Connection systems and related systems for connecting flat cables

Abstract

This invention provides a system for connecting a connection system to a first flat cable having multiple core wires and / or a second flat cable having multiple core wires. The system includes: (a) a first flat cable comprising a first number of core wires arranged along the width direction of the first flat cable and each having a first conductor cross-sectional area, wherein all spacing between the central axes of adjacent core wires is equal. The system further includes: (b) a second flat cable comprising a second number of core wires arranged along the width direction of the second flat cable and each having a second conductor cross-sectional area, wherein all spacing between the central axes of adjacent core wires is equal and corresponds to the spacing of the first flat cable. The system further includes: (c) a connection system. The connection system includes a housing for receiving the flat cable to be connected, such that the flat cable to be connected passes through the housing in a first direction. Furthermore, the invention also provides a corresponding connection system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a system for connecting a connection system to a first flat cable having multiple core wires and / or a second flat cable having multiple core wires. The invention also relates to a corresponding connection system. Particularly, the invention relates to a connection system for establishing an electrical connection with a flat cable without interrupting the electrical wiring passing through the flat cable. Background Technology

[0002] Flat cable junction boxes or flat cable distribution boxes are known in the prior art for connecting flat cables without stripping the insulation. Furthermore, corresponding multi-core flat cables are known for connection to, and especially for, electrical contact with, such junction boxes or distribution boxes.

[0003] Patent document DE102007041815A1 discloses a corresponding device for establishing a connection with a flat cable without stripping the insulation layer.

[0004] In existing connection systems, dedicated junction boxes are currently required for each type of flat cable to accommodate various sizes and provide appropriate contacts for the corresponding number of conductors. To ensure secure and reliable contact with various flat cables, gaps should be minimized on the sides, top, and bottom of the cables. Therefore, dedicated connection systems must be provided for each size (especially for each flat cable thickness and width) to precisely accommodate flat cables of corresponding thicknesses and widths. Furthermore, the pins in the connection system used for electrical contact with the individual flat cable conductors must precisely match the type of cable to be connected. Consequently, existing connection systems can only be used for one type of flat cable or a limited number of flat cable types, leading to flexibility issues. Different types of flat cables in the prior art (especially those with different numbers of conductors and / or different conductor cross-sectional areas) have different spacing between their conductors, necessitating dedicated connection systems for each type to accommodate the corresponding spacing, which further complicates the connection process.

[0005] In the existing technology, this situation would also require separate UL certification for each connection system design, resulting in additional costs and expenses. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The object of this invention is to provide a system capable of solving at least one of the aforementioned technical problems and / or related issues for connecting a connection system to a first flat cable having multiple core wires and / or a second flat cable having multiple core wires. In particular, a modular connection system should be provided to enable the connection of different types of flat cables. Furthermore, the object of this invention is also to provide a connection system capable of solving at least one of the aforementioned technical problems and / or related issues.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of the present invention provides a system for connecting a connection system to a first flat cable having multiple core wires and / or a second flat cable having multiple core wires. The system includes: (a) a first flat cable comprising a first number of core wires arranged along the width direction of the first flat cable and each having a first conductor cross-sectional area; The system further includes: (b) a second flat cable comprising a second number of cores arranged along the width direction of the second flat cable and each having a second conductor cross-sectional area. The system comprises, wherein all spacing between the central axes of adjacent core wires is identical and corresponds to the spacing of the first flat cable. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first conductor is different from that of the second conductor, and / or the first number of core wires is different from that of the second number of core wires. The system further comprises: (c) a connection system. The connection system includes a housing for receiving the flat cable to be connected, such that the flat cable to be connected passes through the housing in a first direction. The connection system includes at least three receptacles for receiving pins for inserting into each core wire of the flat cable to be connected. The at least three receptacles are arranged such that, when the pins are in the receptacle position, the pins of the at least three receptacles are arranged at the same spacing relative to each other in the width direction of the flat cable to be connected perpendicular to the first direction, the spacing corresponding to the spacing between the central axes of the core wires of the first flat cable and the second flat cable.

[0008] Because the first and second flat cables have the same spacing between the central axes of their respective adjacent cores, the connection system (i.e., the same connection system) can connect different types of flat cables, especially those with different numbers of cores and / or different conductor cross-sectional areas. This is achieved by having the spacing between the pins of the connection system correspond to the spacing between the cores of different types of flat cables. This allows for flexible design of the connection system and the associated flat cables. The term "spacing between cable cores" as used herein refers to the spacing between the central axes of the cores, not the spacing between the outer surfaces of the cores (unless otherwise explicitly stated).

[0009] Examples of flat cable types include 5G2.5, 5G4, 5G6, 3G2.5, 3G4, and 3G6. Here, the first digit (5 or 3 in the examples above) represents the number of core wires, the letter G indicates the presence of a green-yellow fuse conductor, and the second digit (2.5, 4, or 6 in the examples above) represents the conductor cross-sectional area (in mm²). 2However, this disclosure is not limited to the aforementioned flat cable types. The distinctive feature of the flat cables described herein is that the spacing between adjacent cores is exactly the same in different types of flat cables. In this respect, flat cables with fewer cores have the same core spacing as flat cables with more cores. Furthermore, flat cables with smaller conductor cross-sectional areas have the same core spacing as flat cables with larger conductor cross-sectional areas. Therefore, the aforementioned types of flat cables are not flat cables known in the prior art, but rather novel flat cables with perfectly uniform spacing between adjacent cores.

