Housing sealing element, housing part and plug connector

Abstract

The invention relates to a housing sealing element (11) for a housing assembly (2) of a plug-in connector (1), which housing sealing element forms a central opening (19) and has a circumferential fully closed extent. According to the invention, the housing sealing element (11) is formed at an angle such that the central opening (19) and a first section (20) of the housing sealing element (11) extend in a first plane (E1) and the central opening (19) and a second section (21) of the housing sealing element (11) extend in a second plane (E2).

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to European Patent Application No. 23164081.4, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a housing sealing element for a housing assembly of a plug-in connector as described in the preamble of claim 1.

[0003] The present invention also relates to a housing component of a housing assembly, the housing component having a housing sealing element.

[0004] The present invention also relates to a plug-in connector having a housing assembly, particularly a plug-in electrical connector. Background Technology

[0005] Various types of plug-in electrical connectors are known in electrical engineering. Plug-in electrical connectors are commonly used to transmit power and / or data signals to corresponding mating plug-in connectors. Plug-in connectors can be plugs, printed circuit board plugs, panel plugs, sockets, connectors, or adapters. The term "plug-in connector" as used within the scope of this invention refers to all variations.

[0006] Especially for the automotive industry or vehicles, there are sometimes very high requirements for the sealing performance of plug-in connectors. In principle, plug-in electrical connectors with cable sealing elements are known, with the cable sealing element located inside the cable sheath of the plug-in connector housing. Reference should be made to US10,847,924B2 by way of example.

[0007] It has been shown that the sealing performance of plug-in connectors equipped with cable sealing elements can be adversely affected by certain mechanical stresses, such as lateral tensile stress on the cable. Due to lateral stresses originating from the cable in the area of ​​the cable sheath, the cable sealing element may separate from the inner wall of the plug-in connector housing, allowing dust or liquid to penetrate.

[0008] Experience shows that in the case of multi-part plug-in connector housings, the separation of the cable sealing element from the inner wall of the plug-in connector housing is significant. In this case, the cable sealing element is typically arranged between two housing parts, which have a certain ability to move relative to each other due to the gap that is usually present.

[0009] Multi-part insert connector housings or housing assemblies are typically used for angled insert connectors. Therefore, providing a sufficient seal that meets all required standards and requirements can sometimes be particularly complex. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In view of the prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide a housing sealing element and housing component for a housing assembly of a plug-in connector, wherein the housing sealing element can meet particularly high sealing requirements, and preferably has the ability to be manufactured economically and installed simply.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a plug-in connector, particularly a plug-in electrical connector, which meets particularly high sealing requirements and preferably has the ability to be manufactured economically and installed simply.

[0012] This objective is achieved by a housing sealing element having the features listed in claim 1. With regard to the housing component, this objective is achieved by the features of claim 8; with regard to the plug-in connector, this objective is achieved by claim 11.

[0013] The dependent claims and features described below relate to advantageous embodiments and variations of the invention.

[0014] The housing sealing element according to claim 1 is provided for a housing assembly of a plug-in connector, preferably for a housing assembly having at least one first housing component and a second housing component, wherein the at least one first housing component and the second housing component can be mechanically connected to each other.

[0015] This invention is particularly suitable for use with plug-in electrical connectors. However, this should not be construed as limiting, as in principle, the invention can also be used with optical plug-in connectors or another type of plug-in connector.

[0016] Preferably, the housing assembly forms the plug-in connector housing of the plug-in connector and typically has at least one interior that, in the installed state of the housing assembly, is at least substantially enclosed by the housing assembly, in which the plug-in connector components of the plug connector can be accommodated and optionally fixed and connected to each other.

[0017] In addition to the first and second housing components, other housing components may be provided within the scope of the proposed housing assembly, such as a third, fourth, or even more housing components. When referring to a “housing component,” the name refers at least to the first and second housing components, but may also refer to other housing components where appropriate, even if not explicitly stated.

[0018] The first housing component and the second housing component can be housing components of an angled plug-in connector (therefore, at least one of the housing components can be designed to be angled accordingly, however, this is not absolutely necessary).

[0019] For example, the second housing component can form the housing base of the insert connector, and the first housing component can form a housing cover for the housing base. Generally, preferably, the housing components can form an internal insert connector housing. The housing retaining component mentioned below can be mounted on this internal insert connector housing (and therefore may also be referred to as an "external insert connector housing" or "closure cover").

[0020] In the interconnected state of the housing components, preferably, the housing components (at least the first housing component and the second housing component) together form a cable conduit (particularly a cable outlet and / or cable inlet) through which a cable (particularly an electrical wire) can be introduced into the interior of the housing assembly. Here, the housing components (at least the first housing component and the second housing component) form corresponding circumferential sections of the cable conduit.

[0021] Preferably, a first portion of the circumferential section of the cable sheath is formed by a first housing component, and a second portion of the circumferential section of the cable sheath is formed by a second housing component. Optionally, the housing components forming the cable sheath together may overlap at least in some sections along the circumference of the cable sheath; however, preferably, each of the housing components is at least substantially associated with an independent circumferential section of the cable sheath. Preferably, the cable sheath is at least substantially completely closed in the circumferential direction (e.g., except for some gaps at the transitions between the housing components).

[0022] The housing components may be individually or collectively formed into at least substantially tubular or sleeve-shaped sections to achieve a cable conduit that generally has a straight route in at least some sections in the provided direction for cable entry or exit (however, in principle, a curved or angled route of the cable conduit may also be provided).

[0023] Preferably, the housing component forming the cable sheath has a corresponding inner shell surface in at least some sections, which can be used to support and abut against the cable sealing element mentioned below. The inner shell surface may have a substantially planar extent, but may also have recessed and / or raised portions (e.g., annularly extending grooves or ribs) where appropriate, to secure the cable and / or cable sealing element by form-fitting when the housing assembly is in the installed state.

[0024] Preferably, the housing assembly has a cable sealing element for the cable, which is housed within the cable sheath.

