Power contact subassembly and power connection module integrating such subassembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a power contact sub-assembly and a power connection module integrated with such a sub-assembly for clamping a cable terminal. The invention essentially comprises a female electrical contact subassembly (3) comprising: a socket with flexible arms, also in the form of lobes, with sufficient spacing from each other to allow insertion of a cylindrical male contact without mechanical forces; a collar actuated by an offset mechanism that offsets the flexible arm, that is, clamps the flexible arm on the male contact to ensure electrical continuity; the elastic device exerts force to keep the shaft ring in the offset position of the flexible arm and clamp the male contact.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of power connectors.

[0002] More particularly, the present invention relates to terminal block connection assemblies, and even more particularly to power contacts implemented in these assemblies.

[0003] Here and in the context of the present invention, a "junction box" is understood to be a device for ensuring electrical continuity between an electrical cable and another part of an apparatus. A junction box, also called a connection terminal or screw terminal, is an electrically insulating module that secures together two or more wires / cables intended to be electrically interconnected and comprises an insulating support and at least one clamping member for securing the wire / cable.

[0004] Here and in the context of the present invention, a “contact” is understood to be an element made of an electrically conductive material for transmitting electric current.

[0005] Although described with reference to a connection module for cable terminations in junction boxes, the invention can be used for any power connection requiring an effortless coupling between power contacts while still ensuring a strong contact pressure once the coupling has been performed.

[0006] It is also the case that although the invention has been described with reference to preferred applications, namely aerospace applications and more specifically aircraft wiring, the invention can be implemented in any other application requiring electrical connections between a number of cables / wires in a splice area. Background Art

[0007] One operation in aircraft wiring is electrically connecting many power cables / wires to each other.

[0008] This is typically accomplished using a screw terminal block secured to the aircraft structure, with the multiple cables / wires inserted into the box and then secured by clamping.

[0009] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An example of such a known junction box is shown, generally indicated by reference numeral 1, which is designed to connect two or more cables 2 provided with lugs 20 at their ends by means of a screw / nut system.

[0010] This terminal box 1 firstly comprises an electrically insulating support 10 in which terminal screws 11 are fixed, each terminal screw 11 forming a screw / nut system together with a nut 12 for clampingly fitting to a lug 20 of a cable 2 .

[0011] Each screw / nut system is provided with an electrically conductive washer 13 , in particular of the crimped washer type.

[0012] Each terminal screw 11 passes through a conductive rod 14. This rod 14 forms a bearing surface for a cable lug 20, thereby forming an electrical shunt between the cables 2 to be electrically connected. This plate 14 is optional, and each screw 11 is electrically independent. Alternatively, the plate 14 can extend only part of the length, electrically connecting only some of the screws.

[0013] The support 10 is fixed to the aircraft structure S by means of stud screws 15 .

[0014] A cap 16 held by the stud screw 15 forms a protective cover for the system of screw 11 and nut 12 .

[0015] Since the junction box 1 is not sealed, an additional cover, usually called an "umbrella", is fixed to the aircraft structure above the junction box to prevent condensed moisture from flowing directly onto the cables 2 connected in the junction box.

[0016] Besides this leaky aspect, this screw terminal box 1 has a number of major disadvantages.

[0017] First, the lug 20 must be precisely oriented so as to be threaded around the terminal screw 11 so as to achieve a satisfactory electrical connection. Typically, this means that the operator must untie the cable 2.

[0018] The number of parts (screws, nuts, washers, diverter rods, covers, umbrellas) that the operators in charge of assembly have to manage is high, and moreover, the risk of losing parts is high, and therefore of damage (FOD, standing for "Foreign Object Damage") caused by foreign objects or mechanical debris, a situation that the aim is to explicitly avoid in the aviation sector.

[0019] The risk of losing components is greater if the area where conventional junction boxes 1 are assembled is difficult for operators to access, / or access is very limited, and / or the location is awkward. For example, insulating support 10 is often fixed to the ceiling of an aircraft structure. This means that the lugs attached to screws 11 do not remain in place until nuts 12 are installed. In other words, the lugs on the screws do not initially secure them in place.

[0020] In addition to the inherent clamping operation by means of the screws, which can take a long time for a dedicated operator, another operator systematically checks the clamping torque of the lugs 20 for securing the cables.

[0021] There are also cases where screw terminal blocks require that the cables be de-energized to avoid exposing operators responsible for making electrical connections to electrical risks. Furthermore, these risks cannot be completely eliminated during testing to check correct operation.

[0022] As a result, ultimately, it takes a long time to install the screw terminal blocks.

[0023] Furthermore, the lugs 20 may require a 180° orientation, which is not very compatible with rigid power cables, which typically have a diameter of approximately AWG 000 (unit of measurement "American Wire Gauge"), ie 10.4 mm.

[0024] Finally, screw terminal blocks do not allow for modularity, as the number of cables 2 that can be connected in the same terminal block is fixed.

[0025] In order to improve existing junction boxes, the applicant's patent application EP3758165 proposes a connection assembly that can add greater modularity, make installation easier, especially in areas where access is limited and / or a large number of wires / cables are to be connected, and protect the operators responsible for the connection from electrical risks.

[0026] Although this solution is entirely satisfactory, there is still a need for improved terminal block assemblies, in particular for transmitting high currents, typically up to 400 A, which involve high contact pressures and therefore high connection forces, without causing premature wear of the contacts.

[0027] More generally, there is a need to propose a solution for coupling between power contacts that enables high contact pressures and thus high connection forces without premature wear of the contacts.