[0010] In some embodiments, conventional screw fasteners and basic quick-lock models can be used.

[0011] Some implementations may be applicable to both AC and DC applications.

[0012] In some embodiments, only a single authentication is required for the connection system, which can be used with a variety of types of flat cables (see above).

[0013] The system includes a first flat cable and a second flat cable, each of which can be connected to a connection system. In this document, such a flat cable (i.e., the first flat cable or the second flat cable) is also referred to as the flat cable to be connected. Specifically, the same connection system can be used to selectively connect either the first flat cable or the second flat cable. In some embodiments, the connection system may, for example, first connect the first flat cable and then disconnect it to connect the second flat cable. For example, the first number of core wires may be 3, and the second number of core wires may be 5. Ultimately, the number of core wires in each flat cable can be arbitrarily chosen. Furthermore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first conductor may be 2.5 mm². 2 The cross-sectional area of ​​the second conductor can be 4mm. 2 Or 6mm 2 Ultimately, the conductor cross-sectional area of ​​each flat cable can be arbitrarily chosen. Within the first and / or second flat cables, the conductor cross-sectional area of ​​all cores can be exactly the same. For example, if the conductor cross-sectional area of ​​each cable is specified (e.g., 2.5 mm²),... 2 The cross-sectional area describes the conductor cross-sectional area of ​​all the core wires in the cable. The first flat cable and the second flat cable differ only in the number of core wires and / or conductor cross-sectional area. But the key point is that, despite the difference in the number of core wires and / or conductor cross-sectional area, the spacing between the core wires in both cables is the same.

[0014] The housing of the connection system can be connected to the flat cable to be connected, for example, by screwing. The housing may include, in particular, a main box and a base plate. The main box is configured to be positioned above the flat cable, while the base plate is configured to be positioned below the flat cable (the lower side is opposite to the upper side). To secure the connection system to the flat cable, the main box and the base plate can be screwed together, and / or one or more snap-locks (so-called quick-locks) can be provided to connect the main box and the base plate. The connection between the main box and the base plate is detachable. The flat cable is clamped between the main box and the base plate. When the housing and the flat cable are connected as described above, this is referred to below as the "connected state".

[0015] The connection system can be designed to provide audible feedback when connected to a flat cable. For example, in the case of a latch lock, this can be achieved by a click sound from the latch. This allows the user to easily check whether the connection has been established correctly. Furthermore, the connection between the main unit and the base plate can use specialized screws that can only be opened with specialized tools; specifically, commercially available slotted screws or Phillips head screws cannot be used. This ensures that the connection system cannot be opened arbitrarily by just anyone (e.g., for security reasons).

[0016] The first direction is the direction in which the core wires of the flat cable to be connected extend in the connected state. The housing may, for example, be designed to be substantially cuboid in shape, wherein the longest side of the cuboid extends in the first direction.

[0017] The conductor cross-sectional area of ​​the first flat cable and / or the second flat cable can be, for example, 2.5 mm². 2 4mm 2 Or 6mm 2 The first flat cable and / or the second flat cable may be one of the following types in particular: 5G2.5, 5G4, 5G6, 3G2.5, 3G4 and 3G6, but not of the same type.

[0018] The receiving portion for the pins may, for example, each include threads for screwing in the individual pins. Additionally, individual screws may be provided, which, upon screwing in, press the pins into the cores of the flat cable. This receiving portion enables electrical connection between the pins and the cores of the connector cable. The connector cable can be led out from the housing through an opening in the housing. Alternatively, the receiving portion enables electrical connection between the pins and a cable connected to a connector socket provided on the housing wall. A connector cable can be connected to the connector socket, thereby establishing and maintaining electrical connection between the cores of the connector cable and the cores of the flat cable.

[0019] Inserting pins into the cable (more precisely, into the individual conductors of the cable) can be achieved by screwing the pins in when the baseboard and the main box are in a closed state, or during the connection between the main box and the baseboard.

[0020] Those skilled in the art know that connecting cables and their connections to one or more pins or contacts are provided, so this aspect will not be described further below.

[0021] These pins may have already been connected to the housing.

[0022] The receiving portion can be arranged as a continuous receiving element or as a single receiving element. The only relevant point here is that each pin has its own receiving portion, which can accommodate each pin. There may be structural connections between the various receiving portions, but this is not necessarily the case.

[0023] "Receptive state" describes the state in which all pins are received in their respective receptacles. For example, in the initial state of the connection system, the pins may already be in the receptive state (e.g., upon delivery of the connection system). Alternatively, the user may insert the pins into their respective receptacles (e.g., by screwing them in).

