Electrical plug connector arrangement, mater plug connector, locking element and kit comprising same

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical plug connector arrangement (1), comprising a plug connector (2) and a mating plug connector (3), each of which has electrical plug contact elements (4a, 4b) associated with one another, and comprising a locking element (5) provided on the plug connector (2), the invention relates to a locking element (5) for mechanically locking a plug connector (2) to a mating plug connector (3), the locking element (5) being configured for releasable fastening to the mating plug connector (3), characterized in that the locking element (5) has a guide section (6) with a form-fitting profile (7), the mating plug connector (3) has a guide receptacle (8) with a form-fitting contour (9) for form-fitting receptacle and guide of the locking element (5) on the plug connector (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical plug connector device, which has a plug connector and a mating plug connector, wherein the plug connector and the mating plug connector respectively have electrical plug contact elements associated with each other, and the electrical plug connector device has a locking element arranged at the plug connector, which is used to mechanically lock the plug connector at the mating plug connector, wherein the locking element is configured to be releasably fastened to the mating plug connector.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to an electrical mating plug connector and a locking element for such a plug connector arrangement. The invention also relates to a kit consisting of a plug connector, a mating plug connector and a locking element for such a plug connector arrangement.

[0003] The invention generally relates to the field of electrical connection technology. An electrical plug connector device is used to simply and quickly establish a releasable electrical connection between an electrical plug connector and an electrical mating plug connector. To establish the electrical connection, the plug connector and the mating plug connector each have electrical plug contact elements associated with each other. Background Art

[0004] In order to mechanically fix the plug connection between the plug connector and the mating plug connector, it is known to lock the plug connector and the mating plug connector to each other by means of a locking element. The locking element can be permanently fastened to the plug connector, or can be a releasable independent accessory element. Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a plug connector device of the type mentioned above, which has an easy-to-operate and reliable mechanical fixing mechanism. In particular, the risk of accidental release of the lock when a tensile force acts on the locking element should be reduced.

[0006] This object is achieved by means of a plug connector arrangement according to the invention, a mating plug connector according to the invention, a locking element according to the invention and a kit according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments can be gathered from the description and the drawings.

[0007] According to the present invention, a plug connector device is provided, the plug connector device having a plug connector and a mating plug connector, the plug connector and the mating plug connector respectively having electrical plug contact elements associated with each other, and the plug connector device having a locking element arranged at the plug connector, the locking element being used to mechanically lock the plug connector at the mating plug connector, wherein the locking element is configured to be releasably fastened to the mating plug connector, wherein the locking element has a guide section with a form-fitting profile, and wherein the mating plug connector has a guide receptacle with a form-fitting profile, the form-fitting profile being used to form-fittingly accommodate and guide the locking element at the mating plug connector. In other words, a plug connector device is realized, wherein the locking element can be sunk into the provided receptacle of the mating plug connector and is held and guided therein in a form-fitting manner.

[0008] The proposed plug connector device improves the connection safety, also referred to below as locking safety, and the locking force between the plug connector and the mating plug connector, and reliably prevents the locking from accidentally releasing when a tensile force acts. The locking element is stabilized and the fastening of the locking element to the mating plug connector is ensured by supporting the locking element on the guide receptacle of the mating plug connector and by the form fit between the form-fitting profile of the locking element and the form-fitting contour of the mating plug connector. The increased locking safety makes it possible to reliably lock a small and compact plug connector device. In addition, due to the increased locking safety, for example, the dimensions of the fastening structure of the locking element for fastening to the plug connector can be determined to be smaller. In addition, due to the improved locking safety, the locking element can be designed with a higher elasticity or a lower bending stiffness, so that an improved handling of the locking element is achieved.

[0009] The plug connector and the mating plug connector have plug contact elements associated with each other. Here, being associated with each other means that the plug contact elements of the plug connector are configured to be connected to the corresponding plug contact elements of the mating plug connector, for example, the plug contact elements associated with each other have plug profiles that match each other. For example, the plug connector can have a contact pin as a plug contact element, and the mating plug connector can have a contact pin socket that matches the contact pin as a plug contact element, or vice versa. The plug connector and the mating plug connector can also have a plurality of plug contact elements respectively, so that the plug contact elements of the mentioned connectors can be configured, for example, as pin strips and corresponding socket boards. The surface of the plug connector or the mating plug connector, on which at least one of the plug contact elements is arranged, can be called a plug surface. The plug surface can additionally have at least one coding element, by which the plug connector and the mating plug connector must be plugged together in a preset orientation relative to each other, so that incorrect plugging can be reliably prevented.

