Connecting device

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection device (1) comprising load connectors (L) and control connectors (S), all load connectors (L) and all control connectors (S) being connected to each other in a first position (A) as a coupling position of the connection device (1), and in a second position (B) as a test position of the connection device (1), all control connectors (S) are connected to each other. In a first position (C), which is a decoupling position of the connecting device (1), the load connectors (L) are disengaged from each other and the control connectors (S) are connected to each other, and in a third position (C), which is a decoupling position of the connecting device (1), all the load connectors (L) and all the control connectors (S) are respectively disengaged from each other. The connection device (1) has a base unit (2), a socket unit (3) and a plug unit (4) with respective load connectors (L) and control connectors (S).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a connecting device according to the preamble of claim 1 . Background Art

[0002] Such connecting devices are used in various applications in order to connect power contacts to one another and to disconnect them from one another.

[0003] Another equipment unit with corresponding power contacts is pushed onto the base equipment unit with the first power contacts. In addition to the power contacts, other contacts, such as control, data and current supply contacts, are usually connected to each other at the equipment unit. These additional contacts are already connected or contacted in the so-called test position before the equipment unit is moved / displaced into the so-called coupling position. In the coupling position, the power contacts are also connected to each other.

[0004] This makes it possible to carry out tests even before the coupling position is assumed, for example to check the functionality of the device units to be connected to one another.

[0005] The power contacts as well as the control, data and current supply contacts are designed as plug connectors. The plug connectors not only transmit energy and signals, but also form an interface for data transmission. The infrastructure not only involves the electrical supply of AC and DC voltages, but also information technology or other auxiliary media, such as 24V control voltage or compressed air. However, optical transmission components, such as glass fiber conductors, can also be present in the plug connectors.

[0006] Documents EP1873865A2 and WO2018 / 073016 give examples of connection and switching devices and plug-in connection structures.

[0007] The known solutions have proven themselves. Complex structures are considered disadvantageous. Therefore, there is a constant need for further developments, in which greater functionality is created with increased safety, a compact design, a reduced number of components and variant possibilities. Summary of the invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to solve this problem. The present invention solves this object through the technical solution of claim 1.

[0009] The connection device according to the present invention comprises load connectors and control connectors, wherein in a first position as a coupling position of the connection device, all load connectors and all control connectors are respectively connected to each other, in a second position as a test position of the connection device, the load connectors are disconnected from each other and the control connectors are connected to each other, and in a third position as a decoupling position of the connection device, all load connectors and all control connectors are respectively disconnected from each other. The connection device has a base unit, a socket unit and a plug unit, and the base unit, the socket unit and the plug unit are provided with corresponding load connectors and control connectors.

[0010] The advantage of this solution is a simple and compact structure with a small number of components. In addition, the assembly and replacement or supplementation of the unit is advantageously simple so that new technical solutions can also be incorporated.

[0011] Further advantageous embodiments can be derived from the remaining dependent claims.

[0012] In one embodiment, in a first position, the power connector and the control connector of the base unit are connected to the power connector and the control connector of the socket unit, respectively, and the power connector and the control connector of the socket unit are connected to the power connector and the control connector of the plug unit, respectively, in a second position, the power connector of the base unit and the power connector of the socket unit are disconnected from each other, and in a third position, the power connector and the control connector of the base unit are disconnected from each other and the power connector and the control connector of the socket unit are disconnected from each other. The division of the connectors, for example as inserts in the unit, is advantageous because in this way not only a simple assembly and change of the unit is possible, but also a convenient occupation and division of different positions is possible. In addition, different applications can be realized with different connectors.

[0013] Therefore, a further embodiment provides that the socket unit and the plug unit can be displaced together in the longitudinal direction of the connection device from a first position into a second position, wherein the socket unit is fixed in the second position by means of a latching mechanism, and the plug unit can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the connection device from the second position into a third position. It is advantageous here that the displacement of the units can be easily realized, for example, by means of a displaceable component, such as a drawer with a crank, and the locking in position can be easily realized. Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous that the latching mechanism can realize the fixing of the socket unit in the second position.

[0014] In yet another embodiment, the plug unit can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the connection device from the third position of the connection device back to the second position of the connection device, wherein the socket unit can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the connection device together with the plug unit after the latching mechanism has released the fixation by means of the plug unit when the plug unit is further displaced from the second position of the connection device back to the first position of the connection device. Advantageously, the fixation of the latching mechanism is automatically released by the plug unit, since the number of components is small in this way.