[0024] The width direction of each flat cable, perpendicular to the first direction, is the direction in which the width of the flat cable is measured. In other words, the width direction refers to the direction in which the core wires of the flat cable are arranged. The pins are arranged with the same spacing relative to each other in the width direction, meaning that the spacing vector between adjacent pins in the width direction has exactly the same length. In other words, imaginary lines extending through each pin (parallel to the first direction) are spaced equidistant from each other. In this way, the pins can contact the flat cable, whose adjacent core wires are equidistant from each other. The receiving portions are arranged such that, in the receiving state, the pins of all receiving portions in the connection system are arranged with the same spacing relative to each other in the width direction. The receiving portions can be arbitrarily distributed along the first direction in the connection system.

[0025] The connection system has at least five, and in particular exactly five, receptacles arranged such that, when the pins are in the receptacle state, the pins in the at least five receptacles are spaced at the same distance from each other in the width direction of the flat cable to be connected.

[0026] Here, the connection system can specifically contact a 5-core flat cable. However, the same connection system can also be used to contact flat cables with fewer than 5 cores, wherein the spacing between adjacent cores is the same as the spacing between cores in a 5-core flat cable.

[0027] The connection system may also include at least one spacer for filling the gap between the flat cable to be connected and the housing.

[0028] By incorporating spacers, a specific type of flat cable can be accommodated, allowing that type of flat cable to be used with the connection system. If the spacers are omitted, the same connection system can be used with another type of flat cable (i.e., a flat cable of a different size, such as a flat cable of a different width and / or thickness). Furthermore, different spacers can be used for different types of flat cables. When the spacers are detachably connected to the housing, they can be replaced for different types of flat cables.

[0029] Spacers can include additional mechanical coding, especially to create a sense of personalization for each customer.

[0030] The spacer can be made of an electrically insulating material. The spacer can be made of a flexible material. The spacer can be configured to completely fill the gap in at least one dimension. This means that if the spacer is positioned "next to" the flat cable, i.e., adjacent to the flat cable in the width direction, it can completely fill the width-direction gap between the flat cable and the housing, extending from the flat cable into the housing in the width direction. Alternatively or additionally, if the spacer is positioned "above" or "below" the flat cable, i.e., adjacent to the flat cable in the thickness direction, it can completely fill the thickness-direction gap between the flat cable and the housing, extending from the flat cable into the housing in the thickness direction. The flat cable can then be clamped between the housing and the spacer. Specifically, the flat cable can be clamped between the housing and the spacer.

[0031] The spacer may, for example, not be integrally connected to the housing. The spacer may, in particular, be detachably connected to the housing. The spacer is an assembly that is independently attached to the housing and can be detached from the housing if necessary.

[0032] The connection system may also include at least one fastening mechanism for securing the spacer to the housing. This fastening mechanism may, in particular, releasably secure the spacer to the housing. The fastening mechanism may be located on the spacer and / or the housing.

[0033] At least one fastening mechanism may include a screw. At least one eye for screwing in the spacer and housing may be provided. This at least one eye may be threaded. This allows the spacer to be screwed onto the housing.

[0034] At least one fastening mechanism may include a fastening clip. The fastening clip may be integrally formed with the element to which it is disposed, i.e., particularly integrally formed with a spacer or housing.

[0035] The fastening clips can be disposed on the spacer and configured to enter into the housing through an opening provided for this purpose and lock into place. Alternatively, the fastening clips can be disposed on the housing and configured to enter into the spacer through an opening provided for this purpose and lock into place. Each fastening clip may have a locking lug for locking into the relevant opening.

[0036] The spacer can be configured to fill the gap adjacent to the flat cable along the width direction of the flat cable to be connected when inserted. In this document, the width direction is defined as the direction in which the width of the flat cable is measured; in other words, the direction in which the flat cable cores are juxtaposed. The width direction is perpendicular to a first direction, i.e., perpendicular to the extension direction of the flat cable cores.

[0037] The spacer can be configured to fill the gap adjacent to the flat cable along the thickness direction of the flat cable to be connected in the inserted state. In this document, the thickness direction is defined as the direction in which the thickness of the flat cable is measured. The thickness direction is perpendicular to the first direction, i.e., perpendicular to the extension direction of the flat cable core wires, and perpendicular to the width direction. Thus, the first direction (extension direction), the width direction, and the thickness direction span a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0038] The spacer can be configured to extend at least the entire width of the flat cable to be connected when inserted. In other words, the spacer can be at least the same width as the associated flat cable.

[0039] The spacer can be configured to extend at least the entire thickness of the flat cable to be connected in the inserted state. In other words, the spacer can be at least the same thickness as the associated flat cable.

[0040] The connection system may include multiple spacers for flat cables of different widths and / or thicknesses. In particular, the connection system may include multiple spacers of different sizes. Multiple spacers can all meet the aforementioned dimensional requirements for different types of flat cables. In other words, suitable spacers can be provided for different types of flat cables (especially cables of different thicknesses and / or widths). That is, spacers of different thicknesses and / or widths can be provided.

