Pin block of a modular connector

Abstract

A modular pin block for mounting into a housing of a modular connector, the pin block comprising a pin block support and at least one pin, the pin block support having a first connection surface and a second connection surface opposite the first connection surface, the at least one pin extending through the pin block support such that the pin protrudes from the first connection surface and the second connection surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a modular pin block for mounting into a housing of a modular connector. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a pin block support having at least one pin projecting from both a first and a second connection surface and extending through the support. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of modular connectors, lead blocks are commonly used to establish electrical connections in various types of electronic and mechanical systems. Known systems typically involve lead blocks integrated into the connector housing, allowing the transmission of electrical signals between different components. These lead blocks are crucial for ensuring reliable connections, especially in environments where connectors are frequently engaged and disengaged. Despite the widespread use of traditional lead blocks, they often face challenges related to ease of installation, secure attachment, and adaptation to different constructions.

[0003] Existing methods in modular connector systems often rely on pin blocks permanently fixed within the connector housing or require complex assembly processes. This leads to increased manufacturing costs and difficulties in maintaining or replacing individual components. Furthermore, known systems may lack flexibility in accommodating various pin sizes and configurations, potentially limiting their applicability in different use cases. Secure attachment of pin blocks within the housing is another area of ​​concern, as inadequate locking mechanisms can result in poor connections. Additionally, ensuring proper alignment and orientation of the pin blocks during installation is crucial to preventing misalignment and ensuring optimal performance.

[0004] Despite significant progress in the field of modular connectors, improved technical solutions are still needed to address these challenges. Specifically, there is a need for pin blocks that can be easily and reliably installed into connector housings, while offering flexibility in pin arrangement and size. An enhanced locking mechanism that provides a reliable connection without compromising ease of installation is also desired. Furthermore, technical solutions that ensure proper alignment and orientation of the pin blocks during installation will significantly enhance the reliability and performance of modular connector systems. Therefore, the technical problem of this disclosure is to provide a modular pin block system that at least partially overcomes the shortcomings of known systems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The objective described above is achieved, at least in part, by the pin block according to technical solution 1.

[0006] A first aspect of this disclosure provides a modular pin block for mounting into a housing of a modular connector. The pin block includes a pin block support and at least one pin. The pin block support has a first connection surface and a second connection surface opposite to the first connection surface. The at least one pin extends through the pin block support such that the pin protrudes from the first connection surface and the second connection surface.

[0007] The described modular pin block is intended to be mounted within the housing of a modular connector. The modular pin block includes a pin block support having two connection surfaces positioned opposite each other, referred to as a first connection surface and a second connection surface. Additionally, at least one pin extends through the pin block support in a manner that projects from both the first and second connection surfaces.

[0008] The term "modular pin block" refers to a component designed as part of a larger system, specifically a modular connector, allowing for flexibility and ease of assembly or replacement. A "pin block support" is a structure that holds and supports the pins, providing necessary stability and alignment. "First connection surface" and "second connection surface" are two opposing faces of the pin block support through which the pins extend and protrude. A "pin" is a conductive element that facilitates electrical connection by extending through the pin block support and allowing electrical contact on both sides.

[0009] The advantages of this design include enhanced versatility and ease of integration into various modular connector systems, enabling more efficient manufacturing processes and easier parts maintenance or replacement.

[0010] In a first embodiment, the pin block support includes a latching device designed to allow the pin block to be inserted into a seat of the connector housing and to latch the pin block onto the seat by preventing movement of the pin block in the reverse insertion direction. Thus, once inserted, the pin block remains securely in place. Preferably, the latching device is one or more of a resilient arm, a rod, or one or more notches.

[0011] Latch mechanisms enhance the stability and security of pin blocks within the connector housing by providing a reliable attachment method. The use of flexible arms or levers allows for a degree of flexibility and adaptability to minor variations in the dimensions of the seat or pin block itself. This flexibility helps absorb shocks or vibrations, reducing the risk of component breakage or damage. Notches provide a simple and effective way to create a secure fit for the pin blocks. By preventing movement in the reverse insertion direction, latch mechanisms ensure that the pin blocks are not easily displaced even under mechanical stress or external forces, such as in applications where the connector undergoes frequent operation or movement.

