Conductor frame assemblies, component groups, and systems for installation into tank valves or tank end plugs.

Abstract

This invention relates to a conductor frame assembly, a component group, and a system for installation in a tank valve or tank end plug of a hydrogen-operated vehicle. The conductor frame assembly comprises: a first conductor frame having a longitudinally deformable section, wherein the conductor frame has a first end and a second end; a second conductor frame having a longitudinally deformable section, wherein the conductor frame has a first end and a second end; wherein the two conductor frames are electrically connected at their first ends to electrical components, particularly temperature sensors, and form clamping contacts at their second ends; wherein the two conductor frames are received together in an insert with their longitudinally deformable sections capable of withstanding pressure loads in the longitudinal direction; and wherein the stiffness of the two longitudinally deformable sections is adjustable, particularly according to the clamping force of the clamping contact mating with the clamping contact of the tank valve or tank end plug.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a conductor frame assembly for installation in a tank valve or tank end plug of a hydrogen-powered vehicle, a component assembly having a conductor frame assembly, and a system comprising a conductor frame assembly and a component assembly. Background Technology

[0002] For example, in the electrical connection of a temperature sensor to a customer plug in an OMB Saleri SPA hydrogen storage tank valve, the temperature sensor, along with its cable and plug, is manually installed into the valve block, and the cable is passed through the hole. Technically, the cable must be installed at a 90° angle. Using a wire or an assembly tool, the end of the cable with the plug is hooked like a fishing line and pulled out around the 90° angle. To facilitate assembly with the assembly tool, a small O-ring is attached to the cable end, which the tool can hook onto. Because it is difficult to round the corners at the hole intersections, there is a risk of damaging the cable here, which could subsequently lead to malfunction or incorrect temperature predictions.

[0003] Document US 10 707 003 B2 discloses an electrical connection device for a solenoid valve having a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of a medium. The electrical connection device includes an electrical contact plug. This electrical contact plug is part of a common housing that, when assembled onto the solenoid valve, additionally includes an actuation coil for the solenoid valve and plug contacts for establishing electrical contact with the temperature sensor.

[0004] There is great interest in improved temperature-sensitive clamping connections (such as those used in tank valves) to connect temperature sensors via conductor rails to the electrical connection devices of tank valves. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention provides a conductor frame assembly according to independent claim 1, a component assembly according to independent claim 9, and a system according to independent claim 11.

[0006] Configure accordingly: A conductor frame assembly for installation in a tank valve or tank end plug of a hydrogen-operated vehicle, comprising: A first conductor frame having a segment deformable in the longitudinal direction, wherein the conductor frame has a first end and a second end; A second conductor frame having a segment deformable in the longitudinal direction, wherein the conductor frame has a first end and a second end; The two conductor frames are capable of being electrically connected at their first ends to electrical components, particularly temperature sensors, and at their second ends to form clamping contacts for clamping connections. The two conductor frames are received together in an insert with their longitudinally deformable sections, the insert being capable of withstanding longitudinal compressive loads. The stiffness of the two deformable sections in the axial or longitudinal direction, especially the axial or longitudinal stiffness, is adjustable, particularly according to the clamping force of the clamping connection between the clamping contact and the mating part of the clamping contact of the tank valve or tank end plug.

[0007] In addition, the following settings are also provided: An assembly of components having a conductor frame, wherein the assembly has a component sleeve and an electrical component received in the component sleeve, wherein the conductor frame assembly is inserted into the component sleeve at the first ends of the two conductor frames and is in electrical contact with the electrical component in the component sleeve in its installed or final position, and wherein the component sleeve has a component stop.

[0008] In addition, the following settings are also provided: A system comprising a component assembly, particularly a can valve or can end plug, and such a component assembly, wherein the component assembly includes a component body having an opening for receiving the component assembly, and a clamping contact mating member for electrically contacting a conductor frame assembly of the component assembly.

[0009] Advantages of this invention: This invention is based on the understanding that in a hydrogen storage tank valve, a temperature sensor is connected to an electrical connection device. Here, a clamping connection is particularly used. However, this clamping connection cannot withstand large relative movements during long-term use, and it will wear down with increasing cycle count and amplitude of movement.

[0010] Therefore, the present invention is based on the concept of taking this understanding into account and providing an improved electrical connection for a temperature sensor, wherein wear of the clamping connection can be prevented while reliable assembly or installation into a tank valve can be achieved.

[0011] Here, the present invention is based on the observation that in a conductor frame assembly for connecting a temperature sensor to a can valve via an electrical connection device, the clamping contact portion of the conductor frame assembly is thermally decoupled to connect with the mating clamping contact portion of the electrical connection device, such that the clamping contact portion relative to the mating clamping contact portion of the electrical connection device experiences as little relative movement as possible. To this end, the conductor frame assembly has a deformable section in the axial or longitudinal direction, the stiffness of which, especially the axial stiffness, can be adjusted such that relative movement between the clamping contact portion and the mating clamping contact portion is minimized during temperature changes. To allow the clamping contact portion to be inserted into or clamped into the mating clamping contact portion, the deformable section of the conductor frame assembly is also received in an insert configured to withstand pressure loads.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the invention, the two conductor frames are electrically insulated from each other and / or electrically insulated from electrical ground in the insert with their deformable sections in the axial or longitudinal direction, wherein the insert is in particular a plastic part, preferably a plastic injection molded part.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the invention, the deformable section of the first or second conductor frame in the axial or longitudinal direction is a meandering section having a meandering geometry composed of multiple rotating parts or a helical spring section having a helical spring geometry. The stiffness, particularly the axial or longitudinal stiffness, can be adjusted according to the number of rotating parts or helices, the width of the corresponding rotating parts or helices, and / or the thickness of the conductor frame.