[0041] The spacer may include at least one notch at a receiving position in the inserted state. This notch may be configured to receive the pins when they are screwed in. In other words, the notch in the spacer prevents the pins from contacting the spacer, or at least from penetrating into it. Thus, if a pin (for each flat cable) is not adjacent to the flat cable (i.e., not above the flat cable) but is adjacent to the spacer, and that pin is accidentally or intentionally screwed in, the notch in the spacer ensures that the pins and / or the spacer are not damaged.

[0042] The connection system may also include a seal disposed between the housing and the flat cable, the seal having an annular sealing portion. In a top view, the annular sealing portion may, for example, be a rounded rectangle. In this context, "annular" means that the sealing portion forms a closed loop. This closed loop need not be circular, but may in particular be rectangular or rounded rectangle. The seal may be fastened to the housing, particularly bonded to the housing. The seal may be fastened to the top side of the housing or the main housing, in other words, fastened to an assembly within the housing from which at least one pin pierces the flat cable.

[0043] In addition to the annular sealing portion, the seal may also include a sealing portion extending along the contact surface between the flat cable and the spacer. This additional sealing portion can cover the gap between the flat cable and the spacer.

[0044] The connection system may include a pin. The pin may be permanently or removably connected to a pin receiver.

[0045] To achieve the above objectives, a second aspect of the invention provides a connection system for connecting a first flat cable having multiple core wires to a second flat cable having multiple core wires. The connection system includes a housing for receiving the flat cables to be connected, such that the flat cables pass through the housing in a first direction. The connection system also includes at least three receptacles for receiving pins for inserting into each core wire of the flat cables to be connected. The at least three receptacles are arranged such that, when the pins are in the receptive position, the pins of the at least three receptacles are spaced equally apart with respect to the width direction of the flat cables to be connected, perpendicular to the first direction. The connection system also includes at least one spacer for filling the gap between the flat cables to be connected and the housing.

[0046] All the details of the connection system described above, which is part of the first aspect of the system, are also applicable to the connection system of the second aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0047] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] Figure 1 A perspective view of the connection system according to this disclosure in the open state is shown.

[0049] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The connection system in the middle is in a closed connection state.

[0050] Figure 3 The cross-sections and dimensions of different types of flat ribbon cables according to this disclosure are shown.

[0051] Figure 4The figure shows cross-sections of different types of flat ribbon cables according to this disclosure, with the relevant spacers shown in the middle column and the inserted pins shown in the right column.

[0052] Figure 5 A perspective sectional view of the connection system according to this disclosure is shown.

[0053] Figure 6 A top view of the different spacers is shown, along with the fastening mechanism used for the spacers.

[0054] Figure 7 A top view is shown of different flat cables, different spacers, and different types of seals according to this disclosure.

[0055] Figure 8 A perspective view of the connection system and its latch lock according to this disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The embodiments are described below using spatial relationships such as above, below, inside, and outside to visually represent them. Those skilled in the art will understand that this is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0057] Figure 1 A perspective view of the connection system according to this disclosure in the open state is shown.

[0058] The connection system includes a housing 1 consisting of a main box 3 and a base plate 5. A flat cable 7 (i.e., the flat cable to be connected) that is to make electrical contact with the base plate 5 is sandwiched between the main box 3 and the base plate 5. The connection between the connection system and the flat cable 7 can be accomplished, for example, by means of screws, wherein the base plate 5 is screwed to the main box 3 so as to clamp the flat cable 7 between the two.

[0059] To establish electrical contact, i.e., contact between the conductors of the flat cable 7, the connection system within the main housing 3 has multiple receptacles 11 for accommodating pins. For simplicity, only one receptacle 11 is shown by reference numeral in the figure. These pins are configured to pierce the insulation of the flat cable 7 down to the individual conductors, thereby establishing electrical contact. Each receptacle 11 may, for example, include a pin and a screw, which, when operated, presses the pin into the conductors of the flat cable 7. Alternatively, each receptacle 11 may include a threaded pin, which screws into the conductors of the flat cable 7 like a screw.

[0060] like Figure 1 As shown, a corresponding receiving portion 11 is provided for each core wire to be contacted (five core wires in the example shown). Each receiving portion 11 is staggered relative to each other in the width direction of the flat cable 7, so that each pin is located above the corresponding core wire of the flat cable 7. Each receiving portion 11 is connected to or can be connected to the corresponding core wire of the connecting cable 13. Figure 1 (Not shown). Each receiving portion 11 may be provided with suitable terminals for connection to the core wire of the connecting cable 13. The connecting cable 13 may extend from the housing 1 through the opening 15.

[0061] In addition, from Figure 1 It can also be seen that adjacent cores of the flat cable 7 have the same spacing from each other, and this also applies to the arrangement of the pins of the receiving portion 11 with respect to the width direction of the flat cable 7. With respect to the width direction of the flat cable 7, the receiving portion 11 is positioned on the housing 1 so that when each receiving portion 11 receives a pin (in the received state), the pins are arranged with the same spacing from each other. In this way, the flat cable 7 can make electrical contact with the associated pin. Furthermore, in this way, another flat cable can also make electrical contact (…). Figure 1 (Not shown), this flat cable has fewer cores (e.g., 3), but the spacing between its cores is... Figure 1 The flat cable 7 shown has the same spacing between its cores. Alternatively or additionally, another flat cable may be electrically connected, which has a different conductor cross-sectional area than the flat cable 7 shown in the figure, but has the same spacing between its cores as the flat cable 7 shown in the figure.

