Plug connector and plug connector assembly

Abstract

The utility model relates to a modular plug connector for connecting to a mating plug connector, comprising: a housing (20) having a plurality of cup-shaped slots (21), each of which is defined by a surrounding wall assembly (22); at least one plug-in module 7 which is arranged in the slot 21 and which is designed to receive at least one plug-in element 12, preferably a plurality of plug-in elements, in particular in a separation-proof manner; and a mechanical coding device 4, which is designed between each slot 21 and each inserted plug-in module 7 in order to provide a defined association between the plug-in module 7 and the slot 21, the mechanical coding device 4 having a first coding element 41 and a second coding element 42 complementary to the first coding element 41, wherein the first coding element 41 is arranged on the cup-shaped slot 21 and the second coding element 42 is arranged on the plug-in module 7, and wherein each first and the second coding element 41, 42 complementary thereto are differently designed and / or arranged in different positions on the slot 21.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The utility model relates to a modularly constructed plug connector for connection to a mating plug connector, and a plug connector assembly having a plug connector and a mating plug connector. Background Art

[0002] A plug connector assembly typically includes a plug connector and a mating plug connector. When the plug connector and the mating plug connector are connected (which is achieved, for example, by common insertion along an axis or a plugging direction), a plug connection is realized. Fields of use of such plug connectors are, for example, in the vehicle field for connecting different components or controllers or cable bundles to each other. The assembly of plug connectors is often still carried out with a relatively high manual effort. Here, automation is made difficult due to the complexity of the cable bundles. It is desirable to provide an improvement, in particular an improvement that enables automation.

[0003] A modular electrical plug connector assembly is known from DE 102011006195 A1, in which a plurality of plug modules are first arranged relative to each other in a module carrier and then irreversibly connected to the module carrier by a joining process. Summary of the Utility Model

[0004] The modularly constructed plug connector according to the utility model has the advantage that the automated assembly of plug modules to the plug connector can be realized. Thereby, a relatively high cost potential can be increased and the assembly of the plug connector can be significantly simplified. Various plug modules with various plug elements arranged therein can be used here. This allows the assembly of the plug connector to be easily, quickly and flexibly adapted to different types of mating plug connectors or their mating plug elements. In other words, each plug module can be assembled with different plug elements (or at least one plug element) according to the type of the mating plug connector. Due to the modular structure, the plug modules can then be manually or automatically arranged or placed in the plug connector or its housing.

[0005] This is achieved by the following means in accordance with the present utility model, namely: The plug connector constructed modularly has a housing which has a plurality of preferably cup-shaped slots. The slots are respectively defined by an enclosing wall assembly. The plug connector furthermore has at least one plug module which is arranged in the slot and is configured to receive at least one plug element, in particular anti-detachably. Preferably, a plurality of plug elements are received in the plug module. In addition, the plug connector according to the present utility model includes a mechanical coding device which is constructed between each slot and each inserted plug module in order to provide a defined correlation between the plug module and the slot. The mechanical coding device includes a first coding element and a second coding element which is constructed complementary to the first coding element. The first coding element is arranged at the cup-shaped slot, and the second coding element is arranged at the plug module. Here, each first coding element of each slot or of each plug module and the second coding element constructed complementary thereto are differently constructed and / or arranged at different positions at the slot or at the plug module.

[0006] "Different positions" should be understood here as meaning that at least a part of the mechanical coding device or of the first / second coding elements differs in terms of position from all other coding devices or first / second coding elements.

[0007] In other words: Only one plug module can be placed respectively only at one only slot. Thus, in a housing with a defined number of slots, for each slot a self-contained plug module is required which is respectively again assembled or can be assembled with at least one plug element, preferably a plurality of plug elements. If, for example, nine slots are provided, then nine different first coding elements or first coding devices are provided, and correspondingly nine different plug module types with complementary second coding elements or second coding devices are required, where each plug module type can respectively only be correctly placed in one only slot. The individual plug modules can be assembled with plug elements either all or partly identically (with the same plug elements) or differently.

[0008] It has surprisingly been shown that by the individual coding of the slots and the corresponding plug modules, although the number of different plug module types is increased (for each slot a self-contained plug module type with the corresponding second coding device is required, which increases the number of variants). However, by this design the automatibility of assembling plug elements to the slots and plug modules is advantageously simplified. In addition, the risk of incorrect assembly is reduced even in the case of a high variant diversity in the assembly line. Because the assembly of plug elements to the plug modules can be flexibly adapted to the requirements of the respective customer, and the accidental swapping of the individual plug modules or their accidental misplacement on the wrong slot is advantageously prevented by the first and second coding elements or coding devices.