[0012] In another embodiment, the pin block support includes a side edge between a first connecting surface and a second connecting surface, and the latching device includes a long flexible rod that is elastically attached to at least half the length of at least one side edge and extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of at least one pin. In the installed state, the long flexible rod faces the seat portion of the housing.

[0013] When the lead block is inserted into the housing, the resilient attachment of the rod to the side edge allows it to bend and lock securely into place. With the attachment length being at least half the length of the side edge, a linear locking mechanism is provided that reliably prevents displacement due to vibration or external forces. Additionally, the resilient nature of the rod allows for a degree of flexibility and tolerance during insertion, making it easier to install the lead block into the housing without requiring precise alignment.

[0014] In another embodiment of the pin block support, it includes at least one spacer pad designed to eliminate any gaps between the pin block support and the seat of the connector housing in the installed state. This spacer pad is preferably located on a side edge of the pin block support. It ensures a tight fit between the pin block support and the connector housing. By eliminating any gaps, the spacer pad prevents potential problems such as misalignment, movement, or vibration of the pin blocks within the housing, which could otherwise lead to poor electrical connections or mechanical failures. The presence of the spacer pad also simplifies the assembly process and reduces the likelihood of assembly errors by providing a clear and defined seating position for the pin block support within the connector housing. Advantageously, each side edge has a spacer pad near each corner of the pin block support. This ensures that the pin block support cannot be inserted at an angle when the spacer pad covers the entire length of each side edge, as the spacer pad will realign the pin block support.

[0015] In another embodiment of the pin block support, it includes a skirt designed to retain the pin block within a seat portion of the connector housing. This skirt may be located on at least a portion of a side edge near its apex. To securely retain the pin block within the seat portion of the connector housing, the skirt prevents any movement of the pin block beyond the seat portion in the insertion direction. In other words, it effectively acts as a stop to prevent the pin block from being pushed too deeply into the housing. By preventing over-insertion, the skirt also protects the pins from potential damage that could occur if the pin block is inserted too deeply and protrudes beyond the connector housing.

[0016] In another embodiment, the skirt protrudes outward from a contact surface in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of at least one pin.

[0017] The skirt, protruding outward from a contact surface (similar to a flange), provides an additional structural element that enhances the stability and alignment of the pin blocks when mounted into the housing of a modular connector. The protrusion of the skirt can act as a guide or stop to ensure the pin blocks are correctly positioned within the housing, as it provides a tactile or visual reference point for alignment.

[0018] The shape of the first and / or second connecting surfaces can define the mounting orientation of the pin block in the connector housing.

[0019] Defining the mounting orientation prevents incorrect insertion of pin blocks, which is particularly important in situations where pins are not symmetrically placed, such as due to different pin sizes, integration into the pin block support, or when not all pin positions are filled. Incorrect insertion can lead to malfunction of the modular connector. By ensuring that pin blocks can only be inserted in the correct orientation, this design enhances the reliability and ease of assembly of the modular connector system. The asymmetrical design of the connection surface acts as a physical keying mechanism, guiding the user to insert the pin blocks correctly without requiring additional visual or guiding tools. This feature also simplifies the housing design, as it eliminates the need for additional parts or mechanisms to ensure correct orientation, making it more user-friendly.

[0020] For example, one way to determine the mounting orientation of the lead block in the housing is to design the shorter end edges of the lead block supports asymmetrically, meaning they are not identical to each other. The lead block can then be inserted into the housing only in a predetermined direction.

[0021] Typically, lead block supports are designed to accommodate a certain number of leads. The specific construction of the lead arrangement on the lead block support specifies the number and size of leads that can be accommodated, including two rows of 13 0.50 lead pins, two rows of 9 0.63 lead pins, two rows of 7 1.2 lead pins, one row of 4 2.8 lead pins, or one row of 3 4.8 lead pins. This adaptability is crucial to meeting the requirements of various applications, as different electronic or electrical systems may require different sizes and numbers of leads.

