Plug connector and plug connector assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug connector for plugging together with a mating plug connector (80) in a plug-in direction (E), said plug connector (1) comprising:-a housing (2); -a first inner housing (3); a contact element (5) having a contact section (6) for contacting a mating contact element (82) of the mating plug connector (80); wherein the first inner housing (3) is arranged in a housing interior (7) of the housing (2), the first inner housing (3) having a first interior (8) and an insertion opening (9) towards a mating plug connector (80); wherein the first inner housing (3) has a first receiving element (10) and a second receiving element (11), which are twisted relative to one another at an angle (W) in the range of 75 DEG to 105 DEG, in particular at 90 DEG, one of the two receiving elements (10, 11) being arranged on a side of the first inner housing (3) facing away from the insertion opening (9) as viewed in the insertion direction (E), a contact section (6) of the contact element (5) can be inserted into the first interior space (8) through the first receiving element (10) or through the second receiving element (11) such that the contact section (6) can be contacted through the insertion opening (9).

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a plug connector and a plug connector assembly having such a plug connector. Background Art

[0002] Plug connectors for high-current plug connections or high-voltage plug connections are known from the prior art, for example for application scenarios in electrically operated vehicles. Such plug connectors should be able to transfer a current greater than 10 A, preferably greater than 50 A and particularly preferably greater than 100 A and / or a voltage greater than 40 V, preferably greater than 200 V and particularly preferably greater than 350 V to a mating plug connector.

[0003] Such plug connectors for plugging together with a mating plug connector along an insertion direction are known from DE 10 2019 209 436 A1 and DE 10 2018 202 960 A1, wherein the plug connectors each have a housing, two contact elements being received in the housing, wherein the contact elements are mounted at wires which extend along the insertion direction, and wherein the contact elements can be pushed into the respective housing only in a direction parallel to the insertion direction.

[0004] Further such plug connectors for plugging together with a mating plug connector along an insertion direction are known from EP 3 073 577 A1, wherein the plug connector has a housing, two contact elements being received in the housing, wherein the contact elements are mounted at wires which extend along the insertion direction, and wherein the contact elements can be pushed into the housing only in a direction parallel to the insertion direction.

[0005] Further such plug connectors for plugging together with a mating plug connector along an insertion direction are known from DE 10 2016 120 304 A1, wherein the plug connector has a housing, two contact elements being received in the housing, wherein the contact elements are mounted at wires which extend in a manner twisted by 90° with respect to the insertion direction, and wherein the contact elements can be pushed into the housing only in a direction parallel to the insertion direction. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention relates to the recognition that, depending on the installation situation or customer requirements, there can be a situation in which the contact elements are not introduced into the housing along the insertion direction, but rather must be inserted into the housing at an angle deviating from the insertion direction. In addition, it is necessary to be able to achieve good insulation of the components guiding the voltage and to keep the costs as low as possible even in different installation situations. Providing different components depending on the assembly direction of the contact elements would increase costs and effort.

[0007] Accordingly, there can be a need for a plug connector that is plugged together with a mating plug connector along an insertion direction, which can be easily and inexpensively manufactured, and in which contact elements can be assembled from different directions with respect to the insertion direction.

[0008] Advantages of the present invention:

[0009] The above need can be met by the subject matter of the present invention according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a plug connector for plugging together with a mating plug connector along an insertion direction. The plug connector is particularly provided for high-current applications (such as greater than 20 A or greater than 50 A or greater than 100 A or greater than 150 A or even greater than 400 A) and / or for high-voltage applications (such as greater than 40 V or greater than 100 V or greater than 200 V or greater than 250 V or greater than 350 V, such as 500 V or 600 V or 700 V or 800 V or 900 V or 1000 V) or is designed for such applications. This can, for example, relate to a plug connector for power components in an electrically operated vehicle. Such a plug connector can be provided, for example, for a wire or cable having a cable cross-section of, for example, at least 10 mm 2 or at least 35 mm 2 or at least 50 mm 2 or at least 70 mm 2 or at least 95 mm 2 or at least 120 mm 2 of the cable cross-section.

[0011] The plug connector has: a housing with a housing interior space, a first inner housing, and a contact element with a contact section for contacting a mating contact element of a mating plug connector, or the plug connector includes these elements. The first inner housing is arranged in the housing interior space of the housing. The first inner housing has a first inner space and an insertion opening facing the mating plug connector. The first inner housing has a first receiving element and a second receiving element, which are twisted relative to each other at an angle within the range of 70° to 110°, particularly within the range of 75° to 105°, wherein, when viewed along the insertion direction, one of the two receiving elements is arranged at a side of the first inner housing facing away from the insertion opening. The contact section of the contact element can be inserted into the first inner space through the first receiving element or the second receiving element.

[0012] It goes without saying that, especially in the fully assembled or assembled state of the plug connector, the contact element can be inserted or inserted into the first internal space through the first receiving element or through the second receiving element, so that the contact section can be contacted through the insertion opening.

[0013] This advantageously enables particularly good, stable, robust and reliable support for the contact element and, if necessary, insulation, since the contact element is not only arranged in the (outer) housing, but in the first internal space of the first internal housing. Furthermore, it is advantageously possible to provide a specific geometry by means of the insertion opening of the first internal housing, which geometry can only be mechanically coupled and thus ultimately also electrically coupled to a complementary mating plug connector. By selecting different first internal housings in the case of using the same (outer) housing, the plug connector can advantageously be adapted to different mating plug connectors in an easy and cost-effective manner (for example by means of different internal geometries of the first internal housing). In addition, it is advantageously possible to cause a functional division by providing the housing and the first internal housing: for example, the housing can be designed very stably (in order to implement, for example, operating elements such as joysticks or sliders to reduce the operating force when plugging together with the mating plug) or have a specific color design (for example a signal color to indicate high voltage), while the first internal housing can, for example, be configured to insulate the contact element against accidental contact or, for example, be designed to electrically insulate the individual contact elements from each other in a multi-pole plug connector, in such a way that, for example, spatially separated chambers are constructed. The first internal housing can advantageously also be configured to accommodate seals (for example arranged circumferentially), so that the plug connector can be constructed in a particularly sealed manner with respect to fluid media, dirt, dust or the like. What is particularly advantageous is achieved by the first receiving element and the second receiving element arranged torsionally relative to it, namely that the same first internal housing can always be used regardless of the assembly direction of the contact element. In this way, it is advantageously possible to dispense with providing two different first internal housings depending on the assembly direction of the contact element in the first internal housing. This can advantageously save costs through economies of scale and also reduce the risk of incorrect assembly when assembling the plug connector, since fewer component variants have to be taken into account.

[0014] It goes without saying that the plug connector can have exactly one single contact element. However, the plug connector can also have a plurality of contact elements (for example two, three, four, five or more contact elements).

[0015] Here, the first receiving element and the second receiving element should be understood as predetermined or pre-defined (e.g., visually and / or haptically recognizable) regions or sections or surfaces or positions at or within the first inner housing, through which the contact element can be assembled or inserted into the first inner space without great effort or without the action of great force. For example, it is possible to assemble the contact element through the first receiving element or through the second receiving element into the first inner space without destroying the main function of the first inner housing or the functionally relevant components.

[0016] The first receiving element and the second receiving element can be twisted relative to each other at an angle of, for example, 70° or 75° or 80° or 85° or 90° or 95° or 100° or 105° or 110°. The angle can be measured, for example, with respect to an axis extending transversely or perpendicularly to the insertion direction (the angle is then generated by rotation about this axis). Here, the corresponding assembly direction of the contact element into the first inner space can be used as an angle limit, or the maximum feasible assembly direction of the contact elements twisted relative to each other can be used as an angle limit.