[0025] Preferably, the cable sealing element can seal the cable sheath to prevent dust, liquid, and / or moisture. An airtight seal can also be provided. Specifically, for this purpose, the cable sealing element can provide a seal between the cable sheath and the inner shell surface of the housing component forming the cable sheath.

[0026] Preferably, the cable sealing element is formed as a single piece.

[0027] Specifically, a cable sealing element may be provided, which is completely closed or annular in the circumferential direction and has a central opening for a channel for the cable. Preferably, the cable sealing element is secured inside the cable sheath, for example, by form fit, force fit, or material bonding. For example, the cable sealing element may also be injection molded in one of the housing components and / or the housing retaining components mentioned below.

[0028] The cable sealing element can extend along the entire cable conduit, but may also be arranged only in a section of the cable conduit where appropriate. Alternatively, multiple cable sealing elements may be arranged one at the entrance direction and distributed at the rear.

[0029] In this regard, it should be mentioned that the invention can also be applied to housing assemblies or plug-in connectors to which multiple cables travel. Cable sleeves can be configured accordingly for this purpose, wherein multiple cable sleeves can also be provided, the multiple cable sleeves leading into the interior of the housing assembly (e.g., arranged adjacent to or parallel to each other, but also originating from different directions or different sides of the housing assembly).

[0030] For example, a cable conduit can be designed to accommodate exactly one cable, exactly two cables, exactly three cables, exactly four cables, exactly five cables, exactly six cables, or more cables. Each of the cables can be associated with an independent cable sealing element (correspondingly, multiple cable sealing elements can be provided within the cable conduit), however, multiple cables (e.g., two, three, or all cables in each case) can also travel through a common cable sealing element, wherein, preferably, the common cable sealing element has multiple adjacent openings for respective passages for the individual cables.

[0031] The invention is described below primarily based on a housing assembly or plug-in connector having only a single cable. However, this is for the purpose of better understanding the invention and should not be construed as limiting.

[0032] Preferably, the housing assembly has a housing retaining member that encloses the housing components (at least the first housing component and the second housing component) at least in the region of the cable conduit and at least in some sections, to secure the housing components to each other.

[0033] Preferably, the housing retaining member can be configured as a closure or end cap for the housing assembly. Preferably, the housing retaining member encloses the housing assembly at least from the cable-side end of the cable sheath. Alternatively, the housing retaining member can be designed as annular or sleeve-shaped and without end-side closures or stops.

[0034] Specifically, the housing retaining components may be configured to enclose the housing components (at least the first housing component and the second housing component) at least in the area of ​​the cable sleeve where the cable sealing element is arranged.

[0035] Advantageously, the housing retaining member is able to engage the housing components with the smallest possible gap, in order to reduce the possibility of movement between the housing components and increase the rigidity of the housing assembly, especially in the area of ​​the cable conduit and very particularly in the sections of the housing components where the cable sealing elements are arranged.

[0036] Mechanical stress on the cable can be at least substantially absorbed by the housing retainer, thus preventing separation of the cable sealing element from the inner shell surface of the housing component forming the cable sheath. Surprisingly, it was found that the sealing performance of the housing assembly can be significantly improved by using the housing retainer.

[0037] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the housing retaining member may be displaced on at least one of the housing components (particularly in the direction of cable introduction or at least substantially in the direction of cable introduction, but also in a direction away from the cable where appropriate).

[0038] Preferably, the housing retaining member can travel on at least one housing component, particularly until the housing retaining member reaches its final mounting position on the fixed housing component. For example, the housing retaining member and at least one of the housing components can be configured to form a mutual linear guiding system.

[0039] The installation of the housing components can be simplified by the guided function, and the sensitivity to errors (especially the risk of damaging parts) is reduced.

[0040] For example, by engaging the housing retaining member around a housing member in which a cable sheath is formed entirely or in some sections, or by clamping the housing retaining member around a housing member in which a cable sheath is formed entirely or in some sections, the housing retaining member can travel linearly on the outer surface of at least one of the housing members.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, for example, a guide rail system may be provided, wherein the housing retaining member has one or more protrusions (e.g., ridges, pins, slotted nuts, etc.), which are linearly guided in one or more corresponding recesses (e.g., grooves or notches) such that the protrusions extend in the mounting direction of the housing retaining member (hereinafter referred to as the "retainer mounting direction"). Opposing arrangements (and hybrid variations) may be provided, wherein the housing retaining member has recesses and the housing member has protrusions.

[0042] According to an improved embodiment of the present invention, the housing mounting direction for connecting the first housing component to the second housing component and the retainer mounting direction for mounting the housing retaining component on the housing component can be configured to be different from each other.

[0043] Specifically, the housing mounting direction and the retainer mounting direction can be configured to extend at an angle between 45° and 90° to each other, preferably extending orthogonally to each other or at least substantially orthogonally to each other. In this way, installation can be carried out in a particularly simple and gentle manner, wherein the housing retaining member can simultaneously prevent unintentional disassembly of the housing components.

[0044] However, where appropriate, the housing mounting direction and the retainer mounting direction can be arranged to be parallel to each other or at least substantially parallel to each other, for example, extending at an angle of less than 45°. In this case, installation can be achieved, for example, by temporarily unfolding the bracket-shaped housing retainer. Similarly, in this case, the housing retainer can prevent unintentional disassembly of the housing components.

[0045] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the housing retaining component can be configured to enclose the housing component in the area of ​​the cable sheath, particularly in a circumferential manner.

[0046] In the case of a circumferentially closed housing retainer, the cable sheath can be mechanically reinforced or strengthened particularly effectively. Therefore, this variant is particularly well-suited when very high lateral forces are anticipated on the cable.

[0047] In an improved version of the invention, however, it can also be configured such that the housing retaining member clamps the housing component only in the area of ​​the cable sheath.