[0062] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The diagram shows the connection system in a closed state (i.e., main box 3 closed) and its associated connecting cable 13. In the connected state, the flat cable 7 can make electrical contact via the connecting cable 13. This is particularly possible without interrupting the conductivity of the flat cable 7 and without having to remove the insulation layer of the flat cable beforehand.

[0063] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram also shows a flat cable 7 extending through the housing 1 along a first direction. This first direction is the direction in which the core wires of the flat cable 7 extend. The width direction can be defined as perpendicular to the first direction, i.e., the direction in which the "width" of the flat cable 7 is measured. The core wires are arranged side-by-side along the width direction. The thickness direction can be defined as perpendicular to both the first direction and the width direction, i.e., the direction in which the "thickness" of the flat cable 7 is measured.

[0064] In addition to the aforementioned connection system elements, the connection system disclosed herein may also include at least one spacer. Furthermore, the connection system and / or the spacer may be provided with corresponding fastening mechanisms for fastening the spacer to the housing 1 of the connection system.

[0065] Figure 3The cross-sections of different types of flat ribbon cables 7 disclosed herein are shown. This type of flat ribbon cable 7 is identified using a uniform notation, where the first digit indicates the number of core wires, the letter G indicates the presence of a yellow-green fuse conductor, and the second digit indicates the conductor's cross-sectional area (in mm²). 2 ).

[0066] exist Figure 3 (and Figure 4 In the view, the horizontal direction corresponds to the width direction, the vertical direction corresponds to the thickness direction, and the direction inward of the paper corresponds to the first direction.

[0067] Figure 3 Figure (a) shows a 5G4 or 5G6 flat cable. In the following text, as shown in the figures, spaces in the markings may sometimes be omitted. As mentioned above, the 5G4 type has five core wires, each with a conductor cross-sectional area of ​​4 mm². 2 .

[0068] Figure (b) shows a 5G2.5 cable, Figure (c) shows a 3G4 or 3G6 cable, and Figure (d) shows a 3G2.5 cable.

[0069] The various types of flat cables mentioned in this article refer to the following: Figure 3 The flat cable shown refers specifically to a flat cable with a constant spacing x between adjacent cores. Furthermore, the spacing x between adjacent cores remains constant for flat cables with different numbers of cores and different conductor cross-sectional areas. More precisely, the spacing x between adjacent cores is the distance between the center axes of each core, i.e., in... Figure 3 The cross-sectional view shows the spacing between the center points of the core wires.

[0070] The same sub-graph shows 5G4 / 5G6 and 3G4 / 3G6 cables separately, as the dimensions of each flat cable are identical. Specifically, the cable with the smaller conductor diameter (i.e., a conductor cross-sectional area of ​​4mm²) is shown separately. 2 In cables (such as those with thicker insulation layers for each core), differences in conductor cross-sectional area can be compensated for. This is evident in... Figure 3 The diagrams (a) and (c) are represented by ring 15. In 5G6 and 3G6 cables, ring 15 is part of the conductor, while in 5G4 and 3G4 cables, ring 15 is part of the insulation layer.

[0071] Therefore, there is no difference in the external dimensions of 5G4 and 5G6 cables. Similarly, there is no difference in the external dimensions of 3G4 and 3G6 cables. The 5G4 / 5G6 cables described below refer to either type 5G4 or 5G6 cables with the same external dimensions. The 3G4 / 3G6 cables described below refer to either type 3G4 or 3G6 cables with the same external dimensions.

[0072] Each core wire (more precisely, the center axis of each conductor) is arranged with a spacing x between them. This spacing x is exactly the same between adjacent core wires in all types of flat cables.

[0073] In addition, such as Figure 3 The figures (a) to (d) are shown in the diagram, for conductors with a cross-sectional area of ​​2.5 mm². 2 4mm 2 and 6mm 2 The cables have the same spacing x. See here for more details. Figure 3 In Figures (a) and (b), the widths of 5G2.5, 5G4, and 5G6 cables with the exact same number of cores are also identical. This also applies to the widths of 3G2.5, 3G4, and 3G6 cables (see Figure 1). Figure 3 The subplots (c) and (d) are shown in the image.

[0074] However, as Figure 3 As shown in the left-hand diagrams (a) and (b) and the right-hand diagrams (c) and (d), the width of cables varies depending on the number of cores. The more cores a flat cable has, the wider it is. However, for flat cable types with different numbers of cores, the spacing x between adjacent cores is exactly the same.

[0075] The conductor's cross-sectional area is 2.5 mm. 2 The cable thickness and conductor cross-sectional area are 4mm. 2 Or 6mm 2 The cables have different thicknesses, which is evident in... Figure 3 The figures (b) and (d) are shown with dashed lines, which represent conductors with a large cross-sectional area (i.e., 4 mm²). 2 Or 6mm 2 The outline of the relevant flat cable.