[0017] It goes without saying that the contact element can be assembled or inserted or pushed or pressed into the first inner space from the external environment of the first inner housing not only through the first receiving element but also through the second receiving element. The external space or the external environment and the first inner space can be advantageously separated or partitioned from each other by the wall of the first inner housing or the first inner housing wall. Here, the wall or the first inner housing wall can be constructed, for example, in a closed manner (e.g., except for the insertion opening and the receiving elements).

[0018] In addition to having a contact section or contact area for contacting a mating contact element, the contact element can also have a connection section or connection area. The connection section or connection area can be provided for connection to an electrical conductor (the electrical conductor can be constructed, for example, only exemplarily as a stranded wire conductor or as a bus bar or as a bus strip or the like).

[0019] Here, the contact area or contact section can be arranged, for example, in front of the contact element or in the front section or front area of the contact element, i.e., towards the mating plug connector. The contact area or contact section can be arranged at the first end of the contact element. The connection area or connection section can be arranged, for example, at the second end of the contact element, where, for example, when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the contact element, the second end is opposite to the first end. The connection area can be arranged, for example, in the rear area or rear section of the contact element.

[0020] The two receiving elements can for example be configured such that the contact section of the contact element can be plugged through the two receiving elements, if necessary with an insertion force that can be a few newtons (for example less than 10 N, preferably less than 5 N).

[0021] The first inner housing can have a body which, in the state of being assembled in the housing, faces the mating plug connector with an insertion opening. The body can for example have a wall section surrounding the insertion direction, i.e. the first inner housing wall section. The body can for example be cup-shaped.

[0022] The first inner housing can exemplarily have its own chamber for each contact element in the case of a multi-pole plug connector, the chambers being partially or completely separated from the respective adjacent chambers, where each chamber then ultimately forms its own first inner space. The first inner housing or the first inner spaces constructed in this way can for example be integrally connected to each other by a basic element which forms a common insertion opening.

[0023] In other cases, in the case of a multi-pole plug connector, each contact element can have its own first inner housing, where the inner housings are then for example arranged together in the (outer) housing. In such a case, for example, each first inner housing can have its own insertion opening.

[0024] The first inner housing can for example be assembled into the housing inner space through the front housing opening or the first housing opening of the housing facing the mating plug, for example inserted or pushed or pressed in, etc.

[0025] The contact element can for example be assembled into the housing inner space together with the first inner housing through the rear housing opening or the second housing opening of the housing, for example inserted or pushed or pressed in, etc. However, it can also be provided that the contact element together with the first inner housing is assembled into the housing inner space through the lower housing opening or the upper housing opening, where the lower or upper housing opening is arranged at an angle, for example at an angle in the range of 70° to 110°, twisted with respect to the insertion direction, at the housing.

[0026] In the context of the present application, as long as not otherwise stated, the term "comprising" is used synonymously with the term "having".

[0027] In an improvement, it is provided that the first receiving element is configured as a first receiving opening or as a first penetration surface for generating a first receiving opening.

[0028] By configuring the first receiving element as a first receiving opening, it is advantageously possible to achieve the particularly easy and rapid assembly of the contact element into the first internal space. The contact element only has to be inserted into the first internal space through the first receiving opening.

[0029] What is advantageously achieved by configuring the first receiving element as a first penetration surface is that, in the case where the contact element is not assembled through the first receiving element, the first internal housing (especially in its rear part) remains configured to be substantially or completely closed. This can be the case, for example, before the plug connector is assembled or if the contact element is not equipped in the first internal space (e.g., in a multi-pole plug connector where not all existing chambers are to be equipped) or if the contact element is assembled into the first internal space through the second receiving element. Thus, the sealing and / or stability of the first internal housing can be advantageously improved. In addition, if the first penetration surface remains closed and the contact element is assembled in the first internal space (e.g., through the second receiving element), the electrical insulation of the first internal space with respect to the external environment or the external space of the first internal housing can be advantageously improved.

[0030] For example, it can be provided that the first internal housing has a smaller wall thickness at the position, region, or location of the first penetration surface than in the adjacent regions. As an alternative or in addition, for example, notches, indentations, perforations, or other pre-defined material weakening parts (e.g., by, for example, pre-irradiation with light or other electromagnetic waves or with a gas flow or with a fluid flow, or by local temperature action, etc.) can be provided at at least one edge section of the first penetration surface. Thereby, it is advantageously possible to achieve the particularly easy and labor-saving assembly of the contact element through the first penetration surface. For example, the first penetration surface can be removed (e.g., broken, dissolved, melted, etc.) before assembling the contact element, and then the contact element can be inserted or assembled into the first internal space through the thus-created first receiving opening. In other cases, for example, it can be feasible to push the contact element through the first penetration surface and thereby create the first receiving opening. For example, at least part of the first penetration surface is removed or transformed into the first receiving opening when the contact element is inserted through the first penetration surface.

[0031] As an alternative or in addition, it is provided that the second receiving element is configured as a second receiving opening or as a second penetration surface for creating a second receiving opening.

[0032] By configuring the second receiving element as a second receiving opening, it is advantageously possible to achieve the particularly easy and rapid assembly of the contact element into the first internal space. The contact element only has to be inserted into the first internal space through the second receiving opening.

[0033] Advantageously achieved by configuring the second receiving element as a second penetration surface is that, in the case where the contact element is not assembled through the second receiving element, the first inner housing (especially in its rear part) is configured to remain substantially or completely closed. This can be the case before assembling the plug connector or if the contact element is not equipped in the first inner space (for example, in a multi-pole plug connector where not all existing chambers are to be equipped) or if the contact element is assembled into the first inner space through the first receiving element. Thus, the sealing and / or stability of the first inner housing can be advantageously improved. Furthermore, if the second penetration surface remains closed and the contact element is assembled in the first inner space (for example, through the first receiving element), the electrical insulation of the first inner space with respect to the external environment or the external space of the first inner housing can be advantageously improved.

[0034] For example, it can be provided that the first inner housing has a smaller wall thickness at the position, in the region, or at the location of the second penetration surface than in the adjacent regions. As an alternative or in addition, for example, a notch, indentation, perforation, or other pre-defined material weakening (for example, by means of prior irradiation, especially with light or other electromagnetic waves, or with a gas flow or a fluid flow, or by local temperature action, etc.) can be provided at at least one edge section of the second penetration surface. Thereby, it can be advantageously achieved that the contact element is assembled through the second penetration surface particularly easily and with less effort. For example, the second penetration surface can be removed (for example, broken, dissolved, melted, etc.) before assembling the contact element, and then the contact element is plugged or assembled into the first inner space through the thus created second receiving opening. In other cases, for example, it can be feasible that the contact element is pushed through the second penetration surface and a second receiving opening is created thereby. For example, at least part of the second penetration surface is removed or transformed into a second receiving opening when the contact element is inserted through the second penetration surface.

[0035] It goes without saying that the two receiving elements can be configured as receiving openings before assembling the contact element. Or the two receiving elements can first be configured as penetration surfaces (i.e., substantially closed) before assembling the contact element. However, it can also be provided that one of the two receiving elements is configured as a receiving opening and the other receiving element is configured as a penetration surface before assembling the contact element. In a multi-pole plug connector, it can also be provided that different designs of the receiving elements are provided for different chambers or the first inner housing (for example, one first inner housing or a chamber of the first inner housing has two penetration surfaces, while another first inner housing arranged in the same housing has two receiving openings, or another chamber of the first inner housing has two receiving openings or a combination of a receiving opening and a penetration surface, etc.).

[0036] Finally, it goes without saying that, for example, more than two receiving elements can also be provided at the first inner housing. For example, three receiving elements can be provided, each of which is twisted relative to an adjacent receiving element by 90° (or respectively by an angle within the range between 70° and 110°). In this way, for example, it is possible to achieve an assembly contact element relative to the insertion direction, for example, in the directions of -90°, 0°, and +90°.