[0048] Specifically, the housing retaining member may have at least one support surface and two side arms, using the at least one support surface to support the housing member forming the cable sheath (i.e., on at least one of the outer surface surfaces of the housing member), with the two side arms extending from the support surface along corresponding opposite sides of the housing member. Preferably, at least one of the side arms (particularly preferably both side arms) clamps the housing member on the side opposite to the mating support surface.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, at least one (particularly preferably two) of the side arms may have a protrusion (e.g., a ridge or pin) in one or more sections between the mating support surface and the housing side opposite to the mating support surface, which allows for fixation or clamping within one side of the housing component.

[0050] Advantageously, the clamping of the housing retaining component onto the housing component can also be used as a linear guiding system, such as a guide rail guiding system.

[0051] In an improved embodiment of the invention, the housing retaining member can be securely connected to at least one of the housing components in its installed state (preferably securedly connected to at least the first housing component and the second housing component).

[0052] Specifically, the housing retaining member can be latched, grouted, or screwed onto the first housing member and / or the second housing member. Latching is particularly preferred here because it can be implemented with technically simple means and can be installed and removed in a simple manner. Accordingly, the housing retaining member can have one or more latching elements, and the housing members can have corresponding mating latching elements. Latching elements or mating latching elements can be, for example, resilient or spring-loaded latching arms, latching springs, latching protrusions (e.g., latching hooks), edges, or latching sockets (e.g., orifices or recesses).

[0053] In each case, preferably, at least one latching element is arranged on at least two sides of the housing retaining member, particularly on the sides opposite to or away from each other.

[0054] As already mentioned, where appropriate, the housing retaining component can also be screwed onto one of the housing components. This is particularly advantageous when the corresponding housing component has a substantially rotationally symmetrical design.

[0055] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, at least one of the housing components and the housing retaining component may be configured to be integrally connected to each other via at least one connecting web in a pre-installed state. Preferably, the connecting web has only a very small thickness or wall thickness, which is less than the thinnest wall thickness of the housing component and / or the housing retaining component, for example, less than one-third, less than one-half, or even less.

[0056] In particular, when the housing assembly is manufactured as a common injection-molded plastic part, manufacturing the housing retainer as a single piece with at least one of the housing parts can reduce the cost of producing the housing assembly.

[0057] The connecting web can be designed such that, at least in some sections, the connecting web has sufficient elasticity or deformability to allow relative movement between the housing retainer and at least one housing component for the final installation of the housing retainer.

[0058] For example, the connecting web can be designed in a way that is called a membrane hinge.

[0059] It can also be configured such that the connecting web is designed with a predetermined break point to separate the housing components and housing retaining components before or during final installation.

[0060] Specifically, at least one connecting web can be designed to break by axial movement of the housing retaining component in the direction of the cable sheath and / or to allow rotational or pivotal movement between the components. By breaking at least one connecting web or a predetermined break point, the individual components of the housing assembly can be treated as separate components in a conventional manner during final installation.

[0061] Preferably, at least one connecting web is formed in the region of the cable sheath of the first housing component.

[0062] A single connecting web can be provided. However, multiple connecting webs can also be provided. In the case of multiple connecting webs, preferably, the multiple connecting webs can be arranged along the circumference of the cable conduit, for example, distributed in equidistant corner segments. However, the multiple connecting webs can also be arranged, particularly in a common plane, parallel or adjacent to each other, for example, to enable bending or pivoting movements.

[0063] The housing retaining member can be connected to the housing member via at least one connecting web, such that the housing retaining member is arranged to be twisted and / or pivoted relative to the installed state of the housing member in an uninstalled or pre-installed state.

[0064] The housing retaining member can also be connected to the housing member via at least one connecting web, such that, compared to the installed state of the housing member, the housing retaining member is spaced apart from the cable sleeve in the uninstalled or pre-installed state along the retainer mounting direction (e.g., the cable entry direction).

[0065] It can be configured such that the first housing component and the second housing component are fastened to each other by force fit, shape fit or material bonding in the interconnected state of the first housing component and the second housing component.

[0066] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the first housing component and the second housing component may be configured to latch each other.

[0067] A latch is particularly preferred because it can be implemented with technically simple means and is also easy to install and remove. Therefore, the first housing component can have one or more latching elements, and the second housing component can have corresponding mating latching elements. The latching element or mating latching element can be, for example, a resilient or spring-loaded latch arm, a latch spring, a latch protrusion (e.g., a latch hook), an edge, or a latch socket (e.g., an orifice or recess).

[0068] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the housing retaining member may be configured to be formed of the same material as at least one of the housing members.

[0069] Preferably, all housing components of the housing assembly (particularly the first and second housing components) and the housing retaining components are formed of the same material.

[0070] Preferably, the housing components (particularly the first and second housing components) and / or the housing retaining components are formed of plastic, particularly of hard plastics such as thermoplastics or thermosetting plastics (preferably not of elastomers). However, the components may also be formed of metal, ceramic, or another type of material. Combinations of multiple materials may also be provided (within the same component or within the housing assembly). Particularly preferably, the housing assembly forms the housing of an electrically insulated plug-in connector. However, for example, the housing assembly may also form the outer conductor assembly of a plug-in connector.

[0071] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the housing components can be configured together in their connected state to form a housing assembly for an angled insertion connector.

[0072] In particular, at least one of the housing components can be designed to be angled.

[0073] It can be configured that the housing assembly has a housing sealing element designed to ensure a seal between housing components (particularly between the first housing component and the second housing component).

[0074] Preferably, the housing sealing element is formed as a single piece.

[0075] The housing sealing element can be configured to have a circumferentially closed or annular range and form a central opening.

[0076] In particular, but not exclusively, in the case of a housing assembly for an angled plug-in connector, the housing sealing element may be configured such that the central opening and the first segment of the housing sealing element extend in a first plane, and the central opening and the second segment of the housing sealing element extend in a second plane.

[0077] Preferably, the first plane and the second plane are arranged at an angle between 45° and 90° to each other, particularly orthogonal to each other or at least substantially orthogonal to each other. However, in principle, any desired angle can be provided between the first plane and the second plane.