[0028] The present invention aims to fully or partially meet this need(s). Summary of the Invention

[0029] To this end, according to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to a female power contact subassembly, comprising:

[0030] - a female power contact in the form of a cylindrical socket with a central axis (X2), comprising:

[0031] Hollow tube,

[0032] flexible contact arms, which are in the continuation of the hollow tube and are angularly spaced with respect to one another at preferably regular intervals and form flaps designed to be deflected from a rest position, in which the male power contact can be inserted preferably effortlessly between the flaps, to a deflected position, in which the male power contact is clamped between the flaps, thereby establishing electrical continuity between the male and female contacts;

[0033] - a clamping collar, which is slidably mounted around the socket and serves to deflect the arm;

[0034] - a displacement mechanism of the collar for displacing the collar from a first position corresponding to the rest position of the flap to a second position corresponding to the deflected position of the flap, the displacement mechanism being designed to convert a pivoting movement of a separate part external to the collar along an axis perpendicular to the central axis (X2) of the contact into a translational movement of the collar;

[0035] - elastic position return means for returning the collar from its first position to its second position.

[0036] In other words, the invention essentially comprises a subassembly with a female power contact formed by a socket, the power contact comprising: an arm that is flexible and also in the form of flaps that are spaced apart from each other at a sufficient distance to allow the insertion of a cylindrical male contact without the need for mechanical force; a collar actuated by a displacement mechanism that deflects the flexible arm, that is to say clamps it on the male contact to ensure electrical continuity; and elastic means that exert a force to maintain the collar in the deflected position of the flexible arm and clamp the male contact.

[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment, the displacement mechanism comprises:

[0038] - a fork having at least one branch, pivotably mounted on the collar, the free end of the branch abutting against an external stop,

[0039] - a forked pivoting lever or cam for translating the collar from the first position to the second position and vice versa.

[0040] Advantageously, the elastic return means is a helical compression spring mounted around the collar and the female power contact, with one longitudinal end abutting against an outer flange of the collar and the other longitudinal end abutting against an outer flange or an external stop of the female power contact.

[0041] According to an advantageous embodiment, each flap end comprises an inwardly protruding locking surface designed to be accommodated in a circumferential recess of the male power contact in the deflected position of the flap, thereby locking the axial displacement of the flap, preferably before or while the male power contact is clamped, the locking surface having a shape complementary to the circumferential recess of the male power contact.

[0042] As a result, the axial displacement of the flaps of the female power contact is locked by their inner surfaces, which are preferably housed in a matching shape in the circumferential recesses of the male power contact.

[0043] According to an advantageous embodiment variant, the subassembly comprises an electrical insulator comprising:

[0044] - a hollow tube housed inside the hollow tube of the female contact,

[0045] - ribs, in the continuation of the hollow tube and distributed angularly to one another at preferably regular intervals, delimiting through holes, each housing a flap of a female contact, said flap projecting outwards at least in its rest position,

[0046] - A ring, which interconnects the ribs, for mechanically protecting the front end of the flap.

[0047] The ribs make it possible both to guide and mechanically protect the arms of the female contacts.

[0048] The invention also relates to an electrical connection module, intended to form part of a terminal box of a connection assembly, having a longitudinal axis (X), comprising:

[0049] at least one body made of electrically insulating material, comprising at least one cavity extending along the axis X and designed to house a cable termination comprising an electrically insulating sleeve and a preferably cylindrical male power contact retained inside the sleeve, intended to be attached to, preferably crimped onto, a cable;

[0050] - at least one subassembly as described above, fixed in the cavity, the flaps of the female power contact being designed to grip the male contact of the cable terminal in their deflected position.

[0051] Advantageously, the cavity houses a plate forming the outer stop, against which the other longitudinal end of the helical spring rests.

[0052] According to an advantageous embodiment, the displacement mechanism comprises:

[0053] an interface part for an external tool (H), which is freely rotatably mounted in a receiving portion of the body and is designed to be rotated by the tool,

[0054] - a pivoting cam fixed to or formed integrally with the interface part, the rotation of which causes the fork to pivot perpendicularly to the axis X, which causes the collar to translate from the first position to the second position and vice versa.

[0055] Advantageously, the interface part may comprise an interface recess for a tool, preferably a hexagonal socket recess.

[0056] According to an advantageous embodiment variant, the body of the module and / or the interface part comprises at least one visual indicator arranged to be visible to the operator in order to indicate to them that the clamping position of the contacts of the cable terminal is correct. Thus, the body of the module and / or the interface part may comprise a distinct color area as a visual indicator.

[0057] According to an advantageous embodiment, the body comprises an opening adjacent to the cavity and provided on the inside with a plurality of longitudinal straight grooves, preferably evenly distributed at an angle, each designed to receive a straight spline formed around a sleeve of the cable terminal.

[0058] The splines of the terminal sleeve make it possible to resist the torsion forces exerted on the body of the module by the cable. In addition, once the contacts are clamped in the connection module, the splines make it possible to prevent the contacts from rotating by sliding.

[0059] By choosing a small angular sector between the splines, contacts that do not require angular indexing can be inserted into the module.

[0060] According to another advantageous embodiment, the module comprises a part of a pre-locking device designed to interact with another part of a pre-locking device fixed to or integral with the terminal of the cable, for locking the male contact of the terminal in its position housed in the cavity before being clamped by the flaps of the female contact. The pre-locking device ensures that the male contact is inserted in the correct position before it is clamped in the flaps of the female contact.