[0037] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that the first penetration surface is connected to the first inner housing at the first edge after the first receiving opening is produced.

[0038] This advantageously achieves that after the first penetration surface detaches or breaks, the first penetration surface does not loosen or enter the first inner space as an independent separate element and does not have to be removed therefrom. This advantageously saves at least one working step or improves the safety of the plug connector during the assembly of the plug connector, because no loose parts remain in the first inner space.

[0039] Furthermore, for example, it can be advantageously provided that the first penetration surface is moved or has been moved in the first inner space in the direction of the second receiving element, for example, tilted or pivoted or has been tilted or pivoted, and the second receiving element is at least partially covered.

[0040] This advantageously achieves that, for example, the tightness and / or electrical insulation of the first inner space relative to the external environment of the first inner housing is improved in the region of the second receiving element. If, for example, the second receiving element is designed as a second receiving opening, the first penetration surface can cover the second receiving opening and thereby advantageously prevent or at least limit the entry of dirt, dust, or fluid media into the first inner space. The electrical breakdown of, for example, a shielding element or another electrical conductor through the second receiving opening is also advantageously prevented or minimized by the covering by means of the first penetration surface. If the second receiving element is constructed as a second penetration surface, the electrical insulation in the region of the second penetration surface is also improved. In addition, the electrical insulation and sealing against the entry of dust, dirt, or fluid media are advantageously improved in the region of the still existing connection of the first penetration surface to the first inner housing.

[0041] The first penetration surface can, for example, be connected to the first inner housing at the first edge by means of a diaphragm hinge. The diaphragm hinge can be constructed in a targeted and easy way during the manufacture of the first inner housing such that when the first penetration surface is pierced or opened, the first penetration surface remains connected to the first inner housing at the diaphragm hinge.

[0042] As an alternative or in addition, it can be provided in an improved embodiment that the second penetration surface is connected to the first inner housing at the second edge after the second receiving opening is produced.

[0043] Advantageously, it is achieved that after the first penetration surface detaches or breaks, the first penetration surface does not loosen or enter the first internal space as an independent and separate element and does not have to be removed therefrom. This advantageously saves at least one working step or increases the safety of the plug connector during assembly, since no loose parts remain in the first internal space.

[0044] Furthermore, for example, it can be advantageously provided that the second penetration surface is moved or has been moved in the first internal space in the direction of the first receiving element, for example tilted or pivoted or has been tilted or pivoted, and the first receiving element is at least partially covered.

[0045] Advantageously, it is achieved that in the region of the first receiving element, for example, the tightness and / or electrical insulation of the first internal space with respect to the external environment of the first internal housing is improved. If, for example, the first receiving element is designed as a first receiving opening, the first penetration surface can cover the first receiving opening and thereby advantageously prevent or at least limit the entry of dirt, dust or fluid media into the first internal space. The covering by means of the second penetration surface also advantageously prevents or minimizes, for example, the electrical breakdown of shielding elements or other electrical conductors through the first receiving opening. If the first receiving element is configured as a first penetration surface, the electrical insulation in the region of the first penetration surface is also improved. Furthermore, the electrical insulation and sealing against the entry of dust, dirt or fluid media is advantageously improved in the region of the still existing connection of the second penetration surface to the first internal housing.

[0046] The second penetration surface can be connected to the first internal housing, for example, at the first edge by means of a diaphragm hinge. The diaphragm hinge can be specifically and easily constructed during the manufacture of the first internal housing such that the second penetration surface remains connected to the first internal housing at the diaphragm hinge when the second penetration surface is pierced or opened.

[0047] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that the housing is made of an electrically insulating material. Advantageously, it is achieved that, for example, particularly reliable handling of the housing is provided when plugging it together with a mating plug connector.

[0048] The housing can for example be made of or include such an insulating plastic, for example, for the most part (more than 50%). The housing can for example have polyamide (PA) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) as the material, wherein the plastic can for example be filled with glass fibers (for example GF30, which means: 30% glass fiber proportion, or GF25 or GF20 or other degrees of filling). The housing can for example be manufactured by an injection molding method and is thus particularly easy and inexpensive. Therefore, the housing can for example be configured as an injection molded part.

[0049] As an alternative or in addition, it is provided that the first inner housing is made of an electrically insulating material. This advantageously enables the contact elements to be particularly well insulated and, for example, provides particularly reliable handling of the plug connector when plugged together with a mating plug connector.

[0050] The first inner housing can for example be made of or include such an insulating plastic, for example, for the most part (more than 50%). The first inner housing can for example have polyamide (PA) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) as the material, wherein the plastic can for example be filled with glass fibers (for example GF30 or GF25 or GF20 or other degrees of filling). The first inner housing can for example be manufactured by an injection molding method and is thus particularly easy and inexpensive. Therefore, the first inner housing can for example be configured as an injection molded part.

[0051] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that the first receiving element and the second receiving element are separated from each other in particular by tabs or the like. In other words: The first receiving element and the second receiving element do not transform into each other, at least it is not possible to continuously travel (Entlangfahren) past the contact element from the first receiving element towards the second receiving element.

[0052] This advantageously results in particularly high stability and shape rigidity of the first inner housing. Thus, it is advantageously avoided or made difficult for the first inner housing to be squeezed (for example, transversely to the insertion direction) in the region of the two receiving openings. This also prevents or reduces deformation of the first inner housing after processing, for example, by an injection molding process.

[0053] Alternatively, it is provided that the first receiving element and the second receiving element are configured coherently. In other words: The first receiving element and the second receiving element transform into each other. Despite this, the two receiving elements can still be distinguished from each other due to significantly different assembly directions for the contact elements and / or due to minor structural modifications (for example, slightly narrowing or expanding between the two receiving elements) between the two assembly regions.

[0054] This enables a particularly easy manufacturing to be advantageously achieved. In addition, the assembly of the contact elements can then be more easily achieved advantageously, since the positioning tolerances during assembly are larger.

[0055] It can occur that the plug connector has a plurality of contact elements. This can mean, for example, that the first inner housing has a plurality of first receiving elements and second receiving elements. In this case, for example, the first receiving element and the second receiving element can be separated (e.g., by a tab) for one contact element, while for other contact elements the first receiving element and the second receiving element can be constructed, for example, in one piece.

[0056] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that the plug connector has a second inner housing, wherein the second inner housing is arranged in the housing interior space of the housing, and wherein the contact elements are arranged in the second inner housing, for example in a second interior space of the second inner housing. This advantageously enables the contact elements to be pre-assembled at or in the second inner housing. The contact elements can, for example, be arranged in or at the second inner housing together with the connection area or connection section and together with the wire fastened to the contact element, thereby providing a particularly compact and easily operable element for assembly in the housing of the plug connector. This can be particularly advantageous in a multi-pole plug connector, since in this way the spacing of the contact elements relative to one another can already be predefined by the second inner housing. The sealing of the contact elements relative to fluid media, dirt, grime or the like can also be particularly easily achieved by the second inner housing.

[0057] For example, it can be provided that the second inner housing is completely arranged in the housing interior space of the housing. Thereby, a particularly compact plug connector is advantageously provided. The plug connector can be sealed, for example, fluid-tightly behind the second inner housing by an end cap and / or a sealing element, and the wires of the contact elements are guided through the end cap and / or the sealing element into the external space.