[0078] Preferably, the first section of the housing sealing element corresponds to the U-shaped section or a partial annular section of the housing sealing element. Preferably, the second section of the housing sealing element corresponds to another U-shaped section or annular section of the housing sealing element.

[0079] Preferably, a transition region, particularly a transition region with a curved path, can be provided between the first and second segments of the housing sealing element so that a transition can be made between different orientations of the segments, and the transition is smooth in terms of material.

[0080] Preferably, the first section is longer than the second section, wherein, preferably, the second section of the housing sealing element is arranged in the area of ​​the cable sleeve.

[0081] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the housing sealing element may be configured to be connected to one of the housing components by a material bond.

[0082] For example, the housing sealing element can be glued to the interior of one of the housing components, particularly by injection molding into one of the housing components. In this way, the housing sealing element can be ensured to be captured in its delivery state.

[0083] However, it is also possible to configure the housing sealing element to be connected to at least one of the housing components by force fit and / or form fit. In principle, a capture connection to one of the housing components in the uninstalled state of the housing assembly is not absolutely necessary, and therefore it is sufficient if the housing sealing element is fixed only as part of the final installation for sealing between the housing components.

[0084] The housing sealing element and / or cable sealing element may have one or more sealing lips, such as two, three, four or more sealing lips.

[0085] In an improved embodiment of the present invention, the cable sealing element and the housing sealing element may be configured as a single unit through a common sealing body.

[0086] Specifically, the cable sealing element and the housing sealing element can be configured to form corresponding sections of a common sealing body. Manufacturing this common sealing body reduces production costs and simplifies and enhances installation reliability.

[0087] The present invention also relates to a housing component having a housing assembly having a housing sealing element as described above and below.

[0088] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a plug-in connector (particularly a plug-in electrical connector) having a housing assembly having housing components (particularly housing components having housing sealing elements as described above and below) according to the descriptions above and below. Additionally, the plug-in connector also has at least one contact element (e.g., an inner conductor contact element or an outer conductor contact element) that can be connected to a cable.

[0089] The mechanical properties of the housing assembly can be enhanced by using a housing retaining member, which serves as the outer housing of the housing component, at least in the area of ​​the cable sleeve of the plug-in connector. In particular, since the housing components can be secured to each other, the stiffness and resistance to lateral tensile stress in the cable sleeve area can be increased. Particularly robust, waterproof plug-in connectors, especially waterproof angled plug-in connectors, can be provided in the proposed manner.

[0090] In principle, the plug-in connector according to the invention can have any desired plug-in connector components. For example, the plug-in connector can have various contact elements, mechanical insertion interfaces for connection to mating plug-in connectors, dielectrics, shielding devices, and additional sealing elements.

[0091] As described above, the plug-in connector can be a plug-in electrical connector (e.g., a shielded plug-in electrical connector, a coaxial plug-in connector, or a differential plug-in connector), an optical plug-in connector, or other types of plug-in connectors. This invention should not be construed as limited to specific variations.

[0092] Particularly advantageously, the plug-in connector according to the invention can be used in the interior of vehicles, particularly motor vehicles. Possible applications include autonomous driving, driver assistance systems, navigation systems, infotainment systems, rear-seat entertainment systems, internet connectivity, and gigabit wireless systems (IEEE 802.11ad standard). Possible applications involve high-resolution cameras (e.g., 4K and 8K cameras), sensor systems, onboard computers, high-resolution screens, high-resolution dashboards, 3D navigation devices, and mobile phones. It can also be used as a high-voltage connector. However, the plug-in connector according to the invention is applicable to any application throughout the entire field of electrical engineering and should not be construed as limited to use in automotive engineering.

[0093] The present invention also relates to a method for installing a plug-in connector, comprising at least the following steps:

[0094] - The housing assembly is installed by connecting the first housing component to the second housing component, such that the housing components form corresponding circumferential sections of a common cable sheath;

[0095] - Insert the cable through the cable sealing element housed in the cable sheath until it reaches the interior of the housing assembly; and

[0096] - Install housing retaining components such that the housing components are enclosed at least in some sections, at least in the area of ​​the cable conduit, to secure the housing components to each other.

[0097] It should be emphasized that the method steps mentioned do not necessarily have to be performed in the order they are first described or mentioned. Therefore, for example, individual method steps or groups of method steps can be interchangeable unless excluded for technical reasons. Method steps can also be combined with each other, divided into individual intermediate steps, or supplemented with intermediate steps. Furthermore, the method is not absolutely explicitly described using the described method steps and can be supplemented with other method steps that are not mentioned in the same way.

[0098] Preferably, the cable sealing element and / or housing retaining component may be pushed onto the cable before the cable is introduced into the cable sleeve.

[0099] Advantageously, the features already described in connection with one of the technical solutions of the invention (i.e., the features specified by the housing sealing element according to the invention, the housing component according to the invention, the plug-in connector according to the invention, and the method according to the invention) can also be implemented in other technical solutions of the invention. Similarly, the advantages mentioned in connection with one of the technical solutions of the invention should also be understood to relate to other technical solutions of the invention.

[0100] Additionally, it should be noted that terms such as “comprising,” “having,” or “having” do not exclude other features or steps. Furthermore, terms such as “a” or “the” that indicate a single step or feature do not exclude multiple features or steps, and vice versa.

[0101] However, in a simplified embodiment of the invention, it may also be set up that the introduction of features of the invention by the terms "comprising," "having," or "having" is limiting. Therefore, for example, in each case considered with respect to each claim, the enumeration of one or more features may be considered limiting within the scope of the invention. For example, the invention may consist only of the features mentioned in claim 1.

[0102] It should be mentioned that descriptions such as “first” or “second” are used primarily to distinguish the features of the respective devices or methods, and are not necessarily intended to indicate that the features are interdependent or related to each other.

[0103] Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the values ​​and parameters described herein include deviations or fluctuations of ±10%, preferably ±5%, more preferably ±1%, and very particularly preferably ±0.1%, of the values ​​or parameters mentioned in each case, provided that such deviations are not excluded when the invention is practiced. The description of the range by the starting and ending values ​​also includes all those values ​​and fractions included in the range mentioned in each case, particularly the starting and ending values ​​and their corresponding averages.