[0022] The range of possible configurations is enhanced when the pin block support is arranged with as many pins as possible and with fewer pins than it can accommodate. Therefore, pin blocks allow for greater versatility and high customizability, making them suitable for complex and diverse connectivity requirements and enabling their use in a wide variety of modular connectors.

[0023] Another embodiment of this disclosure covers a connector housing comprising at least one modular pin block. The connector housing is substantially box-shaped and includes circumferential sidewalls designed to protect the pins of the pin block from potential damage or environmental factors that could impair their function. The connector housing also includes a connector interface having one or more sockets. The connector interface is substantially perpendicular to and received within the sidewalls, creating a robust and stable structure for the modular pin block. At least one pin block is received in at least one socket. By incorporating the circumferential sidewalls, the housing provides a protective barrier around the pins, reducing the risk of physical damage and contamination. These features collectively constitute a more durable and reliable modular connector system capable of withstanding the challenges of a wide range of environments and operations.

[0024] Depending on the intended use of the connector housing, shielding walls can be added between the bases and thus between the modular pin blocks within the circumferential sidewalls to shield the different pin blocks and prevent interference.

[0025] For convenience, at least one pin block and at least one base are of complementary shapes. This complementary shape ensures that the pin block and base fit together precisely, enhances the stability and alignment of the pin block within the connector housing, and facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the connector, as the parts will naturally align and fit together without requiring excessive force or adjustment.

[0026] When the lead block support includes orientation features, the housing may also include orientation details that complement the shape of the orientation features. This ensures the lead block is correctly positioned within the housing, which is crucial for the proper functioning of the modular connector. As previously mentioned, incorrect orientation can lead to significant problems, including electrical failures.

[0027] In another embodiment, at least one pin block is fixed to the connector interface by laser welding.

[0028] Laser welding provides a robust and reliable bond between the lead block and the connector housing, ensuring the lead block remains firmly in place during operation. This is especially important in environments where connectors may be subjected to vibration, mechanical stress, or thermal cycling, as the laser-welded joint can withstand these conditions without compromising the integrity of the connection. Additionally, laser welding allows for precise and localized application of heat, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding components and materials. This precision is critical in modular connectors where space is often limited and components are densely packed. The use of laser welding also enhances the overall durability and lifespan of the connector by creating a permanent and robust attachment that is less likely to degrade over time compared to other methods such as adhesive bonding or mechanical fastening. Furthermore, laser welding can be automated, improving manufacturing efficiency and consistency. For this purpose, the pick-up components (such as through-holes) initially used by the lead block support for automatically positioning the lead block within the connector housing can then be used as laser welding points to secure the lead block to the connector housing. The lead block can be welded to the connector interface of the connector housing, either as an alternative to or in addition to latching mechanisms.

[0029] When the pin block support includes a resilient leg or rod, the seat portion of the connector interface advantageously includes a recess complementary to the resilient leg or rod.

[0030] The complementary design of the notch and resilient legs or bars provides flexibility and elasticity, allowing for slight movement and adjustment while maintaining a secure connection. Additionally, it simplifies the assembly process, as components can be easily aligned and assembled without the need for additional fastening mechanisms. This reduces the complexity and cost of manufacturing modular connectors while maintaining high performance and reliability.

[0031] When the connector housing includes at least a first pin block and a second pin block, the shape of the pin block support and the shape of the base are identical for both pin blocks. This identical shape ensures that the pin blocks are interchangeable and can be fitted to any base of the connector interface without requiring modification to the housing or pin block support. The first pin block may include pins with different pin sizes than the second pin block. This standardization of the base shape and the pin block support shape simplifies the assembly process and reduces manufacturing complexity. Additionally, the ability to use pin blocks with different pin sizes within the same housing enables cost savings by reducing the need for multiple types of housings and connectors, simplifying inventory and production processes.

[0032] There are two main manufacturing methods anticipated to obtain the lead block according to this disclosure. According to the first manufacturing method, the lead block support includes lead holes of a desired pattern, and at least one lead passes through and is secured to the lead block support. The number of leads passing through and secured to the lead block support may be as many as the number of accommodating leads, or the number of leads passing through and secured to the lead block support may be fewer than the number of accommodating leads.