[0014] According to another embodiment of the invention, the two conductor frames are received side-by-side in the insert with their meandering sections, wherein the meandering sections are preferably separated from each other by at least one protrusion located between them to prevent accidental short circuits. The rotating portions of the two meandering sections are received side-by-side in the insert, particularly axially symmetrically or mirror-symmetrically. Here, it is advantageous that identical components can be used. Alternatively, two different components can also be used in principle.

[0015] In one embodiment of the invention, a first sleeve is provided between the first ends of the two conductor frames and their longitudinally deformable sections, the first sleeve electrically insulating the two conductor frames from each other. The first sleeve is, in particular, a plastic sleeve, preferably a plastic injection-molded sleeve. The first sleeve preferably has a fixed section and a stop.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the invention, a second sleeve is provided between the second ends of the two conductor frames and their longitudinally deformable sections, the second sleeve electrically insulating the two conductor frames from each other. The second sleeve is, in particular, a plastic sleeve, preferably a plastic injection-molded sleeve.

[0017] In another embodiment of the invention, at least one of the conductor frames has at least one lateral protrusion in the region of the first and / or second sleeve to prevent relative movement between the first or second sleeve and the conductor frame in the longitudinal direction.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the invention, the conductor frame is made of a conductive material, particularly a conductive metal sheet. The conductor frame is, in particular, a two-dimensional conductor frame, stamped, laser-processed, and / or cut from the conductive metal sheet, especially by means of waterjet cutting.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the invention, the first sleeve of the conductor frame assembly is received in the component sleeve with its fixed section and abuts against the component sleeve with its stop on the outside.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the invention, the clamping contacts of the conductor frame assembly are thermally decoupled in order to substantially prevent relative movement between the clamping contacts and the mating clamping contacts.

[0021] In one embodiment of the invention, the component sleeve, particularly the temperature sensor sleeve, rests against a hole in the component body with its stop in its final or installed position to provide a fixed support. The clamping contact, connected to the mating member of the clamping contact, provides a floating support in the final or installed position of the component assembly in the hole. The floating support resisted by clamping force is not a frictionless floating support.

[0022] According to another embodiment of the invention, the stiffness, especially the axial stiffness or longitudinal stiffness, of the two deformable sections of the conductor frame assembly in the axial or longitudinal direction can be adjusted such that the pushing force acting on the clamping contact due to temperature changes is less than or equal to the clamping force of the clamping connection between the clamping contact and the clamping contact mating member.

[0023] The above-described embodiments and extensions can be combined arbitrarily where meaningful. Other embodiments, extensions, and implementations of the present invention include combinations of features not explicitly mentioned but described above or below with reference to the embodiments. In particular, those skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or supplements to the various basic forms of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. Here are: Figure 1A partial cross-sectional view of a conductor frame assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, the conductor frame assembly being connected to a temperature sensor and installed in a tank valve of a hydrogen-powered vehicle; Figure 2 :according to Figure 1 The tank valve, wherein only one conductor frame of the conductor frame assembly is shown, and the insert is omitted; Figure 3 A partial sectional perspective view of a component group, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is installed in the tank valve as shown; Figure 4 :according to Figure 3 The component group has no inserts; Figure 5 :according to Figures 1 to 4 A partial sectional top view of the component group, showing only a conductor frame and lacking inserts; Figure 6 :according to Figure 1 The conductor frame assembly, in which a floating support is schematically shown; Figure 7 :according to Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the conductor frame assembly (AA section); Figure 8 :according to Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the first sleeve of the conductor frame assembly; Figure 9 A straight conductor frame without a rotating part; Figure 10 An embodiment of a conductor frame with a meandering geometry, such as that which can be used according to Figure 1 Conductor frame components; and Figure 11 Another embodiment of a conductor frame with a meandering geometry, such as that which can be used according to Figure 1 Conductor frame components. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of a lead frame assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. This lead frame assembly is connected to an electrical component 2, here a temperature sensor 3, and together with the electrical component, is mounted as a component assembly 4 in a component device 5, here a tank valve 6 of a hydrogen-powered vehicle. Figure 1In the example shown, temperature sensor 3 has, for example, a thermistor chip, which is encapsulated in glass and then thermally coupled to a sleeve (i.e., component sleeve 19 hereinafter) by means of a suitable adhesive. However, the invention is not limited to this temperature sensor 3. Any other suitable temperature sensor 3 can be provided and suitably connected to component sleeve 19.

[0026] Figure 2 The tank valve 6 is shown in cross-section, in which the temperature sensor 3 and the conductor frame assembly 1 are installed. For clarity, only one conductor frame 7 of the conductor frame assembly 1 is shown. Furthermore, for clarity, the insert for receiving a portion of the conductor frame assembly 1 is omitted.

[0027] Regarding the implementation of component group 4 in component device 5 (here, tank valve 6), as per [the relevant regulations]... Figures 1 to 11 As explained, this also applies to the end plugs installed in the vehicle storage tanks of hydrogen-powered vehicles, and therefore will not be repeated.

[0028] The conductor frame assembly 1 is connected to the temperature sensor 3 and, together with the temperature sensor 3, is installed in the tank valve 6 of the hydrogen pressure vessel of a hydrogen-powered vehicle. To connect the temperature sensor 3 to the electrical connection device of the component assembly 5 (here, the tank valve 6) via the conductor frame assembly 1, the conductor frame assembly 1 has clamping contacts 8, such as contact blades, contact forks, or contact pins. The clamping contacts 8 are connected to corresponding clamping contact mating parts of the electrical connection device of the component assembly 5 (here, the tank valve 6), such as clamping contacts or cut-off contacts, for example, by interlocking to provide a clamping connection.