[0104] Another separate invention will be described below within the scope of the entire inventive concept. The applicant expressly reserves the right to claim, individually (i.e., independently of applicable claim 1) and / or in combination with the features described above and below in this specification, of technical solutions 1 to 15 described below:

[0105] 1. A housing assembly (2) for a plug-in connector (1), comprising:

[0106] - At least one first housing component (5) and one second housing component (6), the at least one first housing component and the one second housing component being mechanically connected to each other, wherein, in the interconnected state of the at least one first housing component and the one second housing component, the housing components (5, 6) together form a cable sleeve (7), through which a cable (3) can be introduced into the interior (8) of the housing assembly (2), wherein the housing components (5, 6) form corresponding circumferential segments (U1, U2) of the cable sleeve (7);

[0107] - A cable sealing element (12) for the cable (3), the cable sealing element being housed within the cable sleeve (7); and

[0108] - A housing retaining member (23) that encloses the housing components (5, 6) at least in some sections, at least in the region of the cable sleeve (7), and preferably at least in the region of the cable sealing element (12) to secure the housing components (5, 6) to each other.

[0109] 2. The housing assembly (2) according to technical solution 1,

[0110] Its features are,

[0111] The housing retaining member (23) is capable of shifting along the introduction direction (Z) of the cable (3) on at least one of the housing members (5, 6) until a final installation position is reached, in which the housing retaining member (23) secures the housing members (5, 6) to each other, wherein, preferably, the housing retaining member (23) and at least one of the housing members (5, 6) form a mutual linear guiding system.

[0112] 3. The housing assembly (2) according to technical solution 1 or 2,

[0113] Its features are,

[0114] The housing mounting direction (G) for connecting the first housing component (5) to the second housing component (6) and the retainer mounting direction (S) for mounting the housing retainer (23) on the housing components (5, 6) are different from each other and preferably extend orthogonally to each other.

[0115] 4. The housing assembly (2) according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 3,

[0116] Its features are,

[0117] The housing retaining component (23) encloses the housing component (5, 6) in the region of the cable sleeve (7) and over the entire circumference.

[0118] 5. The housing assembly (2) according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 3,

[0119] Its features are,

[0120] The housing retaining component (23) clamps the housing component (5, 6) in the region of the cable sleeve (7).

[0121] 6. The housing assembly (2) according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 5,

[0122] Its features are,

[0123] The housing retaining member (23) can be capturedly connected to at least one of the housing components (5, 6) in its installed state, and preferably can be latched, grouted or screwed to at least one of the housing components (5, 6).

[0124] 7. The housing assembly (2) according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 6,

[0125] Its features are,

[0126] At least one of the housing components (5, 6) and the housing retaining component (23) are connected to each other as a single unit in a pre-installed state via at least one connecting web (33), wherein the connecting web (33)

[0127] a) Designed as predetermined break points to separate the housing components (5, 6) and the housing retaining components (23) before or during final installation; and / or

[0128] b) is designed such that the connecting web can elastically deform in at least some sections, particularly in the form of a membrane hinge, so that the housing retaining member (23) can be ultimately mounted on at least one housing member (5, 6).

[0129] 8. The housing assembly (2) according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 7,

[0130] Its features are,

[0131] The first housing component (5) and the second housing component (5) are capable of latching each other.

[0132] 9. The housing assembly (2) according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 8,

[0133] Its features are,

[0134] The housing retaining member (23) is formed of the same material as at least one of the housing members (5, 6), preferably of plastic.

[0135] 10. The housing assembly (2) according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 9,

[0136] Its features are,

[0137] The housing components (5, 6) together in their connected state form a housing assembly (2) for an angled insert connector, wherein preferably, at least one of the housing components (5, 6) is designed to be angled.

[0138] 11. The housing assembly (2) according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 10,

[0139] Its features are,

[0140] A housing sealing element (15) is designed to ensure a seal between the housing components (5, 6), wherein the housing sealing element (15) has a circumferentially closed or annular range and forms a central opening (19), and wherein the housing sealing element (15) is formed at an angle such that the central opening (19) and a first segment (20) of the housing sealing element (15) extend in a first plane (E1), and the central opening (19) and a second segment (21) of the housing sealing element (15) extend in a second plane (E2).

[0141] 12. The housing assembly (2) according to technical solution 11,

[0142] Its features are,

[0143] The housing sealing element (15) is connected to one of the housing components (5, 6) by material bonding, particularly by injection molding into one of the housing components (5, 6).

[0144] 13. The housing assembly (2) according to technical solution 11 or 12,

[0145] Its features are,

[0146] The cable sealing element (12) and the housing sealing element (15) are formed as a single unit through a common sealing body (16).

[0147] 14. A plug-in connector (1), particularly a plug-in electrical connector (1), the plug-in connector having a housing assembly (2) according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 13 and at least one contact element (4) capable of being connected to the cable (3).

[0148] 15. A method for installing a plug-in connector (1), comprising at least the following method steps:

[0149] - The housing assembly (2) is installed by connecting the first housing component (5) to the second housing component (6), such that the housing components (5, 6) form corresponding circumferential segments (U1, U2) of a common cable sheath (7);

[0150] - Insert the cable (3) through the cable sealing element (12) housed in the cable sleeve (7) until it reaches the interior (8) of the housing assembly (2); and

[0151] - Install housing retaining components (23) such that the housing components (5, 6) are enclosed in at least some sections, at least in the area of ​​the cable sleeve (7), to secure the housing components (5, 6) to each other. Attached Figure Description

[0152] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0153] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred exemplary embodiments in each case, in which the various features of the invention are shown in combination with each other. Features of the exemplary embodiments may also be implemented separately from other features of the same exemplary embodiment, and thus can be readily combined by those skilled in the art with features of other exemplary embodiments to form further advantageous combinations and sub-combinations.

[0154] Elements with the same function have the same reference numerals in the accompanying drawings.