[0061] According to this embodiment and a variation of the first embodiment, one part of the pre-locking device comprises at least one protrusion formed on the outer periphery of the tubular continuation of the body of the module, and another part of the pre-locking device comprises at least one lug formed on the inner periphery of a collar rotatably mounted around the terminal, the collar axially abutting against a part of the terminal when the lug axially abuts against the rear part of the protrusion to perform pre-locking.

[0062] According to this embodiment and a variation of the second embodiment, the part of the pre-locking device includes a roughly U-shaped component slidably mounted on a tubular continuation of the body of the module, the tubular continuation being provided with two through holes, and the other part of the pre-locking device includes at least one groove formed on the outer periphery of a part of the terminal, the U-shaped component being in a sliding position, the ends of its branches forming ribs accommodated in the grooves of the terminal to perform pre-locking.

[0063] According to a first connection configuration, the female contact includes a portion extending from the body, the portion being designed to be electrically connected to the busbar by welding or screwing.

[0064] The electrical connection module may also be dedicated to the connection between wiring harnesses, that is to say the connection between at least two separate cable terminals.

[0065] According to the second connection configuration, the module thus comprises:

[0066] - two aligned or side-by-side bodies fixed to each other,

[0067] - two electrically interconnected female contacts,

[0068] - Two independent displacement mechanisms. Thus, at least two cable terminals can be connected in series within the same module.

[0069] According to an advantageous design variant, the module comprises a single plate against which the other end of each of the two helical compression springs rests axially.

[0070] According to another advantageous design variant, the two female contacts are screwed one onto the other.

[0071] According to this second embodiment and variant for the connection between one current input and three outputs, there are provided in the module:

[0072] - each body comprises at least two aligned or non-aligned cavities, these cavities preferably extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) of the module,

[0073] The two female contacts of the same body are electrically interconnected so as to generate electrical current splitting between the at least four cable ends when the at least four cable ends are respectively accommodated in the cavities.

[0074] The present invention also relates to a junction box connection assembly, comprising a plurality of modules of the same or different sizes. The modules have cavities of the same or different sizes for accommodating cable terminals of the same or different sizes.

[0075] The invention finally relates to a structure, in particular for an aircraft, comprising at least one electrical connection module as described above and / or at least one terminal box connection assembly as described above, preferably fixed to a rail support, itself intended to be fixed to the structure.

[0076] The present invention has many advantages over existing devices, including:

[0077] - By replacing the usual lugs with cylindrical contacts, the problem of orientation of the cable, which can be very rigid, is eliminated;

[0078] - reducing the time required for installing cables in structures, in particular aircraft structures, through a rapid assembly system that ensures effective clamping of the cable ends without the need for "torsion", that is to say by applying a specific clamping force to achieve maximum precision;

[0079] - Individual connection of each cable terminal in a single- or multi-cavity connection module;

[0080] - effortless coupling, since, after clamping, the distance between the flexible arms (petals) of the female contact enables the male contact to be inserted easily and without friction, which, moreover, has the advantage of not causing wear of the contacts and / or any coating they may have;

[0081] - Increased number of coupling turns between male and female contacts due to effortless coupling, better corrosion resistance, and the option of applying cheaper surface coatings to the contacts;

[0082] - High contact pressure between the power contacts at the cable terminations and the flexible arms (petals) of the contacts inside the module, thereby reducing the power contact resistance and thus enabling high current transfer with reduced heating;

[0083] - reducing the forces exerted on the displacement mechanism by the operator, directly or through a tool, making it possible to easily compress the elastic return element and thus use a particularly rigid elastic return element in order to obtain a significant clamping force on the flexible arm of the socket;

[0084] - Select a sealed connection at the cavity of the module housing the contacts;

[0085] - selection of visual (marking on the module relative to an indicator on the interface part) and sensory (mechanical stop of the terminal contact) indications of the correct clamping of the terminal contact in the module;

[0086] In aircraft structures, the existing umbrella-shaped components are eliminated by means of a sealing solution with a connection module, which sealingly accommodates the cable termination in a cavity;

[0087] - No risk of losing parts (FOD stands for “Foreign Object Damage”) since the solution according to the invention has no independent, removable parts to install;

[0088] - Protecting operators from electrical risks, as all they now have to do is directly handle electrically insulating parts (terminal bushings and modules);

[0089] -Highly modular and can be easily adapted to various wiring configurations;

[0090] - Connection modules are particularly suitable for high-voltage lines (several hundred volts) because there is only one potential in the connection module (phase and ground are separated in different modules) and the leakage paths and insulation paths between the electrical conductors are long.

[0091] The applications envisaged for a junction box having a module according to the invention are numerous, including the wiring of civil aircraft.

[0092] Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will become more apparent on reading the detailed description of an exemplary embodiment of the invention, given by way of non-limiting illustration with reference to the following drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0093] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1A perspective view is shown of an example of a screw terminal block for electrical wiring in an aircraft structure according to the prior art.

[0094] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 is another perspective view of a screw terminal block according to the prior art, showing a cable harness with lugs connected in the terminal block.

[0095] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a female power contact subassembly according to the present invention.

[0096] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Exploded diagram of .

[0097] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a male power contact about to be coupled to a female contact of a subassembly in accordance with the present invention.

[0098] [ Figure 6A ]、[ Figure 6B ][ Figure 6C ] Figure 6A 、 Figure 6B and Figure 6C are perspective views in longitudinal section, showing the positions of the male power contact before insertion, before clamping after insertion, and after clamping and locking in the female power contact subassembly according to the present invention.

