Protective device and method for assembling protective device

Abstract

The invention relates to a protection device and a method for assembling the protection device. Protective device for an interface between a cable (17), in particular a high-voltage cable, and a connector element (15), in particular a high-voltage connector, comprising a first housing element (11) and a second housing element (12), a first axial end region (14) and a second axial end region (16), wherein the first housing element (11) and the second housing element (12) are connectable by a clip connection (13), the first shaft end region (14) is configured to be connected to a connector element (15), and the second shaft end region (16) is configured to be connected to a cable (17).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a protection device for an interface between a cable, in particular a high voltage cable, and a connector element, in particular a high voltage connector. The invention also relates to a method for assembling the protection device. Background Art

[0002] The protection of cables (such as high voltage cables) is well known. However, such protection often fails to protect other critical points, particularly connector elements, such as high voltage connectors and interfaces with connector elements.

[0003] It is now apparent that a further need exists for providing a protective device for protecting connector components, cables, and the interfaces therebetween.

[0004] In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a protection device for protecting a connector and a cable and an interface therebetween. An object of the present invention is also to provide a method for assembling the protection device.

[0005] These and other objects which become apparent on reading the following description are solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. The dependent claims refer to preferred embodiments of the invention. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a protection device for an interface between a cable and a connector element is disclosed, the cable being in particular a high voltage cable, the connector element being in particular a high voltage connector, the protection device comprising:

[0007] A first housing element and a second housing element, wherein the first housing element and the second housing element can be connected by a clip connection, a first axial end area, configured to contact a connector element, in particular a high-voltage connector, and a second axial end area, configured to be connected to a cable, in particular a high-voltage cable.

[0008] The protection device provides protection at the interface between the cable and the connector element. Therefore, the protection device can also be described as a protection device of the interface or interface portion between the cable and the connector element. Specifically, the protection device can protect the connector element, the cable, and the interface between the cable and the connector element.

[0009] The protection device consists of two housing elements. The interior of each of the two housing elements is designed to accommodate a cable and a connector element. More precisely, the first axial end area is configured to contact the connector element, and the second axial end area is configured to contact the cable.

[0010] Thus, the protection device may protect the interface, or in other words, may protect the interface portion between the cable and the connector element.

[0011] The cable and the connection element may be used with an electric vehicle. For example, the connection element may be an electric vehicle connector. For example, the connection element may be a plug for connecting to a corresponding socket. The plug may be intended to interact with the socket of the electric vehicle.

[0012] The cable may be a high voltage cable, also referred to as a high voltage live cable. The protective device, in particular the second axial end region, may be in direct contact with the cable or the cable protection (eg a braided sleeve or a corrugated sleeve).

[0013] Therefore, the protection device may also be configured to act as a junction or bridge between the connection device and the cable protection.

[0014] The first housing element and the second housing element may be connected to a clip connector. The clip connector may also be described as a latching or snap-in connection. The clip connector is preferably tamper-proof. This means that the clip connector may not be opened without appropriate tools. According to the present disclosure, the clip connector may consist of a protective device.

[0015] The protective device is designed to be arranged on the cable. The protective device can protect the cable from abrasion. It can provide protection for the connector elements, the cable and their interfaces from other damage, such as pulling or bending. This can reduce the risk of exposed wiring. As an example, repeated use of the cable can cause critical areas of the material to deteriorate, such as exposed wiring. Exposed wiring may be a fire hazard or cause electric shock injuries. By using the protective device according to the present invention, the life of the current and connector elements can be extended.

[0016] In an embodiment, the clip connector is operable by an opening device. Preferably, the clip connector can only be opened by an opening device. The opening device can be a tool for opening the clip connector. This feature allows the clip connector to be tamper-proof.

[0017] In an embodiment, the first axial end region has a larger diameter than the second axial end region. This allows adapting the protection device to the cable and the connector element.

[0018] In an embodiment, the clip connector comprises at least two, preferably four, clip elements. The clip connector preferably comprises a plurality of clip elements. A plurality of clip elements allows for a better connection of the two housing elements. This also makes it more difficult for a person to open the protective device without special tools.

[0019] In an embodiment, at least one clip element is arranged in the first axial end region and at least one clip connection piece is arranged in the second axial end region.The clip connection piece on the respective axial end region allows good contact with the cable and the connector element.

[0020] In an embodiment, the first housing element and the second housing element are connected by a hinge. The hinge facilitates quick and easy handling of the protective device. The hinge preferably extends in the longitudinal direction of the protective device. In other words, the protective device can be folded together to connect the clip connector. The hinge preferably connects the first housing element and the second housing element. The first housing element and the second housing element can each have a symmetrical shape.

[0021] In an embodiment, the second axial end region comprises a form fitting element and / or a force fitting element configured to interact with the cable. This allows relieving tension or stress in the cable, for example when it is pulled or bent during use.