[0155] In the attached diagram:

[0156] Figure 1 A perspective view of an insert connector having a housing sealing element according to the invention is shown schematically during a first installation step, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0157] Figure 2 The illustration schematically shows the process during the first installation step. Figure 1 Side view of the plug-in connector;

[0158] Figure 3 The illustration schematically shows the process during the second installation step. Figure 1 Side view of the plug-in connector;

[0159] Figure 4 This schematically illustrates the fully installed state of the housing assembly. Figure 1 A perspective view of the plug-in connector;

[0160] Figure 5 This schematically illustrates the fully installed state of the housing assembly. Figure 1 Side view of the plug-in connector;

[0161] Figure 6 A perspective view schematically illustrating an integral sealing body having a housing sealing element according to the invention and a cable sealing element according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0162] Figure 7 schematically shown Figure 6 Side view of the sealing body;

[0163] Figure 8A schematic front view of a cable sleeve with a fully installed housing assembly according to a first variant and housing sealing element according to the invention is shown, in which the housing retaining member encloses the cable sleeve around the entire circumference.

[0164] Figure 9 A schematic front view of a cable sleeve with a fully installed housing assembly according to a second variant and housing sealing element according to the invention is shown, in which housing retaining member clamps the cable sleeve.

[0165] Figure 10 A schematic front view of a cable sleeve with a fully installed housing assembly according to a third variant and housing sealing element according to the invention is shown, in which the housing retaining member engages with the cable sleeve via a track guide system.

[0166] Figure 11 A side view of an insert connector having a housing sealing element according to the invention is schematically shown during a first installation step, according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0167] Figure 12 The illustration schematically shows the process during the second installation step. Figure 11 Side view of the plug-in connector;

[0168] Figure 13 This schematically illustrates the process during the third installation step. Figure 11 A side view of the plug-in connector; and

[0169] Figure 14 This schematically illustrates the fully installed state of the housing assembly. Figure 11 Side view of the plug-in connector. Detailed Implementation

[0170] Figures 1 to 5 The diagram illustrates a plug-in connector 1 (e.g., a plug-in electrical connector), which, for example, has a housing assembly 2 and a cable 3 (e.g., a wire) introduced into the housing assembly 2 during various installation steps. Exemplary embodiments show angled plug-in connectors in each case; however, this should not be construed as limiting the invention. The invention is also applicable in principle to non-angled plug-in connectors.

[0171] Figures 1 to 5 The plug-in connector 1 shown by way of example can have various known plug-in connector components. The contact element 4 (e.g., an outer conductor contact element or an inner conductor contact element) is shown by way of example in the figure.

[0172] The housing assembly 2 has at least a first housing component 5 and a second housing component 6, which can be mechanically connected to each other, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown. In Figures 3 to 5 In the interconnected state, housing components 5 and 6 together form a cable sleeve 7, through which cable 3 can be introduced into the housing assembly 2 or the interior 8 of the plug-in connector 1 (see...). Figure 1 In this context, housing components 5 and 6 form corresponding circumferential sections U1 and U2 of the cable sleeve 7 (see...). Figure 1 and Figure 8 ).

[0173] The two housing components 5 and 6 can be latched together. For this purpose, the first housing component 5 has at least one latching arm 9, which is resilient at least in some sections and has a latching socket 10, to which a corresponding latching hook 11 of the second housing component 6 can engage behind the latching socket 10 (see example...). Figure 3 (In the installation state). However, in principle, the connection between the first housing component 5 and the second housing component 6 can also be fixed in different ways, for example, by threaded connection, force fit or even by material bonding.

[0174] Cable sealing element 12 for cable 3 (see Figures 6 to 10 The cable sheath 13 is housed within a cable sleeve 7 formed by two housing components 5 and 6, to form the cable sleeve 7 (see [reference]). Figure 1 A seal is provided between the inner shell surfaces 14 of the shell components 5 and 6.

[0175] In an exemplary embodiment, as an example, the cable sealing element 12 and the housing sealing element 15 are formed as a single unit together by a common sealing body 16, which in... Figure 6 and Figure 7 The variant shown here is for illustrative purposes only. In principle, multi-component designs and separate cable sealing elements 12 are also possible.

[0176] The cable sealing element 12 is particularly designed to be tubular or sleeve-shaped, wherein, preferably, when the housing assembly 2 is fully installed, the outer surface 17 of the cable sealing element 12 extends across the entire surface of the inner shell surface 14 of the housing components 5, 6 in the region of the cable sleeve 7. The cable sealing element 12 is designed to be completely closed or annular in the circumferential direction, and the cable sealing element 12 has a central opening 18 for a passage of cable 3 (see...). Figure 6 ).

[0177] The aforementioned housing sealing element 15 is designed to ensure a seal between housing components 5 and 6, and similarly forms another central opening 19 (see [link to other document]). Figure 6 The circumferential closed range of the housing. Similar to housing components 5 and 6, the housing sealing element 15 is designed at an angle, such that the first segment 20 (“U-shaped” segment) or the first segment 20 of the central opening 19 of the housing sealing element 15 extends within the first plane E1, and the second segment 21 (also a “U-shaped” segment) or the second segment 21 of the central opening 19 of the housing sealing element 15 extends within the second plane E2, as... Figure 7 As shown. Preferably, planes E1 and E2 are arranged orthogonally to each other, for example, based on Figure 2 and Figure 7 As can be clearly seen, the transition segment 22 can be positioned between the two segments 20 and 21 to allow for a uniform and smooth (e.g., circular) transition between the two segments 20 and 21.

[0178] The sealing body 16 or housing sealing element 15 and / or cable sealing element 12 can be fixed in at least one of the housing components 5, 6, particularly connected to one of the housing components 5, 6 by material bonding. For example, as part of production, the sealing body 16 or housing sealing element 15 can be injection molded in the first housing component 5. This reduces production costs and simplifies the installation method.