[0033] Alternatively, arranging at least one pin according to a desired pattern means that the pin is positioned according to its final position within the pin block, and subsequently, the pin block support is molded around the at least one pin. Integrating the pin into the pin block support by encapsulating the pin in the molding material enhances the structural integrity and durability of the pin block. Similarly, this manufacturing method allows for the arrangement of as many pins as can be accommodated on the pin block support before molding, or the arrangement of fewer pins than can be accommodated on the pin block support before molding. Attached Figure Description

[0034] In the following, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 An embodiment of a modular pin block is shown, in which pins extend through a pin block support.

[0035] Figure 2 Part a shows a connector housing with an empty socket for receiving modular pin blocks.

[0036] Figure 2 Part b shows the connector housing into which various modular pin blocks are inserted.

[0037] Figure 3 An embodiment of a modular pin block is shown, in which pins extend through a pin block support.

[0038] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the pin block, highlighting the pins, connection surfaces, and latching mechanism, is shown.

[0039] Figure 5 A 3D cross-sectional view of the connector housing with pin blocks installed inside is shown.

[0040] Figure 6 The diagram shows a pin block support and pins that pass through and are secured to the pin block support.

[0041] Figure 7 Part a shows a first embodiment of a modular pin block with pins extending through each pin hole of the pin block support.

[0042] Figure 7Part b shows a second embodiment of a modular pin block with fewer pins passing through the pin block support than the pin holes on the pin block support.

[0043] Figure 8 This shows multiple pins arranged in a certain pattern in front of a molded pin block support.

[0044] Figure 9 Part a shows the molding of the pin block support into a shape that... Figure 8 The first embodiment of the modular pin block arranged on the pins shown in the pattern.

[0045] Figure 9 Part b shows the molding of the pin block support to the... Figure 8 The second embodiment of the modular pin block is shown, which is a different style of pin.

[0046] Figure 10 Part a illustrates a first embodiment of a semi-modular pin block.

[0047] Figure 10 Part b illustrates a second embodiment of the semi-modular pin block.

[0048] Figure 11 The laser solder joints on the connector housing and the laser solder joints on the pin blocks are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figure 1 Modular pin block 1 is shown, which is designed for mounting to a modular connector ( Figure 1 The pin block 1 is housed in a housing 4 (not shown in the diagram). The pin block 1 includes a pin block support 2 having a generally rectangular shape, and is characterized by a first connecting surface 22 and a second connecting surface 23 opposite to the first connecting surface 21. Figure 1The pin block support 2 includes a side edge 21 extending between the first and second connecting surfaces (not visible in the image). In other words, the pin block support 2 includes a side edge 21 extending between the first and second connecting surfaces. In the pin block 1 shown, also referred to below as "Type 1.2 third modular pin block 13", two rows of nine pins 3 of size 1.2 extend through the pin block support 2, protruding from both the first and second connecting surfaces 22 and 23. The latching device 24 may include a resilient arm or resilient rod 241, which is designed to facilitate insertion of the pin block 1 into the seat 44 of the connector housing 4 and to securely lock it onto the seat 44. Additionally, the pin block support 2 is provided with spacer pads 25 on the side edge 21 to eliminate any gaps between the pin block support 2 and the seat 44 during installation. The support 2 is also characterized by a skirt 26 near the apex of the side edge 21, which is designed to hold the pin block 1 within the seat 44 by preventing movement of the pin block 1 beyond the seat in the insertion direction. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the shapes of the first connecting surface 22 and the second connecting surface 23 both define the mounting direction, ensuring that the pin block 1 can only be inserted into the housing 4 in a predefined direction. Specifically, on the shorter side, the first connecting surface has a first orientation feature 271 with a continuous angled corner shape on the skirt, and the second connecting surface has a concave corner as a second orientation feature 272 on the side edge. On the opposite side, the first connecting surface has a third orientation feature 273 with a continuous rounded corner shape on the skirt.