[0099] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a connection module having two identical bodies fixed to each other and having aligned cavities each housing a subassembly according to the invention and a male contact of a cable termination coupled to a female contact of one of the subassemblies.

[0100] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 Is based on having two cable terminals Figure 7 Exploded view of the module.

[0101] [ Figure 9A ]、[ Figure 9B ] Figure 9A and Figure 9B It is a partial perspective view of a section at the displacement mechanism of the collar of the subassembly within the module, showing the positions of the male contact of the cable terminal before and after insertion and clamping, respectively.

[0102] [ Figure 10A ],[ Figure 10B ] Figure 10A and Figure 10BIt is a side cross-sectional view of the displacement mechanism of the collar of the subassembly in the module, showing the positions of the male contact of the cable terminal after insertion, before clamping, and after clamping.

[0103] [ Figure 11A ],[ Figure 11B ] Figure 11A and Figure 11B are respectively corresponding to Figure 10A and Figure 10B Longitudinal cross-sectional view of the male and female contacts within the module.

[0104] [ Figure 12 ] Figure 12 is a longitudinal section through a variant with sealing of a connection module according to the invention having two bodies fixed to one another, each housing a male contact of a cable termination and a female contact subassembly according to the invention.

[0105] [ Figure 13 ] Figure 13 is a perspective longitudinal section view of an embodiment variant of a female power contact according to the invention.

[0106] [ Figure 14 ] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a first embodiment variant of the device for pre-locking a cable termination in a subassembly according to the invention within a connection module.

[0107] [ Figure 15 ] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a second embodiment variant of the device for pre-locking a cable termination in a subassembly according to the invention within a connection module.

[0108] [ Figure 16A ]、[ Figure 16B ][ Figure 16C ] Figure 16A 、 Figure 16B and Figure 16C are perspective views showing the Figure 15 The positions of the male power contacts before pre-locking, upon insertion in a rotational indexing position, and after clamping, pre-locking and locking within the female power contact subassembly according to the present invention.

[0109] [ Figure 17 ] Figure 17 is a partially cutaway perspective view of an embodiment of a connection module having two bodies, each housing two adjacent cavities, which make it possible to establish an electrical connection between one input cable termination and three output cable terminations.

[0110] [ Figure 18 ] Figure 18is a partially cutaway perspective view of an embodiment of a junction box having multiple connection modules connected to the same busbar. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0111] Throughout this application, the terms "vertical", "lower", "upper", "bottom", "top", "beneath" and "above" are to be understood relative to the electrical connection module in a fixed configuration, in particular an electrical connection module fixed to a rail support in a horizontal arrangement.

[0112] Similarly, the terms “internal” and “external” are to be understood relative to the subassemblies according to the invention that are integrated in the body of the electrical connection module.

[0113] Similarly, the terms "front" and "rear" should be understood relative to the connection ends of the power contacts according to the invention. Thus, the front portion of the female power contact of the subassembly according to the invention is the portion closest to the coupling portion of the complementary male and female contacts, while the rear portion is the portion furthest away.

[0114] For the sake of clarity, identical elements of the cable according to the prior art and the cable according to the invention are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0115] The background technology section has been described in detail. Figure 1 and Figure 2 . Therefore, they will not be discussed below.

[0116] Figure 3 and Figure 4 One example of a power contact subassembly is shown and generally designated by the reference numeral 3 .

[0117] This subassembly 3 comprises a female power contact in the form of a cylindrical socket 30 comprising a rear portion substantially in the form of an at least partially hollow tube 300 and a front portion substantially in the form of flexible contact arms 301 in the form of flaps, which are arranged in the continuation of the hollow tube 300 and are angularly spaced from each other at preferably regular intervals and formed with flaps. In the example shown, the socket 30 comprises eight flexible arms 301 at regular angular intervals.

[0118] As will be explained in detail later, the flexible arm 301 is designed to deflect from a rest position, in which the flexible arm 301 is positioned, to a deflected position, such as Figure 5 As shown, the male power contact 40 can be inserted between the flexible arms 301 preferably without difficulty. In the deflected position, the male power contact 40 is clamped between the flexible arms 301, thereby establishing electrical continuity between the male and female contacts.

[0119] The subassembly 3 also comprises a clamping collar 31 slidably mounted around the socket 30 for deflecting the arm 301 .

[0120] The displacement mechanism 33 for the collar 31 enables the collar 31 to be displaced from a first position corresponding to the deflected position of the flexible arm to a second position corresponding to the rest position of the flexible arm.

[0121] The subassembly 3 finally comprises a helical compression spring 32 preferably mounted coaxially around the collar 31 and the female contact 30 , the helical compression spring 32 being an elastic position return means for returning the collar from its second position to its first position.

[0122] If appropriate, the subassembly 3 comprises an electrical insulator 34 comprising a rear portion in the form of a hollow tube 340 housed in the hollow tube 300 of the female contact, and a front portion substantially in the form of ribs 341 in the continuation of the hollow tube 340 and distributed angularly to one another at preferably regular intervals and defining through holes 342.

[0123] The ribs 341 make it possible to guide and mechanically protect the arms / petals of the female contact.

[0124] Each through hole 342 houses a flap 301 of a female contact, which flap projects outwards at least in its rest position.

[0125] The various components of the subassembly are described in greater detail in the advantageous configurations.

[0126] In addition to the hollow tube 300, the rear part of the socket 30 includes a thickened portion 302 and an outer flange 303 in the continuation of the socket 30. The thickened portion 302 allows radial guidance of the coil spring 32. The outer flange 303 serves as a stop for the longitudinal rear end 320 of the spring 32.