[0010] The guide section of the locking element can be a region of the locking element that is suitable for guiding in a suitable receiving portion of the mating plug connector. The guide section can be arranged in particular at the outer contour of the locking element, for example at the edge of the component of the locking element. The guide section can be arranged at the end section of the locking element facing the mating plug connector. If the locking element is arranged at the plug connector, the guide section can be arranged in a manner adjacent to the plug surface of the plug connector. The guide section can have a form-fitting profile, which is formed by a specific geometric shape of the locking element in the guide section. For example, the form-fitting profile can be formed by a profile portion that protrudes relative to the basic shape of the locking element. The form-fitting profile can be a lateral form-fitting profile formed at the lateral component edge of the locking element. If the locking element is arranged at the plug connector and the plug connector moves in the plug direction toward the mating plug connector, the lateral component edge of the locking element can, for example, extend parallel to the plug direction of the plug connector. The locking element can be designed in a predominantly planar manner in its guide section, wherein a positive-fitting profile can be formed on its lateral edge faces or edge faces. In the proposed plug connector device, the locking element is arranged on the plug connector, for example, it is releasably or permanently fastened to the plug connector. The locking element can extend predominantly along the plug connector, for example, more than 70% or more than 80% of the surface of the locking element facing the plug connector can extend along the surface of the plug connector.

[0011] The guide receptacle of the mating plug connector can be the area of ​​the mating plug connector in which the guide section of the locking element can be guided. The guide receptacle can, for example, form a linear guide for the locking element in which the guide section of the locking element can be moved translationally. The guide receptacle can, for example, have one or more grooves having a shape that matches the form-fitting profile of the locking element, the one or more grooves forming a form-fitting profile for the form-fitting profile. The form-fitting profile can, for example, be the negative of the form-fitting profile of the locking element. For example, the form-fitting profile can be formed by a profile portion that is recessed relative to the basic shape of the mating plug connector. The guide receptacle can be formed at the mating plug connector housing of the mating plug connector.

[0012] The guide receptacle of the mating plug connector and the guide section of the locking element can be dimensioned such that they are provided with a clearance fit in order to enable easy introduction and movement of the locking element in the mating plug connector.

[0013] A positive fit or a positive fit guidance may be understood as a technical connection or guidance in which the connection partner or the guide partner, here the guide section of the locking element and the guide receptacle of the mating plug connector, are contoured to match one another geometrically and engage into one another.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the form-fitting profile of the locking element can be configured for an undercut fit with a form-fitting profile of a mating plug connector. A secure form fit can be achieved by the undercut fit. In the case of an undercut fit, the active surface of the form-fitting profile and the active surface of the form-fitting profile can be arranged overlapping each other, so that at least one degree of freedom of the form-fitting profile guided in the form-fitting profile is blocked. In other words, the form-fitting profile is configured for engaging the form-fitting profile from behind.

[0015] The overlapping arrangement of the positively locking profile of the locking element and the mating plug connector or the undercut fit prevents the planar guide section from being deflected perpendicularly to the surface extension of the guide section under tensile load, thereby effectively preventing an unintentional release of the lock in a structurally simple manner.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the profile element of the form-fitting profile can be formed at the side profile of the locking element. If the locking element is arranged at the plug connector and the plug connector moves in the plug-in direction toward the mating plug connector, the side profile can, for example, extend substantially parallel to the plug-in direction of the plug connector. The side profile can, for example, extend substantially orthogonally to the end edge of the locking element facing the mating plug connector. The side profile can, for example, extend substantially orthogonally to the fastening edge of the locking element, which is provided for fastening on the mating plug connector. The plug-in direction of the plug connector can be the displacement direction of the plug connector toward the mating plug connector, by means of plug contact elements facing each other to establish an electrical connection. When the plug connector is displaced in the plug-in direction toward the mating plug connector, for example, the locking element fastened on the plug connector can be introduced into the guide receiving portion of the mating plug connector. The profile element can be a component of the form-fitting profile, for example, a profile section of the form-fitting profile: the profile section can be accommodated in the form-fitting profile in a form-fitting manner, such as a projection. If a profile element with a form-fitting profile is formed at the side contour of the locking element, it is possible to guide the locking element laterally in the guide receptacle. As a result, the locking element can be easily introduced into the guide receptacle. In addition, a compact guidance possibility is provided without significantly increasing the structural space. In addition, the locking element can thereby advantageously be stabilized laterally, so that tensile forces cannot cause an unintentional release of the locking element. Depending on the embodiment, the profile element can extend over the entire side contour of the locking element, whereby a simplified production of the locking element can be associated, or can extend only over a portion of the side contour, for example in order to limit the insertion depth of the locking element into the guide receptacle or to provide an optical inspection possibility for the locked state.