[0009] The encoding device can have a unique first encoding element for each socket. However, it is also possible to provide a plurality of first encoding elements at or in the socket, for example, in a prescribed geometric arrangement relative to each other or in terms of width, length, and / or height, etc.

[0010] Surprisingly, despite the high variety of variations of the plug-in elements, different or arbitrary configurations within the housing or the plug connector housing can be achieved using the assembly device, without the need to modify and manufacture its own plug types for each customer requirement. More precisely, it is possible to meet most customer requirements in terms of the number and functionality of the plug-in elements for several different plug connector housings. For this purpose, the customer can arrange the desired plug-in elements in the plug-in module or preset the arrangement. In other words: The customer can easily assemble their plug connector modularly or in the manner of a modular principle from the housing and the plug-in module to be assembled therein, where the plug-in module can be individually equipped with plug-in elements. Since the plug-in module can be easily assembled and several housing types (e.g., for different numbers of plug-in modules) are known and tested and can be easily adapted to the corresponding mating plug connector housing, the development time can be significantly shortened compared to developing plug connectors individually for customers.

[0011] In addition, the processing time or the assembly time for the plug connector can be significantly reduced advantageously. Because instead of individually and especially manually assembling a plurality of plug-in elements (e.g., more than 100 plug-in elements) for each plug connector housing, the assembler can first assemble the plug-in module according to the user's requirements. The plug-in module can be equipped with, for example, between one and 50, preferably between one and 26, plug-in elements. This number of plug-in elements can be well, easily, and quickly implemented, especially automatically, during assembly. Subsequently, the pre-assembled plug-in module can then be easily placed into the (plug connector-) housing. This process can be easily automated. In other words: Instead of manually directly assembling the plug-in elements into the (plug connector-) housing, the assembly process can be automated by first especially automatically assembling the plug-in elements into the plug-in module and then assembling the plug-in module into the housing. The first and second encoding elements ensure here that the pre-assembled plug-in module is assembled in the correct position.

[0012] Mechanical coding devices can be implemented by different coding elements and / or different positions at the slots. The plug connector is suitable not only for electrical but also for optical plug connections. The plug elements can be selected, for example, from the group of electrical contact elements or optical elements (transmitting elements, receiving elements, optical coupling elements, etc.) or sensor elements or the like.

[0013] The wall assembly can be configured, for example, as a (slot-) wall portion surrounding the slot, such as a circumferentially closed wall portion.

[0014] The plug-in module preferably has at least one, preferably a plurality of chambers, in which at least one plug element can be arranged respectively. It is feasible here to provide chambers of different sizes or chambers of the same size in the plug-in module.

[0015] The plug element is preferably initially latched or can be initially latched in the chamber by means of an initial locking device in order to cause anti-separation (for example, to prevent pulling out or removing against the plugging direction). Such an initial latching portion can be caused, for example, by an element that can be elastically reversibly displaced at the plug element (for example, a locking tab that can be displaced transversely to the plugging direction), and this initial latching portion can be latched at or engage behind an undercut in the chamber of the plug-in module. The opposite configuration (locking tab at the chamber, where the locking tab latches at the undercut of the plug element) can also be envisaged.

[0016] In addition, other plug elements can be arranged in each plug-in module, and for each individual slot, plug-in modules that can be arbitrarily assembled can be used.

[0017] The plug-in module arranged in the slot can be configured to receive different plug elements and / or different types of plug elements according to the mating plug connector and / or the intended use.

[0018] It can be specified that the (for example, cup-shaped) slot is configured or arranged in a matrix array in the housing. The matrix array can have, for example, at least two columns and at least two rows (2×2 matrix) here. The matrix array can have, for example, three columns and two rows (3×2 matrix) or for example three columns and three rows (3×3 matrix) or even more columns and / or rows. However, in principle, a single-row or single-column matrix array or housing is also feasible, such as a 2×1 matrix or a 3×1 matrix, etc. In principle, even a 1×1 matrix can be envisaged.

[0019] A housing having a plurality of cup-shaped slots, for example, can be integrally constructed, that is, the housing can be integrally constructed from a single piece, so that the housing cannot be disassembled into smaller units in a non-destructive and releasable manner. If, for example, a housing with a different matrix array (e.g., a 3×2 matrix instead of a 3×1 matrix) is required, it can be provided, for example, that not only the second 3×1 matrix is coupled to the first 3×1 matrix by means of a connecting element. Rather, it is preferably possible to provide that an independent housing is constructed or manufactured as a 3×2 matrix.