[0076] Especially from Figure 3 It can be seen that, in a cross-section of 2.5mm 2 The cable has a cross-section of 4mm. 2 Or 6mm 2 Between cables, the distance from the center point of the conductor to the surface of the flat cable (along the thickness direction) varies. The conductor cross-sectional area is larger (4mm²). 2 Or 6mm 2 The spacing y1 in the cable is greater than the conductor cross-sectional area which is smaller (2.5mm). 2 The corresponding spacing y2 in the cable.

[0077] In existing connection systems, a separate connection system must be provided for each type of flat cable, with a suitable housing to accommodate various types of flat cables. According to this disclosure, and particularly with reference to the following… Figure 4 The aforementioned problems can be solved by setting at least one suitable spacer.

[0078] exist Figure 4 The left column again shows the two types of flat ribbon cables, 5G4 / 5G6 and 5G2.5, arranged vertically. The middle column (from top to bottom) shows 3G4 / 3G6, 3G2.5, and 5G2.5 flat ribbon cables. In the middle column, each flat ribbon cable has an associated spacer 17. The spacer 17 is designed to share the same dimensions as the 5G4 / 5G6 type cable with each flat cable 7.

[0079] The cross-section of the 5G4 / 5G6 type flat cable represents the reference cross-section designed for shell 1. For other types of flat ribbon cables, especially... Figure 4 The 3G4 / 3G6, 3G2.5 and 5G2.5 flat ribbon cables shown in the middle column are all equipped with corresponding spacers 17.

[0080] The 3G4 / 3G6 type flat cable shown in the upper figure has the same thickness as the 5G4 / 5G6 type flat cable, but a smaller width. Therefore, this cable requires a spacer 17 with a rectangular cross-section, which extends along the width direction of the flat cable 7 (i.e.,...). Figure 4 The spacer 17 is arranged in the housing 1 adjacent to the flat cable 7 in the horizontal direction. The spacer 17 is configured to fill the gap adjacent to the flat cable 7 in the width direction of the flat cable 7 (i.e., the gap between the flat cable 7 and the housing 1) when inserted (i.e., when the spacer 17 is inserted into the housing 1).

[0081] The 3G2.5 type flat cable shown in the middle column diagram is thinner and narrower than the 5G4 / 5G6 type flat cables. Therefore, this cable requires a spacer 17 with a substantially L-shaped cross-section, which extends along the width direction of the flat cable 7 (i.e., along...). Figure 4 (in the horizontal direction) adjacent to the flat cable 7 and along the thickness direction of the flat cable 7 (i.e., along) Figure 4 The spacer 17 is arranged in the housing 1 adjacent to the flat cable 7 in the vertical direction. The spacer 17 is configured to fill the gap adjacent to the flat cable 7 in the width direction (i.e., the gap between the flat cable 7 and the housing 1) and the gap adjacent to the flat cable 7 in the thickness direction (i.e., the gap between the flat cable 7 and the housing 1) in the inserted state (i.e., the state in which the spacer 17 is inserted into the housing 1).

[0082] The 5G2.5 flat cable shown in the image below is thinner than the 5G4 / 5G6 flat cable but has the same width. Therefore, this cable requires spacers 17 with a substantially rectangular cross-section. Figure 4 The chamfered section shown is an optional section), and the spacer 17 is along the thickness direction of the flat cable 7 (i.e., along...). Figure 4 The spacer 17 is arranged in the housing 1 adjacent to the flat cable 7 in the vertical direction. The spacer 17 is configured to fill the gap adjacent to the flat cable 7 along the thickness direction of the flat cable 7 (i.e., the gap between the flat cable 7 and the housing 1) in the inserted state (i.e., the state in which the spacer 17 is inserted into the housing 1).

[0083] exist Figure 4 The upper right column shows a 5G4 / 5G6 flat cable in the contact state, and the lower right column shows a 5G2.5 flat cable in the contact state. In the contact state, pins 19 are inserted into the individual conductors of the core wires of the flat cable 7 (in the example shown, five pins 19 are inserted into five conductors), thereby establishing electrical contact. Figure 4 As shown in the right column, due to the presence of the spacer 17, the same pins 19 and the same receiving portion 11 can be used to establish reliable electrical contact between each pin 19 and each conductor.

[0084] Figure 5 A perspective sectional view of the connection system according to this disclosure is shown. As described above, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 The connection system shown includes a housing 1, its main housing 3, and a base plate 5. The connection system shown is in a connected state, with the housing 1 connected to the flat cable 7. Additionally, the connection system is in a contact state, with pins 19 inserted into the conductors of the flat cable 7.

[0085] Figure 5 The flat cable 7 shown is of type 3G4 or 3G6, thus requiring the installation of a lateral spacer 17 (e.g. Figure 4 (As shown in the upper figure). The spacer 17 is in the inserted state, meaning that the spacer 17 has been inserted into the housing 1. Optionally, a corresponding fastening mechanism (such as...) can be provided for this purpose. Figure 6 (As shown). It should also be noted that in some embodiments, if the number of cores in the flat cable 7 is less than the maximum number of cores required for a flat cable designed for the connection system, then the spacer 17 need not contact the flat cable 7. In this case, the narrower flat cable can be contacted and held in place, for example, on one side of the housing 1, while the individual pins are introduced into the cores of the flat cable 7.

