Connecting device for explosive regions and sensor having such connecting device

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection device (1) for explosive areas, by means of which an electrical connection of a first electrical conductor (L1) having an electrical insulation layer (2) to a second electrical conductor (L2), which is designed in particular as a conductor path (11) of a printed circuit board (9), can be made, said connection device (1) comprising a plurality, in particular three, of contact elements (3, 3 ', 3 ''), each contact element (3, 3', 3'') comprising a first contact point (K1) and a second contact point (K2), wherein the first contact point (K1) has a clip connection terminal (5, 5 ', 5' ') by means of which the first contact point (K1) is electrically connected or can be electrically connected to the first electrical conductor (L1), and wherein the second contact point (K2) is electrically connected or can be electrically connected to the second electrical conductor (L2), a plurality of, in particular three, parallel electrical connections (V1, V2, V3) between the first electrical conductor (L1) and the second electrical conductor (L2) can thus be achieved by means of the connection device (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a connection device for use in explosive environments, which enables an electrical connection between a first electrical conductor and a second electrical conductor having an electrically insulating layer, the second electrical conductor being specifically designed as a printed conductor (Leiterbahn) on a printed circuit board. The invention also relates to sensors incorporating such a connection device. Background Technology

[0002] In the prior art, connection devices for electrical connections to electrical conductors and sensors having such connection devices are well known. For connection devices and sensors having such connection devices to be used in explosive environments, there are higher requirements, which typically require considerable additional effort to meet. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved connection device for explosive environments, and an improved sensor having such a connection device.

[0004] This objective is achieved by the connection device as described in claim 1 and the sensor as described in claim 10.

[0005] The connection device according to the invention is intended for use in explosive environments. This connection device enables an electrical connection between a first electrical conductor having an electrical insulating layer and a second electrical conductor (particularly designed as a printed conductor on a printed circuit board).

[0006] The connection device includes multiple contact elements, particularly three, four, or five contact elements. Each contact element includes a first contact point and a second contact point. The first contact point has a clip-on terminal block through which the first contact point is electrically connected to or can be electrically connected to a first electrical conductor.

[0007] The second contact point is electrically connected to or can be electrically connected to the second conductor. Thus, multiple (especially three, four, or five) parallel electrical connections between the first and second conductors can be achieved through the connecting device.

[0008] In this way, a low-cost, redundant, or even multiple-redundant electrical connection between the first and second conductors can be achieved through the contact elements of the connecting device. Specifically, this connection can also be referred to as a multiple-contact connection, such as a triple-contact connection, a quadruple-contact connection, or a quintuple-contact connection. Since it is assumed that multiple contacts of the contact element (especially three, four, or five contacts) are unlikely to simultaneously disconnect due to vibration (which could generate an electrical spark), this method creates the preconditions for meeting the requirements of use in explosive areas in a particularly simple manner. For example, there is no need to set up a wire loop for establishing redundant connections, nor is it necessary to strip the wires from the first conductor, thus reducing manufacturing costs. Furthermore, establishing multiple-contact connections through clip-on terminals is very simple, which also reduces the probability of failure.

[0009] As is known to the public, clip-on terminals are specifically constructed as insulation displacement connectors. Therefore, clip-on terminals are specifically used to pry open or cut the electrical insulation layer of a first electrical conductor, and are preferably used to clamp the first electrical conductor to achieve electrical contact with the first electrical conductor.

[0010] Preferably, the contact element is electrically connected to or can be electrically connected to the first electrical conductor inseparably via a clip-on terminal block.

[0011] Preferably, the first conductor extends at least substantially in a straight line in the region where contact is achieved by the contact element, i.e., in particular, without forming a loop. This saves space and eliminates the work associated with creating loops, such as twisting and / or splicing or pressing and / or crimping for mounting multiple contact elements.