[0029] In this way, the temperature sensor 3 is electrically connected to the canister valve 6 via a clamping connection. The canister valve 6 connection device can also be connected to, for example, a vehicle wiring harness.

[0030] By using different materials in component device 5 and components, different length changes will occur due to temperature effects and different coefficients of thermal expansion.

[0031] To ensure a reliable electrical connection between the conductor frame assembly 1 and the component device 5 (here, the can valve 6) via a clamping connection, and to prevent the clamping connection from loosening due to relative movement (especially due to temperature effects), the conductor frame assembly 1 is configured such that the clamping contact 8 is decoupled from the thermal expansion of other components (e.g., components for connection to the can valve 6). This targeted decoupling of thermal expansion of the clamping contact 8 of the conductor frame assembly 1 reduces relative movement and improves the robustness of the conductor frame assembly 1 and its clamping contact 8. This applies to all embodiments of the invention.

[0032] The conductor frame assembly 1 according to the invention has first and second conductor frames 7, 9, each having a first or inner end portion 10 and a second or outer end portion 11. Each conductor frame 7, 9 is connected at its first or inner end portion 10 to an electrical component 2 (in this example, a sensor, particularly a temperature sensor 3). The second or outer end portion 11 of the first and second conductor frames 7, 9 is provided with a clamping contact portion 8, such as a contact blade section or contact blade. The clamping contact portion 8 of the conductor frame assembly 1 is connected to a corresponding clamping contact mating member of the electrical connection device of the can valve 6, for example, by insertion, to provide a clamping connection.

[0033] The first or second conductor frames 7, 9 include a first or inner segment 12 having a first or inner end portion 10, a second or outer segment 13 having a second or outer end portion 11, and a deformable intermediate segment 14 located between the two in the axial or longitudinal direction, such as a meandering segment 15 having a meandering geometry or a helical spring segment having a helical spring geometry. The invention will be based on... Figure 1-11 Taking a meandering geometry as an example, a helical spring geometry is also feasible, and a helical spring section can be set to replace the meandering section 15. Here, the helical spring section requires more structural space than the meandering section 15.

[0034] The meandering section 15 is formed by a meandering geometry having multiple turning parts 16, such as Figure 2 and subsequent Figure 3-7 As shown.

[0035] The stiffness, particularly the axial or longitudinal stiffness, of the meandering section 15 can be adjusted, for example, by means of the number of rotating parts 16, the width of each rotating part 16, the resulting lever arm length, and the conductor frame thickness. (In the following...) Figure 10 and Figure 11 Two embodiments of the meandering segment 15 of the conductor frame 7 are shown, having different widths. In contrast, in the subsequent... Figure 9 The diagram shows a straight conductor frame or connecting strip 17 without a rotating part.

[0036] Each rotating part 16 with its lever arm thus possesses a certain rigidity. The rigidity, especially the axial or longitudinal rigidity, of the rotating parts 16 of the meandering section 15 is connected in series here. Thus, force or pushing force can be applied specifically to the clamping contact 8 through the meandering section 15 and its rotating parts 16. In particular, the corresponding meandering section 15 and its rigidity, especially the axial or longitudinal rigidity, can be adjusted such that when the conductor frame assembly 1 and its two conductor frames 7, 9 and the meandering section 15 expand or contract in the axial or longitudinal direction due to temperature changes, the resulting maximum force or maximum pushing force is preferably less than or equal to the clamping force, by which the clamping contact 8 of the conductor frame assembly 1 is held or clamped in the clamping contact mating member of the electrical connection device. The rigidity of the conductor frames 7, 9, or conductor rails is insufficient to withstand the insertion force required to connect the clamping contact 8 to the clamping contact mating member, nor should it be this case. For this purpose, plastic elements are used, namely the first and second sleeves 20, 27 and the insert 18, which form a stop when the contacts are plugged in, meaning that only the stiffness of the plastic elements and the stiffness between the clamping plug and the plastic elements are effective.

[0037] By adjusting the maximum pushing force generated, preferably less than or substantially equal to the clamping force, it is possible to prevent the clamping contact 8 and the mating clamping contact from moving relative to each other. In particular, this ensures that the mating clamping contact, such as the clamping member or the cutting contact, can hold the clamping contact 8, especially the blade clamping member, and that the clamping connection will not be loosened or disengaged.

[0038] By preventing or appropriately reducing the relative movement between the clamping contact 8 and the mating clamping contact, wear can be prevented and the robustness of the clamping connection can be improved.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the rotating portions of the first or second conductor frames 7, 9 are identical, as particularly from... Figure 2 and follow-up Figure 4 , 5 As can be seen in 6, 10, and 11. Here, the rotating portions 16 of the first or second conductor frames 7, 9 are identical in terms of their shape and size. However, depending on the function and application purpose, it is also possible to consider that at least two rotating portions 16 are constructed differently and differ, for example, in terms of their shape and / or size.

[0040] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the rotating portion 16 of the first conductor frame 7 and the rotating portion 16 of the second conductor frame 9 are identical, for example, in subsequent... Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, the rotating portions 16 of the first and second conductor frames 7, 9 are identical in terms of their shape (e.g., a meandering angular shape and / or a circular shape) and their dimensions (e.g., the thickness, length, and width of the rotating portion). As will be discussed later... Figure 4As shown, the two conductor frames 7, 9 can preferably be arranged side-by-side in opposite directions, or axially symmetrically or mirror-symmetrically, and received in the insert 18, particularly the insertion sleeve. This has the advantage of using identical components in the conductor frames. However, different components can also be used for the two conductor frames.