[0086] Figure 6 The left column shows top views of different spacers 17. The spacers 17 shown in this top view are... Figure 4The spacers 17 shown in the middle column are the same (but in a different order).

[0087] Figure 6 (a) shows, for example Figure 4 The top view of the "side" spacer 17 of the 3G4 and 3G6 type cables shown in the cross-section of the middle column. Figure 6 (b) shows, for example Figure 4 The top view of the "bottom" spacer 17 of the 5G2.5 type cable shown in the cross-section of the middle column is a top view. Figure 6 (c) shows as follows Figure 4 The top view of the "side and bottom" or L-shaped spacer 17 of the 3G2.5 type cable shown in the cross-section of the middle column diagram. (See figure below.) Figure 6 The area 21 next to each spacer 17 shown (for clarity, only) Figure 6 (a) The portion marked with reference numerals in the figure is the inner surface of the part of the substrate 5 that secures the various spacers 17. Figure 6 As shown in the left column, the spacer 17 can extend along the entire length of the substrate 5 in the first direction.

[0088] Figure 6 Sub-figures (d) and (e) in the right column illustrate different exemplary fastening mechanisms 23 for securing the various spacers 17 to the housing 1. Sub-figure (d) shows that screws can be used as fasteners 23. In this figure, the spacers 17, for example, have suitable eyelets for the screw to pass through, and the base plate 5 of the housing 1 has corresponding threaded eyelets for screwing in the screw. Alternatively, screws can also be screwed in from below, where the spacers 17 have threaded eyelets.

[0089] Figure 6 Figure (e) shows that the fastening clip can be used as a fastening mechanism 23. In the example shown, the fastening clip is integrally connected to the spacer 17 and is pressed into the base plate 5 of the housing 1 through the associated eyelet and locked in place.

[0090] As shown in Figures (d) and (e), the individual spacers 17 suitable for a specific cable type can be easily and quickly connected to or inserted into the housing 1 of the connection system. The connection system can then be connected to the individual flat cables, for example, by screws or snap-locks.

[0091] Figure 7 Top views of different flat cables 7, different spacers 17, and different types of seals 25 are shown. Figures (a) and (b) show a first exemplary seal 25 with its annular sealing portion; figures (c) and (d) show a second exemplary seal 25 with its annular sealing portion and an additional sealing portion 27 extending along the contact surface between the flat cable 7 and the spacer 17.

[0092] Figures (a) and (c) show the configuration of 5G4 or 5G6 flat cables without any spacers in housing 1. Figures (b) and (d) show the configuration of 3G4 or 3G6 flat cables with lateral spacers 17 (e.g., Figure 6 (a) and Figure 4 The situation is shown in the figure above. In sub-figures (a) and (c), the position of the side spacer 17 is marked with a dashed line 33.

[0093] Circle 29 indicates the position of the core wire. From... Figure 7 As can be seen, the positions of these pins are staggered relative to each other both along the first direction (i.e., the extension direction of the flat cable 7) and along the width direction of the flat cable 7. A pin 19 or at least one receiving portion 11 for each possible core wire of the flat cable 7 is provided. For the lateral spacer 17 (see sub-figures (b) and (c)), notches 31 (e.g., in the form of eyelets or blind holes) can be provided in the spacer 17 at the pin positions. These notches 31 can accommodate each pin 19, thereby preventing each pin 19 from piercing into the spacer 17.

[0094] As shown in Figures (a) and (b), the seal 25 is annular and consists of annular sealing portions. The seal 25 is positioned above the flat cable 7 or above the flat cable 7 and the spacer 17, for example, to prevent moisture from entering the internal area of ​​the annular sealing portions, and thus to prevent moisture from entering the area where the pin 19 pierces the conductor of the flat cable 7. The seal 25 can then be securely connected to the housing 1, particularly to the outer bottom side of the main housing 3 of the housing 1. When the housing 1 is connected to the flat cable 7, the seal 25 can be pressed against the flat cable 7 and, if necessary, against the spacer 17, thereby ensuring a proper seal.

[0095] In some applications, the seal 25 in Figures (a) and (b) may not be sufficient because, under certain circumstances, liquid may still enter the gap formed here through the area 35 between the flat cable 7 and the spacer 17.

[0096] In this regard, it may be advantageous, such as Figure 7 (c) and Figure 7 As shown in (d), an additional sealing portion 27 is provided, extending along the interface between the flat cable 7 and the spacer 17. The additional sealing portion 27 extends from one point of the annular sealing portion along a first direction to the opposite point of the annular sealing portion. The additional sealing portion 17 ensures that the gap between the flat cable 7, the spacer 17 and the housing 1 is sealed.

[0097] Figure 7 The seal 25 shown is an optional seal, for example, it is only required for a specific level of protection.