[0058] For example, it can be provided that the second inner housing has an outer contour that is configured like the inner contour of the housing inner space (for example, having a slightly smaller diameter so that the second inner housing can be pushed into the housing like the parts of a matryoshka doll), or in other words, the shape design of the second inner housing can be adapted to the (outer) shape or inner contour of the housing inner space (for example, configured complementarily thereto). Advantageously achieved thereby is that the inner housing can be introduced into the (outer) housing very precisely and positionally defined (even if, for example, the wire to which the contact element is fastened is flexible and / or bendable). Advantageously, it is also possible to introduce the contact element particularly easily and precisely through the corresponding receiving element of the first inner housing and place it in the first inner space, because it is only necessary to correctly introduce the second inner housing into the housing. Furthermore, advantageously, only a small gap remains open between the second inner housing and the outer housing in this way, improving the sealing of the housing inner space. It goes without saying that the inner contour of the housing can have at least one coding structure or can be configured non-rotationally symmetrically (especially around the insertion direction, especially in the region where the second inner housing is arranged). Advantageously, in this way, the second inner housing can be arranged in the housing inner space or assembled into the housing inner space only in a single direction, for example, pushed in or inserted or pressed in, etc.

[0059] For example, it can be provided that the contact element is arranged in the second inner housing in a non-detachable manner. Advantageously achieved thereby is that the contact element and the second inner housing can operate together as a kind of module or independent element, which facilitates the manipulation during the assembly of the plug connector. Thus, for example, over-molding can also be successfully achieved without the contact element becoming detached from the second inner housing. Or it is possible, for example, to achieve transportation under the action of vibration without the (pre-assembled) contact element slipping out of the second inner housing or becoming detached therefrom.

[0060] The non-detachability can be achieved, for example, by a primary locking part. The contact element can, for example, have a (for example, elastically reversibly movable or rigid) spear-shaped part, such as a protrusion, which engages behind a cutout after the contact element is assembled in the second inner housing, or which acts as a cutout for an elastically reversible part (such as a housing wall part) of the second inner housing. Without deliberately releasing the primary locking part or primary latching part, it is no longer possible to pull out the contact element from the second inner housing.

[0061] The second inner housing can, for example, be made of an electrically insulating material. Advantageously achieved thereby is that the contact element is particularly well insulated, for example, also particularly well insulated in the connection area, and for example, provides a particularly reliable manipulation of the plug connector when plugged together with a mating plug connector.

[0062] The second inner housing can for example be made of or include such an insulating plastic for the most part (more than 50%). The second inner housing can for example have polyamide (PA) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) as the material, where the plastic can also be filled with glass fibers exemplarily (for example GF30 or GF25 or GF20 or other degrees of filling). The second inner housing can for example be manufactured by an injection molding method and is thus particularly easy and inexpensive. Thus, the second inner housing can for example be configured as an injection molded part.

[0063] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that the second inner housing has a protrusion in the front section facing the first inner housing, where, when viewed along the insertion direction, the contact section of the contact element is surrounded by the protrusion of the second inner housing at its end side and at at least one longitudinal side. Thereby, particularly easy and inexpensive contact protection is advantageously provided. Thereby, it is possible to advantageously dispense with providing dedicated contact protection in the (outer) housing and / or in the first inner housing. The contact element can be pushed into the protrusion such that, when viewed from the insertion direction, direct contact with the end face of the contact element or (in the case of a contact element or a first inner housing assembled at an angle of 90° relative to the insertion direction, for example) direct contact with the longitudinal side of the contact element facing the mating plug connector is prevented. In addition, with this design, it is possible to advantageously preprocess the contact element in the second inner housing before assembly in the (outer) housing. The correct positioning of the contact element in the second inner housing can be facilitated, for example, by the fact that it is very easy to check whether the contact element is correctly assembled with its contact section relative to the protrusion, for example. In addition, it is possible to advantageously check the contact protection before assembly in the (outer) housing. Finally, in this way, the contact element is also protected against mechanical effects at its outer edge, such that safe and reliable contact with the mating contact element is always ensured in the assembled plug connector.

[0064] It can be provided, for example, that the side of the contact section can be freely accessed. In other words: at least one side of the contact section is not covered by the protrusion. For example, contact with the mating contact element can be achieved on the free side.

[0065] The protrusion can for example be configured in a clamping shape. For example, it can surround the contact section in a U-shape or a C-shape.

[0066] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that the second inner housing is arranged with its front section together with the contact section, for example, can be inserted or has been inserted into the first inner space of the first inner housing. Thereby, it is advantageously possible to achieve a particularly easy and reliable positioning of the contact element in the first inner space of the first inner housing and also in the (outer) housing. The second inner housing and the contact element can thereby be advantageously prefabricated and subsequently assembled together into the first inner space and also into the (outer) housing. In this way, it is not necessary to "thread" the contact element complicatedly from outside the first inner space into the first inner space of the first inner housing, so that the assembly of the plug connector can be achieved more easily, reliably and inexpensively.

[0067] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that the plug connector further has a shielding element, wherein the shielding element at least sectionally surrounds the second inner housing, wherein the shielding element covers the first receiving element and / or the second receiving element and / or provides electromagnetic shielding for it against the surroundings of the plug connector.

[0068] Thereby, it is advantageously achieved that electrical or electronic components or wires for signal transmission in the surroundings of the plug connector are not negatively affected by the electromagnetic radiation released in the first inner space and / or in the second inner space. Particularly advantageously, it is prevented that electromagnetic radiation can leak from the first inner space through one of the two receiving elements or both receiving elements into the surroundings of the plug connector.

[0069] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that the contact element further has a connection section for connection to an electrical wire, wherein the connection section is arranged in the second inner space of the second inner housing, and wherein the contact section projects from the second inner space into the outer environment of the second inner housing.

[0070] Thereby, it is advantageously achieved that the connection section is particularly well mechanically protected and electrically insulated. In addition, it is advantageously possible, for example, to achieve sealing of the electrical wire during prefabrication, in such a way that the electrical wire is sealed in the second inner housing relative to the outer space. Thus, after the second inner housing is inserted into the housing, the sealing is basically already present and there is no need to manufacture the sealing section complicatedly. By the contact section projecting into the outer environment of the second inner housing, the contact section can be advantageously assembled particularly easily into the first inner housing and make contact there.

[0071] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a pluggable connector assembly is provided. The pluggable connector assembly can for example be configured for high currents and / or for high voltages, for example for more than 20 A or more than 50 A or more than 100 A or more than 150 A or even more than 400 A, and / or for more than 40 V or more than 100 V or more than 200 V or more than 250 V or more than 350 V, for example 500 V or 600 V or 700 V or 800 V or 900 V or 1000 V.

[0072] The pluggable connector assembly has a pluggable connector as described previously. The pluggable connector assembly furthermore has a mating pluggable connector, wherein the mating pluggable connector has mating contact elements which are in particular connected to further electrical conductors.

[0073] There is thus advantageously provided a plug connector assembly which has a particularly good, stable, robust and reliable support for the contact elements and, if necessary, insulation, and the contact elements can be contacted particularly easily and reliably by the mating contact elements of a mating plug connector. This is because the contact elements are not only arranged in the (outer) housing of the plug connector, but in a first interior space of a first interior housing. Furthermore, it is advantageously possible to provide a specific geometry by means of the first interior housing via its insertion opening, which geometry can be mechanically coupled only to the (complementary) mating plug connector and thus ultimately also electrically coupled. By selecting different first interior housings in the case of using the same (outer) housing, the plug connector can be advantageously adapted to different mating plug connectors in an easy and cost-effective manner. In addition, it is advantageously possible to achieve a functional division by providing the housing and the first interior housing: for example, the housing can be designed very stably (in order to implement, for example, operating elements such as joysticks or sliders for reducing the operating force when plugging together with the mating plug) or have a specific color design (for example, a signal color to indicate high voltage), while the first interior housing can, for example, be constructed to insulate the contact elements against accidental contact, or, for example, be designed to electrically insulate the individual contact elements from one another in a multi-pole plug connector, in such a way that, for example, spatially separate chambers are constructed. The first interior housing can also advantageously be constructed to accommodate seals (for example, arranged circumferentially), such that the plug connector and thus the plug connector assembly can be constructed particularly tightly with respect to fluid media, dirt, dust or the like. It is particularly advantageous that, by means of a first receiving element and a second receiving element arranged torsionally with respect to it, the same first interior housing can always be used regardless of the assembly direction of the contact elements. In this way, it is advantageously possible to dispense with providing two different first interior housings depending on the assembly direction of the contact elements in the first interior housing. As a result, costs can be saved advantageously through economies of scale and the risk of incorrect assembly is also reduced when assembling the plug connector, since there are fewer component variants to be taken into account. Description of the Drawings