[0041] Each conductor frame 7, 9 can be stamped or cut from a corresponding conductive material, especially a conductive metal sheet, using its meandering section 15, for example as a simple two-dimensional structure, such as by waterjet cutting or laser cutting. In principle, conductor frames or conductor rails can also be manufactured in multiple pieces using different methods and, for example, welded together.

[0042] Furthermore, the two conductor frames 7 and 9 are received in the aforementioned insert 18 with their respective meandering sections 15, as further described below. The insert 18, particularly the insertion sleeve, is made of, for example, an electrically insulating material, such as plastic or electrically insulating plastic.

[0043] The conductor frame assembly 1 is received in the component sleeve 19 of the electrical component 2 (here, the temperature sensor 3), as... Figure 1 As shown. For this purpose, the conductor frame assembly 1 is inserted into the component sleeve 19 with its first or inner section 12 for contacting the temperature sensor 3 in the component sleeve 19 by means of the first or inner end portion 10. Here, in order to prevent the conductor frame assembly 1 from being inserted too deeply into the component sleeve 19 and for securing and guiding the conductor frame assembly 1 in the component sleeve 19, the conductor frame assembly 1 has a first sleeve 20, particularly a first plastic sleeve, which has a fixing section 21 and a stop 22. The conductor frame assembly 1 is, for example, injection molded with the first sleeve 20 made of plastic. To prevent the first sleeve 20 from accidentally moving longitudinally on the conductor frame assembly 1, at least one of the two conductor frames 7, 9 has at least one lateral protrusion or transverse protrusion 23, for example in the form of a barb, fork, or bone, which prevents accidental relative movement between the first sleeve 20 and the conductor frames 7, 9 in the longitudinal direction.

[0044] The conductor frame assembly 1, with its first sleeve 20, is inserted into the component sleeve 19 until it reaches the installed or final position. In the installed or final position, the first sleeve 20 rests against the component sleeve 19 on its outer side with its stop 22, and the temperature sensor 3 makes electrical contact within the component sleeve 19 through the conductor frame assembly 1, particularly its first or inner end 10. Figure 1As shown in the embodiment, the fixing section 21 (in which the first sleeve 20 is inserted into the component sleeve 19) may additionally have fixing ribs or fixing lips 24 on its outer wall. This has the advantage that the fixing section 21 can be more easily inserted into the component sleeve 19 and that manufacturing tolerances can be compensated for. On the outer side, the component sleeve 19 may also be provided with additional sealing devices 25. As examples of sealing devices 25, sealing rings and O-rings seal the component sleeve 19 relative to the HTV body below the O-ring position 25 (located in the tank). The sealing device essentially isolates the tank pressure from the surrounding environment. Figure 3 All parts above the O-ring position 25 are pressure-free.

[0045] Depending on the length of the first or inner section 12 into which the conductor frame assembly 1 is inserted into the component sleeve 19, the first or inner section 12 may optionally be additionally located at at least one position or as follows: Figure 1 Additional plastic sleeves 26 are provided at multiple locations, particularly through injection molding, to additionally stabilize and position the conductor frame assembly 1 within the component sleeve 19 and to reliably contact the temperature sensor 3, as well as to electrically insulate the two conductor frames 7, 9 from each other. The component sleeve 19 of the temperature sensor 3 is made, for example, of stainless steel or other suitable materials, depending on the function and application.

[0046] In this context, the two conductor frames 7 and 9 are also received in the insert 18 with their respective meandering sections 15, so that the conductor frame assembly 1 can be inserted and secured in the component sleeve 19. The insert 18 (e.g., made of plastic) enables the conductor frame assembly 1 to withstand pressure loads. Therefore, the insert 18 can be inserted into the component sleeve 19 as a rigid insertion sleeve along with the two conductor frames 7 and 9 and their meandering sections 15 for assembly. In particular, this prevents the meandering sections 15 from being accidentally compressed in the longitudinal direction, causing them to bend or be damaged.

[0047] A second sleeve 27, particularly a second plastic sleeve, is also provided on the second or outer section 13, for example by injection molding. Here, the second sleeve 27 is provided on the second section 13 such that the second or outer end 11, together with the clamping contact 8 (e.g., a contact blade), remains free so as to electrically connect with the corresponding clamping contact mating part (e.g., a clamping contact or a cutting contact) of the electrical connection device of the can valve 6.

[0048] To prevent the second sleeve 13, especially the second plastic sleeve, from accidentally moving in the longitudinal direction on the conductor frame assembly 1, at least one of the two conductor frames 7, 9 has at least one lateral protrusion 23 or a transverse protrusion, for example in the form of a barb, fork, or bone, which prevents accidental relative movement between the second sleeve 13 or guide sleeve and the two conductor frames 7, 9 in the longitudinal direction.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, component assembly 4 (which essentially consists of component sleeve 19, temperature sensor 3, and conductor rail assembly 1 in electrical contact with temperature sensor 3) is fixed in component device 5 (here, the tank valve 6 of the vehicle) and connected there to the electrical connection device. More precisely, component assembly 4 is inserted into and fixed in hole 28 of component body 29 of component device 5 (here, the tank valve body 30 of tank valve 6). Tank valve body 30 may, for example, be an aluminum tank valve body. Instead of being fixed in tank valve 6 and its tank valve body 30, component assembly 4 may also be fixed in, for example, in the tank end plug of the vehicle tank, as previously described. More precisely, component assembly 4 may be fixed in hole in the tank end plug body (e.g., an aluminum tank end plug body).