[0015] Advantageously, the latching mechanism comprises two opposing spring-elastic arms, each of which has a projection, wherein the arms are fixed to the base unit and the projections interact with stops and recesses at the socket unit and with the end wall of a holding section which is connected to the socket unit. In this way, a compact design can be achieved. It is also advantageous that the arms are fixed to the base unit, because in this way an advantageously simple and effective maintenance and possible adaptation of the distance between the second position (test position) and the first position (coupling position) is achieved.

[0016] One embodiment provides that the resilient arms of the latching mechanism can be actuated by means of an inclined surface of a guide unit, wherein the guide unit is attached to the plug unit. This allows for an advantageously simple and compact design.

[0017] In another embodiment, it is advantageous if the latching mechanism is fixed with the arm via a guide section on the base unit, wherein the guide section interacts with a holding section of the socket unit. This allows an advantageously simple design with a small number of components.

[0018] If the holding section is movably received in a guide section between the arm, the upper cover wall and the lower cover wall, an advantageously simple and compact construction with simultaneously high functionality results.

[0019] In an alternative embodiment, the guide section is guided in the cover so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device and is designed to be latchable in different positions or stages. In this way, the desired distance between the second position (test position) and the first position (coupling position) can advantageously be set and can also be varied on site.

[0020] Yet another embodiment provides that a guide projection is arranged on the guide unit of the plug unit, which extends in the longitudinal direction of the connection device and points toward the socket unit. This allows an advantageously simple and reliable insertion of the connection between the plug unit and the socket unit.

[0021] If the guide projection of the plug unit is designed in the form of a cylindrical pin with a pointed end, an advantageously increased safety can be achieved when connecting the plug unit to the socket unit.

[0022] A further advantageous improvement of the ease and functionality of the connection of the plug unit to the socket unit provides for a further embodiment in which a receptacle is arranged on the socket unit and has a cylindrical interior space for receiving a guide projection of the plug unit.

[0023] In other embodiments, the base unit is arranged in a fixed position. This is advantageous because in this way only the socket unit and the plug unit are designed to be movable.

[0024] Still another embodiment provides that the power connector and the control connector are plug connectors. This can advantageously use components that are available at a high quality and low cost. This is also advantageous during maintenance and replacement.

[0025] The connection device according to the invention offers further advantages:

[0026] - Future-proof and adaptable solution

[0027] - Simple manual operation for the customer (possible snap-in locking of base unit, socket unit, plug unit on drawers and switch cabinets)

[0028] - Inserts snap into the frame (no threads)

[0029] - Pre-assembled cable assemblies are available

[0030] -Data and circuit transmission via embedded components is possible

[0031] - Fewer parts (lower cost) compared to existing solutions on the market

[0032] - Very small size for its functionality

[0033] An embodiment of the present invention is described below with the aid of the accompanying drawings. This embodiment is only used to illustrate the present invention with the aid of a preferred structure, but this structure does not constitute the present invention exhaustively. Therefore, other embodiments and modifications and equivalents of the illustrated embodiments may also be implemented within the scope of the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] The accompanying drawings show:

[0035] Figures 1 to 4 Schematic perspective views showing embodiments of a connecting device according to the invention in different positions;

[0036] Figures 5 to 11 Shows the basis in different positions Figures 1 to 4 A schematic top view of an embodiment of ; and

[0037] Figures 12 to 16 A schematic perspective view showing different guide sections of a base unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Give the coordinates x, y, z for better orientation.

[0039] The terms “upper”, “lower”, “left” and “right” refer to the respective arrangement of components in the drawings.

[0040] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view shows an exemplary embodiment of a connecting device 1 according to the invention in a first position A (coupled position).

[0041] Figure 2 The basis for being in the second position B (test position) Figure 1 Schematic perspective view of an embodiment of.

[0042] exist Figure 3 The third position C (decoupling position) is shown in Figure 1 Schematic perspective view of an embodiment of.

[0043] The x coordinate extends in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device 1 , the y coordinate is in the width direction of the connecting device 1 , and the z coordinate is in the height direction of the connecting device.

[0044] The connection device 1 comprises a base unit 2 , a socket unit 3 and a plug unit 4 .

[0045] The terms "front", "forward" or "front", "front" are to be understood as the side of the power circuit breaker 1 towards which the movable units 3 and 4 of the circuit breaker 1 are moved forward in the positive x-direction from the stationary base unit 2. The units 3 and 4 are pushed together on the stationary base unit 2 in the negative x-direction to characterize the terms "rear", "rearward".