[0017] According to one embodiment, a profile element with a form-fitting profile can be formed at two mutually opposite side contours of the locking element. As a result, the locking element can be guided in the guide receptacle on both sides, so that the locking safety is further improved, and a two-sided or symmetrical support and force introduction of the locking element on the guide receptacle is possible. In other words, the locking element has profile elements on both sides, which together form a form-fitting profile of the locking element. The profile element can be configured to be essentially identical in geometry at the two side contours, wherein left-right inverted or mirrored embodiments of the profile element can be regarded as essentially identical configurations. In principle, it is also conceivable to design the profile element differently in geometry at the two side contours, for example, to have different geometric basic shapes.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the form-fitting profile of the locking element and the form-fitting profile of the mating plug connector can be configured as inclined surfaces that are inclined correspondingly to each other. As a result, a form fit between the guide section of the locking element and the guide receptacle of the mating plug connector can be achieved in a simple manner. For example, the form-fitting profile and the inclined surfaces of the form-fitting profile that are opposite to each other can have essentially the same inclination, so that the inclined surfaces can extend parallel to each other and slide on each other during the guidance of the guide section of the locking element in the guide receptacle of the mating plug connector. By means of the inclined inclined surfaces of the form-fitting profile, a cross-sectional widening can be formed in the guide receptacle, which cross-sectional widening achieves an undercut fit and a form-fitting guidance with the inclined surface of the form-fitting profile. According to a refinement of the embodiment, two inclined surfaces spaced apart from each other with opposite inclination angles can be provided at the form-fitting profile and the form-fitting profile, respectively. Thus, for example, a form-fitting contour can have a conical cross-sectional widening of a guide receptacle starting from a component contour adjacent to the form-fitting contour, and a form-fitting profile can have a conical cross-sectional widening of a guide section starting from a component contour adjacent to the form-fitting profile, wherein the conical cross-sectional widenings of the locking element and of the mating plug connector are designed to match one another, thereby achieving a safe form-fitting guidance.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the form-fitting profile can be designed as a symmetrical form-fitting profile, and the form-fitting profile can be designed as a symmetrical form-fitting profile. As a result, a symmetrical form-fitting match can be provided, and a uniform force introduction of the guide section of the locking element into the guide receptacle of the mating plug connector is possible by means of the symmetrical form-fitting match. In order to form a symmetrical form-fitting profile, for example, a geometrically identical profile element can be formed on two mutually opposite side contours of the locking element. In order to form a symmetrical form-fitting profile, for example, a groove corresponding to the profile element can be formed on two mutually opposite inner contours of the guide receptacle.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the form-fitting profile can be designed as an asymmetric form-fitting profile, and the form-fitting profile can be designed as an asymmetric form-fitting profile. In this way, an asymmetric form-fitting adaptation can be provided, by means of which, for example, additional coding functions can be realized. In order to form an asymmetric form-fitting profile, for example, different profile elements can be formed at two mutually opposite side profiles of the locking element, or only one profile element can be formed at only one side profile. In order to form an asymmetric form-fitting profile, for example, a groove corresponding to a different profile element can be formed at two mutually opposite inner contours of the guide receptacle, or only one groove can be formed at an inner contour of the guide receptacle.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the form-fitting profile can be designed as a dovetail profile and the form-fitting profile can be designed as a dovetail profile. A reliable form fit can thereby be produced in a simple manner. The dovetail profile can be shaped and dimensioned in a manner matching the dovetail profile, wherein advantageously there is a clearance fit in order to simplify the introduction and guidance of the guide section of the locking element in the guide receptacle. The dovetail profile and the dovetail profile can have a cross-sectional reduction transversely to the plug-in direction of the plug connector, so that the dovetail profile can engage the dovetail profile from behind in a form-fitting manner and prevent the guide section from falling out of the guide receptacle.