[0012] If the second contact point of the contact element includes a mating contact point that can be plugged into a mating contact point electrically connected to the second conductor, a pluggable or detachable electrical connection between the two conductors can be achieved. Therefore, the second contact point is preferably electrically connected to or capable of being electrically connected to the second conductor (particularly to a printed conductor) indirectly via the mating contact point. Preferably, the connection device is designed as a plug. An electrical connection between the second contact point and the second conductor can be established by inserting the plug, and this electrical connection can be disconnected by removing the plug, preferably without affecting the electrical connection between the contact element and the first conductor implemented by the clip-on terminal block. The mating contact point may, for example, include a contact pin and a resilient tab.

[0013] If the first and second electrical conductors respectively comprise or are composed of cables, then the connection device (different from the so-called splicing or crimping connection typically used in explosive areas and which does not require redundant electrical connection) can achieve a pluggable, detachable, or removable electrical connection of the cable, and such electrical connection can meet the requirements for use in explosive areas.

[0014] However, the second conductor is preferably designed as a printed conductor on a printed circuit board. Preferably, the second conductor is cableless, i.e., it does not include a cable.

[0015] As an alternative to the insertion contact, the second contact may include a printed circuit board (PCB) connection device through which the second contact is directly electrically connected to or capable of being directly electrically connected to a printed conductor. In this alternative, the electrical connection between the two conductors is particularly inseparable. The PCB connection device may include contact surfaces of corresponding contact elements, which are configured to electrically and / or mechanically connect to the PCB or printed conductor, for example, by soldering and / or bonding with conductive adhesive and / or by press-fitting techniques.

[0016] Therefore, the second contact point can be electrically connected to or can be electrically connected to the printed conductors indirectly (e.g., via a mating plug) or directly (e.g., via a printed circuit board connection device).

[0017] Clip-on terminal blocks can be crimped onto plug contacts or printed circuit board (PCB) connectors. Clip-on terminal blocks and plug contacts or PCB connectors can be formed from sheet metal using a stamping process. Clip-on terminal blocks and plug contacts or PCB connectors can be designed as a single unit.

[0018] Preferably, the connection device is configured to simultaneously achieve electrical connection between all contact elements and the first electrical conductor via clip-on terminals. This reduces the risk that not all contact elements are electrically connected to the first electrical conductor during manufacturing, and that this problem may not be detected in the initial functional testing.

[0019] If the connection device includes a fixing device that holds the contact elements in place relative to each other, this design can enable or support all contact elements to be electrically connected to the first electrical conductor simultaneously via clip-on terminals.

[0020] Preferably, the fixing device secures the contact elements relative to each other, particularly at a spacing corresponding to the commonly used grid size of the mating system. The commonly used grid size spacing is 1.27 mm. Another possible grid size spacing is 2.54 mm.

[0021] Preferably, the fixing device includes a first housing component. The first housing component may be a standard component.

[0022] In embodiments where the second contact point includes a printed circuit board connection device, the second contact point is directly electrically connected to or can be directly electrically connected to a printed conductor via the printed circuit board connection device, and the fixing device can be configured to be securely mounted on the printed circuit board in an assembled state, for example by adhesive and / or bolt connection.

[0023] Preferably, the connecting device includes a second housing component. The second housing component may be cap-shaped. A first housing component may be provided without a second housing component, or vice versa. However, it is preferable to provide two housing components.

[0024] For example, in addition to the fixing device, if the second housing component is designed to install the auxiliary device and specifically designed to accommodate and secure the first electrical conductor during the joining process, it can also facilitate the simultaneous electrical connection of all contact elements to the first electrical conductor. Preferably, the joining process is accomplished by pressing the second housing component against the first housing component. The second housing component can be designed to complement the first housing component and to be mechanically (e.g., form-locked) connected to it in the assembled state. For this purpose, the second housing component can at least partially cover the first housing component.

[0025] Preferably, the connection device includes a stress relief device. Since the insulated displacement connection established by the clip-on terminal block can preferably withstand tensile forces, the stress relief device can be particularly used to ensure the electrical connection between the second contact point and the printed conductor.

