connection unit 1 is pulled open, the locking mechanism, namely the locking component 4'a of the second plug connector 3, automatically returns to the locked position, thereby preventing incorrect mating with other plug connectors, such as those without identification element 16a.

[0114] For example, it is conceivable that the first plug connector 2 may also have a motor-driven drive unit with an adjustable locking head 6a. In this way, the adjustment and / or torsional movements of the combination of the receiving part 9a and the locking head 6a can be achieved.

[0115] List of reference numerals

[0116] 1 plug connection unit

[0117] 2, 3 plug connectors

[0118] 2a, 3a shell

[0119] 2b and 3b frameworks

[0120] 2c, 3c insertion side

[0121] 2D opening

[0122] 2e bolt

[0123] 2f cover

[0124] 3D Leg Strengthening

[0125] 4 Locking mechanisms

[0126] 4a, 4'a locking components

[0127] 5. 5a bearing housing

[0128] 5b Support section

[0129] 5c bearing section

[0130] 5d guidance section

[0131] 5e end face

[0132] 5f concave part

[0133] 5g drilling

[0134] 6-key shaft

[0135] 6a card lock

[0136] 6b main body

[0137] 6c flange

[0138] 6D driver end

[0139] 6e slot

[0140] 6f base segment

[0141] 6g middle section

[0142] 6h end face

[0143] 6i bottom

[0144] 7, 7' Locking Axis

[0145] 8. 8a bearing housing

[0146] 8b Support

[0147] 8c bearing bore

[0148] 9-axis housing

[0149] 9a containment section

[0150] 9b main body

[0151] 9c drive end

[0152] 9d interior space

[0153] 10-plate section

[0154] 10a through hole

[0155] 11, 12 display devices

[0156] 13 drive shafts

[0157] 13a Connecting Section

[0158] 13b drive gear

[0159] 13c Reception Section

[0160] 14 drive units

[0161] 14a output

[0162] 14b pinion

[0163] 15 Spring Elements

[0164] 16 Identification Devices

[0165] 16a identification element

[0166] 17, 17' tools

[0167] BR drilling

[0168] F, F' guiding device

[0169] R-rib

[0170] S1, S2, S3 Method Steps

Claims

1. A plug connection unit (1) having a first plug connector (2), a second plug connector (3), and a locking mechanism (4), wherein the locking mechanism (4) has a first locking component (4a) and a second locking component (4'a), wherein the locking mechanism (4) in a locked position prevents the first locking component (4a) from being inserted into the second locking component (4'a) or prevents the first locking component (4a) inserted into the second locking component (4'a) from being pulled out, and wherein the locking mechanism (4) in an unlocked position allows the first locking component (4a) to be inserted into the second locking component (4'a) or to be pulled out of the first locking component (4a) inserted into the second locking component (4'a). The first locking component (4a) has a locking head (6a) of a specific geometry, and the second locking component (4'a) has a receiving portion (9a) with a through hole (10a) of a specific geometry, wherein in the locked position, the specific geometry of the through hole (10a) is adjusted relative to the specific geometry of the locking head (6a) such that there is no overlap of the specific geometry, and wherein in the unlocked position, the specific geometry of the through hole (10a) is adjusted relative to the specific geometry of the locking head (6a) such that there is overlap of the specific geometry, wherein the receiving shaft (9) having the receiving portion (9a) is adjustablely supported in a bearing housing (8, 8a) in one of the two locking components (4a, 4'a) relative to the locking axis (7'), characterized in that, The receiving shaft (9) can be adjusted around the locking axis (7) of the receiving shaft (9) by means of a tool (17').

2. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The specific geometry of the locking head (6a) is the outer contour of the locking head (6a), and the specific geometry of the through hole (10a) of the receiving part (9a) is the inner contour of the through hole (10a) of the receiving part (9a).

3. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The receiving shaft (9) having the receiving part (9a) and the drive unit (14) connected to the receiving shaft (9) work together.

4. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The receiving shaft (9) is connected to the drive unit (14) via a gear transmission mechanism.

5. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The drive unit (14) is an electric, electromagnetic or pneumatic drive unit (14).

6. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2 is characterized in that, The locking head (6a) can be adjusted relative to the locking axis (7') by means of a tool (17).

7. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2 is characterized in that, The locking head (6a) is connected to the plug shaft (6), which is adjustablely supported in the bearing housing (5, 5a) of the other of the two locking assemblies (4a, 4'a).

8. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 3 is characterized in that, The locking mechanism (4) has an identification device (16) and at least one identification element (16a), wherein the identification device (16) is arranged in one of the locking components (4a, 4'a) and the at least one identification element (16a) is arranged in another locking component (4a, 4'a).

9. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 8 is characterized in that, The locking mechanism (4) has a display device (11, 12) for the status of the first plug connector (2) and the second plug connector (3).

10. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The locking mechanism (4) has a central and / or decentralized controller for the drive unit (14), the identification device (16) and the display device (11, 12).

11. The plug connection unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The plug connection unit has a detection device that detects the position of the first plug connector (2) and the second plug connector (3) that are inserted sufficiently deep.

12. A method for controlling the locking mechanism (4) of the plug connection unit (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The following methods and steps are included: S1 detects information about the first plug connector (2) that is to be plugged into the second plug connector (3), wherein the information about the first plug connector (2) is read by the identification device (16) of the second plug connector (3) from the identification element (16a) of the first plug connector (2); S2 compares the information thus read with the data of the second plug connector (3) previously stored in the controller, and if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector (2) is released for engagement with the second plug connector (3), the locking mechanism (4) is adjusted from the locked position to the unlocked position by means of the drive unit (14) relative to the locking axis (7'), or if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector (2) is not released for engagement with the second plug connector (3), the locking mechanism (4) is held in the locked position; S3 If the comparison indicates that the first plug connector (2) is released for mating with the second plug connector (3), then the first plug connector (2) is mated with the second plug connector (3), and the locking mechanism (4) is adjusted from the unlocked position to the locked position by means of the drive unit (14) relative to the locking axis (7').

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, In the comparison of method step S2, if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector (2) is released for mating with the second plug connector (3), then the display device (11, 12) on the second plug connector (3) indicates that the first plug connector (2) can be mated with the second plug connector (3), or if the comparison indicates that the first plug connector (2) is not released for mating with the second plug connector (3), then it indicates that the first plug connector (2) cannot be mated with the second plug connector (3).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that, In method step S3, before adjusting the locking mechanism (4) around the locking axis (7') from the unlocked position to the locked position by means of the drive unit (14), the positions of the first plug connector (2) and the second plug connector (3) that are inserted sufficiently deep are detected.

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