[0020] The housing can be manufactured, for example, by an injection molding process. The housing can be made of plastic, for example.

[0021] It can be advantageously provided that the plug-in module has a different color design or different colors depending on the slot assigned to the plug-in module or according to the coding device or according to the type of the second coding element. Thereby, the user or the assembler can easily identify in which slot the plug-in module should be assembled. Particularly advantageously, a different color of the plug-in module is provided for each slot. Such a color design can automate the assembly of the plug-in module to the housing particularly easily and reliably. This color design can be caused, for example, by the different colors of the materials used, such as plastics, during the injection molding process. Thereby, the plug-in module can be easily and inexpensively manufactured. Moreover, the color design can be well recognized from all directions and thus also the type or the kind of the plug-in module, so that the plug-in module can be automatically assembled to the housing particularly easily and reliably.

[0022] In this application, the expression "comprising" is used synonymously with the expression "having", unless otherwise stated.

[0023] The dependent claims show preferred improvements of the utility model.

[0024] Preferably, all the cup-shaped slots for the plug-in modules have the same cross-section, the same external dimensions, or the same external specifications. In particular, a plug-in matrix with the following slots can thus be realized at the housing, the slots having the same cross-section, the same external dimensions, or the same external specifications. This enables the plug-in modules to be advantageously assembled particularly easily and automatically. In addition, in this way, it is also possible to advantageously assemble the plug-in elements to the plug-in modules particularly easily and automatically. For example, an assembly automation device with grippers can always use a similar or even the same gripping width or gripping length, thereby reducing errors and shortening the cycle time. In addition, in this way, the mechanical stability of the housing can be advantageously optimized because the cross-section can be selected such that, for example, particularly little deformation occurs during the injection molding process of the housing. In addition, plug-in modules can be particularly easily and inexpensively manufactured by means of the same cross-section. Because, for example, the same injection molding tool can be used for each, and, for example, a second coding element for each type of plug-in module can be easily produced in the injection molding tool by means of displaceable elements.

[0025] It goes without saying that the plug-in modules can also have the same cross-section, the same external dimensions, or the same external specifications. The occupancy of the plug-in elements can be designed differently within the cross-section, the external dimensions, or the external specifications of the individual plug-in modules. For example, different types of chambers, chamber numbers, and chamber cross-sections can be provided in each plug-in module. Thus, the user can select the assigned plug-in module for a specified slot, the plug-in module having a different occupancy with respect to the plug-in elements.

[0026] The cup-shaped slots are basically constructed as cuboids, which all have the same large cross-section in particular.

[0027] The cuboid design can advantageously enable particularly easy assembly in the assembly automation device. In addition, a particularly space-saving design of the housing can thus be advantageously achieved.

[0028] For example, a slight deviation from the ideal cuboid shape can occur due to rounded corners and / or due to the provision of a mechanical anti-twist device. The anti-twist device can be provided, for example, to prevent the plug-in module from being inserted into the slot with a 180° or 90° twist when placed in the slot (similar to the anti-twist device constructed at the SIM card by means of a single beveled corner).

[0029] The assigned plug-in module can likewise be basically configured as a cuboid. For example, all of these plug-in modules can have the same large cross-section, or the same external dimensions, or the same external dimensions in size. This makes it easier to grasp the plug-in module manually or by means of an assembly automation device, for example.

[0030] According to a further preferred design of the present utility model, the first coding element is only arranged at the bottom region of the cup-shaped slot facing the mating plug connector at the slot. Here, each wall of the wall assembly of the cup-shaped slot is constructed at the remaining wall regions or at the wall regions outside the bottom region without the coding element. Therefore, except for the bottom region, a smooth wall of the slot can be achieved, thereby particularly significantly simplifying the insertion process of the plug-in module into the cup-shaped slot. Therefore, the wall of the slot has no coding element and preferably no other insertion elements either. In addition, advantageously, the manufacturing of the plug connector or the wall assembly of the slot is simplified thereby. In addition, advantageously, in this way, other functional elements can also be arranged at the plug-in module (for example, a displaceable secondary locking element), and these other functional elements will not be damaged in their functions by, for example, coding ribs running completely along the wall or do not have to be designed geometrically complexly.