[0074] Those skilled in the art can derive further features and advantages of the present invention from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings, which embodiments should not, however, be construed as limiting the present invention. Among them:

[0075] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a plug connector assembly is shown;

[0076] Figure 2a 、 Figure 2b Schematic perspective views of two plug connectors are shown, with different assembly directions of the contact elements with respect to the insertion direction of the mating plug connector;

[0077] Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective exploded view of a plug connector;

[0078] Figure 4a and Figure 4b shows schematic perspective views ([ Figure 4a Figure 4a ) and side views ([ Figure 4b Figure 4b ) of a first inner housing and a second inner housing in a state before they are assembled with each other parallel to the insertion direction ( Figure 4a ) and after they are assembled with each other parallel to the insertion direction ( Figure 4b );

[0079] Figure 4c and Figure 4d shows schematic perspective views ([ Figure 4c Figure 4c ) and side views ([ Figure 4d Figure 4d ) of a first inner housing and a second inner housing in a state before they are assembled with each other transverse to the insertion direction ( Figure 4c ) and after they are assembled with each other transverse to the insertion direction ( Figure 4d );

[0080] Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of details of another embodiment of the plug connector;

[0081] Figure 6 shows Figure 5 a schematic perspective view of the plug connector in FIG.

[0082] Figure 7 shows Figure 5 a schematic perspective cross-section of the plug connector in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0083] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a plug connector assembly 100. The plug connector assembly 100 can be configured to transfer high current (e.g., greater than 100 A) and / or high voltage (e.g., greater than 100 V or greater than 200 V). The plug connector assembly 100 is surrounded by an ambient environment 50.

[0084] The plug connector 100 includes or has: a plug connector 1 for plugging together with a mating plug connector 80 along an insertion direction E. The plug connector 1 is shown in a side rear view and is connected to a wire 19. The wire 19 is surrounded by an insulating portion 24 and together with the insulating portion 24 forms a cable 23. In addition, the plug connector assembly 100 has a mating plug connector 80, wherein the mating plug connector 80 has a mating contact element 82, which is particularly connected to another electrical wire 86. The mating plug connector 80 is shown here in a side front view. The mating contact element 82 can be formed, for example, in a fork shape such that the mating contact element can surround the contact element 5 on both sides (see Figure 3 ), and the contact element is formed, for example, as a contact piece. In order to prevent or at least limit the opening of the mating contact element 82, for example, when plugging together or during operation, a retaining element can be pushed onto the mating contact element 82, and the retaining element limits the movement of the contact surface of the mating contact element transversely to the insertion direction in a guardrail manner.

[0085] The other electrical wire 86 can be formed, for example, as a stranded wire or, as configured here, as a bus bar or a bus or a bus bar. The mating plug connector 80 can be arranged, for example, only at an electrical or electronic component not shown here or at the housing wall of such a component. Such components can be, for example, an inverter, a motor, a battery, a controller or the like of a vehicle.

[0086] The plug connector assembly 100 is shown here in a state where it has not been finally plugged together.

[0087] The plug connector 1 has a housing 2, which can also be referred to as an outer housing. An operating element 22 is arranged at the housing 2, and the operating element is exemplary in the form of a joystick element here. The operating element or the operating element 22 can be engaged at a mating structure (here: a pin) of the mating contact element 80 by means of a chute structure. When the operating element 22 is manipulated (here: rotated), the operating force when plugging the plug connector 1 and the mating plug connector 80 together can thus be reduced.

[0088] At the lower end of the plug connector 1 in Figure 1 two cables 23 can be seen. The electrical wires 19 of the cables 23 can have, for example, a cross-section greater than 5 mm 2 or greater than 10 mm 2 or greater than 50 mm 2 in order to be able to conduct a high current (for example, greater than 100 A). The electrical wires can be made of a material with good electrical conductivity, for example. The electrical wires can be made of aluminum or copper or a copper alloy, for example.

[0089] The electrical wires 19 are respectively fastened atFigure 1 The contact element 5 that cannot be seen in Figure 3 ). As can be easily seen in Figure 1 , the contact element 5 together with the electrical conductor 19 is assembled transversely to the insertion direction E (here: from below) into the housing 2.

[0090] Viewed along the insertion direction E, Figure 2a a schematic perspective view of a further plug connector 1 is shown. Figure 2a The plug connector 1 in Figure 1 is constructed very similarly to the plug connector 1 in

[0091] . However, here the contact element 5 together with two cables 23 is assembled along the insertion direction E into the housing 2. Figure 2a In addition, in Figure 3 ), a part of the first inner housing 3 and the first inner space 8 of the first inner housing 3 can be seen through the insertion opening 9 of the housing 2. In addition, the projection 29 of the second inner housing 4 (see Figure 3 ) and the end side 14 of the contact section 6 of the contact element 5 (see

[0092] ) can be seen. Finally, the seal 25 arranged between the outer wall of the housing 2 and the first inner housing 3 can be seen. The first inner housing 3 can be assembled into the housing 2 through the insertion opening 9, for example, inserted or pushed or pressed into the housing.

[0093] Viewed along the insertion direction E, Figure 2b a schematic perspective view (side front view) of the plug connector 1 is shown, which is the same as the plug connector 1 in Figure 1 . The contact element 5 and the electrical conductor 19 fastened thereto are assembled transversely to the insertion direction E (for example, twisted 90° relative to the insertion direction E) into the housing 2, for example, inserted into the housing.

[0094] It should be noted that the first inner housing 3 is constructed and oriented identically here in the two embodiments of Figure 2a and Figure 2b respectively. Similarly, the insertion opening 9 and the mechanical interface of the housing 2 of the two plug connectors 1 are constructed identically here by way of example.

[0095] The housing 2 can for example be made of an electrically insulating material. The housing 2 can for example be made of or include an insulating plastic for the most part (more than 50%). For example, the housing 2 can have polyamide (PA) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) as the material, where the plastic can be filled with glass fibers (for example GF30, which means: 30% glass fiber content, or GF25 or GF20 or other degrees of filling). The housing 2 can for example be manufactured by an injection molding method and is thus particularly easy and inexpensive. Thus, the housing can for example be configured as an injection molded part.

[0096] The first inner housing 3 can for example be made of an electrically insulating material. The first inner housing 3 can for example be made of or include an insulating plastic for the most part (more than 50%). For example, the first inner housing 3 can have polyamide (PA) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) as the material, where the plastic can be filled with glass fibers (for example GF30 or GF25 or GF20 or other degrees of filling). The first inner housing 3 can for example be manufactured by an injection molding method and is thus particularly easy and inexpensive. Thus, the housing can for example be configured as an injection molded part.

[0097] Figure 3 shows a schematic three-dimensional exploded view of the components of the plug connector 1 as shown for example in Figure 2a Here it should be noted that here the first inner housing 3 is shown adjacent to the second inner housing 4. It can be provided that the first inner housing 3 is assembled into the housing 2 through the (front) insertion opening 9, and the second inner housing 4 is assembled through the rear opening of the housing 2.