[0022] In principle, alternatively or in addition to the dovetail geometry, other form-fitting geometries are also conceivable, which may be based on a T-shaped profile, a mushroom profile or a round head profile, for example.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the locking element can have a first fastening structure for fastening the locking element to the plug connector. The first fastening structure can be configured in particular for releasably fastening the locking element to the plug connector. The first fastening structure can be configured in particular for fastening the locking element to the plug connector without tools. The first fastening structure can be formed integrally with the locking element. Examples of such fastening structures can be plug profiles or clamping structures. The plug connector can have a receiving structure, such as a plug opening, for accommodating the first fastening structure of the locking element. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the plug connector has a first fastening structure for fastening the locking element to the plug connector.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the locking element may have a second fastening structure for fastening the locking element to the mating plug connector. The second fastening structure may be configured in particular for releasably fastening the locking element to the mating plug connector. The second fastening structure may be formed integrally with the locking element. The second fastening structure may be configured in particular for fastening the locking element to the mating plug connector without tools. The plug connector may thereby be locked to the mating plug connector by means of the locking element. The mating plug connector may have a receiving structure for accommodating the second fastening structure of the locking element, the receiving structure being configured for a form-fitting connection. To this end, the form-fitting profile of the locking element may be configured for an undercut fit with the form-fitting profile of the guide receptacle of the mating plug connector, so that a reliable form fit is achieved by the overlap of the form-fitting profile and the active surface of the form-fitting profile associated therewith.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the mating plug connector has a second fastening structure for fastening the locking element to the mating plug connector. The second fastening structure of the locking element can be arranged spaced apart from the first fastening structure of the locking element, which may be present, in particular at a spacing corresponding to the distance between the receiving structure of the mating plug connector and the receiving structure of the plug connector when they are plugged together. Compared to the first fastening structure, the second fastening structure can be arranged closer to the free end section of the locking element facing the mating plug connector. The fastening structure can be designed as a locking structure, for example in that a locking edge on the receiving structure forms a locking stop for a locking tab on the locking element. This makes it possible to fasten the locking element to the mating plug connector in a releasable manner without tools.

[0026] According to an advantageous improvement of the above-mentioned embodiment of the fastening structure of the locking element, the first fastening structure and / or the second fastening structure can be configured as a locking structure. The locking structure can be, for example, a locking flange, a locking tab, a locking hook or a locking cam. The locking structure can be locked in an elastically deformable and releasable manner at a receiving structure of a plug connector or a mating plug connector, and the receiving structure can be configured, for example, as a locking edge or a locking opening. With the aid of the locking structure, it is feasible to fasten the locking element to the plug connector and / or the mating plug connector very simply, without tools and releasably. In addition, a locking structure or a plurality of locking structures can be configured in one piece with the locking element. Here, the entire locking element can be formed by a mainly elastic material, and the material at least partially gives the locking element elastic deformability according to the shape, so that the locking process and the process of releasing from the locking can be easily performed. With the aid of a locking element that is elastically deformable at least in sections, the above-mentioned advantage of stable guidance of the guide section of the locking element in the guide receptacle of the mating plug-in connector is enhanced, since the simple operation of the locking element that is elastically deformable at least in sections is combined with increased locking security that prevents accidental release of the locking element from the mating plug-in connector.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the locking element may have an unlocking element. The unlocking element may be a mechanical element that enables or simplifies the intentional release of the locking element from the mating plug connector. The unlocking element may, for example, be configured to release the second fastening structure of the locking element from the mating plug connector. The unlocking element may, for example, be an elastically deformable tab, which may, for example, be configured to move the locking structure of the locking element out of a locked position in which the locking structure engages with the receiving structure of the mating plug connector. The unlocking element may, for example, be a lever for prying open the locking hook. The unlocking element may, for example, be arranged between two side profiles of the locking element, at which at least one profile element may be formed, and the locking element may partially span the locking element as an elastically deformable tab in a bridge-like manner.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the locking element can be designed as a locking pawl. In the field of electronic connection technology, a locking pawl is a main surface-shaped accessory element for a plug connector device, which is used to lock the plug connector on a mating plug connector. The locking pawl can be configured as a separately available accessory element for selectively being arranged on the plug connector and the mating plug connector and fixing them to each other.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the plug connector device can have a connecting member, which extends in a manner adjacent to the guide receptacle of the mating plug connector. Thus, the guide section of the locking element guided in the guide receptacle can be additionally supported on the connecting member, so that the locking security is further increased. The connecting member can delimit the guide receptacle at the open side of the guide receptacle. The connecting member can be, for example, a planar circuit carrier, such as a circuit board.

[0030] The invention also relates to an electrical mating plug connector for a plug connector device according to any of the above features, wherein the mating plug connector has a guide receptacle with a form-fitting contour for receiving and guiding a locking element in a form-fitting manner. With such a mating plug connector, the locking safety of the plug connector device formed together with the mating plug connector can be advantageously increased and the locking of the plug connector device can be reliably prevented from being accidentally released when a tensile force acts on the locking element.

[0031] The mating plug connector can advantageously be designed according to one of the features described in conjunction with the proposed plug connector arrangement, for example

[0032] - has a form-fitting contour configured for undercut engagement with a form-fitting profile of the locking element;

[0033] - having a form-fitting profile with an inclined sloping surface;

[0034] - have a symmetrical form-fitting profile;

[0035] - have an asymmetric form-fitting profile;

[0036] - having a dovetail profile as a form-fitting profile;

[0037] - a receiving structure having a second fastening structure for the locking element, such as a locking edge or a locking opening; and / or

[0038] - having a connecting member extending adjacent to the guide receptacle.