[0127] Each end of the flap 301 comprises an outer surface 304 forming a surface of mechanical interference with the collar 31 and an inner surface 305 forming a face of electrical contact with the male contact 40 and preferably forming an inwardly projecting locking surface.

[0128] Figure 5 A male cylindrical power contact 40 with a central axis X1 is shown in FIG. It comprises a rear portion 400 for crimping it to an electrical conductor of a cable and a front contact portion 401 , the diameter of the front contact portion 401 being smaller than the diameter of the rear portion 400 .

[0129] The front contact portion 401 is preferably provided with a circumferential recess 402 which enables the axial displacement of the female contact 30 relative to the male contact 40 of the subassembly to be locked.

[0130] The front contact portion 401 also preferably includes a bevel 403 in front of the circumferential recess, which bevel 403 continues the shelf 404 if appropriate, which enables the male contact 40 to be re-centered when it is inserted into the female contact 30 and advantageously reduces the insertion force of the contact 40 by sliding on the bevel 403 / shelf 404.

[0131] The locking surface 305 of the flap 301 is designed to be housed in the circumferential recess 402 of the male power contact in the deflected position of the flap, thereby locking the axial displacement of the flap, preferably before or while the male contact is clamped.

[0132] Preferably, the locking surface 305 has a shape complementary to the circumferential recess 402 .

[0133] The locking collar 31 comprises a hollow tube 310 , the outer surface of which is provided with three flanges 311 , 312 , 313 spaced apart from each other.

[0134] The rear flange 311 serves as a stop for the front longitudinal end 321 of the spring 32 and as a bearing for a pivot bolt 351 of the actuating mechanism, as described below.

[0135] The intermediate flange 312 serves as a bearing for elements of the actuating mechanism.

[0136] The front flange 313 makes it possible to create an internal chamfer 314 continued by an internal gap 315. The internal chamfer 314 makes it possible to deflect the arms / flaps 301 of the female contact 30 inwards during the displacement of the collar 31. The internal gap makes it possible to reduce mechanical stresses.

[0137] The electrical insulator 34 may comprise a ring 343 interconnected with the rib 341 for mechanically protecting the front end of the flap 301 and reinforcing the rib 341 of the electrical insulator.

[0138] like Figure 3 and 4 As shown, the displacement mechanism 33 may include:

[0139] a fork 35 having at least one branch 350 , in the example shown two branches, pivotably mounted on the collar 31 , the free ends of the branches resting against an external stop,

[0140] - a fork-shaped pivoting lever 36 for translating the collar 31 from the first position to the second position and vice versa.

[0141] In particular, a pivot bolt 351 on the inside of one of the branches 350 may be pivotably bear against flanges 311 and 312 of the collar 31 .

[0142] Now refer to Figures 6A to 6CA method for inserting, coupling, and locking the male contact 40 in the contact assembly 3 is described, as just described.

[0143] Specifically, prior to step a / , the lever 36 has already been actuated, that is, it has been rotated to transition from a horizontal position to a vertical position. This rotation of the lever 36 causes the fork 35 to pivot rearward, compressing the spring 32 and retracting the collar 31. The retraction of the collar brings the flexible arm (flap) 301 into a rest position. The female contact 30 is then ready to be coupled to the male contact 40.

[0144] Step a / :like Figure 6A As shown, the male contact 40 is moved upward toward the female contact 30, aligning their center axes X1 and X2. The displacement mechanism 33 is actuated, causing the rod 36 to be in an outwardly deployed position. The collar 31 is in a retracted position. The spring 32 is compressed between the female contact 30 and the collar 31. In this configuration, the flap 301 of the female contact 30 is in a rest position, i.e., a non-deflected position.

[0145] Step b / :like Figure 6B As shown, the male contact 40 is freely inserted, that is, effortlessly inserted, into the female contact 30, with their center axes X1 and X2 coinciding. The displacement mechanism 33 is actuated, and the rod 36 is thus in an outwardly deployed position. The collar 31 remains in a retracted position. The spring 32 remains compressed between the female contact 30 and the collar 31. In this configuration, the flap 301 of the female contact 30 is in a rest position, that is, a non-deflected position.

[0146] Step c / :like Figure 6C As shown, the male contact 40 is inserted into the female contact 30, with their center axes X1 and X2 coinciding. The displacement mechanism 33 has been released and is no longer actuated: the rod 36 is therefore in a position rotated inward and downward. The fork 35 is tilted towards the front of the contacts, with an angular pivot range limited by the flange 312. As a result, the collar 31 is in its forward-pushing position. The spring 32 is in its extended state between the female contact 30 and the collar 31. In this configuration, the flaps 301 of the female contact 30 are in their deflected position and clamp the male contact, and are held in this position by the spring 32. More specifically, the inner surface 305 of the flap 301 is accommodated in the circumferential recess 402 of the male contact 40 and rests therein by the clamping force. The male contact 40 and the female contact 30 are thus coupled to each other and locked.

[0147] Figure 7 and Figure 8An electrical connection module 5 according to the invention is shown, intended to form part of a terminal block of a connection assembly integrating two female contact subassemblies 3 according to the invention. This module 5 makes it possible to establish an electrical connection between an input terminal 4 of a cable 2 and another output terminal.

[0148] The electrical connection module 5 comprises two preferably identical bodies 50 fixed to each other. The means for fixing between the two bodies 50 are not shown, but may be screws / nuts passing through the bodies.

[0149] Each body 50 is electrically insulating, has a longitudinal axis X, and is intended to house, clamp, lock and connect at least one terminal 4 of a cable 2 .