[0050] In order for component assembly 4 to be installed into the tank valve body 30 and to close the clamping connection, the aforementioned insert 18, which can withstand pressure loads, is required. However, this insert is not under load and no longer serves as a force-applying component under operating conditions. Insert 18 (e.g., in the form of a simple plastic injection molded part) allows the two conductor frames 7, 9 and their meandering sections 15 to be held in position relative to each other to avoid short circuits. Insert 18 can withstand pressure loads during installation but not tensile loads. In this way, component assembly 4 can be pushed into the hole 28 of the tank valve body 30. The first and second sleeves 20, 27 respectively form the first and second guide elements, or guide sleeves.

[0051] Furthermore, the insert 18 surrounds the two conductor frames 7, 9, making them electrically insulated relative to the electrical ground of the tank valve body 30. The insert 18 here protects the two conductor frames 7, 9 received therein and electrically insulates them from each other.

[0052] For this purpose, the insert 18 is constructed as an elongated, particularly rigid, insertion sleeve having a notch 31, particularly a groove-shaped recess, extending in the longitudinal direction for accommodating the meandering sections 15 of the two conductor frames 7, 9. The insert 18 is made of an electrically insulating material, such as plastic. In one embodiment, the insert 18 is, for example, an injection-molded part made of plastic. In the plastic elements described herein, the plastic is an electrically insulating plastic.

[0053] The two meandering sections 15 of the first and second conductor frames 7, 9 are received in the insert 18 such that they can expand and contract to a predetermined extent in the axial or longitudinal direction of the conductor frame assembly 1 and the insert 18, wherein the two conductor frames 7, 9 are electrically insulated from each other or remain electrically insulated. However, the expansion and contraction do not exceed the clamping force of the clamping connection between the clamping contact 8 and the clamping contact mating member.

[0054] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2In the diagram showing component assembly 4 installed in the tank valve body 30, the component sleeve 19 of the electrical component 2 (here, the temperature sensor 3) has a component stop 32. After being inserted into the corresponding hole 28 of the tank valve body 30, component assembly 4, with its component sleeve 19, rests against the tank valve body 30, which serves as component device 5, in its final or installed position via the component stop 32. The periphery of the component stop 32 preferably also serves as a guide for the component assembly to ensure, if necessary, the required accuracy for the combination of the O-ring and support ring.

[0055] The stop area (where the component sleeve 19 of the temperature sensor 3 rests against the tank valve body 30 in its final or installed position) is in the form of a fixed support. The temperature sensor sleeve, or component sleeve 19, therefore cannot move further toward the hole 28. Along its free length, temperature variations affect the relative final or installed position of the clamping contact 8 accordingly due to the different materials. The clamping contact 8 is in the form of a floating support in its final or installed position. The clamping contact 8 here can be connected to, or has been connected to, the clamping contact mating member, forming a clamping connection. For example, at a length of 96 mm, under a constant temperature distribution, the difference is approximately 43 µm.

[0056] As previously described, each rotating portion 16 of the meandering section 15 of the conductor frames 7 and 9, together with its lever arm, has a certain stiffness, particularly axial or longitudinal stiffness. Because the stiffness, particularly axial or longitudinal stiffness, of the rotating portions 16 of the meandering sections 15 is connected in series, forces or pushing forces can be directed onto the clamping contact 8 through the respective meandering sections 15 and their rotating portions 16. Thus, the respective meandering sections 15 and their rotating portions 16 can be adjusted such that when the conductor frame assembly 1 and its two conductor frames 7 and 9 and the meandering section 15 expand or contract in the axial or longitudinal direction due to temperature changes, the resulting maximum force or maximum pushing force in the axial or longitudinal direction is preferably less than or equal to the clamping force, by which the clamping contact 8 of the conductor frame assembly 1 is held or clamped in the clamping contact mating members of the electrical connection device. In other words, the stiffness can be varied by means of the number of rotating portions 16, their width, and thus the length of the lever arm and / or the thickness of the plate. Therefore, each rotating part 16 with a lever arm has a predetermined stiffness, particularly axial stiffness or longitudinal stiffness, and the stiffnesses of these rotating parts 16 are connected in series. Thus, the force acting on the clamping contact 8 can be reduced to less than or equal to the value of the pushing force or clamping pushing force, so that the clamping connection or clamping contact mating member can hold the clamping contact 8 (e.g., the contact blade) without relative movement.

[0057] By ensuring that the maximum pushing force generated during adjustment is preferably less than or substantially equal to the clamping force, it is possible to prevent the clamping contact portion 8 forming the floating support and the mating clamping contact portion from moving relative to each other. This is a so-called floating support with friction (pushing force), rather than a frictionless floating support. In particular, it ensures that the mating clamping contact portion, such as clamping members or cutting clamps, can hold the clamping contact portion 8 (e.g., contact blade, contact fork, contact pin, etc.) in place, and that the clamping connection is not loosened or disengaged.

[0058] The pushing force required in clamping connections (such as fork clamping connections) is in the range of a few Newtons, for example, between 1N and 10N, depending on the design and therefore lower than the corresponding force under temperature changes, as will be discussed later. Figure 9 As shown in the diagram. In order to reduce the pushing force to a suitable level, the corresponding conductor frames 7, 9 must be reduced in terms of their axial stiffness or longitudinal stiffness, so that the deformation generated during temperature changes is absorbed within the two support points. This can be achieved by the meandering section 15 of the conductor frames 7, 9 as described, or alternatively by a helical spring section.