[0039] The invention also relates to a locking element for a plug connector device according to any of the above features, wherein the locking element has a guide section with a positive-fitting profile. With such a locking element, the locking safety of the plug connector device formed together with the locking element can be advantageously increased, and the locking of the plug connector device can be reliably prevented from being accidentally released when a tensile force acts on the locking element.

[0040] The locking element can advantageously be designed in a manner according to one of the features described in conjunction with the proposed plug connector device, for example

[0041] - having a form-fitting profile configured for undercut engagement with a form-fitting profile of a mating plug connector of the plug connector arrangement;

[0042] a profile element having a positive-fitting profile formed on the side contour of the locking element;

[0043] - a profile element having a form-fitting profile on each of two mutually opposite side contours of the locking element;

[0044] - having a form-fitting profile with an inclined sloping surface;

[0045] - have a symmetrical form-fitting profile;

[0046] - have an asymmetric form-fitting profile;

[0047] - having a dovetail profile as a form-fitting profile;

[0048] - having a first fastening structure for fastening the locking element to the plug connector of the plug connector device, wherein the first fastening structure can be designed as a locking structure, for example;

[0049] - having a second fastening structure for fastening the locking element to the mating plug connector, wherein the second fastening structure can be designed as a locking structure, for example;

[0050] - has an unlocking element; and / or

[0051] - is configured as a locking pawl.

[0052] The invention also relates to a kit consisting of a plug connector, a mating plug connector and a locking element, which is used to form a plug connector arrangement according to any of the above features. The above-mentioned advantages of increased locking security can also be achieved with the proposed kit.

[0053] Generally speaking, in the context of the present application, unless explicitly defined otherwise, the terms “a” and “an” should not be understood as a numeral, but should be understood as an indefinite article having the literal meaning “at least one”. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] The present invention allows for different embodiments and is explained in detail below based on an example with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings show in a schematic manner:

[0055] Figure 1a to Figure 1b A plug connector for a plug connector device is shown in a perspective bottom view and a front view;

[0056] Figure 2a to Figure 2d A mating plug connector for the plug connector device is shown in a perspective top view, a front view, a side section view and a perspective bottom view;

[0057] Figure 3a to Figure 3c A locking element for a plug connector device is shown in a perspective top view, a perspective bottom view and a side view;

[0058] Figures 4a to 4d The bottom perspective view, the front view, the side section view and the partially cut-away rear view show the Figure 1a to Figure 1b A plug connector having a Figure 3a to Figure 3c A locking element disposed thereat;

[0059] Figure 5a to Figure 5c The plug connector device is shown in a perspective bottom view, a front view and a partially cut-away side view, which has a plug connector according to Figure 1a to Figure 1b Plug connectors, according to Figure 2a to Figure 2d The mating connector and Figure 3a to Figure 3c locking element. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] Figure 1a and Figure 1b According to one embodiment, a method for Figure 5a to Figure 5cThe plug connector 2 of the plug connector device 1 shown in FIG. The plug connector 2 has a plug contact element 4a, which, according to the embodiment shown, is designed as a plurality of contact pin sockets arranged in a row, which contact pin sockets form a socket board. The plug contact element 4a is configured for connection with a Figure 2a to Figure 2d The plug-in contact element 4b of the mating plug-in connector 3 shown in the figure establishes an electrical plug connection. The surface of the plug-in connector 2 having the plug-in contact element 4a forms a plug-in surface 19, which is supplementarily provided with a coding element 20 to prevent incorrect plugging. The plug-in connector 2 has a receiving structure in the form of a locking opening 18, which is used for releasable fastening in Figure 3a to Figure 3c The locking element 5 is shown in FIG.