[0179] Furthermore, the proposed housing assembly 2 has a housing retaining member 23 that encloses the housing components 5 and 6 in at least some sections, at least in the region of the cable sleeve 7 (particularly in the region of the cable sealing element 12), to secure the housing components 5 and 6 to each other.

[0180] Housing retaining member 23 can be displaced at least on one of housing members 5 and 6 until the final installation position (see Figure 4 and Figure 5 Preferably, this displacement is in the cable introduction direction Z (see...). Figure 1 and Figure 3 The cable can be introduced in a different direction than Z, but this can be done where appropriate. In the final installation position, the housing retaining member 23 secures the housing components 5 and 6 to each other, thereby increasing the mechanical stability of the housing assembly 2 relative to the cable sleeve 7 in the area of ​​lateral stress, thus maintaining a seal even under adverse operating conditions.

[0181] Preferably, the housing mounting direction G for connecting the first housing component 5 to the second housing component 6 (see...) Figure 2 ) and the retainer mounting direction S for mounting the housing retaining member 23 on the housing members 5 and 6 (see Figure 3They are different from each other. Particularly preferably, the housing mounting direction G and the retainer mounting direction S extend orthogonally to each other. However, this is not absolutely necessary, especially when the housing retainer 23 is not fully closed in the circumferential direction. Where appropriate, the retainer mounting direction S may also extend in the same direction as the housing mounting direction G.

[0182] To allow the housing retaining member 23 to be displaced on at least one housing member 5, 6, a guiding system (particularly a linear guiding system) can be provided, particularly in the area where the cable sleeve 7 is formed on the housing members 5, 6. In particular, the guiding function for mounting the housing retaining member 23 and the fixing function of the housing retaining member 23 can complement each other.

[0183] Based on the front view of cable sleeve 7, Figures 8 to 10 The diagram shows three exemplary variations of the housing retaining member 23 in the installed state.

[0184] For example, such as Figure 8 As shown, when the housing retaining member 23 encloses the housing members 5 and 6 around the entire circumference in the area of ​​the cable sleeve 7, a particularly robust and stable cable sleeve 7 can be achieved. Therefore, a linear guiding system (especially in the area of ​​the cable sleeve 7) can also be provided through the corresponding interaction between the inner shell surface of the housing retaining member 23 and the outer shell surface of the housing members 5 and 6.

[0185] according to Figure 9 The housing retaining member 23 behaves similarly, but only clamps the housing members 5 and 6 within the area of ​​the cable sleeve 7. For this purpose, the support surface 24 of the housing retaining member 23 rests on the mating support surfaces 25 of the housing members 5 and 6 that form the cable sleeve 7. Starting from the support surface 24 of the housing retaining member 23, two opposing side arms 26 extend, clamping the second housing member 6 with their end sections. Thus, a linear guide system can be formed simultaneously again.

[0186] Figure 10 Another type of clamping with integrated linear guidance is shown. Thus, a dual-side guide rail system 27 is formed. Therefore, the side arm 26 has an elongated ridge 28 that extends in the retainer mounting direction S and is guided in corresponding grooves 29 in the housing components 5, 6.

[0187] The housing retaining member 23 can be securely attached to at least one of the housing members 5 and 6 in its installed state. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing retaining member 23 can be latched to the first housing member 5 and the second housing member 6. For this purpose, the housing retaining member 23 has a latching arm 30, which is resilient at least in some sections and has a latching socket 31 (see...). Figure 1The corresponding housing components 5 and 6 have latch hooks 32 that can engage at the rear of the latch socket 31 (see [reference]). Figure 1 and Figure 2 However, in principle, the fixing between the housing retaining member 23 and at least one of the housing members 5 and 6 can also be achieved in any desired manner, for example, by grouting or screws (not shown).

[0188] For example, as part of a method for installing a plug-in electrical connector 1, the cable 3 can first be arranged to pass through the housing retaining member 23 and the cable sealing element 12 (i.e., the housing retaining member 23 and the cable sealing element 12 are pre-installed on the cable 3). Then, the housing assembly 2 is installed by connecting the first housing member 5 to the second housing member 6, such that the housing members 5 and 6 form corresponding circumferential sections U1 and U2 of a common cable sleeve 7, through which the cable 3 travels into the interior 8 of the plug-in connector 1. The housing retaining member 23 can then be installed such that the housing members 5 and 6 are enclosed at least in some sections, at least in the area of ​​the cable sleeve 7, to secure the housing members 5 and 6 to each other.

[0189] To further improve the manufacturing and installation of the housing assembly 2, optionally, at least one of the housing components 5 and 6 (in the exemplary embodiment, the first housing component 5 in each case) and the housing retaining component 23 may be connected to each other as a single unit in a pre-installed or uninstalled state via at least one connecting web 33. This will initially be based on... Figures 11 to 14 The exemplary embodiments are explained in detail to illustrate this principle.

[0190] Figures 11 to 14 An exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown, which is substantially similar to those already based on... Figures 1 to 10 The exemplary embodiments explained herein, for this reason, will not describe in detail elements having the same function. Cable 3 and cable sealing element 12 or sealing body 16 are in... Figures 11 to 14 The middle part is cancelled. The housing assembly 2 also has a first housing component 5 and a second housing component 6. In the installed state, the first housing component 5 and the second housing component 6 together form a cable sleeve 7, in which the cable sealing element 12 for the cable 3 is housed.

[0191] For the integral connection between the first housing component 5 and the housing retaining component 23, a connecting web 33 designed as a membrane hinge is provided. For this purpose, the connecting web 33 has a very thin wall thickness in at least some sections, thus possessing sufficient elasticity to allow pivoting movement between the housing retaining component 32 and the first housing component 5. Where appropriate, the final position of the housing retaining component 32 on the first housing component 5 can be achieved solely through this pivoting movement. However, where appropriate, the connecting web 33 can also be configured to break in a defined manner during the pivoting movement and / or during subsequent axial movement. Therefore, the connecting web 33 can also be designed to have a predetermined break point.