[0022] In an embodiment, the first axial end region comprises a form-fitting element and / or a force-fitting element configured to interact with the connector element. This allows to relieve tension or stress of the connector element and the interface with the cable, for example when being pulled or bent.

[0023] In an embodiment, the protection device is configured to be arranged on two cables. For example, the protection device may have two separate substantially cylindrical parts, which are arranged next to each other. Each cylindrical part may be designed to accommodate a portion of a cable and a portion of a connector element.

[0024] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system comprising at least one protection device according to any one of the above embodiments and a connector element and / or a cable, the connector element being in particular a high voltage connector, the cable being in particular a high voltage cable. The system can be configured for use with an electric vehicle.

[0025] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an electric vehicle comprising a system according to any one of the above-described embodiments.

[0026] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for arranging a protective device at an interface between a cable and a connector element, the cable being in particular a high-voltage cable, and the connector element being in particular a high-voltage connector, the method comprising: providing a cable and a connector element, the cable being in particular a high-voltage cable, and the connector element being in particular a high-voltage connector, providing a protective device according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments, arranging the cable in a first housing element or a second housing element so that a first axial end region contacts the cable and a second axial end region contacts the connector element, connecting the corresponding remaining housing elements with a clamp element 15 so that a first axial end region 14 is form-fitted and / or force-fitted with the connector element, and a second axial end region 16 is form-fitted and / or force-fitted with the cable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a deeper understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application, illustrate embodiments of the present invention and are used to explain the principles of the present invention. The accompanying drawings show:

[0028] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface between a cable and a connector element;

[0029] Figure 2 is based on Figure 1 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface with cable protection;

[0030] Figure 3 is based on Figure 2 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface with an embodiment of a protection device;

[0031] Figure 4 is based on Figure 3 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface of an embodiment of a protective device in an assembled state;

[0032] Figure 5 is based on Figure 3 A cutout having an interface for protecting the device;

[0033] Figure 5a is based on Figure 5 Close-up view of protective equipment;

[0034] Figure 5b is based on Figure 5 Another close-up view of the protective equipment;

[0035] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface between a cable and a connector element;

[0036] Figure 7 is based on Figure 6 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface with another embodiment of a protection device;

[0037] Figure 8 is based on Figure 7 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface with interface elements;

[0038] Fig. 9 is based on Figure 8 A three-dimensional view of a schematic diagram of an interface;

[0039] Fig.10 is based on Fig. 9 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface with a braided sleeve;

[0040] Fig.11 is based on Fig.10 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of the interface in an assembled state;

[0041] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface of two cables having a connector element;

[0042] Fig.13 is based on Fig.12 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface with cable protection;

[0043] Fig.14 is based on Figure 2 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface with another embodiment of a protection device;

[0044] Fig.15 is based on Figure 3 A perspective view of a schematic diagram of an interface of an embodiment of a protective device in an assembled state; and

[0045] Fig.16 is a schematic flow chart of the method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Figures 1 to 4 Different steps of a method for arranging a protection device at an interface between a cable and a connector element are illustrated. In the following embodiment, a protection device 10 is described, for example, for an interface between a high voltage connector and a high voltage cable. Alternatively, other types of connector elements and cables are possible.

[0047] Figures 1 to 5b The system is illustrated. The system comprises a cable 17, in particular a high voltage cable 17, and a connector element 15, in particular a high voltage connector, the cable 17 being in particular a high voltage cable 17, the connector element 15 being in particular a high voltage connector. The connector element 15 is arranged on an axial end of the cable 17. As an example, the connector element 15 can be configured to be connected to a socket. The system can be configured for use with an electric vehicle.

[0048] Figure 2 A cable protection element 19 is shown. In this embodiment, the cable protection element 19 is designed as a flexible corrugated cylinder. Other shapes may also be possible. The cable protection element 19 can also be described as a conduit. The cable protection element 19 surrounds the cable 17 in the circumferential direction. The cable protection element 19 extends along the longitudinal axis of the cable 17. The cable protection element 19 protects the cable 17, for example from cutting or abrasion.

[0049] There is a gap between the cable protection element 19 and the connector element 15. In other words, the cable protection element 19 does not contact the connector element 15. Therefore, it will be understood that the cable protection element cannot protect the interface between the cable and the connector element.

[0050] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment, the protective device is arranged in the region of the gap.

[0051] The protection device comprises a first housing element 11 and a second housing element 12. A cable 17 and a connector element 15 are arranged in the first housing element 11 of the protection device 10.

[0052] The first housing element 11 and the second housing element 12 can be connected by means of a clip connection 13. In other words, the protective device can be closed by means of the clip connection 13.