[0061] Figure 2a to Figure 2d A mating plug connector 3 according to one embodiment is shown in different views, wherein Figure 2c Shown according to Figure 2b The mating plug connector 3 has a plug contact element 4b which, according to the exemplary embodiment shown, is designed as a plurality of contact pins arranged in a row, which form a pin row. The plug contact element 4b is configured for contact with a Figure 1a and Figure 1b The plug contact element 4a of the plug connector 2 shown in FIG. establishes an electrical plug connection. In other words, the plug contact element 4a of the plug connector 2 is associated with the plug contact element 4b of the mating plug connector 3. Figure 2b As shown in FIG. 1 , the surface of the mating plug connector 3 having the plug contact elements 4 b forms a plug surface 19, which is supplemented with a coding element 20 that matches the coding element 20 of the plug connector 2 to prevent incorrect plugging. The mating plug connector 3 has a guide receptacle 8 with a form-fitting contour 9, which is configured to receive and guide the plug contact elements 4 b in a form-fitting manner. Figure 3a to Figure 3c. The guide receptacle 8 is formed at the mating connector housing of the mating plug connector 3. The guide section 6 of the locking element 5 can be sunk into the guide receptacle 8 and held and guided therein in a form-fitting manner. By accommodating and guiding the guide section 6 of the locking element 5 in a form-fitting manner, an enhanced locking safety with an increased locking force can be achieved, by which the locking force reliably prevents the locking from being accidentally released when a tensile force acts. The locking element 5 is stabilized by supporting the locking element 5 on the guide receptacle 8 of the mating plug connector 3. It is possible to implement the locking element 5 more elastically by means of additional fixing, thereby simplifying the operation of the locking element 5. The guide receptacle 8 forms a linear guide for the guide section 6 of the locking element 5, in which the guide section can be moved in translation. According to the embodiment shown, the form-fitting contour 9 of the mating plug connector 3 has two inclined surfaces 11b at the inner contour of the guide receptacle 8 which are opposite to each other, and which extend obliquely corresponding to the inclined surfaces 11a of the guide section 6 of the locking element 5, which are also explained below. By the inclined inclined surfaces 11b of the form-fitting contour 9, a conical cross-sectional widening can be formed in the guide receptacle 8, which achieves an undercut fit with the inclined surfaces 11a of the form-fitting profile 7 of the locking element 5, thereby achieving a form-fitting guidance. For example, according to Figure 2b It is clear that according to the exemplary embodiment shown, the form-fitting contour 9 of the guide receptacle 8 is designed as a symmetrical form-fitting contour 9 .

[0062] For example, according to Figure 2b It is clear that according to the exemplary embodiment shown, the positive fit contour 9 of the guide receptacle 8 is designed as a dovetail contour 13. Thus, a correspondingly designed dovetail profile 12 of the locking element 5, which matches the dovetail contour 13, such as it is in Figure 4b As shown in the figure, it can be guided in a form-fitting manner in the dovetail profile 13 and prevented from falling out of the guide receptacle 8. The dovetail profile 13 and the dovetail profile 12 can be designed in terms of their dimensions so that they are provided with a clearance fit in order to achieve a simplified introduction and movement of the guide section 6 in the guide receptacle 8. The dovetail profile 13 is essentially the negative of the dovetail profile 12, wherein the dovetail profile 12 can be regarded as a protruding profile part of the locking element 5 and the dovetail profile 13 of the mating plug connector 3 can be regarded as a recessed profile part.

[0063] Figure 3a to Figure 3c A locking element 5 according to one embodiment is shown in different views. The locking element 5 is configured to be arranged on a plug connector 2, such as in Figures 4a to 4d As shown in detail in FIG, the locking element 5 is configured as a locking pawl independent of the plug connector 2. Figure 5a to Figure 5c In the plug connector device 1 shown according to one embodiment, the locking element 5 is used to mechanically lock the plug connector 2 at the mating plug connector 3 in order to achieve mechanical fixation of the plug connection. Here, the locking element 5 is configured to be releasably fastened to the mating plug connector 3. According to the embodiment shown, the locking element 5 is provided as an independent accessory element that can be releasably fastened to the plug connector 2. The locking element 5 has a guide section 6 with a lateral form-fitting profile 7, which is configured for form-fitting accommodation and guidance in a guide receptacle 8 of the mating plug connector 3. The guide section 6 is mainly embodied in a planar manner, is provided at the outer contour of the locking element 5 and is arranged relative to the plug connector device 1 at an end section of the locking element 5 facing the mating plug connector 3, such as, for example, from the guide section 6. Figure 5a The positive locking profile 7 of the locking element 5 is configured for undercut engagement with the positive locking profile 9 of the guide receptacle 8 of the mating plug connector 3, so that a secure positive fit is achieved by the overlapping of the active surfaces of the positive locking profile 7 and the positive locking profile 9.

[0064] As from Figure 3a and Figure 3b As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the form-fitting profile 7 has two profile elements 7a formed on opposite side profiles 10 of the locking element 5, which together form the form-fitting profile 7. The side profile 10 of the locking element 5 is substantially parallel to the side profile 10 of the plug connector 2 with the locking element 5 arranged thereon. Figure 4a The plug-in direction S shown in FIG. 1 extends in the side profile 10 and extends orthogonally to the end edge 21 facing the mating plug connector 3. By forming the profile element 7a at the side profile 10, the form-fit profile 7 can be referred to as a lateral form-fit profile 7. With the aid of such a lateral form-fit profile 7, a simple introduction and movement of the locking element 5 in the guide receptacle 8 is possible. In addition, the locking element 5 is laterally stabilized at the profile element 7a and is prevented from being accidentally released from the mating plug connector 3. According to the embodiment shown, the profile element 7a extends over the entire side profile 10 of the locking element 5.