[0098] Figure 8 A perspective view of the connection system according to this disclosure and its snap-lock 37 (also referred to as: quick lock) is shown. The snap-lock 37 represents a possible connection between the main box 3 and the base plate 5 of the housing 1. In this figure, a flat cable 7 is sandwiched between the main box 3 and the base plate 5 and then connected to the housing 1. For example, a snap-lock 37 (e.g., two snap-locks) may be arranged on one side of the housing 1, while a hinge may be provided on the opposite side of the housing 1 to pivotally fasten the base plate 5 to the main box 3.

[0099] As Figure 8 As an alternative to the latch lock 37 shown, the side of the housing 1 with the latch lock 37 can be closed with screws, for example, by screwing the base plate 5 to the main box 3, and vice versa. As an alternative, the hinge can be omitted, and screws can be provided on both sides of the housing 1 (i.e., both sides of the flat cable 7) to screw the main box 3 to the base plate 5.

Claims

1. A system for connecting a connection system to a first flat cable (7) having multiple core wires and / or a second flat cable (7) having multiple core wires, wherein, The system includes: (a) The first flat cable (7) includes a first number of core wires arranged along the width direction of the first flat cable (7) and each having a first conductor cross-sectional area, wherein all spacings (x) between the central axes of adjacent core wires are the same; (b) The second flat cable (7) includes a second number of core wires arranged along the width direction of the second flat cable (7) and each having a second conductor cross-sectional area, wherein all spacings (x) between the central axes of adjacent core wires are the same and correspond to the spacing (x) of the first flat cable (7), and Wherein, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first conductor is different from the cross-sectional area of ​​the second conductor, and / or wherein the first number of core wires is different from the second number of core wires; (c) The connection system includes: - Housing (1) for accommodating a flat cable (7) to be connected, such that the flat cable (7) to be connected passes through the housing (1) in a first direction; - At least three receiving portions (11) for receiving each pin (19) for inserting into each core wire of the flat cable (7) to be connected. The at least three receiving portions (11) are arranged such that, when the pins (19) are in the receiving state, the pins (19) of the at least three receiving portions (11) are arranged at the same spacing (x) relative to the width direction of the flat cable (7) to be connected, which is perpendicular to the first direction, and the spacing corresponds to the spacing (x) between the center axes of the core wires of the first flat cable (7) and the second flat cable (7).

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The connection system has at least five, in particular exactly five, receptacles (11) arranged such that, when the pins (19) are in the receptacle state, the pins (19) in the at least five receptacles (11) are arranged at the same spacing (x) relative to each other in the width direction of the flat cable (7) to be connected.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connection system also includes at least one spacer (17) for filling the gap between the flat cable (7) to be connected and the housing (1).

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein, The connection system further includes at least one fastening mechanism (23) for fastening the spacer (17) to the housing (1).

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one fastening mechanism (23) includes a screw, and wherein at least one eye is provided in the spacer (17) and the housing (1) for screwing in the screw.

6. The system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The at least one fastening mechanism (23) includes a fastening clamp, The fastening clamp is disposed on the spacer (17) and configured to be inserted into the opening provided for this purpose in the housing (1) and locked into place, or The fastening clamp is disposed on the housing (1) and configured to be introduced into the opening provided for this purpose in the spacer (17) and locked in place.

7. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein, The spacer (17) is configured to fill, in the inserted state, the gap adjacent to the flat cable (7) along the width direction of the flat cable (7) to be connected, and / or The spacer (17) is configured to fill the gap adjacent to the flat cable (7) along the thickness direction of the flat cable (7) to be connected when inserted.

8. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein, The spacer (17) is configured to extend at least the entire flat cable (7) in the width direction of the flat cable (7) to be connected in the inserted state, and / or The spacer (17) is configured to extend at least the entire flat cable (7) along its thickness direction in the inserted state.

9. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 8, comprising a plurality of spacers (17) for flat cables (7) of different widths and / or different thicknesses.

10. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 9, wherein, The spacer (17) includes at least one notch (31) at the location of the receiving part (11) in the inserted state.

11. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The connection system further includes a seal (25) disposed between the housing (1) and the flat cable (7), the seal (25) having an annular sealing portion.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein, In addition to the annular sealing portion, the seal (25) also includes a sealing portion (27) extending along the contact surface between the flat cable (7) and the spacer (17).

13. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The connection system includes a pin (19).

14. A connection system for connecting to a first flat cable (7) having multiple core wires and / or a second flat cable (7) having multiple core wires, wherein, The connection system includes: - Housing (1) for accommodating a flat cable (7) to be connected, such that the flat cable (7) to be connected passes through the housing (1) in a first direction; - At least three receiving portions (11) for receiving each pin (19) for inserting into each core wire of the flat cable (7) to be connected. The at least three receiving portions (11) are arranged such that, when the pins (19) are in the receiving state, the pins (19) of the at least three receiving portions (11) are arranged at the same spacing (x) relative to each other in the width direction of the flat cable (7) to be connected, which is perpendicular to the first direction. - At least one spacer (17) for filling the gap between the flat cable (7) to be connected and the housing (1).

15. The connection system according to claim 14, further comprising the features of any one of claims 2 and 4 to 13.

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