[0051] Figure 2 Connector housing 4 is shown in two views: Figure 2 part a and Figure 2 Part b. In Figure 2 In part a, the housing 4, shown in a top view, is generally box-shaped and has circumferential sidewalls 41 that provide protection for the pins 3 of the pin block 1. The connector interface 42, substantially perpendicular to and received within the sidewalls 41, includes a plurality of (eight) seats 44. Each seat 44 is designed to receive the pin block 1. Each seat 44 is characterized by a pair of recesses 441 on each long side, complementary to the resilient rod 241 of the pin block support 2, ensuring a secure locking. The housing 4 also includes directional details 471, 472, 473 complementary to the directional features 271, 272, 273 of the pin block 1, ensuring proper alignment and insertion.

[0052] exist Figure 2In part b, the housing 4 is shown as having multiple (eight) pin blocks 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 mounted within the base 44. Each pin block is fixed within the housing 4, and the pin block support of each pin block has a substantially identical shape. The pin blocks include pins of different sizes, demonstrating the modularity and flexibility of the design. Specifically, in the example shown, two first modular pin blocks 11 are shown, with two rows of 13 pins 3 of size 0.50; one second modular pin block 12, with two rows of 9 pins 3 of size 0.63; two third modular pin blocks 13, with two rows of 7 pins 3 of size 1.2; one fourth modular pin block 14, with one row of 4 pins 3 of size 2.8; and finally, two fifth modular pin blocks 15, with one row of 3 pins 3 of size 4.8. In particular, the use of modular pin blocks eliminates the risk of damage to the pins 3, which is especially beneficial for the first modular pin blocks 11 and the second modular pin blocks 12, as they have particularly thin and fragile pins 3.

[0053] Figure 3 A top view of a modular pin block 11 mounted in a housing 4' of a modular connector is shown. The pin block 11 includes a pin block support 2 having a first connection surface 22. The pin block support 2 is shown having a plurality (26) of pins 3 extending through it in a grid pattern. Figure 4 As shown, these pins 3 protrude from both the first connecting surface 22 and the opposing second connecting surface 23. The pin block support 2 includes a latching device 24, which is a resilient rod 241 designed to secure the pin block support 2 within the seat portion 44 of the connector housing 4'. Each resilient rod 241 engages with a pair of recesses 441 on the inner edge of the seat portion. The pin block 11 is further characterized by orientation features 271, 273 that allow the pin block support 2 to be inserted into the seat portion 44 only in a polarity-aligned manner.

[0054] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a modular pin block 11 arranged in housing a' is provided, showing pins 3 extending from a first connecting surface 22 through pin block support 2 to a second connecting surface 23. A latching device 24 is shown as a resilient rod 241 that engages with a recess 441 in connector housing 4' to secure pin block 11 in place. Additionally, a skirt 26 on pin block support 2 is shown, designed to retain the pin block within the seat of connector housing by preventing movement in the insertion direction beyond the seat. A portion of the skirt is not visible in the illustrated figure because it is hidden behind the recess. The height of the circumferential sidewall 41 of connector housing 4' is at least equal to the length of pins 3, allowing connector housing 4' to protect pins 3 from damage.

[0055] Figure 5 A connector housing 4' is shown, which is substantially box-shaped and includes circumferential sidewalls 41. The housing 4' is designed to accommodate multiple modular pin blocks. A connector interface 42 is shown as substantially perpendicular to and received within the sidewalls 41. Pin blocks 11 are received in the seats 44 of the connector interface 42. The figure highlights the complementary shapes of the pin blocks 11 and the seats 44, ensuring proper alignment and secure fastening. The housing 4' provides protection for the pins 3 of the pin blocks 11, with the sidewalls 41 acting as a barrier against external components. In the figures shown, the circumferential sidewalls are significantly higher than the protruding pins 3. As shown, the connector housing 4' may include shielding walls 43 located between the seats 44 and thus within the circumferential sidewalls 41, between the modular pin blocks to shield the different pin blocks and prevent interference. The figure also shows the presence of a notch 441 in the seats 44, which complements the latching device 24 of the pin blocks 11, ensuring a secure fit. Skirt 26 is visible and protrudes outward from pin block support 2, further securing pin block 11 within housing 4'. Connector interface 42 is designed to facilitate connection of pin block 11 to external components, with pins 3 extending through the interface for electrical connection. This overall design ensures that pin block 11 is securely held within housing 4', with latching device 24 and skirt 26 working together to prevent movement and maintain alignment.