[0098] The plug connector 1 is arranged in the (external) surrounding 50. The plug connector 1 has: a housing 2 (external housing) with a housing interior space 7, a first inner housing 3, and in this exemplary embodiment, two contact elements 5, each of the two contact elements having a contact section 6 for contacting one mating contact element 82 of a mating plug connector 80 (two-pole plug connector 1). The first inner housing 3 (in the state where the plug connector 1 is fully assembled) is arranged in the housing interior space 7 of the housing 2, wherein the first inner housing 3 has a first inner space 8 and an insertion opening 9 facing the mating plug connector 80. The first inner housing 3 has a first receiving element 10 and a second receiving element 11 (here, for each contact element 5, an exemplary pair consisting of the first receiving element 10 and the second receiving element 11 is provided, and in principle, multiple receiving elements can also be provided), and the first receiving element and the second receiving element are twisted relative to each other by an angle W, and this angle is in the range of 70° to 110°, especially in the range of 75° to 105°. In this exemplary embodiment, the angle W is 90°. When observed along the insertion direction E, one of the two receiving elements 10, 11 (for each contact element 5) is arranged at the side of the first inner housing 3 facing away from the insertion opening 9 (here: the first receiving element 10 respectively). In this exemplary embodiment, the contact sections 6 of the contact elements 5 can respectively be inserted through the first receiving element 10 into the first inner space 8 (or in the state where the plug connector 1 is fully assembled: inserted into the first inner space 8 or arranged or assembled therein), so that the contact sections 6 can be contacted through the insertion opening 9. For example, see Figure 2a and Figure 2b .

[0099] In an embodiment of the plug connector 1 as in Figure 1 or Figure 2b (different from that in Figure 3 ), the contact sections 6 of the contact elements 5 can respectively be inserted through the second receiving element 11 into the first inner space 8 (or in the state where the plug connector 1 is fully assembled: inserted into the first inner space 8), so that the contact sections 6 can be contacted through the insertion opening 9 (in Figure 3 this corresponds to assembly from above, and in this case, the housing 2 must then project upward with its rear side).

[0100] In principle, for each contact element 5 at the first inner housing 3, a third receiving element can also be provided, for example, which can achieve assembly from below in Figure 3 . The third receiving element can in turn be twisted relative to the insertion direction E by an angle in the range between -70° and -110°, for example, -90°.

[0101] The angle W can, for example, be measured with respect to an axis A that extends transversely or perpendicularly to the insertion direction E (such that the angle W is generated by rotation about this axis A). Here, the respectively possible assembly directions of the contact element 5 into the first interior space 3 can be used as a limitation of the angle. The axis A can, for example, extend parallel to the surface normal of the large side 16 shown in Figure 3 .

[0102] It goes without saying that the plug connector 1 can in principle also be constructed monopolar, i.e., it can have only a single contact element 5. However, the plug connector 1 can also be constructed tripolar, quadrupolar, pentapolar or even have more than five poles (i.e., contact elements 5).

[0103] In this exemplary embodiment, the plug connector 1 has a second inner housing 4. The second inner housing 4 is arranged in the housing interior space 7 of the housing 2. In the present embodiment, the second inner housing 4 is, by way of example (in the state in which the plug connector 1 is assembled), completely arranged in the housing interior space 7. The contact element 5 is arranged in the second inner housing 4. The contact element can, for example, be arranged or held there in a non-disengaging manner. The second inner housing 4 can, for example, be made of an electrically insulating material.

[0104] It should be noted that the second inner housing 4 is not a main feature of the plug connector. In principle, the contact element 5 can also be assembled in the first interior space 8 without the second inner housing 4. The second inner housing 4 simplifies the assembly.

[0105] The contact element 5 in Figure 3 the exemplary embodiment has a connection section 18 for connection to an electrical conductor 19, where the connection section 18 is arranged in the second interior space 20 of the second inner housing 4, and where the contact section 6 projects from the second interior space 20 towards the external environment 21 of the second inner housing 4 (see Figure 4a and Figure 4c ).

[0106] The second inner housing 4 has a projection 29 in the front section 13 facing the first inner housing 3 (here, a projection 29 is provided for each contact element 5 by way of example). When observed along the insertion direction E, the contact section 6 of the respective contact element 5 is here, by way of example, surrounded by the assigned projection 29 of the second inner housing 4 at its end side 14 and here, also by way of example, at at least one longitudinal side 15, wherein here, by way of example, both sides 16 of the contact section 6 can be freely contacted (it is also conceivable that, for example, only one side 16 can be freely contacted). The projection 29 is here constructed in a clamping shape or in the shape of a “U” or “C” in an approximately rectangular shape, wherein the shape here, by way of example, follows the shape of the contact section 6. Thereby, the second inner housing 4 provides positive contact protection and damage protection for the contact element 5 or its end side 14 by means of the projection 29. This also results in lateral contact protection or damage protection.

[0107] The second inner housing 4 can be arranged, together with the front section 13 or the projection 29 and the contact section 6, in the first inner space 8 of the first inner housing 8, for example, can be inserted (or arranged in the assembled state, for example, inserted or pushed in, etc.). Thereby, the assembly of the contact element 5 in the plug connector 1 can be significantly simplified. Because first, the contact element 5 can be assembled into the second inner housing 4. Then, the correct positioning of the contact element 5 in the second inner housing 4 can be controlled and also the positioning of the individual contact elements 5 relative to one another can be controlled. The assembly of the cable 23 or the electrical conductor 19 can also be achieved in a controlled manner. Sealing against fluid media can also be achieved and controlled. According to this control concept, the second inner housing 4 together with the assembled contact element 5 can then be easily and correctly assembled as a unit into the housing 2 (or the housing inner space 7) of the plug connector 1. By the shape design of the second inner housing 4, it is possible to smoothly guide the contact element 5 through the receiving elements 10, 11 of the first inner housing 3 and place it in the first inner space 8. For this purpose, the outer contour 51 of the second inner housing 4 can, for example, be constructed like the inner contour 52 of the housing inner space 7 (for example, with a slightly smaller diameter so that the second inner housing 4 can be pushed into the housing 2 like the parts of a matryoshka doll), or, for this purpose, the shape design of the second inner housing 4 can be adapted to the (outer) shape of the housing inner space 7 (for example, constructed complementarily thereto).

[0108] This assembly can be achieved particularly easily and reliably by means of the second inner housing 4.

[0109] In Figure 3In this case, the two first receiving elements 10 are configured as first receiving openings 30. This means that: the two first receiving elements 10 are directly configured as first receiving openings 30 from the start, that is, when manufacturing the first inner housing 3, that is, as openings in the first inner housing wall 53 of the first inner housing 3. It goes without saying that in an alternative embodiment, the two first receiving elements 10 can be configured as first penetration surfaces 31 for generating the first receiving openings 30 at the start (before assembling the corresponding contact elements 5). After the two contact elements 5 together with the protrusion 29 of the second inner housing 4 are inserted through, the first penetration surface 31 is then opened and transformed into the first receiving opening 30. As an alternative, it is also feasible that one of the two first receiving elements 10 is already configured as a receiving opening 30 at the start and the other first receiving element 30 is configured as a first penetration surface 31 at the start.

[0110] In Figure 3 In an exemplary embodiment, the two second receiving elements 11 are configured as second penetration surfaces 41 for generating second receiving openings 40. For this purpose, the two second penetration surfaces 41 can, for example, have a smaller material thickness than the first inner housing wall 53 surrounding them. As an alternative or in addition, the second penetration surfaces 41 can, for example, have targeted material weakening at their edges and / or on the second penetration surfaces 41 themselves, such as perforations on the penetration surface and / or at its edge, incisions at the edge, for example in sections or in a circumferential manner, indentations at the edge, etc. It is also conceivable that the material weakening is obtained by irradiation with light or other radiation and / or by the (locally defined) action on a fluid medium and / or by the (locally defined) action on temperature, etc. Thereby, the second penetration surfaces 41 can be ruptured out, removed, pierced, or detached from the first inner housing wall 53 at least sectionally in a targeted and locally restricted manner, without particularly damaging the remaining or adjacent first inner housing wall 53.