[0026] If the stress-relieving device includes a snap-fit ​​connector or a clip connector, particularly having at least one snap hook, its operation can be very simple. Preferably, at least two snap hooks are provided. These two snap hooks can extend parallel to each other. Alternatively, they can be arranged sequentially, one in front of the other.

[0027] A sensor according to the invention for detecting fill level, limit level, or for monitoring process parameters includes a connection device according to the present disclosure. The sensor includes a first electrical conductor and a second electrical conductor (i.e., particularly printed wires). Contact elements of the connection device are electrically connected to the first electrical conductor via their clip-on terminals. Second contact points are electrically connected to the second electrical conductor, thus enabling multiple (particularly three, four, or five) parallel electrical connections between the first and second electrical conductors through this connection device.

[0028] For example, the sensor can be a vibration sensor, a radar sensor, or a pressure sensor. The first electrical conductor can include or be composed of a cable. The second electrical conductor can also have an electrical insulating layer. The second electrical conductor can also include or be composed of a cable.

[0029] Preferably, the second electrical conductor is designed as a printed wire of a printed circuit board.

[0030] In embodiments where the second contact point of the connection device includes a plug contact, this plug contact is capable of engaging with a mating plug contact electrically connected to a second electrical conductor (particularly printed wires). The connection device can be designed as a plug, and the sensor can include a mating plug with mating plug contacts. The mating plug is then preferably secured (e.g., glued) to a printed circuit board having printed wires.

[0031] If the stress relief device of the connecting device or sensor acts between the second housing component and the printed circuit board, the stress relief device can be easily manufactured and is effective.

[0032] The stress relief device may include a snap-fit ​​element, such as a snap hook, integrally formed with the second housing component. The stress relief device may also include holes on a printed circuit board.

[0033] It is worth considering that the connecting device or sensor has multiple stress relief devices.

[0034] Multiple stress-relieving devices with consecutive functions can be provided. For example, one stress-relieving device can act between the second housing component and the first housing component, while another stress-relieving device can act between the first housing component and the printed circuit board or mating plug. Furthermore, if the mating plug is not yet fixed to the printed circuit board, one stress-relieving device can act between the mating plug and the printed circuit board.

[0035] The stress relief device can interact with or be disposed on the first housing component. The first or second housing component can be integrally designed with one element of the stress relief device (e.g., a snap hook). This allows for integration of the function and can save on additional component and installation costs.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, the stress relief device may also include a separate component, such as a clip.

[0037] The first housing component or the second housing component may have holes for the snap hooks.

[0038] The features and advantages disclosed in connection with the claimed device can also be the implementation methods and advantages of the claimed sensor, and vice versa. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Other practical advantages and exemplary embodiments will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Figure 1 A longitudinal sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the connecting device is shown.

[0041] Figure 2 It shows along Figure 1 Enlarged portion of the sectional view taken from section line II-II.

[0042] Figure 3 It shows something similar to Figure 1 The view shows that the contact element is not yet connected to the first electrical conductor.

[0043] Figure 4 It shows something similar to Figure 1 A view showing the mating plug.

[0044] Figure 5 A longitudinal sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a sensor having a connection device is shown.

[0045] Figure 6 A longitudinal sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of the sensor is shown.

[0046] Unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals in the figures denote the same elements having the same function. Detailed Implementation

[0047] like Figure 1 The connecting device 1 shown is intended for use in explosive areas. The connecting device 1 enables an electrical connection between a first electrical conductor L1, having an electrically insulating layer 2, and a second electrical conductor L2, which is designed as a printed conductor 11 on a printed circuit board 9. The connecting device 1 includes multiple (i.e., three) contact elements 3, 3', and 3'', each including a first contact point K1 and a second contact point K2. The first contact point K1 has clip-on terminals 5, 5', and 5'', through which it is electrically connected to the first electrical conductor L1. The second contact point K2 is electrically connected to the second electrical conductor L2. Therefore, the connecting device 1 enables multiple (particularly three) parallel electrical connections V1, V2, and V3 between the first electrical conductor L1 and the second electrical conductor L2 (see, for example, see...). Figure 5 ).