[0053] The first housing element 11 and the second housing element 12 each have a cylindrical geometry. Specifically, at the inner surface, the inner surface configured to surround the cable 17 has a cylindrical geometry. Other shapes may also be possible. The protection device 10 is configured to wrap (i.e. surround) a portion of the cable 17 with the cable protection element 19 and the connector element 15. The cable protection element 19 can be defined as a portion of the cable 17.

[0054] The protection device 10 further comprises a first axial end region 14 configured to be in contact with a connector element 15, such as an electric vehicle connector 15, and a second axial end region 16 configured to be connected to a cable 17, preferably a high voltage cable 17. The second axial end region 16 may also be configured to be connected to a cable protection element 19.

[0055] Figure 4 The diagram shows Figure 3 An embodiment of the protective device 10 with a closed state. This means that the first housing element 11 and the second housing element 12 can be connected by a clip connection 13.

[0056] The clip connection 13 comprises four clip elements 18. Each clip element 18 comprises a tongue element 20 with a locking device. The locking device is formed as a protrusion on the tip of the tongue element 20. The locking device extends in the radial direction of the protective device. The tongue element 20 interacts with a corresponding groove 21. The groove 21 is arranged at the second housing element 12. The groove 21 can also be described as a window.

[0057] The clip connector 13 is designed to be tamper-proof. More precisely, the clip connector 13 can only be opened by a special tool. The clip connector 13 (i.e. the clip element 18) is designed so that opening by hand is impossible or at least almost impossible. For example, the material of the tongue element 20 and the spring force generated thereby may be too large to be operated or opened by hand without any tool. Likewise, the groove 21 and the locking device can be designed so that it is impossible for them to interact with the locking device on the tongue element 20. For example, the groove and the locking device can be designed to be smaller than a fingertip.

[0058] Figure 5 , Figure 5a and Figure 5b The diagram shows Figure 4 The protective device 10 will be described in more detail with the aid of the figures.

[0059] The first axial end region 14 is in contact with a connector element 15 . The second axial end region 16 is in contact with a cable 17 , more precisely with a cable protection element 19 .

[0060] The protection device 10 comprises a circumferential protrusion 22. The circumferential protrusion 22 is arranged in the second axial end region 16. The circumferential protrusion 22 is configured to interact with the surface of the cable 17. In particular, the circumferential protrusion 22 is preferably configured to form a form fit with the surface of the corrugated sleeve. The circumferential protrusion 22 is arranged on the inner wall of the protection device 10 and extends radially inwards.

[0061] The connector element 15 comprises a circumferential groove 23. The circumferential groove 23 is configured to form a form fit with a further circumferential protrusion 24. The further circumferential protrusion 24 is arranged in the first axial end region 14 of the protection device 10. More precisely, the further circumferential protrusion 24 is arranged on the inner wall and extends radially inwards towards the connector element 15 and away from the protection device 10.

[0062] Figures 6 to 11 The steps of arranging another embodiment of a protection device on the cable 17 and the connector element 15 are illustrated. Figures 7 to 11 The protection device 10 shown is similar to the protection device 10 described in the previous embodiments. Figures 7 to 11 The protection device 10 in FIG. 1 is configured to be connected to the cable 17 via a braided sleeve. In this embodiment, the braided sleeve is a cable protection element 19 of the cable 17. In order to connect the braided sleeve with the protection device 10, an interface element 25 can be used.

[0063] An interface element 25 is arranged in the second axial end region 16 of the protection device. The interface element 25 is designed to provide an interface between the braided sleeve of the cable 17 and the protection device 10. The interface element 25 comprises a circumferential slot 27. The circumferential slot 27 is configured to accommodate an annular stop 28.

[0064] The interface element 25 has a cylindrical shape and surrounds the cable 17 in the circumferential direction. Fig. 9 In the embodiment, the interface element 25 is arranged in the protective element 10. The interface element 25 is fixed in the protective element 10 by means of a circumferential slot 27 and an annular stop 28.

[0065] exist Fig.10 In the embodiment, the braided sleeve is arranged on the interface element 25. In this state, the braided sleeve is loosely arranged on the interface element 25. In order to firmly fix the braided sleeve to the interface element 25, a cable tie or clamp can be used, such as Fig.11 The interface element 25 may include another groove for receiving a cable tie or clamp and providing a better grip.

[0066] Fig.12 Two cables 17 are shown, connected to the connector element 15. More precisely, both cables 17 are connected to the same connector element 15. Fig.13 In the embodiment, a corrugated sleeve or protective element 19 is arranged around each cable 17 .

[0067] exist Fig.14 In the embodiment, the first housing element 11 is arranged at the cable 17 and the connector element 15. Fig.15 In the embodiment, the second housing element 12 is connected to the first housing element 11 .