[0150] More specifically, each body 50 comprises inside it a cavity 51 , preferably two cavities 51 of identical dimensions, facing each other; in each of these cavities, the terminal 4 of the cable 2 is inserted, clamped and locked, as described below.

[0151] The cable terminal 4 with a central axis X1 comprises an electrically insulating sleeve 41 and a cylindrical electrical contact 40 , which is crimped onto the cable 2 and inserted and fixed in the sleeve 41 , in particular by snap-fitting.

[0152] The sleeve 41 comprises on its outer periphery straight splines 42 extending around the central axis X1 over a portion of its length.

[0153] The cylindrical contact 40 and the reference Figure 5 Same as described.

[0154] Furthermore, the cable termination 4 comprises a pre-locking collar 43 which is rotatably mounted around the sleeve 41 , the function of which will be described below.

[0155] In each cavity 51 is fixed a Figure 3 and Figure 4 The female contact subassembly 3, except:

[0156] - the displacement rod 36 of the displacement mechanism 33 is replaced by an interface part 37 for the external tool H and a displacement cam 38 fixed to the part 37 or formed integrally with the part 37,

[0157] The longitudinal end 320 of the spring 32 rests against a plate 52 fixed in the body 50 of the module.

[0158] More specifically, an interface member 37 for a tool H is freely rotatably mounted in a receiving portion 53 of the body and is designed to be rotated by the tool. The interface member 37 may include an interface recess 39 for the tool, preferably a hexagonal socket recess. Thus, an operator can use conventional tools, such as a hexagonal wrench.

[0159] The bridge 353 of the fork 35 abuts against the pivot cam 38 and the free ends 352 of the branches 350 of the fork abut against the stops 54 inside the body 50 .

[0160] In the embodiment shown, there is a single plate 52 that forms a stop for the two springs 32 on either side. Each subassembly 3 has an independent actuating mechanism 37,38.

[0161] Furthermore, as shown, the body 50 includes a tubular continuation 55 having an opening 56 facing the cavity 51 .

[0162] Now refer to Figures 9A to 11B A method is described for inserting, coupling and locking the male contact 40 of the terminal 4 of the cable 2 in the connection module 5 with the contact subassembly 3 as just described.

[0163] Step a1 / :like Figure 9A As shown, before or during the insertion of the male contact 40 with the sleeve 41 into the opening 56, the interface member 37, and therefore the displacement cam 38, is rotated about arrow R1, causing the fork 35 to pivot about the pivot point 351 on the collar 31 and abut against the stop 54 of the body 50, thereby pulling the collar 31 back along arrow A1 and compressing the spring 32. Consequently, the spring 32 is compressed between the plate 52 and the collar 31. Rotation of the cam 38 reduces the force applied by the operator to the interface member 37, thereby facilitating the compression of the spring 32. In this configuration, the flap 301 of the female contact 30 is in a rest position, i.e., a non-deflected position.

[0164] Step b1 / : Insert the male contact 40 with the sleeve 41 into the opening 56. The male contact 40 is inserted freely between the flaps 301 of the female contact 30 without mechanical force. The spring 32 is still in a compressed state between the plate 52 and the collar 31. The collar 31 is still in the position of being pulled back. In this configuration, the flaps 301 of the female contact 30 are still in a resting state, i.e., in a non-deflected position ( Figure 10A 、 Figure 11A ). The sleeve 41 is press-fitted around the collar 31, also without the need for mechanical force.

[0165] Step c1 / :like Figure 9B 、 Figure 10B 、 Figure 11BAs shown, the male contact 40 is inserted into the female contact 30. The interface member 37 and thus the displacement cam 38 rotate about arrow R2 in the direction opposite to R1, causing the fork 35 to pivot against the stop 54 of the body 50, and thus the collar 31 is pulled forward along arrow A2 in the direction opposite to A1, and the spring 32 is stretched. As a result, the spring 32 is in an extended state between the plate 52 and the collar 31.

[0166] In this configuration, the flexible arm 301 of the female contact 30 is in a deflected position. The spring 32 exerts a retaining force on the collar in this position. The male contact 40 and the female contact 30 are thus coupled and locked to each other.

[0167] Figure 12 An advantageous design variant of the module 5 just described is shown, which makes it possible to obtain a more compact and more robust module which also has very good electrical continuity.

[0168] The stop 52 of the spring 32 is sandwiched between the two bodies 50 of the module.

[0169] In this case, one of the two female contacts 40 is screwed into the other. In another case, one of the female contacts 40 (in Figure 12 The right side of the figure) is screwed directly into the baffle 52.

[0170] For this reason, Figure 13 As shown, the tubular portion 300 of one contact 30 has threads 306 tapped on the inside for interacting with the threaded shank 307 of the other contact. The internally tapped tubular portion 300 also has threads 308 formed on the outside that are screwed directly into the plate 52.

[0171] According to another embodiment, a pre-locking function can be provided for the male contact 40 in the body 50 of the module 5, which is implemented once the contact 40 has been inserted, but before the cam 38 rotates together with the collar 31, which deflects the flap 301 of the female contact 30. Advantageously, this pre-locking function can be implemented by the operator using only one hand. This pre-locking ensures the correct axial positioning of the male contact in the female contact before the two contacts are clamped and coupled.