[0031] The bottom region can extend, for example, along a maximum of 35% or a maximum of 25%, preferably a maximum of 20%, particularly preferably a maximum of 15%, and very particularly preferably a maximum of 10% of the height of the corresponding wall. The height of the wall can be measured, for example, parallel to the insertion direction of the plug-in module into the corresponding slot.

[0032] Further preferably, an opening and a substantially surrounding inner flange are arranged at the bottom region of the slot, and the first coding element is arranged at or above the inner flange. Here, the inner flange preferably covers an area less than 10% of the cross-sectional area at the bottom region of the slot. The first coding element can, for example, only be arranged at the wall immediately adjacent to the inner flange. The remaining wall regions, especially the wall regions above the inner flange, can, for example, have no mechanical first coding element.

[0033] For example, due to manufacturing technology reasons, the inner flange can be interrupted at one or more locations, for example, along less than 10% of its main extension length.

[0034] The inner flange advantageously provides an axial stop for the plug-in module inserted into the slot, so that the plug-in module will not be inserted too deeply into the slot. In addition, advantageously, the first coding element can be robustly constructed by means of the inner flange. The opening advantageously causes at least one mating plug element of the mating plug connector to be coupled or connected to the plug element of the plug-in module.

[0035] The first coding element can be connected, for example, to the flange and / or to the wall or wall assembly. The first coding element can be integrally formed with the flange and / or the wall or wall assembly, for example.

[0036] Further preferably, for a reliable plugging process between the plug connector and the mating plug connector, an insertion aid is arranged between adjacent cup-shaped slots. The insertion aid is provided for guiding and simplifying the plugging process between the plug connector and the mating plug connector. In this way, for example, the risk of skewing between the plug connector and the mating plug connector is reduced. Thereby, the risk of damaging the mating plug elements or the plug elements when assembling the plug connector and the mating plug connector is also reduced.

[0037] The insertion aid preferably has at least one recess or comprises the recess, which is provided for receiving the sword-shaped or sword-like element of the mating plug connector. At least one recess (in particular all recesses) has a cross-section smaller than the cross-section of the slot. At least one recess is preferably constructed in a slit-like manner. Particularly preferably, a plurality of insertion aids are constructed between the plug connector and the mating plug connector. Particularly preferably, the recesses of the insertion aids are arranged respectively between directly adjacent slots.

[0038] It can be provided that at least one recess is not constructed continuously in a channel-like manner from the lower side of the housing to the upper side of the housing. At least one recess can be constructed, in particular, in a pocket-like manner in the direction of the mating plug connector. Thereby, the introduction of a fluid medium through the void in the direction of the mating plug connector is prevented. It can be provided that a partition is arranged in at least one recess. In this way, at least one recess is only open on one side in the direction of the mating plug connector. Such a partition can also, for example, increase the stability of the recess, so that a wall with a smaller wall thickness of the recess can be implemented. At least one recess can extend further upwards above the partition and open. In this way, for example, the deformation can be minimized when manufacturing the housing by an injection molding process.

[0039] To ensure the precise positioning of the plugging module in the slot, the plug connector further preferably includes at least one alignment assembly between each slot and each inserted plugging module. The alignment assembly is provided for ensuring the final insertion position of the plugging module in the cup-shaped slot (for example, placed in the x / y direction, i.e., transversely to the plugging direction). The alignment assembly preferably includes (at least one) first alignment element at the cup-shaped slot and (at least one) second alignment element at the plugging module.

[0040] Here, the tolerance of the alignment component, or the tolerance dimension, is preferably smaller than the tolerance of the mechanical coding device. Further preferably, the tolerance dimension of the alignment element is at least 20% smaller, preferably at least 10% smaller, than the tolerance dimension of the coding element. Here, the tolerance dimension relates not only to the position but also to the dimensions in terms of the width and / or length and / or height of the respective alignment element. By providing the alignment element, it is further advantageously achieved that the coding device, or the coding device is mechanically unloaded.

[0041] In other words: The coding device causes that the plug-in module can be correctly inserted (especially in the axial direction) into the slot only when the plug-in module adapted to the slot is correctly inserted into the slot. If this is not the case, for example, the plugging process of the plug-in module into the slot will not be carried out until the end (for example, along the plugging direction, i.e., the axial direction). The alignment device in turn causes that, especially at the end of the plugging process of the plug-in module into the adapted slot, the plug-in module is correctly positioned within the slot in a plane perpendicular to the plugging direction (for example, the x-y plane in the case where the plugging direction is the z direction), and is positioned in the slot in a position-fixed manner even in the case of mechanical influences (such as vibrations or thermal cyclic loads). In this way, a reliable and damage-free co-plugging with the mating plug connector can be achieved by easy means.