[0065] according to Figure 3a to Figure 3c In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the form-fitting profile 7 has substantially identical, but oppositely inclined, inclined surfaces 11a as profile elements 7a. The inclined surfaces 11a are arranged in a manner similar to those in FIG. Figure 2a to Figure 2dThe locking element 5 is inclined in a manner corresponding to the inclined surface 11b shown in the figure, so that the inclined surface 11a of the locking element 5 can be snap-fitted with the inclined surface 11b of the guide receiving portion 6 of the mating plug connector 3 in a form-fitting manner and slide on the inclined surface in the guiding direction along the guide receiving portion 8. The inclined inclined surface 11a of the form-fitting profile 7 can form a conical cross-sectional widening of the guide section 6, which achieves a snap-fit ​​with the inclined surface 11b of the form-fitting contour 9 of the mating plug connector 3, thereby achieving a form-fitting guidance. For example, according to Figure 4b It is clear that according to the exemplary embodiment shown, the form-fitting profile 7 of the guide section 6 is designed as a symmetrical form-fitting profile 7, so that a uniform force introduction of the guide section 6 into the guide receptacle 8 of the mating plug connector 3 is possible. Figure 4b It is clear that according to the exemplary embodiment shown, the positive-locking profile 7 of the guide section 6 is designed as a dovetail profile 12 so that it can be guided in a positively locking manner in a corresponding dovetail contour 13 of the guide receptacle 8 of the mating plug connector 3 as already described.

[0066] For example, in Figure 3b , the locking element 5 has a first fastening structure 14 for fastening the locking element 5 to the plug connector 2. The first fastening structure 14 is designed as a locking structure, here in the form of a locking flange, and is used to releasably fasten the locking element 5 to the plug connector 2 without tools, which has, for example, a locking flange at the bottom of the plug connector 2. Figure 1a The locking opening 18 shown in FIG. 1 serves as a receiving structure. The first fastening structure 14 is formed integrally with the locking element 5. In addition, the locking element 5 has a second fastening structure 15 which is implemented integrally with the locking element 5 and serves to fasten the locking element 5 to the mating plug connector 3. The second fastening structure 15 is formed as a locking structure, here a locking tab, and serves to releasably fasten the locking element 5 to the mating plug connector 3 without tools, which for this purpose has a second fastening structure 15 in FIG. Figure 5c The locking edge 22 shown in the figure serves as a receiving structure. The locking element 5 can be simply fastened by the fastening structures 14, 15 configured as locking structures. By the positive fit reception and guidance of the locking element 5 in the guide receiving portion 8, the locking element 5 can be configured more elastically, so that the operation and the locking or unlocking process are simplified, but the accidental release of the locking element 5 can be reliably prevented.

[0067] To perform the unlocking, the locking element 5 has an unlocking element 16 which is designed as an elastically deformable tab and which, when actuated, can lift the second fastening structure 15 designed as a locking tab out of engagement with the locking edge 22. The unlocking element 16 is arranged between the side contours 10 of the locking element 5 and partially spans the locking element in a bridge-like manner.

[0068] Figures 4a to 4d The different views show the base having the arrangement thereon. Figure 3a to Figure 3c The locking element 5 is based on Figure 1a and Figure 1b Plug connector 2, wherein Figure 4c Shown according to Figure 4b A cross-sectional view of the section line CC shown in FIG. Figure 4d Shown according to Figure 4c The cross-sectional view of the section line DD shown in FIG. Figure 4a and Figure 4c And also from Figure 5a As can be seen in , the locking element 5 extends mainly along the plug connector 2. In other words, a relatively small portion of the locking element 5 extends along the mating plug connector 3. The plug connector 2 can be guided in the plug-in direction S toward the mating plug connector 3 by means of the locking element 5 arranged thereon in order to establish an electrical connection with the mating plug connector 3. Here, when approaching the mating plug connector 3, the locking element 5 can gradually sink into its guide receptacle 8 with its form-fitting profile 7. The guide section 6 extends in a manner adjacent to the plug surface 19 of the plug connector 2. As shown in Figure 4c It can be seen in FIG. 1 that the second fastening structure 15 is designed to produce a locking connection with the mating plug connector 3 and automatically produces a mechanical locking connection with the mating plug connector 3 by engaging the locking edge 22 from behind.

[0069] Figure 5a to Figure 5c The plug connector device 1 is shown with the above-mentioned components in an assembled state. Here, the guide section 6 of the locking element 5 is received in a form-fitting manner in the guide receptacle 8 of the mating plug connector 3. The plug connector 2 and the mating plug connector 3 are effectively connected to each other and locked to each other by the locking element 5. By actuating the unlocking element 16, the locking element 5 can release the second fastening structure 15 from the locking connection with the locking edge 22 and cancel the locking.