[0059] In the following Figure 10 and Figure 11 The diagram illustrates the width variation of the swivel section 16 of the meandering segment 15 of the conductor frame 7, as the conductor frame can be used in the conductor frame assembly 1 according to the invention, and how the resulting forces vary therein. The number of swivel sections 16 and the plate thickness can be adjusted to achieve a sufficiently low level of pushing force, such that the clamping contacts 8 (e.g., forks or contact forks) ensure that the clamping contact mating member of the electrical connection device of the can valve 6 can hold and fix the clamping contacts 8 of the conductor frame assembly 1 without relative movement. However, this effect results in the clamping contacts 8 being unable to be inserted into or connected to the clamping contact mating member during installation without additional axial support between the fixed and floating support positions, because the conductor frames 7, 9 and their meandering segments 15 have too low stiffness and will be compressed.

[0060] For this reason, as in Figure 1 and Figure 2 And the following Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the insert 18 or insertion sleeve is fitted onto the two conductor frames 7, 9 and their meandering section 15 between two support positions. Here, the insert 18 or insertion sleeve has three functions. The first function is to absorb the assembly force when the clamping contact 8 is inserted into the clamping contact mating member. The second function is to ensure that the two conductor frames 7, 9 are not short-circuited with each other. The third function is to insulate the conductor frames 7, 9 outward toward the valve body 30 relative to electrical grounding. When the mating plug and its clamping contact mating member contact the clamping contact 8, the clamping contact 8 is slightly pushed downwards, or rather... Figure 1 The second sleeve 27 or plastic sleeve is pushed to the left or toward the insert 18 via the fork 23 until it rests against the insert 18. Afterward, the second sleeve 27 and the insert 18 continue to move toward the first sleeve 20 and its fork 23. At this point, the contacts close and the actual engagement of the clamping connection occurs, in the manner that the clamping contact of the mating plug (e.g., a fork-shaped clamping part) is inserted toward the second end 11 and connects with the clamping contact 8. The assembly is compressed at this point, and if the assembly is now heated, the insert 18 pushes the second sleeve 27 or plastic sleeve in the other direction, i.e., in... Figure 1 From center to right. This continues until the highest temperature is reached. The highest temperature here specifically refers to the highest temperature reached at the final position. Once the temperature falls below the highest temperature reached, the contacts between the first sleeve 20 and its fork 23, the insert 18, and the second sleeve 27 and its fork 23 open, and the insert sleeve 18 becomes free again, i.e., a reaction occurs on both sides of the insert sleeve 18. Figure 1 The gap is 35.

[0061] In one embodiment of the invention, the insert 18 or insertion sleeve may be additionally prevented from twisting by one or two plastic guide elements on a fixed or floating support. For this purpose, the insertion sleeve 18 may be provided with a double flat portion. The double flat portion serves as a guide to prevent the insert 18 from being excessively twisted relative to the first and second sleeves 20, 27. To this end, the longitudinal end of the insert 18 may be inserted into the first and / or second sleeves 20, 27 in the longitudinal direction in such a loose rather than press-fit manner that the insert 18, in the inserted state, cannot rotate about its longitudinal axis relative to the first or second sleeve 20 or 27, or can only rotate within a predetermined tolerance. The gap 35 between the respective end of the insert 18 and the first or second sleeve 20, 27 remains unchanged in the assembled state.

[0062] For example, the corresponding first or second sleeve 20, 27 may have two additional protrusions at its longitudinal ends, the longitudinal ends of the corresponding first or second sleeve 20, 27 being fitted onto the corresponding longitudinal ends of the insert or insert sleeve 18 by means of these protrusions, such that the insert sleeve cannot rotate about its longitudinal axis or can only rotate within a predetermined range relative to the corresponding first or second sleeve 20, 27. Conversely, it is also feasible to arrange the protrusions on the insert.

[0063] For assembly or installation, component assembly 4 and its insert 18 are essentially subjected only to pressure loads, allowing component assembly 4 to be inserted into the hole 28 of component body 29 (here, can valve body 30) and clamping contact 8 to be inserted into the corresponding clamping contact mating part. In this state, or rather, in the installed state, temperature changes cause the electrically insulating plastic material of component assembly 4 (e.g., first sleeve 20, second sleeve 27, insert 18, etc.) to expand thermally more strongly than the two conductor frames 7, 9, the component sleeve 19 of temperature sensor 3, and can valve body 30.

[0064] During cooling, this results in unloading at the two support points (i.e., fixed support 33 and floating support 34), creating a gap or clearance between these support points and the insert 18. The mating clamping contacts of the can valve 6 securely hold the clamping contacts 8 of the conductor frame assembly 1 in their position. During heating, the insert 18 expands more strongly and causes the clamping contacts 8 to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The clamping contact 8 penetrates deeper into the mating member of the tank valve 6. However, this relative movement is acceptable because it occurs only once and its displacement depends on the highest temperature reached. Afterward, the clamping force between the clamping contact 8 and the mating member is sufficiently high, and the clamping contact is adequately secured to prevent slippage from the mating member. Because the clamping force between the clamping contact 8 and the mating member is less than or equal to the holding force of the clamping contact, further temperature fluctuations will always occur within this range, and the clamping contact will not be further loaded.