[0192] With the aid of the connecting web 33, the first housing component 5 and the housing retaining component 23 can be co-produced as part of an assembly, particularly by a common plastic injection molding method, wherein the first housing component 5 and the housing retaining component 23 can be separated by breaking at a predetermined break point before or during final assembly, or can be installed together by movement of the connecting web 33. Therefore, preferably, the housing retaining component 23 and the housing components 5 and 6 are formed of the same material, particularly plastic.

[0193] After two housing components 5 and 6 have been installed (see...) Figure 11 and Figure 12 Therefore, for example, it can be set in Figure 11 and Figure 14 In an exemplary embodiment, the housing retaining member 23, held in the pre-installed state by the connecting web 33, is held twisted or pivoted relative to the final installation position and offset axially (in the cable 3 introduction direction Z). The housing retaining member 23 first pivots (see...). Figure 12 and 13 Then, it is moved in the retainer mounting direction S until the final mounting position is reached (see [reference]). Figure 13 and 14 Optionally, the connecting web 33 can be designed to be in place during the installation process (especially along the retainer installation direction S, such as...). Figure 13 (as shown) fractures at any desired point in time during axial displacement.

[0194] exist Figures 11 to 13 In an exemplary embodiment, a single connecting web 33 is provided for connecting the housing retaining member 23 to the first housing member 5. However, in principle, multiple connecting webs 33 may also be provided, for example, multiple connecting webs 33 distributed equidistantly along the periphery and, for example, along the circumference of the cable sleeve 7, such as... Figures 1 to 5 As shown and in particular as Figures 8 to 10As shown in the diagram. When using a plurality of connecting webs 33 distributed circumferentially along the cable sleeve 7, preferably, the housing retaining member 23 may be configured to offset axially only in the introduction direction Z or the retainer mounting direction S relative to the final installed state, without twisting or pivoting.

[0195] As already mentioned, it is not absolutely necessary for the connecting web 33 to break during installation. In principle, the connecting web 33 could also be designed to be sufficiently elastic or deformable to allow the housing retaining member 23 to move to its final installation position without breaking. However, this is less preferred.

Claims

1. A housing sealing element (11) for a housing assembly (2) of a plug-in connector (1), the housing sealing element forming a central opening (19) and having a circumferentially fully closed range, Its features are, The housing sealing element (11) is formed at an angle such that the central opening (19) and the first segment (20) of the housing sealing element (11) extend in a first plane (E1), and the central opening (19) and the second segment (21) of the housing sealing element (11) extend in a second plane (E2).

2. The housing sealing element (11) according to claim 1, Its features are, The housing sealing element (11) is designed as a single piece.

3. The housing sealing element (11) according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The first plane (E1) and the second plane (E2) are arranged at an angle between 45° and 90° to each other, and in particular, they are orthogonal to each other or at least substantially orthogonal to each other.

4. The housing sealing element (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, A transition region (22), particularly a transition region (22) with a curved path, is provided between the first section (20) and the second section (21) of the housing sealing element (11) so that a transition can be made between different orientations of the sections (20, 21), the transition being smooth in terms of material.

5. The housing sealing element (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Its features are, The first section (20) of the housing sealing element (11) is designed as U-shaped and / or the second section (21) of the housing sealing element (11) is designed as U-shaped.

6. The housing sealing element (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, Its features are, The first segment (20) is longer than the second segment (21).

7. The housing sealing element (11) according to claim 6, Its features are, The second section (21) is arranged in the area of ​​the cable sleeve (7), through which the cable (3) can be introduced into the interior (8) of the housing assembly (2).

8. A housing component (5, 6) of a housing assembly (2), the housing component having a housing sealing element (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The housing component (5, 6) according to claim 8, Its features are, The housing sealing element (15) is captured and connected to the housing components (5, 6) in the uninstalled state of the housing assembly (2).

10. The housing component (5, 6) according to claim 9, Its features are, The housing sealing element (15) is connected to the housing components (5, 6) by material bonding, particularly by injection molding to the housing components (5, 6).

11. A plug-in connector (1) having a housing assembly (2), particularly a plug-in electrical connector (1), the housing assembly having at least one first housing component (5) according to any one of claims 8 to 10.

12. The insertion connector (1) according to claim 11, Its features are, The housing assembly (2) also has: - Second housing component (6), wherein the first housing component (5) and the second housing component (6) are mechanically connected to each other, wherein, in the interconnected state of the first housing component and the second housing component, the housing components (5, 6) together form a cable sleeve (7), through which a cable (3) can be introduced into the interior (8) of the housing assembly (2), wherein the housing components (5, 6) form corresponding circumferential segments (U1, U2) of the cable sleeve (7); - A cable sealing element (12) for the cable (3), the cable sealing element being housed within the cable sleeve (7); and - A housing retaining member (23) that encloses the housing components (5, 6) at least in some sections, at least in the region of the cable sleeve (7), and preferably at least in the region of the cable sealing element (12) to secure the housing components (5, 6) to each other.

13. The insertion connector (1) according to claim 11 or 12, Its features are, The housing sealing element (15) is designed to ensure a seal between the housing components (5, 6).

14. The insertion connector (1) according to claim 12 or 13, Its features are, The cable sealing element (12) is designed as a single piece.

15. The insertion connector (1) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, Its features are, The cable sealing element (12) and the housing sealing element (15) are formed as a single unit through a common sealing body (16).

16. The insertion connector (1) according to any one of claims 12 to 15, Its features are, The housing sealing element (11) and / or the cable sealing element (12) have one or more sealing lips, such as two, three, four or more sealing lips.

17. The insertion connector (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 16, Its features are, The housing components (5, 6) together in their connected state form a housing assembly (2) for an angled insert connector, wherein preferably, at least one of the housing components (5, 6) is designed to be angled.

18. The insertion connector (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 17, Its features are, The housing retaining component (23) encloses or clamps the housing component (5, 6) in the region of the cable sleeve (7) and over the entire circumference.

19. The insertion connector (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 18, Its features are, The first housing component (5) and the second housing component (5) are capable of latching each other.

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