[0070] As in Figure 5c It can be seen in FIG. 1 that the mating plug connector 3 has a positive-fit contour 9 with a guide receptacle 8 , which is formed for receiving and positively connecting a guide section 6 of a locking element 5 .

[0071] With the described plug connector device 1 and the associated described components in the form of the plug connector 2, the mating plug connector 3 and the locking element 5 of the plug connector device 1, it is possible to achieve an easy-to-operate and reliably effective mechanical fixation of the plug connector device 1. In this case, the risk of accidental release of the locking when tensile forces act on the locking element 5 is particularly reduced.

[0072] Reference numerals list

[0073] 1 Plug connector assembly

[0074] 2 Plug connector

[0075] 3 Mating connector

[0076] 4a Plug-in contact elements of plug-in connectors

[0077] 4b plug-in contact elements of a mating plug-in connector

[0078] 5 Locking element

[0079] 6 Guide section

[0080] 7 Form-fit profile

[0081] 7a profile element

[0082] 8 Guide accommodating portion

[0083] 9 Form-fitting contours

[0084] 10 side profile

[0085] 11a Inclined surface of the form-fitting profile at the locking element

[0086] 11b Inclined surface of the form-fitting contour at the mating plug connector

[0087] 12 Swallowtail Profile

[0088] 13 Swallowtail Profile

[0089] 14 First fastening structure

[0090] 15 Second fastening structure

[0091] 16 Unlocking elements

[0092] 18 Locking opening

[0093] 19 plug-in surface

[0094] 20 Coding element

[0095] 21 End edge

[0096] 22 Locking edge

[0097] S plug direction

Claims

1. An electrical plug connector device (1), comprising a plug connector (2) and a mating plug connector (3), the plug connector and the mating plug connector each having electrical plug contact elements (4a, 4b) associated with one another, and the electrical plug connector device having a locking element (5) arranged at the plug connector (2), the locking element being used to mechanically lock the plug connector (2) at the mating plug connector (3), wherein the locking element (5) is configured to be releasably fastened to the mating plug connector (3), It is characterized in that The locking element (5) has a guide section (6) with a form-fitting profile (7), and the mating plug connector (3) has a guide receptacle (8) with a form-fitting profile (9), which is used to receive and guide the locking element (5) in a form-fitting manner on the mating plug connector (3).

2. The plug connector device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The form-fitting profile (7) of the locking element (5) is configured for undercut engagement with a form-fitting contour (9) of the mating plug connector (3).

3. The plug connector device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The profile element (7a) of the form-fitting profile (7) is formed on the side contour (10) of the locking element (5).

4. The plug connector device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that A profile element (7a) of the form-fitting profile (7) is formed on two mutually opposite side contours (10) of the locking element (5).

5. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The positive-fitting contour (7) of the locking element (5) and the positive-fitting contour (9) of the mating plug connector (3) are configured as inclined surfaces (11a, 11b) that are inclined correspondingly to each other.

6. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The form-fitting profile (7) is designed as a symmetrical form-fitting profile (7), and the form-fitting contour (9) is designed as a symmetrical form-fitting contour (9).

7. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The form-fitting profile (7) is designed as an asymmetrical form-fitting profile (7), and the form-fitting contour (9) is designed as an asymmetrical form-fitting contour (9).

8. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The form-fitting profile (7) is designed as a dovetail profile (12), and the form-fitting profile (9) is designed as a dovetail profile (13).

9. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The locking element (5) has a first fastening structure (14) for fastening the locking element (5) to the plug connector (2).

10. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The locking element (5) has a second fastening structure (15) for fastening the locking element (5) to the mating plug connector (3).

11. The plug connector device (1) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that The first fastening structure (14) and / or the second fastening structure (15) are configured as locking structures.

12. The plug connector device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The locking element (5) has an unlocking element (16).

13. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The locking element (5) is designed as a locking pawl.

14. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The plug connector device (1) has a connecting member (17) which extends adjacent to a guide receptacle (8) of the mating plug connector (3).

15. An electrical mating plug connector (3) for a plug connector device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: The mating plug connector (3) has a guide receptacle (8) with a positive-fit contour (9) for positively accommodating and guiding a locking element (5).

16. A locking element (5) for a plug connector device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that The locking element (5) has a guide section (6) with a positive-locking profile (7).

17. A kit consisting of a plug connector (2), a mating plug connector (3) according to claim 15 and a locking element (5) according to claim 16, the kit being used to form an electrical plug connector device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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