[0046] The base unit 2 has a base frame 2a, with which the base unit can be fixed to a fixed component, such as a switch cabinet. For example, this fixing can be achieved by means of a latching connection and / or a clip-on connection for quick and simple assembly.

[0047] In a similar manner, the socket unit 3 is provided with a socket frame 3a. The plug unit 4 also has a frame, which is here referred to as a plug frame 4a.

[0048] The base frame 2a, the socket frame 3a and the plug frame 4a are each designed here with a surrounding wall which defines a corresponding continuous interior space, which has a rectangular cross section here. The outer dimensions of the frames 2a, 3a, 4a are substantially the same.

[0049] The inner spaces of the frames 2a, 3a, 4a are respectively used to receive standardized inserts (such as HDC inserts), which can be inserted into the corresponding frames 2a, 3a, 4a and locked or clamped or fixed in other ways according to the above fixing method. To this end, Figure 4 The first position A (coupling position) is shown according to Figure 1 Schematic perspective illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a PCB with load connectors L and control connectors S inserts, for example, on a plug part 4 .

[0050] exist Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 In the embodiment of the present invention, these inserts are exemplarily used as load connectors L for connecting load lines of the device 1 and control connectors S for connecting control lines of the device. The control line S is a data line or a basic power supply line.

[0051] Other future connectors, not shown, can also be used, for example, for the communication solution. This results in maximum flexibility or different functionalities.

[0052] These insert connectors are coupled in the first position A (coupling position) of the connecting device 1 in such a way that not only the control line is coupled via the control connector S, but also the load line is coupled by means of the load connector L. This means that the load connector L of the base unit 2, the load connector L of the socket unit 3, and the load connector L of the plug unit 4 are connected to one another. Likewise, in the first position A, the control connector S of the base unit 2, the control connector S of the socket unit 3, and the control connector S of the plug unit 4 are also connected to one another.

[0053] In the second position B (test position), the load connector L of the socket unit 3 and the load connector L of the plug unit 4 are still connected to each other, but they are no longer connected to the load connector L of the base unit 2. Therefore, the load line with the load connector L is disconnected. However, the control connector S of the base unit 2, the control connector S of the socket unit 3, and the control connector S of the plug unit 4 are still connected to each other.

[0054] And in the third position C (decoupling position), not only all load connectors L of the load lines but also all control connectors S of the control lines are no longer connected to each other. Therefore, in this position C, not only the load lines but also the control lines are disconnected.

[0055] The socket unit 3 and the plug unit 4 are in operative connection with their respective frames 3a, 4a and a component (not shown) in the relevant switch cabinet that can be moved in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device 1, such as a drawer. This operative connection is designed so that the plug unit 4 is fixedly connected to the drawer, and the socket unit 3 is coupled to the drawer when moving from the first position A to the second position B until the socket unit 3 reaches the second position B. When the drawer together with the plug unit 4 moves further from the second position B to the third position C, the coupling between the socket unit 3 and the drawer is cancelled.

[0056] If the plug unit 4 is moved from the third position C to the second position B in the negative x direction, i.e. when the connecting device 1 is closed, the socket unit 3 is driven by the plug unit 4 from the second position B in the direction of the base unit 2 until it reaches the first position A. In this case, the previously disconnected coupling between the drawer and the socket unit 3 can be reestablished, for example, by a mechanical switch. Of course, other driving mechanisms are also possible.

[0057] In this way, the socket unit 3 and the plug unit 4 are in the first position A (coupling position, see Figure 1 ) starts to move along the x direction with the drawer to the second position B (test position, see Figure 2 ), wherein the base unit 2 then remains fixed in its position, namely in position B.

[0058] When the drawer is displaced further, the socket unit 3 now remains in its occupied second position B (test position) and only the plug unit 4 is displaced out of there with the aid of the drawer into the third position C (decoupling position, see Figure 3 )middle.

[0059] In this way, the plug unit 4 of the connecting device 1 is displaced from the first position A (coupled position) into the second position B (test position) and from there into the third position C (decoupled position) and back again.

[0060] The socket unit 3 is merely displaced from the first position A (coupling position) into the second position B (test position) and out of there and back again.

[0061] It is also possible that, when the second position B (test position) is assumed, the plug unit 4 together with the socket unit 3 can be displaced back to the first position A (coupled position) again without assuming the third position C (decoupled position).