[0111] The considerations made here for the second penetration surfaces 41 similarly apply to the case where only a single second penetration surface 41 is provided, or to the case where more than two second penetration surfaces 41 are provided. If the first receiving element 10 is configured as a first penetration surface 31, this similarly applies to one or more first penetration surfaces 31. In addition, the considerations also apply to the case where additional receiving elements are provided (such as a third receiving element, a fourth receiving element, a fifth receiving element, etc. configured as a third penetration surface, a fourth penetration surface, a fifth penetration surface, etc.).

[0112] It goes without saying that the second receiving element 11 is already configured as a second receiving opening 40 from the start, or only one of the two receiving elements 11 is so.

[0113] In Figure 3 an exemplary embodiment, the first receiving element 10 and the second receiving element 11 are separated from each other by a tab 12. In other words: It is not possible to directly reach the second receiving element 11 (especially if the second receiving element is designed as a second receiving opening 40) from the first receiving element 10 (especially if the first receiving element is designed as a first receiving opening 30). The tab 12 can, for example, have a wall thickness that is especially different from the receiving elements 10, 11 separated by the tab. The tab 12 increases the shape stability of the first inner housing 3 in the region of the receiving elements 10, 11, especially against squeezing or force action transverse to the insertion direction E.

[0114] In an alternative embodiment not shown here, it can be provided, for example, that the first receiving element 10 and the second receiving element 11 are constructed in one piece.

[0115] Furthermore, the plug connector 1 can have a shielding element 17 which is not provided in the Figure 3 embodiment in which the shielding element 17 at least sectionally surrounds the second inner housing 4, where the shielding element 17 covers the first receiving element 10 and / or the second receiving element 11 and / or provides electromagnetic shielding for them against the surroundings 50 of the plug connector 1, see for example Figures 5 to 7 .

[0116] Such a shielding element 17 can, for example, be constructed from an electrically conductive material, such as a sheet.

[0117] Figure 4a A schematic perspective view of the first inner housing 3 and the second inner housing 4 in the state before assembly is shown. In this exemplary embodiment, the contact element 5 together with the projection 29 of the second inner housing 4 is assembled in the first inner space 8 parallel to the insertion direction E. Thereby, the assembly is achieved through the first receiving element 10.

[0118] Here, a case is shown where two second receiving elements 11 are constructed as second through - faces 41. Furthermore, in Figure 4aThe first receiving element 10 shown on the left side in [description] is here exemplarily configured as a first penetration surface 31 (not yet penetrated), and the first receiving element 10 on the right side is here exemplarily configured as a first receiving opening 30. This can be the first receiving opening 30 that has been configured from the beginning or the first receiving opening 30 formed after the first penetration surface 31 initially provided at this position ruptures. It is easy to see the indentations at the edges of the first penetration surface and the second penetration surface 31, 41. The first penetration surface and the second penetration surface 31, 41 seal the first internal space 8 from the external environment 21 of the first internal housing 3 and / or provide mechanical and / or electrical protection. In addition, as long as the first penetration surface and the second penetration surface are not opened, for example, ruptured, they enhance the stability of the first internal housing 3.

[0119] Figure 4b shows Figure 4a a side view of the first internal housing 3 and the second internal housing 4 in the assembled state in [description], that is, in the state where the contact section 6 of the contact element 5 is inserted or pushed or assembled into the first internal space 8 (or into the two chambers of the first internal space 8).

[0120] Figure 4c shows a schematic perspective view of the first internal housing 3 and the second internal housing 4 in the state before assembly. In this exemplary embodiment, the contact element 5 together with the protrusion 29 of the second internal housing 4 is assembled in the first internal space 8 transversely or perpendicular to the insertion direction E. Thereby, the assembly is achieved through the second receiving element 11.

[0121] In Figure 4c the two receiving elements 10, 11 on the left side in [description] are here exemplarily configured as penetration surfaces 31, 41, while the receiving elements 10, 11 on the right side are configured as receiving openings 30, 40. However, the two receiving elements 10, 11 on the right side can also be exemplarily configured as penetration surfaces 31, 41 in the initial state and already opened at this time. Alternatively, at least one of the two receiving elements 10, 11 on the right side can be configured as receiving openings 30, 40 during the manufacture of the first internal housing 3.

[0122] Figure 4d shows Figure 4c a side view of the first internal housing 3 and the second internal housing 4 in the assembled state in [description], that is, in the state where the contact section 6 of the contact element 5 is inserted or pushed or assembled into the first internal space 8 (or into the two chambers of the first internal space 8).

[0123] Figure 5Schematic perspective view showing details of a further embodiment of the plug connector 1, which is here exemplarily configured as a two-pole plug connector 1. The (outer) housing 2 of the plug connector 1 is here omitted for reasons of clarity. In this embodiment, each contact element 5 has its own second inner housing 4 (so the second inner housings 4 are here exemplarily constructed separately from one another). In this embodiment, the second inner housing 4 is also not a main element of the plug connector 1, but only makes it easier to assemble the contact elements in the first inner space 8.

[0124] The first inner housing 3 has a basic element 54 and for each contact element 5 has its own chamber 55. The two chambers 55 are here exemplarily constructed integrally with the basic element 54 (that is to say: inseparable without destruction).

[0125] The two contact elements 5 are here inserted into the first inner space 8 together with the projections 29 of the second inner housing 4 by means of respective second receiving elements 11. Thus, the second receiving element 11 is constructed as a second receiving opening 40 in the assembled state of the contact element 5. Here, it concerns the assembly of the contact element 5 into the first inner space 8 in a direction transverse to the insertion direction E.

[0126] On the rear side or dorsal side of the first inner housing 3 facing the observer, the lower chamber 55 of the first receiving element 10 is visible. It is here designed as a first penetration surface 31.

[0127] The upper second inner housing 4 is surrounded by a shielding element 17, which extends into the upper chamber 55 of the first inner housing 3. The shielding element 17 can for example be designed as a metal sheet. The shielding element covers or surrounds the first receiving element 10 and the second receiving element 11 of the assigned contact element 5. It goes without saying that the shielding element 17 can in principle also extend around the two second inner housings 4. In principle, this shielding element can also be omitted (as for the Figure 5 lower contact element 5 shown below).

[0128] Figure 6 Shows from another perspective Figure 5 Schematic perspective view of the plug connector 1 in

[0129] Figure 7 shows a schematic three-dimensional cross-section of the plug connector in Figure 5 . Here it can easily be seen how, by way of example, the contact element 5 can be held in the second inner housing 4 in a retention-proof manner. For this purpose, a primary latching element 26 is arranged or configured at the contact element 5, which is here in the form of an embossed projection by way of example and projects from the contact element 5 transversely to the extension direction of the contact section 6. This primary latching element 26 slightly presses the wall section in the transition region thereof facing the projection 29 outwards when the contact element 5 is pushed into the second inner housing 4. The wall section is preferably configured elastically reversibly here. Once the primary latching element 26 has passed the wall section, the wall section moves back into its original position and then engages behind the primary latching element 26 as a back cut 27. In this way, the contact element 5 is first arranged in the second inner housing 4 in a retention-proof manner. In addition, a secondary locking element 28 provides particularly reliable locking against the contact element 5 leaving the second inner housing 4, which secondary locking element (viewed in the insertion direction E) can be inserted or is inserted here behind the connecting section 18 into the second inner housing 4 and thereby engages behind the connecting section 18.