[0056] Figure 6 The pin block support 2 and pin 3 are shown before pin 3 is threaded through and secured to the pin block support 2. In addition to the features already described in conjunction with the preceding figures, the pin block support 2 includes a pin hole 28 designed to receive pin 3 according to a desired pattern. The pin 3 shown has a retaining barb 36 that interacts with the pin block support 2 to secure pin 3 in place.

[0057] Figure 7 Parts a and b illustrate two different possibilities for accommodating pins within the pin block support 2. Figure 7 Part a shows a first embodiment of a modular pin block 17 in which pin 3 extends through each pin hole 28 of pin block support 2. Figure 7 Part b shows a second embodiment of a modular pin block 17' with fewer pins passing through the pin block support than the pin holes on the pin block support. These figures illustrate the modular nature of the pin block, allowing for the arrangement of pins 3 with various configurations on the pin block support 2 according to the specific requirements of the connector housing.

[0058] Figure 8Multiple pins arranged in a specific pattern are shown before the molding of the pin block support. Pins 3 are aligned in a parallel configuration and extend through a molding plane 5, which is the plane on which the pin block support 2 is molded after the pins are arranged according to the desired pattern. Arrows indicate the direction of the tool used to mold the pin block support.

[0059] Figure 9 Parts a and b illustrate two embodiments of the modular pin blocks 19, 19' obtained after molding the pin block support 2 onto the pins 3. Figure 9 In the embodiment shown in part a, the modular pin block 19 includes as many pins 3 as possible that can be accommodated on the pin block support. In contrast, in Figure 9 In the embodiment of the modular pin block 19' shown in part b, the pin block support 2 has been molded to fit with... Figure 8 The pins 3 are arranged in different patterns as shown, especially those molded onto pins 3 with fewer pins than can be accommodated in the pin block support 2.

[0060] Figure 10 Parts a and b show modular or semi-modular pin blocks with different pin combinations of different sizes. Figure 10 Part a shows a combination of pins 31 and 32 within a pin block, while Figure 10 Part b illustrates a combination of pins 33 and 34 within a single pin block. The modular pin block design further increases its adaptability to specific needs and allows for greater modularity. In particular, semi-modular pin blocks can save space on the connector housing.

[0061] Figure 11 The location of the laser solder points 6 on the connector housing 4'' is shown. In this example, the laser solder points are located at two opposite corners of the notch 441 and each seat 44. A second modular pin block is shown on the lower right seat, and a fourth modular pin block 14 is shown on the upper right seat of the connector housing. On the fourth modular pin block 14, the laser solder is represented by elliptical spots. The solder points ensure that the pin blocks do not detach from the connector housing during repeated mating and disassembly operations.

[0062] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1 Modular pin block The first modular pin block of type 11 0.50 pins 12 0.63 type pin second modular pin block 13 1.2 type pin third modular pin block 14-pin 2.8-pin fourth modular pin block The fifth modular pin block with 15 4.8 pins. 17' Modular Pin Block 19, 19' Modular Pin Block 2. Pin block support 21 (multiple) side edges 22 First connecting surface 23 Second connecting surface 24-latch device 241 (multiple) elastic bars 25 (multiple) spacer pads 26 skirts 271 First Orientation Feature 272 Second Orientation Feature 273 Third Orientation Feature 28 (multiple) pin holes 29 (multiple) pickup components 3 (multiple) pins 31 0.50 pin 32 0.63 pin 33 1.2 type pin 34 2.8 pins 35 4.8 pin 36 (multiple) retain barbs 4'4'' Connector Housing 41 (multiple) circumferential sidewalls 42 connector interface 43 (multiple) shielding walls 44 (multiple) seats 441 (multiple) notches 471 First Orientation Details 472 Second Orientation Details 473 Third Orientation Details 5. Molded plane 6 (multiple) laser welding points

Claims

1. A modular pin block (1) for mounting into a housing (4) of a modular connector, the pin block (1) comprising: Pin block support (2), the pin block support having a first connecting surface (22) and a second connecting surface (23) opposite to the first connecting surface; as well as At least one pin (3) extends through the pin block support (2) such that the pin protrudes from the first connection surface (22) and the second connection surface (23).