[0062] For example, the drawer can be displaced by means of a crank that is not shown but can be easily imagined. The drawer of the connecting device 1 is locked in each of the three positions A, B, C. In order to displace the drawer, the locking structure must be unlocked by manual operation, and only then can the next position A, B, C be occupied by displacing the drawer using the crank.

[0063] The connecting device 1 has a latching mechanism 6. The latching mechanism 6 locks or fixes the socket unit 3 in the second position B (test position).

[0064] The latching mechanism 6 is fixed to the base unit 2 via the guide section 5. In the example shown, two latching mechanisms 6 are provided, namely one on the upper side of the frame 2a of the base unit 2 and one on the lower side of the frame 2a of the base unit 2.

[0065] The locking mechanism 6 includes two opposing spring-elastic arms 7, each with a protrusion 8 at the corresponding free end of the arm 7, and the arms 7 extend parallel to each other in the x direction on the upper and lower sides of the socket unit 3 and the plug unit 4 respectively and protrude from the upper or lower side of the socket unit 3 in the z direction in the xz plane.

[0066] The arm 7 is spring-elastically deflected in the y-direction.

[0067] In the first position A (coupling position, Figure 1 ), the free ends of the arms 7 with the projections 8 protrude in the positive x-direction beyond the corresponding front edges of the upper and lower sides of the plug frame 4 a of the plug unit 4 .

[0068] The spring-elastic arm 7 is relaxed in the first position A (coupled position) in order to prevent material relaxation of the spring-elastic arm 7 .

[0069] The other end of the arm 7, i.e. the rear end thereof pointing to the base unit 2, is fixed to the upper and lower sides of the base frame 2a of the base unit 2 in the front region of the base frame 2a. The front region is to be understood as the end side of the base frame 2a which points to the socket unit 3.

[0070] Starting from the other end of the arm 7, the arm is connected to the upper cover wall 5a on its upper side and to the lower cover wall 5'a between its lower sides, wherein in the x direction of the arm 7, the upper cover wall 5a extends approximately over half the length, while the lower cover wall 5'a extends slightly further than the upper cover wall 5a. Fig.12 , Fig.13 It can be clearly seen in.

[0071] The cover walls 5a, 5'a of the guide section 5 and the section of the arm 7 connected thereto form a receiving portion in the form of a rectangular tube of the guide section 5 (see for example Figure 12 to Figure 13), which serves to movably receive the holding section 9 of the socket unit 3.

[0072] In the example shown, two holding sections 9 are provided, of which one holding section 9 is fixed to the upper side of the socket unit 3 and one holding section is fixed to the lower side of the socket unit. The description of the holding section 9 applies to both holding sections 9.

[0073] The holding section 9 is designed in a cuboid manner with a rear end wall 9a and a front end wall 9b and corresponds in its width and height to the dimensions of the arm 7 and the guide section 5. The holding section 9 can be designed to be solid and / or have reinforcing ribs.

[0074] In the first position A (coupling position, Figure 1 ), since the socket unit 3 is coupled to the base unit 2, the front section of the holding section 9 is pushed into the interior of the guide section 5. The rear longer part of the holding section 9 moves on the upper side (or lower side) of the base frame 2a and protrudes in the x direction at the rear side of the base frame 2a.

[0075] A receiving portion 10 is arranged between the front end wall 9b of the holding section 9 and the middle wall 9c of the holding section 9 (see Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). The receiving portion 10 has a cylindrical interior space with an opening 9d in the front wall 9b for receiving a guide projection 12 of the plug unit 4 , which will be explained in more detail below.

[0076] Adjoining the front wall 9 b is a semicircular support 10 a for supporting a guide projection 12 of the plug unit 4 .

[0077] At the front end of the support portion 10a, a stop portion 10b protruding upward is integrally formed on both sides of the support portion 10a. A recess 10c is formed inwardly between the stop portion 10b and the front end wall 9b of the guide section 9.

[0078] The holding section 9 is arranged with its front end on the upper or lower side of the socket frame 3 a of the socket unit 3 in the region between the intermediate wall 9 c , the receptacle 10 , the support 10 a and the stop 10 b .

[0079] When the bushing unit 3 is in the second position B (test position), the recesses 10 c each form a receptacle for a corresponding projection 8 of the latching mechanism 6 . This will be explained in more detail below.

[0080] Each projection 8 comprises an end face 8 a , an inner side 8 b extending substantially straight in the x-direction, an outer bevel 8 c , a stop section 8 d , an end face chamfer 8 e and a rear chamfer 8 f .