[0065] exist Figure 3 and Figure 4 The figures show partial sectional perspective views of component group 4, as shown in the figures. Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is installed in tank valve 6 as described above. Figure 4 For clarity, the embedding is not shown. Figure 5 Also shown in a top view with partial cross-section, according to Figures 1 to 4 The component group 4, of which only one conductor frame 7 is shown, and the insert is also not shown for clarity.

[0066] like Figure 3 ,4 As shown in Figure 5, component assembly 4 has a component sleeve 19, here a temperature sensor sleeve, in which electrical component 2, here a temperature sensor 3, is received. Furthermore, component assembly 4 has a conductor frame assembly 1, which is in electrical contact with the temperature sensor 3 in component sleeve 19. Conductor frame assembly 1 has first and second conductor frames 7 and 9 arranged side-by-side, each having a meandering section 15 received in insert 18. The meandering sections 15 of the two conductor frames 7 and 9 are here arranged side-by-side in opposite directions, axially, or mirror-symmetrically, as shown in Figure 5. Figure 4 As best shown, the meandering sections of the two conductor frames are separated from each other by a protrusion 36 between them in the insert 18, preventing accidental contact. Here, first and second sleeves 20, 27, respectively made of plastic, are injection molded onto the two conductor frames 7, 9, and electrically insulate the two conductor frames 7, 9 from each other, as will be described later. Figure 8 The first sleeve 20 is shown as an example.

[0067] The first sleeve 20 rests against the component sleeve 19 on its outer side with its stop 22. As previously described, at least one of the conductor frames 7, 9 may have at least one lateral protrusion 23, which prevents relative movement between the first sleeve 20 and the two conductor frames 7, 9. Accordingly, at least one of the conductor frames 7, 9 may have at least one lateral protrusion 23, which prevents relative movement between the second sleeve 27 and the two conductor frames 7, 9.

[0068] Figure 6 Shown in partial sectional view Figures 1 to 5 The conductor frame assembly 1 of component group 4, wherein only one conductor frame is shown. Figure 7 Shown by according to Figure 6 A cross-sectional view AA of the meandering section 15 of the conductor frame assembly 1, wherein two conductor frames 7 and 9 are arranged side by side in opposite directions or axially or mirror symmetrically. Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the first sleeve 20 of the conductor rail assembly 1 is shown, which is inserted into and fixed in the member sleeve 19 by means of the first sleeve.

[0069] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first sleeve 20 of the conductor frame assembly 1 is shown. The first sleeve is received in the component sleeve 19 or the temperature sensor sleeve and rests against or abuts against the component sleeve 19 on the outside with its stop 22.

[0070] like Figure 7As shown, the insert 18 electrically insulates the two conductor frames 7, 9 from each other to prevent short circuits. For this purpose, the notch (particularly in the form of a longitudinal slot) of the insert 18 receiving the conductor frames 7, 9 has, for example, at least one longitudinally oriented protrusion 36 extending at least beyond a portion or the total length of the insert or its notch, wherein a conductor frame 7 or 9 is inserted into the notch of the insert 18 on one side of the protrusion 36. Thus, the protrusion 36 electrically isolates the two conductor frames 7, 9 arranged side-by-side in the notch of the insert 18 from each other. Here, the conductor frames 7, 9 can expand and contract in the longitudinal or axial direction with their meandering sections 15 as the temperature changes. However, the protrusion 36 between the two conductor frames 7, 9 prevents accidental contact, thus preventing short circuits.

[0071] Here, the first or second sleeve 20, 27 insulates the two side-by-side conductor frames 7, 9 from each other, as in Figure 8 As shown in the cross-sectional view of the first sleeve 20.

[0072] Figure 9 , 10 Figures 7 and 9 respectively show a conductor frame. Figure 9 The conductor frame in the middle is a straight connecting strip 17, with a width of, for example, 0.8 mm. Figure 10 and Figure 11 Like the conductor frames 7 and 9, the connecting strip has a lateral protrusion 23 on each side of its two end sections, or a transverse protrusion. As previously described, such lateral protrusions 23 can be configured to additionally secure the injection-molded plastic sleeves 20, 26, 27 to prevent relative movement between the sleeves 20, 26, 27 and the conductor frames 7 and 9 in the longitudinal direction.

[0073] exist Figure 10 and Figure 11 In this context, the corresponding conductor frame 7 is further provided with a meandering section 15 having a meandering geometry, as if the conductor frame could be used as the conductor frame assembly 1 according to the present invention. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The difference between the meandering sections 15 of the two conductor frames 7 lies in the width or meandering width of the rotating part 16. Figure 10 The width of the meandering section is, for example, 2.0 mm, while Figure 11 The width of the meander is, for example, about 3.8 mm and therefore almost... Figure 10 Twice as much as in the middle.

[0074] As previously referred to Figure 1-11As described, a temperature sensor 3, consisting of a stainless steel sleeve and a plastic conductor rail structure, is inserted and fixed in a hole 28 in the component body 29 (e.g., an aluminum body). An interface for a clamping contact mating part, which is clamped and / or cut-clamped, is present at the end 11 of the conductor rail or conductor frame 7, 9. The clamping connection cannot withstand large relative movements during long-term use and wears down with increasing cycle count and amplitude of movement. Different materials produce different length variations, caused by temperature effects and different coefficients of thermal expansion. Relative movement occurs when the clamping force is exceeded, which can lead to wear and unacceptably increase contact resistance. This is achieved through targeted decoupling of the clamping contact 8 according to the invention, as previously referred to... Figure 1-11 As described, relative motion can be reduced or substantially suppressed, thereby improving the robustness of the contact. According to the invention, decoupling can be understood as the force generated and pulling or pressing the clamping connection (especially the clamping contact 8) during temperature changes being less than the clamping or retaining force borne or provided by the clamping connection.