[0172] Figure 14A first variant of the pre-locking device is shown. A generally U-shaped component 59 is slidably mounted on the tubular continuation 55 of the module's body 50, with the ends of its branches 590 forming ribs. The tubular continuation 55 is provided with two through-holes 550, each of which can be inserted into a rib 590. Once the contact 40 has been inserted into the module's body 50, the component 59 is slid so that the ends of its ribs 590 are received in the external grooves 405 of the sleeve 41 provided for this purpose. The contact 40 is thus prevented from translating within the body 50 and is thus pre-locked. If the male contact 40 is not correctly axially positioned, sliding the component 59 is impossible, which visually and sensorily indicates that the contact 40 has been incorrectly installed.

[0173] Figure 15 A second variant of a pre-locking device is shown. At least one protrusion 57, preferably a plurality, is formed on the outer circumference of the tubular continuation 55 of the body 50 of the module 5. A collar 43, rotatably mounted around the sleeve 41 of the terminal 4, includes at least one lug 430 formed on its inner circumference. Once the contact 40 has been inserted into the body 50 of the module, the collar abuts axially against a portion of the terminal, and the lug 430 abuts axially against the rear portion of the protrusion 57. The contact 40 is thus prevented from translating within the body 50 and is thus pre-locked.

[0174] like 16A to 16C As shown in detail in FIG, the module body 50 and a portion of the cable termination 4 may be produced so as to prevent the cable termination 4 from rotating once its contacts have been inserted into the cavity 51 .

[0175] Thus, the opening 56 of the body adjacent to the cavity 51 is internally provided with a plurality of longitudinal straight slots 560 , preferably regularly distributed at an angle, each designed to receive a straight spline 42 formed around the sleeve 41 of the cable terminal.

[0176] Once the contact 40 is inserted and clamped in the connection module 5 , the splines 42 make it possible to resist the torsional forces exerted by the cable 2 on the body of the module 3 , and also prevent the contact 40 from rotating by sliding.

[0177] The splines 42 are preferably spaced apart at a small angle from one another, thereby allowing the contacts 40 to be inserted into the body 50 of the module without having to rotationally index them beforehand.

[0178] Once the rotation of the contact 40 is stopped by the spline 42, the pre-locking collar 43 can be installed ( Figure 16C ).

[0179] Furthermore, sealing variants of the connection between the contact or contacts 40 of the terminal 4 and the module body or bodies 50 are conceivable.

[0180] like Figure 8As shown, this variant may for example consist in installing at least one annular grommet mounted at the end of the sleeve 41 , at the interface with the cable 2 .

[0181] like Figure 12 As shown, an O-ring 580 may also be provided at the interface 58 between the two bodies 50 that are secured to each other.

[0182] Furthermore, an O-ring 381 ( Figure 12 ).

[0183] The connection module according to the invention enables various configurations for connecting an electrical wiring harness to the cable lug 4 .

[0184] As described above and shown, one and the same module 5 can comprise two preferably identical bodies 50 facing each other and fixed to each other. This enables an electrical connection with a single input and output.

[0185] Other configurations with multiple outputs are also possible.

[0186] Figure 17 A variant with one electrical input E and three electrical outputs S is shown, with electrical shunts being formed inside the body 50 of the connection module 5 ′.

[0187] More specifically, if Figure 17 As shown, the module 5 ′ comprises two aligned bodies 50 fixed to one another, each body 50 comprising inside two cavities 51 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) of the module.

[0188] Alternatively, the two bodies may be placed side by side and fixed to each other.

[0189] Each contact 30 is clamped by a displacement mechanism 37 , 38 independently of the other contacts. The electrical shunt is formed by a single plate 52 ′ electrically connected to the four female contacts 30 .

[0190] Another possible configuration of the connection module according to the invention is the connection of a plurality of ends 4 of cables 2 to busbars or connecting rods.

[0191] This configuration is Figure 18 , wherein three preferably identical modules 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 are arranged parallel to each other. In this configuration shown, each body 50 of the module comprises a single cavity 51 in which the contact 40 of the terminal 4 of the cable 2 is inserted and clamped.

[0192] The baffle 52 includes an extension portion 520 extending from the main body 50 .

[0193] Each body 50 includes a continuation portion 500 having a shape of a regular parallelepiped and supporting an extension portion 520 of the baffle 52 .

[0194] The female contact 30 includes a stem 307 that is screwed into the retaining plate 52 .

[0195] The parallel electrical connection between the different female contacts 30 and therefore between the electrical terminals 4 is achieved via a common busbar 6, which is fixed in the extension 520 of each baffle 52 by means of screws / nuts 60. Of course, it is possible to envisage fixing to the busbar by welding instead of screws / nuts 60.

[0196] Other variations and modifications may be provided without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0197] Different numbers of cavities may be provided for modules of different sizes, for accommodating cable terminals 4 of different sizes.

[0198] It is also possible to provide for fixing and locking of the connection modules in the rail support.

[0199] Although in the example of a variant for preventing the terminal from rotating, longitudinal straight grooves are formed in the body and complementary straight splines are carried by the sleeve, the opposite situation can of course also be envisaged, that is to say that the splines are formed in the body and the sleeve is provided with longitudinal straight grooves on its periphery.

[0200] Unless otherwise stated, the expression "having" should be understood as being synonymous with "having at least one."

Claims

1. A female power contact subassembly (3), comprising: - a female power contact in the form of a cylindrical socket (30) with a central axis (X2), comprising: ●Hollow tube (300), - flexible contact arms (301) in the continuation of the hollow tube and angularly distributed and forming flaps designed to deflect from a rest position, in which the male power contact can be inserted between the flaps, to a deflected position, in which the male power contact is clamped between the flaps, thereby establishing electrical continuity between the male contact and the female contact; - a clamping collar (31) slidably mounted around the socket for deflecting the arm; - a displacement mechanism (33, 35, 36, 37, 38) of the clamping collar, for displacing the clamping collar from a first position corresponding to the deflected position of the flap to a second position corresponding to the static position of the flap; the displacement mechanism is designed to convert the pivoting movement of an independent part outside the collar along an axis perpendicular to the central axis (X2) of the contact into a translational movement of the clamping collar; - at least one elastic position return means (32) for returning the clamping collar from its second position to its first position.