[0081] The outer bevel 8c of the projection extends as a front end section of the arm 7 inwardly in a slanted manner about the z coordinate, i.e., to the imaginary longitudinal center line of the holding section 9 between the arms 7, and ends at the end side 8a. Starting from the end side 8a, the inner side 8b extends in the negative x direction as far as the stop section 8d. In the region of the bevel of the outer bevel 8c, the stop section 8d connects the rear end of the inner side 8b to the arm 7. The stop section 8d extends slightly obliquely and slanted forwardly.

[0082] The end face chamfer 8e is arranged between the front end side 8a and the inner side 8b. At the rear edge of the inner side 8b, a rear chamfer 8f is integrally formed at the connection with the stop section 8d.

[0083] When the socket unit 3 is in the second position B (test position, Figure 2 ), the projection 8 of the latching mechanism 6 is pressed into the corresponding recess 10c by the spring force of the arm 7 and is received in the recess (see, for example, Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0084] Here, the end side 8a of the projection 8 contacts the front stop 10b. In addition, the rear stop section 8d of the projection 8 contacts the end side 9b of the holding section 9. In this way, the projection 8 of the arm 7 of the latching mechanism 6 is received with its inner side 8b in the recess 10c between the corresponding stop 10b and the end side 9b, and the socket unit 3 is locked or fixed in the x direction, i.e. in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device 1, in the second position B (test position).

[0085] The holding section 9 is here movably received in the guide section 5 between the arm 7 and the upper cover wall 5 a and the lower cover wall 5 ′ a .

[0086] In the second position B (test position, Figure 2 ) and also in the third position C (decoupling position, Figure 3 ), a specific distance 13 is formed between the base unit 2 and the socket unit 3. This distance 13 is necessary because the second position B (test position) must establish an electrical connection of the control connector S exactly at this distance 13 (e.g. 45 mm) before the final position A (coupling position).

[0087] exist Figure 3 In the third position C (decoupled position) shown in FIG. 4 , the plug unit 4 is pulled out of the socket unit 3 , while the socket unit 3 continues to be held or fixedly retained in its position B by the latching mechanism 6 .

[0088] The plug unit 4 has at least one guide unit 11. In the example shown, two guide units 11 are provided, one of which is arranged on the upper side of the plug frame 4a. The second guide unit 11 is located on the lower side of the plug frame 4a. The description of the first guide unit 11 also applies to the second guide unit 11.

[0089] The guide unit 11 protrudes from the plug frame 4 a in the z-direction and protrudes rearwardly from a rear edge of the plug frame 4 a in the negative x-direction.

[0090] Each guide unit 11 has two outer walls 11a and a central inner wall 11'a. The two outer walls 11a are each provided with a bevel 11b in the front region, which extends approximately from the central region of the plug frame 4a to the central wall 11'a.

[0091] Furthermore, in the rear region of the guide unit 11 beyond the edge of the plug frame 4a, the end regions of the two outer walls 11a are also provided with bevels 11c. Both the bevels 11b in the front region and the bevels 11c in the rear region lead toward each other.

[0092] The free end of the rear bevel 11 c is connected to the rear end surface section 11 d , and the free end of the front bevel 11 b is connected to the front end surface section 11 e .

[0093] Furthermore, in the rear region of the guide unit 11 beyond the edge of the plug frame 4a, a guide projection 12 is arranged below the rear face section 11d. The guide projection 12 is designed here in the form of a cylindrical pin with a tip and extends in the negative x direction in the longitudinal axis direction of the connecting device 1.

[0094] In the second position B (test position, Figure 2 ) and also in the first position A (coupling position, Figure 1 ), the plug unit 4 is coupled to the socket unit 3. Here, the guide protrusion 12 of the plug unit 4 extends with a section through the opening 9d in the front end wall 9b into the above-mentioned cylindrical inner space of the receiving portion 10 of the socket unit 3, and is received in the receiving portion 10 of the socket unit 3. Here, the other front section of the guide protrusion 12 is supported in the supporting portion 10a (Auflage) of the socket unit 3. Then, the rear end face section 11d of the guide unit 11 contacts the end wall 9b of the holding section 9 of the socket unit 3.

[0095] Figures 5 to 11 Shows the basis at different positions and intermediate positions Figures 1 to 4 Schematic top view of an embodiment of.

[0096] In from Figure 5 Towards Fig.11The sequence of pulling out or moving away the units 3 and 4 of the connecting device 1 is shown in FIG. Fig.11 Towards Figure 5 Move in in reverse order.