2. The pin block (1) as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The pin block support (2) includes a latching device (24) designed to allow the pin block (1) to be inserted into the seat (44) of the connector housing (4) and to lock the pin block (1) onto the seat (44), wherein preferably, the latching device (25) is one or more of a resilient arm or rod or one or more recesses.

3. The pin block (1) as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The pin block support (2) includes a side edge (21) located between the first connecting surface (22) and the second connecting surface (23), and wherein the latching device (24) includes a long flexible rod (241) elastically attached to at least half the length of at least one side edge (21) and extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the at least one pin.

4. The pin block (1) as described in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pin block support (2) includes at least one spacer (25) designed to eliminate any gap between the pin block support (2) and the seat (44) of the connector housing (4) in the installed state.

5. The pin block (1) as described in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pin block support (2) includes a skirt (26) designed to hold the pin block (1) within the seat (44) of the connector housing (4).

6. The pin block (1) as described in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The skirt (26) protrudes outward from one of the contact surfaces in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the at least one pin (3).

7. The pin block (1) as described in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The shape of the first connecting surface (22) and / or the second connecting surface (23) defines the installation orientation.

8. The pin block (1, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15) as described in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Two rows of 13 pins (31) each with a size of 0.50; or Two rows of nine pins (32) each with a size of 0.63; or Two rows of seven pins (33) each with a size of 1.2mm; or A row of 4 pins, each 2.8mm in size (34); or A row of 3 pins (35) each with a size of 4.8mm; or A specified number of pins of the same size (3); or Combinations of different pin sizes (31, 32, 33, 34, 35) It is housed on a pin block support (2), and wherein as many pins (3) as can be accommodated are arranged on the pin block support (2).

9. The pin block (1, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15) as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Two rows of 13 pins (31) each with a size of 0.50; or Two rows of nine pins (32) each with a size of 0.63; or Two rows of seven pins (33) each with a size of 1.2mm; or A row of 4 pins, each 2.8mm in size (34); or A row of 3 pins (35) each with a size of 4.8mm; or A specified number of pins of the same size (3); or Combinations of different pin sizes (31, 32, 33, 34, 35) It can be accommodated on the pin block support (2), and wherein fewer pins (3) than the number of pins that can be accommodated are arranged on the pin block support (2).

10. A connector housing (4) comprising at least one modular pin block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the housing (4) being substantially box-shaped and including circumferential sidewalls (41) and a connector interface (42) having one or more seats (44), wherein, The connector interface (41) is substantially perpendicular to the sidewall and received within the sidewall, wherein the at least one pin block is received in the at least one seat (44).

11. The connector housing (4) as described in the preceding claims, characterized in that, The at least one pin block (1) and the at least one seat (44) are complementary in shape.

12. The connector housing (4) as described in any one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that, The at least one pin block (1) is fixed to the connector interface (42) by laser welding.

13. The connector housing (4) as described in any one of claims 10 to 12 in connection with claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The seat (44) of the connector interface (42) includes a notch (441) or a resilient leg or rod complementary to the resilient leg or rod (241).

14. The connector housing (4) as described in any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that, It includes at least a first pin block and a second pin block, characterized in that, The pin block support (2) of the two pin blocks (1) has the same shape, and The first pin block includes pins (3) whose pin dimensions are different from those of the second pin block.

15. A method for manufacturing a pin block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the method comprising: Provide a pin block support (2) with pin holes (28) according to the desired pattern; At least one pin (3) is threaded through and fixed to the pin block support (2). Or include: Arrange at least one pin (3) according to the desired pattern; A pin block support is molded around the at least one pin (3).

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