[0068] according to Fig.15 The protection device 10 is configured to accommodate two cables 17. The protection device 10 comprises two cylindrical accommodation areas for the cables 17 and the connector element 15. Each accommodation area may comprise features of the above-described embodiments. Fig.15 The embodiment is configured to accommodate two cables 17 or to be arranged on two cables 17.

[0069] according to Fig.15 The embodiment is configured to accommodate two cables 17 or to be arranged on two cables 17.

[0070] Fig.16 A method for assembling the protection device onto the cable 17 is illustrated.

[0071] In a first step S1 , a cable (in this example a high voltage cable) 17 and a connector element 15 (in this example a high voltage connector) are provided, to which the cable is connected.

[0072] In a second step S2, a protection device 10 is provided. The protection device may be a protection device according to one of the above described embodiments.

[0073] In a third step S3 , the high voltage cable is arranged in the first housing element 11 or the second housing element 12 so that the first axial end region 14 is in contact with the high voltage cable and the second axial end region 16 is in contact with the connector element 15 .

[0074] In a fourth step S4 , the respective remaining housing elements are connected to the clamp element 18 so that the first axial end region 14 forms a positive and / or non-positive fit with the connector element and the second axial end region 16 forms a positive and / or non-positive fit with the cable.

[0075] Any disclosure and embodiment described herein relates to the protection devices, systems, electric vehicles and methods listed above or below, and vice versa. The benefits provided by any embodiment and example are also applicable to all other embodiments and examples, and vice versa.

[0076] It should be noted that all embodiments of the method disclosed herein can be performed in the order of the steps described, however, this is not the only and basic order of the steps of the method. Without departing from the corresponding method, the method proposed herein can be performed in another order of the steps disclosed, unless otherwise explicitly mentioned below.

[0077] By studying the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims, other variations of the disclosed embodiments can be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art while practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude plural forms. A single processor or other unit can implement the functions of several items or steps described in the claims. The fact that certain measures are described in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously. Any reference symbol in the claims should not be considered to limit the scope of this claim.

[0078] Reference numerals list

[0079] 10. Protect your equipment

[0080] 11 First housing element

[0081] 12 Second housing element

[0082] 13 Clip connector

[0083] 14First shaft end area

[0084] 15 Connector elements

[0085] 16 Second shaft end area

[0086] 17 Cables

[0087] 18 Clip elements

[0088] 19 Cable protection element

[0089] 20 tongue element

[0090] 21 grooves

[0091] 22 Circumferential protrusion

[0092] 23 Circumferential groove

[0093] 24 Another circumference protrudes

[0094] 25Interface components

[0095] 26 Hinge

[0096] 27 Circumferential Slots

[0097] 28 Ring stopper

Claims

1. A protection device for an interface between a cable (17) and a connector element (15), the cable being in particular a high voltage cable, the connector element being in particular a high voltage connector, the protection device comprising: - a first housing element (11) and a second housing element (12), wherein the first housing element (11) and the second housing element (12) are connectable by a clip connection (13), - a first axial end region (14) configured to be connected to a connector element (15), in particular a high-voltage connector, and - a second axial end region (16) configured to be connected to a cable (17), in particular a high-voltage cable.

2. Protection device according to claim 1, wherein the clip connection (13) is configured to be operable using a designated opening device.

3. Protection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first axial end region (14) has a larger diameter than the second axial end region (16).

4. Protection device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the clip connection (13) comprises at least two clip elements (18), preferably four clip elements (18).

5. The protection device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one clip element (18) is arranged in the first axial end region (14) and at least one clip element (18) is arranged in the second axial end region (16).

6. Protection device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing element (11) and the second housing element (12) are connected by a hinge (26).

7. Protection device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second axial end region (16) comprises a positive-fit element and / or a non-positive-fit element configured to interact with the cable (17).

8. Protection device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first axial end region (14) comprises a form-fitting element and / or a force-fitting element configured to interact with the connector element (15).

9. Protection device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the protection device is configured to be arranged on two cables (17).

10. A system comprising at least one protection device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, a connector element (15) and / or a cable (17), the cable being in particular a high voltage cable, the connector element being in particular a high voltage connector.

11. An electric vehicle comprising the system according to claim 10.

12. A method for arranging a protection device at an interface between a cable, in particular a high-voltage cable, and a connector element (15), the method comprising: - providing a cable (17), in particular a high-voltage cable, and a connector element (15), in particular a high-voltage connector, to which the cable is connected, - providing a protection device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, - arranging the cable in the first housing element (11) or the second housing element (12) such that the first axial end region (14) is in contact with the cable and the second axial end region (16) is in contact with the connector element (15), - Connect the corresponding remaining housing elements to the clamp element (15) so that the first axial end area (14) is in a shape fit and / or force fit with the connector element (15), and the second axial end area (16) is in a shape fit and / or force fit with the cable (17).

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