[0097] Figure 5 The first position A (coupled position) is shown. The socket unit 3 is coupled to the stationary base unit 2 and the plug unit 4 is coupled to the socket unit 3. The latching mechanism 6 with the arm 7 is released.

[0098] When moving from the first position A (coupling position) to the second position B (test position), the socket unit 3 (load side) is separated from the base unit 2, and the socket unit 3 (control layer) is shifted to the second position B (test position) after a distance 13 (45 mm). Here, the latching mechanism 6 latches into the recess 10c of the socket unit 3 and locks the socket unit in this position.

[0099] exist Figure 6 In the middle position, the socket unit 3 and the plug unit 4 are spaced apart from the base unit 2 in the positive x direction. Here, the spring-elastic arms 7 of the latching mechanism 6 are opened, i.e. tensioned, in the y direction. This is achieved by the rear chamfer 8f of the projection 8 (see Figure 1 ) contacts the front bevel 11b of the guide unit 11 of the plug unit 4. During the movement of the plug unit 4 in the positive x direction, the projection 8 and thus the arm 7 move apart in the y direction due to the sliding of the rear chamfer 8f on the front bevel 11b.

[0100] Figure 7 A further intermediate position is shown, in which the projection 8 is provided with its inner side 8b (see Figure 1 ) comes into contact with the outer wall 11a of the guide unit 11 and slides along the outer wall during further movement.

[0101] exist Figure 8 In the second position B (test position), the socket unit 3 is spaced a certain distance 13 from the base unit 2, and the front face chamfer 8e of the projection 8 contacts the rear bevel 11c of the guide unit 11 at the beginning of the corresponding rear bevel 11c. The arm 7 is still tensioned. At the same time, the rear stop section 8d of the projection 8 (see Figure 2 ) hits the front end wall 9b of the holding section 9, which is fixedly connected to the socket unit 3 and prevents further movement of the socket unit 3 along the positive x direction. In this way, the socket unit 3 is fixed in the second position B (test position) along the positive x direction.

[0102] If the plug unit 4 is now moved further in the positive x direction, the socket unit 3 is fixedly held in its position by the latching mechanism 6, while the projection 8 slides further with its end face chamfer 8e along the rear bevel 11c of the guide unit 11 ( Fig. 9 ), until the projection 8 is completely received in the recess 10c by the spring force of the arm 7 ( Fig.10 The socket unit 3 is therefore also locked in the negative x direction.

[0103] Finally, if Fig.11 As shown, the plug unit 4 is completely removed from the socket unit 3 in the third position C (decoupled position). The socket unit 3 is still fixedly held at a distance 13 from the base unit 2 by the latching mechanism 6 .

[0104] In reverse order, from the third position C (decoupling position, Fig.11 ), the plug unit 4 moves in the negative x direction and is pushed into the socket unit 3, and the guide protrusion 12 passes through the support portion 10a and through the opening 9d into the receiving portion 10 of the socket unit 3 ( Figure 10-Figure 9 - Figure 8 ) and the second position B (test position) is occupied. In this case, the socket unit 3 cannot be displaced because it is fixed in its position by the latching mechanism 6.

[0105] When leaving the second position B (test position, Figure 8 ), the arm 7 of the latching mechanism 6 has been pried open by the sliding contact between the rear bevel 11c of the guide unit 11 of the plug unit 4 and the front face chamfer 8e of the projection 8 of the arm 7. During further movement in the negative x direction, the locking of the socket unit 3 in the negative x direction is eliminated in this way by the opening of the arm 7 and by its projection 8 ( Figure 7-Figure 6 ). The plug unit 4 , which is moved by the drawer, now pushes the socket unit 3 into the first position A (coupling position) during a further displacement in the negative x direction, and the load area is contacted or connected again.

[0106] Figure 12 to Figure 14 A schematic perspective view of a variant of the guide section 5 of the base unit 3 is shown.

[0107] In this variant, according to Figures 1 to 4 Unlike the embodiment of the present invention, the guide section 5 is not fixedly mounted on the upper side of the base frame 2a of the base unit 2, but is guided movably in the longitudinal direction (x coordinate) in the cover 5b and is designed to be lockable in different positions or stages. In this way, it is possible to adjust to different distances 13 on site (see, for example Figure 5 , Fig.11 ), for example to adapt to different usage scenarios.

[0108] This description also applies to the second guide section 5 at the underside of the base frame 2 a of the base unit 2 .