[0048] The first electrical conductor L1 extends in a straight line in the region where it is contacted by contact elements 3, 3', 3'', without forming a loop.

[0049] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates one possible structure of the clip-on terminals 5, 5', and 5"

[0050] In addition, such as Figure 1As shown in (and other accompanying drawings), the connecting device includes a fixing device 4, by which contact elements 3, 3', 3'' are fixed relative to each other in the form of a common first housing component 14. The connecting device 1 also includes a second housing component 15. The second housing component 15 is configured as an installation aid such that it can accommodate and fix the first electrical conductor L1 during the joining or clamping process. The electrical connection of all contact elements 3, 3', 3'' to the first electrical conductor L1 is simultaneously achieved through clamp-type terminals 5, 5', 5''.

[0051] Figure 3 A simple engagement process, indicated by arrow P, is shown, which involves pressing the second housing component 15 against the first housing component 14.

[0052] Unlike what is shown in the figure, the second housing component can be designed to complement the first housing component and to be mechanically (e.g., shape-locked) connected to it in the assembled state.

[0053] Figure 4 The connecting device 1, designed as a plug 12, and the mating plug 13 in an uninserted state are shown.

[0054] exist Figures 1 to 4 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second contact point K2 includes insertion contacts 6, 6', 6'', which are inserted into mating insertion contacts 7, 7', 7'' connected to the second electrical conductor L2 (specifically, as shown in the example). Figure 4 (As shown). An electrical connection can be established between the second contact point K2 and the second conductor L2 (i.e., printed wire 11) by inserting the plug 12, and this electrical connection can be disconnected by unplugging the plug 12 without affecting the connection between the contact elements 3, 3', 3'' implemented by the clip-on terminals 5, 5', 5'' and the first conductor L1. Figure 4 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the plug contacts 6, 6', 6'' are designed as sockets, and mating plug contacts 7, 7', 7'' with resilient contacts can be inserted into these plug contacts 6, 6', 6''. Of course, the plug contacts 6, 6', 6'' may also include resilient contacts and can be inserted into the mating plug contacts 7, 7', 7'', in which case these mating plug contacts 7, 7', 7'' may include sockets. The plug contacts 6, 6', 6'' and the mating plug contacts 7, 7', 7'' may also employ other known complementary designs.

[0055] Figure 5 A sensor with a connecting device 1 is shown, indicated only by a dashed rectangle.

[0056] and Figures 1 to 4Unlike the exemplary embodiment shown, the second contact point K2 here does not have an insertion contact point, but instead has printed circuit board connection devices 8, 8', 8'', through which the second contact point K2 is directly electrically connected to the second electrical conductor L2. For this purpose, contact elements 3, 3', 3'' each have a contact surface 18, which, in the exemplary embodiment shown, is soldered to the printed conductors 11 of the printed circuit board 9.

[0057] exist Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the middle, the second contact point K2 is electrically connected to the printed wire 11.

[0058] Figure 6 An exemplary embodiment of the sensor 10 and the connection device 1 having a stress relief device 16 is shown. The stress relief device 16 may also be present in... Figures 1 to 5 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the stress relief device 16 includes a snap-fit ​​connector having two snap hooks 17, 17' integrally formed with the second housing component 15. The stress relief device 16 also includes a hole 19 on the printed circuit board 9, thus acting between the second housing component 15 and the printed circuit board 9.