[0075] In summary, the present invention relates to a component assembly 4 having a conductor frame assembly 1, wherein the clamping contact 8 is thermally decoupled, particularly from the rest of the component assembly 4 and the component device 5 in the installed state, such that the clamping contact 8 can be held in the clamping contact mating member and no or substantially no relative movement occurs when the temperature changes.

Claims

1. A conductor frame assembly (1) for installation in a tank valve (6) or tank end plug of a hydrogen-operated vehicle, comprising: - A first conductor frame (7) having a deformable segment (14) in the longitudinal direction, wherein the conductor frame (7) has a first end (10) and a second end (11). - A second conductor frame (9) having a segment (14) deformable in the longitudinal direction, wherein the conductor frame (9) has a first end (10) and a second end (11). - The two conductor frames (7, 9) are electrically connected at their first end (10) to the electrical component (2), especially the temperature sensor (3), and at their second end (11) to form a clamping contact (8) for clamping connection. - Wherein, the two conductor frames (7, 9) are received together in an insert (18) with their longitudinally deformable segments (14), the insert being capable of withstanding longitudinal pressure loads, and - The stiffness of the two longitudinally deformable sections (14, 14) is adjustable, especially according to the clamping force of the clamping contact (8) and the clamping contact mating member of the can valve (6) or the can end plug.

2. The conductor frame assembly of claim 1, wherein, The two conductor frames (7, 9) are electrically insulated from each other and / or electrically insulated from electrical ground in the insert (18) in the installed state by their longitudinally deformable segments (14), wherein the insert (18) is in particular a plastic part, preferably a plastic injection molded part.

3. The conductor frame assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The longitudinally deformable section (14) of the first or second conductor frame (7, 9) is a meandering section (15) or a helical spring section, the meandering section having a meandering geometry consisting of a plurality of rotating parts (16), and the helical spring section having a helical spring geometry, wherein the stiffness is adjustable in particular according to the number of rotating parts (16) or helices, the width of the corresponding rotating parts (16) or helices, and / or the thickness of the conductor frame.

4. The conductor frame assembly according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein, The two conductor frames (7, 9) are received side by side in the insert (18) with their meandering sections (15), wherein the rotatable portions (16) of the two meandering sections (15) are received side by side in the insert (18) particularly in a notch, preferably in a longitudinal groove, and / or wherein the meandering sections (15) are separated from each other by at least one protrusion (36) extending in the longitudinal direction of the insert (18).

5. The conductor frame assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, A first sleeve (20) is provided between the first end (10) of the two conductor frames (7, 9) and the longitudinally deformable section (14) of the two conductor frames, the first sleeve electrically insulating the two conductor frames (7, 9) from each other, wherein the first sleeve (20) is in particular a plastic sleeve, preferably a plastic injection molded sleeve, and / or wherein the first sleeve (20) preferably has a fixed section (21) and a stop (22).

6. The conductor frame assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, A second sleeve (27) is provided between the second ends (11) of the two conductor frames (7, 9) and the longitudinally deformable sections (14) of the two conductor frames, the second sleeve electrically insulating the two conductor frames (7, 9) from each other, wherein the second sleeve (27) is in particular a plastic sleeve, preferably a plastic injection molded sleeve.

7. The conductor frame assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, At least one of the conductor frames (7, 9) has at least one lateral protrusion (23) in the region of the first sleeve and / or the second sleeve (20, 27) to prevent relative movement in the longitudinal direction between the first sleeve or the second sleeve (20, 27) and the conductor frame (7, 9).

8. The conductor frame assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The conductor frames (7, 9) are made of conductive materials, especially conductive metal sheets, and are especially stamped, laser-processed and / or cut out as two-dimensional conductor frames (7, 9), especially by means of water jet cutting.

9. A component assembly having a conductor frame assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The component assembly (4) has a component sleeve (19) and an electrical component (2) received in the component sleeve (19), wherein the conductor frame assembly (1) is inserted into the component sleeve (19) at the first ends (10) of the two conductor frames (7, 9) and is in electrical contact with the electrical component (2) in the component sleeve in its installed or final position, and wherein the component sleeve (19) has a component stop (32).

10. The component assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The first sleeve (20) of the conductor frame assembly (1) is received in the component sleeve (19) with its fixed section (21) and rests on the component sleeve (19) on the outside with its stop (22).

11. A system comprising a component assembly (5), particularly a tank valve (6) or a tank end plug, and a component group (4) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The component device (5) includes a component body (29) and a clamping contact mating member. The component body has a hole (28) for receiving the component group (4), and the clamping contact mating member is used to electrically contact the clamping contact (8) of the conductor frame assembly (1) of the component group (8).

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The clamping contact (8) of the conductor frame assembly (1) is thermally decoupled in order to substantially prevent relative movement between the clamping contact (8) and the clamping contact mating member.

13. The system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The component sleeve (19), especially the temperature sensor sleeve, rests against the hole (28) of the component body (29) with its stop (32) in its final or installed position to provide a fixed support (33), and the clamping contact (8) connected to the mating member of the clamping contact provides a floating support (34).

14. The system according to claim 11, 12 or 13, wherein, The stiffness of the two longitudinally deformable sections (14) of the conductor frame assembly (1) can be adjusted such that the pushing force acting on the clamping contact (8) due to temperature changes is less than or equal to the clamping force of the clamping connection between the clamping contact (8) and the clamping contact mating member.

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