[0109] The cover 5b is fixedly connected to the base frame 2a of the base unit 2 and has a through-guide opening with a rectangular cross section, which corresponds to the cross section of the guide section 5. The through-guide opening is defined by an upper cover side (not marked) of the cover 5b, two parallel side walls 5c of the cover 5b and the area of ​​the upper / lower side of the base frame 2a.

[0110] The upper side of the cover 5b has two rows of latch openings 5d and an intermediate row of adjustment openings 5e. The two rows extend parallel to each other and in the x direction. The latch openings 5d are used to receive the protrusions 5g (see Fig.13 ), adjusting opening 5e for introducing tool W (see Fig.14 ), for actuating the spring-elastic tongue 5f. The spring-elastic tongue 5f carries the projection 5g and is designed here as a section of the cover wall 5a.

[0111] The cover wall 5a may also be provided with scales 14 (see Fig.12 ), for adjusting to a different distance 13 between the base unit 2 and the socket unit 3 in the second position B (test position).

[0112] Another variant of the guide section 5 of the base unit 3 is Figure 15 to Figure 16 It is shown in a schematic perspective view.

[0113] In this variant, the displaceable guide section 5 is fixed in the x-axis direction by means of a retaining section 18 with a toothing 18a. For this purpose, in the fixing area of ​​the guide section 5 on the base frame 2a of the base unit 2, the side faces of the arms 7 are each laterally provided with a toothing 18a, which engages with a corresponding toothing 17b on the inner side of the side wall 17 of the bracket H.

[0114] In order to adjust the distance 13, the guide section 5 is lifted out of the toothed portion 17b in the z direction and is again inserted between the side walls 17 and into the toothed portion 17b after the desired distance 13 is adjusted. A cover 15 having a cover wall 16 and two parallel side walls 16a is placed on the side walls 17 of the support H, and the lateral guide projections 16b of the cover 15 engage with the guide grooves 17a of the side walls 17. Thus, the cover 15 can be pushed or clamped onto the side walls 17 in the x direction. In this way, the cover 15 prevents the guide section 5 from being removed or falling out of the support H in the z direction.

[0115] In an embodiment not shown but easily conceivable, the spring force of the arms 7 of the latching mechanism 6 can be additionally strengthened in the y direction, for example by placing or clamping a clip on the arms 7 and thereby holding the two arms 7 together in the y direction.

[0116] The inserts of the load connector L and / or the control connector S can be preassembled together with the corresponding electrical / optical circuits.

[0117] This provides a future-proof and variable solution for the connection device.

[0118] Other advantages are:

[0119] - Future-proof and adaptable solution

[0120] - Simple manual handling for the customer (base unit 2 , socket unit 3 and plug unit 4 can be easily mounted on drawers and switch cabinets, for example by means of a snap-on option)

[0121] - Inserts snap into the frame (no threads)

[0122] - Pre-assembled cable assemblies are available

[0123] -Data and circuit transmission via embedded components is possible

[0124] - Fewer parts (lower cost) compared to existing solutions on the market

[0125] - Very small size for its functionality

[0126] - Less wear on the contact part due to the guide protrusion 12

[0127] The invention is not restricted to the embodiments described above but can be modified within the scope of the claims.

[0128] It is thus conceivable to provide only one guide section 5 or more than two guide sections 5 with associated one or more latching means 6 .

[0129] Accordingly, only one holding section 9 may be arranged on the socket frame 3 a of the socket unit 3 , or more than two holding sections 9 may be provided.

[0130] It is also conceivable that the plug unit 4 has only one guide unit 11 or more than two guide units 11 .

[0131] Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the base unit 2 is designed to be movable, ie displaceable.