2. The subassembly (3) according to claim 1, wherein: The displacement mechanism comprises: - a fork (35) pivotably mounted on the clamping collar with a branch, the free end of the branch (350) abutting against an external stop, - a forked pivot lever (36) or cam (38) for translating the clamping collar from the first position to the second position and vice versa.

3. The subassembly (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The elastic position return device is a helical compression spring installed around the clamping collar and the female power contact, one longitudinal end of which abuts against the outer flange of the clamping collar and the other longitudinal end of which abuts against the outer flange of the female power contact or against an external stopper.

4. The subassembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The end of each flap includes an inwardly protruding locking surface (305), which is designed to be accommodated in a circumferential recess of the male power contact in the deflected position of the flap, thereby locking the axial displacement of the flap, and the locking surface has a shape complementary to the shape of the circumferential recess of the male power contact.

5. The subassembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising an electrical insulator (34), the electrical insulator comprising: - a hollow tube (340) housed inside the hollow tube of the female contact, - ribs (341) in the continuation of the hollow tube and distributed at an angle and delimiting through holes (342), each of which houses a flap of the female contact, which flaps project outwards at least in their rest position, - a ring (343) interconnecting the ribs for mechanically protecting the front end of the flap.

6. An electrical connection module (5, 5'; 5.1, 5.2, 5.3), for forming part of a terminal box of a connection assembly, having a longitudinal axis (X) and comprising: - at least one body (50) made of electrically insulating material, said body comprising at least one cavity (51) extending along said longitudinal axis (X) and designed to house a cable termination (4), said cable termination comprising an electrically insulating sleeve (41) and a male power contact (40) retained inside said sleeve, said male power contact being intended to be attached to a cable (2); - At least one subassembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, fixed in the cavity, the flaps of the female power contact being designed to grip the male power contact of the cable terminal in their deflected position.

7. The electrical connection module according to claim 6, wherein: The cavity houses a plate (52) forming the outer stop, against which the other longitudinal end of the helical spring abuts.

8. The electrical connection module according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The displacement mechanism comprises: an interface part (37) for an external tool (H), the interface part being freely rotatably mounted in a receiving portion of the body and being designed to be rotated by the tool, - a pivoting cam (38) fixed to the interface part or formed integrally therewith, the rotation of which causes the fork to pivot perpendicularly to the axis (X), which causes the collar to translate from the first position to the second position and vice versa.

9. The electrical connection module according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein: The body includes an opening (56) adjacent to the cavity and provided with a plurality of longitudinal straight grooves (560) therein, each longitudinal straight groove being designed to receive a straight spline (42) formed around a sleeve of the cable terminal.

10. An electrical connection module according to any one of claims 6 to 9, comprising a part of a pre-locking device, which is designed to interact with another part of the pre-locking device, which is fixed to the terminal of the cable or formed integrally with the terminal of the cable, and is used to lock the positive power contact in its position accommodated in the cavity before the positive power contact of the terminal is clamped by the flap of the female contact.

11. The electrical connection module according to claim 10, wherein: Said part of the pre-locking device comprises at least one protrusion (57) formed on the outer periphery of the tubular continuation (55) of the body of the module, and the other part of the pre-locking device comprises at least one lug (430) formed on the inner periphery of an axial ring (43) rotatably mounted around the terminal, and when the lug axially abuts against the rear part of the protrusion to perform pre-locking, the axial ring axially abuts against a part of the terminal.

12. The electrical connection module according to claim 10, wherein: Said part of the pre-locking device comprises a generally U-shaped part (59) slidably mounted on a tubular continuation of the body of the module, the tubular continuation being provided with two through holes (550), and another part of the pre-locking device comprises at least one groove (405) formed on the periphery of a part of the terminal, the U-shaped part being in a sliding position, the ends of its branches forming ribs (590) received in the grooves of the terminal to perform pre-locking.

13. The electrical connection module according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein: The female contact includes a portion extending out of the body and designed to be electrically connected to a busbar (6) by welding or threading.

14. The electrical connection module according to any one of claims 6 to 12, comprising: - two aligned or side-by-side bodies fixed to each other, - two electrically interconnected female contacts, - Two independent displacement mechanisms.

15. The electrical connection module according to claim 14 in combination with claim 7, comprising a single plate against which the other end of each of the two helical compression springs abuts axially.

16. The electrical connection module according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The two female contacts are screwed one into the other.

17. The electrical connection module according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein: - each body comprises at least two aligned or non-aligned cavities, - two female contacts of the same body are electrically interconnected so as to generate electrical current splitting between the at least four cable terminals when the at least four cable terminals are respectively received in the cavities.

18. A junction box connection assembly, comprising a plurality of electrical connection modules (5.1, 5.2, 5.3) according to any one of claims 6 to 17, wherein the electrical connection modules have the same or different sizes and cavities of the same or different sizes for accommodating cable terminals of the same or different sizes.

19. A structure, in particular for an aircraft, comprising at least one electrical connection module according to any one of claims 6 to 17 and / or at least one junction box connection assembly according to claim 18, itself intended to be fixed to the structure.

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