[0130] In an embodiment not explicitly shown here graphically, it can be provided that the first penetration surface 31 is connected to the first inner housing 3 at the first edge after the first receiving opening 30 has been produced, for example by means of a diaphragm hinge, which diaphragm hinge can be configured, for example, specifically during the manufacture of the first inner housing 3. Thereby, it is advantageously prevented that the first penetration surface 31 rests loosely in the first inner space 8 or that it has to be removed with great effort.

[0131] The first penetration surface 31 can be moved, for example, in the first inner space 8 in the direction of the second receiving element 11 (for example, twisted or pivoted or tilted, etc.) in a further alternative embodiment. For example, with reference to Figure 4a it can be achieved, for example by means of a diaphragm hinge, that the first penetration surface 31 flips or tilts or pivots at its upper edge in the direction of the second receiving element 11, where the diaphragm hinge can be arranged, for example, at the tab 12, see Figure 3 .

[0132] As an alternative or additional option, it can be provided that the first penetration surface 31 advantageously at least sectionally covers or overlaps the second receiving element 11 from the first internal space 8 or overlaps with the second receiving element 11, for example, in the form of a lid or cover. Such covering or overlapping can preferably be at least 30% of the surface of the second receiving element 11, particularly preferably at least 50% of the surface of the second receiving element 11, and very particularly preferably at least 75% of the surface of the second receiving element 11. Thereby, the sealing of the first internal space 8 against incoming dirt or contaminants or fluid media can be advantageously improved. In addition, the electrical insulation of the first internal space 8 against the external environment 21 can be advantageously improved. Furthermore, when the contact element 5 is removed from the first receiving element 10, the first penetration surface 31 can advantageously move back into the first receiving opening 30 and thus provide protection against incoming dirt, contaminants or fluid media and / or improve the electrical insulation in this way. In addition, the mechanical stability in the region of the first receiving element 10 can also be increased thereby.

[0133] As an alternative or additional option, in an embodiment not shown either, it can be provided that the second penetration surface 41 is connected to the first internal housing 3 at the second edge after the second receiving opening 40 is produced, for example, by means of a diaphragm hinge, which can be specifically constructed during the manufacture of the first internal housing 3. Thereby, it is advantageously prevented that the second penetration surface 41 remains loose in the first internal space 8 or has to be laboriously removed.

[0134] In a further alternative embodiment, the second penetration surface 41 can, for example, move in the first internal space 8 in the direction of the first receiving element 10 (for example, twist or pivot or tilt, etc.). For example, with reference to Figure 4a , the second penetration surface 41 can, for example, flip or tilt or pivot in the direction of the first receiving element 10 at its rear edge by means of a diaphragm hinge, wherein the diaphragm hinge can, for example, be arranged at the tab 12, see Figure 3 .

[0135] As an alternative or additional option, it can be provided that the second penetration surface 41 here advantageously at least sectionally covers or overlaps the first receiving element 10 from the first internal space 8, for example, implemented in the form of a lid or a cover. Such covering or overlapping can preferably be at least 30% of the surface of the first receiving element 10, particularly preferably at least 50% of the surface of the first receiving element 10, and very particularly preferably at least 75% of the surface of the first receiving element 10. Thereby, the sealing of the first internal space 8 against incoming dirt or contaminants or fluid media can be advantageously improved. In addition, the electrical insulation of the first internal space 8 against the external environment 21 can be advantageously improved thereby. Furthermore, when the contact element 5 is removed from the second receiving element 11, the second penetration surface 41 can be advantageously moved back into the second receiving opening 40 and thus again provide protection against incoming dirt, contaminants or fluid media and / or improve the electrical insulation in this way. In addition, the mechanical stability in the region of the second receiving element 11 can also be increased thereby.

Claims

1. An insertion connector for insertion together with a mating insertion connector (80) along an insertion direction (E), the insertion connector (1) having: -- a housing (2); -- a first inner housing (3); -- a contact element (5) having a contact section (6) for contacting a mating contact element (82) of the mating insertion connector (80); wherein, The first inner housing (3) is arranged in the housing inner space (7) of the housing (2), wherein the first inner housing (3) has a first inner space (8) and an insertion opening (9) facing the mating plug connector (80); wherein the first inner housing (3) has a first receiving element (10) and a second receiving element (11), which are twisted relative to each other at an angle (W) in the range of 70° to 110°, in particular 90°; wherein, when viewed along the insertion direction (E), one of the two receiving elements (10, 11) is arranged at the side of the first inner housing (3) facing away from the insertion opening (9); wherein the contact section (6) of the contact element (5) can be inserted into the first inner space (8) through the first receiving element (10) or through the second receiving element (11), so that the contact section (6) can be contacted through the insertion opening (9).

2. The insertion connector according to the preceding claim, wherein, The first receiving element (10) is configured as a first receiving opening (30) or as a first penetration surface (31) for generating a first receiving opening, and / or wherein the second receiving element (11) is configured as a second receiving opening (40) or as a second penetration surface (41) for generating a second receiving opening.

3. The insertion connector according to the preceding claim, wherein, The first penetration surface (31) is connected to the first inner housing (3) at a first edge after generating the first receiving opening (30), in particular by means of a diaphragm hinge, wherein, in particular, the first penetration surface (31) moves in the first inner space (8) in the direction of the second receiving element (11) and at least sectionally covers the second receiving element (11), and / or wherein the second penetration surface (41) is connected to the first inner housing (3) at a second edge after generating the second receiving opening (40), in particular by means of a diaphragm hinge, wherein, in particular, the second penetration surface (31) moves in the first inner space (8) in the direction of the first receiving element (10) and at least sectionally covers the first receiving element (10).

4. The insertion connector according to the preceding claim, wherein, The housing (2) is made of an electrically insulating material, and / or wherein the first inner housing (3) is made of an electrically insulating material.

5. The insertion connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first receiving element (10) and the second receiving element (11) are separated from each other, in particular by a tab (12), or wherein the first receiving element (10) and the second receiving element (11) are integrally formed.

6. The insertion connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The plug connector has a second inner housing (4), wherein the second inner housing (4) is particularly completely arranged in the housing inner space (7) of the housing (2), wherein the contact element (5) is particularly arranged in the second inner housing (4) in a non-disengaging manner, wherein the second inner housing (4) is particularly made of an electrically insulating material.

7. The insertion connector according to the preceding claim, wherein,The second inner housing (4) has a protrusion (29) in a front section (13) facing the first inner housing (3), Wherein, when observed along the insertion direction (E), the contact section (6) of the contact element (5) is surrounded by the protrusion (29) at its end side (14) and at at least one longitudinal side (15). Wherein, in particular, the side surface (16) of the contact section (6) can be freely accessed.

8. The plug connector according to the preceding claim, wherein, The second inner housing (4) is arranged, in particular inserted, together with the contact section (6) in the first inner space (8) of the first inner housing (3) by means of its front section (13).

9. The plug connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The plug connector (1) further has a shielding element (17). Wherein, the shielding element (17) at least sectionally surrounds the second inner housing (4). Wherein, the shielding element (17) covers the first receiving element (10) and / or the second receiving element (11) and / or provides electromagnetic shielding for the first receiving element and / or the second receiving element with respect to the surroundings (50) of the plug connector (1).

10. The plug connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The contact element (5) further has a connection section (18) for connection to an electrical conductor (19). Wherein, the connection section (18) is arranged in the second inner space (20) of the second inner housing (4). Wherein, the contact section (6) projects from the second inner space (20) into the external environment (21) of the second inner housing (4).

11. A plug connector assembly, the plug connector assembly (100) having: -- the plug connector (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; -- a mating plug connector (80); wherein, The mating plug connector (80) has a mating contact element (82), which is in particular connected to a further electrical conductor (86).

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