[0132] Reference numerals list

[0133] 1Connection device

[0134] 2 base units

[0135] 2a Base frame

[0136] 3 socket unit

[0137] 3a socket frame

[0138] 4 plug units

[0139] 4a plug frame

[0140] 5 Boot Segment

[0141] 5a, 5'a Cover wall

[0142] 5b Cover

[0143] 5c sidewall

[0144] 5d card lock opening

[0145] 5e adjustment opening

[0146] 5f tongue

[0147] 5g protrusion

[0148] 6 Locking mechanism

[0149] 7 arms

[0150] 8 Raised part

[0151] 8a side

[0152] 8b Inside

[0153] 8c outer bevel

[0154] 8d stop section

[0155] 8e end chamfer

[0156] 8f chamfer

[0157] 9 Keep Section

[0158] 9a, 9b end wall

[0159] 9c middle wall

[0160] 9d opening

[0161] 10 Reception Department

[0162] 10a Supporting part

[0163] 10b stopper

[0164] 10c blank space

[0165] 11 Guidance Unit

[0166] 11a, 11'a wall

[0167] 11b, 11c inclined surface

[0168] 11d, 11e end face section

[0169] 12 Guide protrusion

[0170] 13Distance

[0171] 14 scale

[0172] 15 Cover

[0173] 16 Cover wall

[0174] 16a Side wall

[0175] 16b guide protrusion

[0176] 17 Sidewall

[0177] 17a Boot slot

[0178] 17b tooth

[0179] 18 Keep Section

[0180] 18a Tooth

[0181] A, B, C positions

[0182] H bracket

[0183] L Load Connector

[0184] S control connector

[0185] WTools

[0186] x, y, z coordinates

Claims

1. A connection device (1), comprising a load connector (L) and a control connector (S), wherein: In a first position (A) as a coupling position of the connection device (1), all load connectors (L) and all control connectors (S) are respectively connected to each other, in a second position (B) as a test position of the connection device (1), the load connectors (L) are disconnected from each other and the control connectors (S) are connected to each other, and in a third position (C) as a decoupling position of the connection device (1), all load connectors (L) and all control connectors (S) are respectively disconnected from each other, characterized in that The connecting device (1) comprises a base unit (2), a socket unit (3) and a plug unit (4), wherein the base unit, the socket unit and the plug unit are provided with corresponding load connectors (L) and control connectors (S).

2. The connection device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that In the first position (A), the power connector (L) and the control connector (S) of the base unit (2) are respectively connected to the power connector (L) and the control connector (S) of the socket unit (3) and the power connector (L) and the control connector (S) of the socket unit (3) are respectively connected to the power connector (L) and the control connector (S) of the plug unit (4), in the second position (B), the power connector (L) of the base unit (2) and the power connector (L) of the socket unit (3) are disconnected from each other, and in the third position (C), the power connector (L) and the control connector (S) of the base unit (2) and the power connector (L) and the control connector (S) of the socket unit (3) are disconnected from each other and the power connector (L) and the control connector (S) of the socket unit (3) and the power connector (L) and the control connector (S) of the plug unit (3) are disconnected from each other.

3. The connection device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that The socket unit (3) and the plug unit (4) can be displaced together in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device (1) from a first position (A) to a second position (B), wherein the socket unit (3) is fixed in the second position (B) by means of a locking mechanism (6), and the plug unit (4) can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device (1) from the second position (B) to a third position (C).

4. The connection device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that The plug unit (4) is capable of being displaced in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device (1) from a third position (C) of the connecting device (1) back to a second position (B) of the connecting device (1), wherein the socket unit (2) is capable of being displaced in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device (1) together with the plug unit (4) from the second position (B) of the connecting device (1) back to a first position (A) of the connecting device (1) after the locking mechanism (6) releases the fixation with the aid of the plug unit when the plug unit (4) is further displaced.

5. The connection device (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that: The latching mechanism (6) comprises two opposing spring-elastic arms (7), each of which has a projection (8), wherein the arms (7) are fixed to the base unit (2) and the projection (8) interacts with a stop (10b) and a recess (10c) on the socket unit (3) and an end wall (9b) of a retaining section (9) which is connected to the socket unit (3).

6. The connection device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that The spring-elastic arms (7) of the latching mechanism (6) can be actuated by means of inclined surfaces (11b, 11c) of a guide unit (11), wherein the guide unit (11) is mounted on the plug unit (4).

7. The connection device (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that: The latching mechanism (6) is fixed with the arm (7) via a guide section (5) on the base unit (2), wherein the guide section (5) interacts with a holding section (9) of the socket unit (3).

8. The connection device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that The holding section (9) is movably received in the guide section (5) between the arm (7), the upper cover wall (5a) and the lower cover wall (5'a).

9. The connection device (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that The guide section (5) is guided in the cover (5b) so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device (1) and is designed to be lockable in different positions or stages.

10. The connection device (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that A guide projection (12) is arranged on the guide unit (11) of the plug unit (4), which extends in the longitudinal direction of the connecting device (1) and points toward the socket unit (3).

11. The connection device (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that The guide projection (12) of the plug unit (4) is designed in the form of a cylindrical pin with a pointed end.

12. The connection device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that A receiving portion (10) is arranged on the socket unit (3) and has a cylindrical inner space for receiving a guide projection (12) of the plug unit (4).

13. The connection device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The base unit (2) is arranged in a fixed position.

14. The connection device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The power connector (L) and the control connector (S) are plug connectors.

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