[0059] List of reference numerals 1. Connecting device 2 Electrical insulation layer 3, 3', 3" contact elements 4 Fixing device 5, 5', 5'' Clip-on Terminal Blocks 6, 6', 6" Insert contact points 7, 7', 7" mating contact points 8, 8', 8" Printed Circuit Board Connection Device 9 Printed Circuit Boards 10 sensors 11 Printed Conductors 12 plugs 13. Matching plug 14 First housing component 15 Second housing component 16 Stress Relief Device 17' 17' Clip Hook 18 Contact surfaces 19 holes K1 First contact point K2 Second Contact Point L1 First conductor L2 Second conductor V1, V2, V3 parallel electrical connection P arrow

Claims

1. A connection device (1) for use in explosive areas, wherein the connection device enables an electrical connection between a first electrical conductor (L1) having an electrical insulation layer (2) and a second electrical conductor (L2), the second electrical conductor being specifically designed as a printed conductor (11) of a printed circuit board (9). in, The connecting device (1) includes multiple contact elements (3, 3', 3''), particularly three contact elements. Each of the contact elements (3, 3', 3'') includes a first contact point (K1) and a second contact point (K2). The first contact point (Kl) has clip-on terminals (5, 5', 5''), through which the first contact point (Kl) is electrically connected to or can be electrically connected to the first conductor (L1), and The second contact point (K2) is electrically connected to or can be electrically connected to the second electrical conductor (L2). Therefore, through the connection device (1), multiple parallel electrical connections (V1, V2, V3) between the first electrical conductor (L1) and the second electrical conductor (L2) can be realized, especially three parallel electrical connections.

2. The connecting device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second contact point (K2) includes plug contacts (6, 6', 6'') which can be plugged into mating plug contacts (7, 7', 7'') electrically connected to the second conductor (L2).

3. The connecting device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting device (1) is designed as a plug (12), and by inserting the plug (12), an electrical connection can be established between the second contact point (K2) and the second electrical conductor (L2), and by pulling out the plug (12), the electrical connection can be disconnected.

4. The connecting device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second contact point (K2) includes printed circuit board connection devices (8, 8', 8''), through which the second contact point (K2) is directly electrically connected to or can be directly electrically connected to the second electrical conductor (L2).

5. The connecting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The connecting device includes a fixing device (4) which fixes the contact elements (3, 3', 3'') relative to each other.

6. The connecting device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The fixing device (4) includes a first housing component (14).

7. The connecting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The connecting device (1) includes a second housing component (15), which is designed as an installation aid.

8. The connecting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The connecting device (1) includes a stress relief device (16).

9. The connecting device (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The stress relief device (16) includes a snap-fit ​​connector having at least one snap-fit ​​hook (17, 17').

10. A sensor (10) for detecting fill level, limit level, or for monitoring process parameters, comprising: The connecting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The sensor (10) includes a first electrical conductor (L1) and a second electrical conductor (L2), and The contact elements (3, 3', 3'') are electrically connected to the first conductor (L1) through their clip-on terminals (5, 5', 5''), and the second contact point (K2) is electrically connected to the second conductor (L2). Therefore, through the connection device (1), multiple parallel electrical connections (V1, V2, V3) between the first conductor (L1) and the second conductor (L2) are realized, especially three parallel electrical connections.

11. The sensor (10) according to claim 10, wherein, The second contact point (K2) of the connecting device (1) includes plug contacts (6, 6', 6''), which are capable of being plugged into mating plug contacts (7, 7', 7'') electrically connected to the second conductor (L2), wherein the second conductor (L2) is designed as a printed conductor (11) of a printed circuit board (9), characterized in that, The connection device (1) is designed as a plug (12), and the sensor (10) includes a mating plug (13) having the mating contact points (7, 7', 7''), wherein the mating plug (13) is fixed on the printed circuit board (9) having the printed conductors (11).

12. The sensor (10) according to claim 10 or 11, in, The second electrical conductor (L2) is designed as a printed conductor (11) of a printed circuit board (9), characterized in that, The connecting device (1) includes a stress relief device (16) and a second housing component (15), and the stress relief device (16) acts between the second housing component (15) and the printed circuit board (9).

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