[0042] Thereby, functional separation is advantageously achieved by easy means.

[0043] As an alternative or additional option, it can be provided that the alignment component has a lower or higher height (especially when observed along the plugging direction) than the coding device (for example, at least 10% higher or lower, or for example, at least 1 mm higher or lower).

[0044] If the alignment component has a higher height than the coding device, it is advantageously possible to first correctly set its orientation (especially in the x-y plane) when assembling the plug-in module, and then to identify or ensure by means of the coding device whether the correct plug-in module is assembled in the correct slot or whether the correct plug-in module is assembled in the correct slot. Thereby, skewing is advantageously prevented.

[0045] If the alignment component has a lower height, it is advantageously possible to quickly identify during assembly whether the plug-in module is assembled at or in the correct slot, and then set the precise orientation (in the x-y plane). Thus, plugging errors can be quickly identified. Thereby, the alignment component can be implemented particularly ingeniously.

[0046] Exemplarily, it can be set in two cases that, for example, only at least one first alignment element has a different height from at least one first coding element (for example, due to ribs of different lengths at the slots, the corresponding cutouts at the plug-in module, which are the second alignment element or the second coding element, can respectively have the same height). Or it can be stipulated that, for example, only at least one second alignment element has a different height from at least one second coding element.

[0047] As an alternative or in addition, it can be set that the alignment assembly is arranged at a lower or higher height (especially when observed parallel to the plug-in direction) than the coding device (for example, at least 10% higher or lower, or for example, at least 1 mm higher or lower).

[0048] If the alignment assembly is arranged at a higher height (above the bottom) than the coding device, it is advantageously possible to first correctly set its orientation (especially in the x-y plane) when assembling the plug-in module, and then, by means of the coding device, it can be recognized whether the correct plug-in module is assembled in the correct slot. Thereby, skewing is advantageously prevented.

[0049] If it is arranged at a lower height, it is advantageously possible to quickly recognize during assembly whether the plug-in module is assembled at or in the correct slot, and then set the precise orientation (in the x-y plane). Thus, plug-in errors can be quickly recognized. Thereby, the alignment assembly can be implemented particularly ingeniously.

[0050] Exemplarily, it can be set in two cases that, for example, only at least one first alignment element is arranged at a different height from at least one first coding element (for example, due to ribs at the slots that are different distances from the bottom, the corresponding cutouts at the plug-in module, which are the second alignment element or the second coding element, can respectively start and / or end at the same height). Or it can be stipulated that, for example, only at least one second alignment element has a different height from at least one second coding element.

[0051] It goes without saying that in principle it is also feasible for the alignment device and the coding device to have the same height or to be assembled or arranged at the same height. Thus, the two functions are performed simultaneously during the plug-in process.

[0052] Particularly preferably, the first alignment element (or at least the first alignment element) of each cup-shaped slot is respectively arranged at the same position (or respectively at a plurality of identical positions) at each slot.

[0053] Thereby, it is advantageously possible to manufacture the housing of the plug-in module and the plug connector particularly easily. In addition, it is advantageously possible to particularly easily implement quality control after machining the housing and the plug-in module. Furthermore, it is advantageously possible to particularly well design at least one first alignment element in terms of high positioning security. In the case of providing a plurality of first alignment elements, these first alignment elements can, for example, have a particularly large spacing relative to each other.

[0054] As an alternative or in addition, it is provided that the first alignment element (or the first alignment elements) of each cup-shaped socket are identically configured geometrically. This can advantageously particularly easily manufacture the housing and the plug-in module. In addition, it is thereby possible to particularly easily implement quality control after manufacturing.

[0055] Preferably, the first alignment element and the second alignment element are complementary to each other in configuration.

[0056] Thereby, when correct positioning is achieved between the plug-in module and the socket, particularly easy mechanical coupling can be achieved.

[0057] As an alternative or in addition, it is provided that the first alignment element is only arranged at or in the bottom region of the cup-shaped socket that faces the mating plug connector, such that each wall adjacent to the bottom region of the socket is configured as the first alignment element, or each wall is configured at the remaining wall region or at the wall region outside the bottom region where there is no first alignment element. Thus, the remaining wall region of the socket (especially the wall region above the bottom region) preferably has substantially no alignment elements and coding elements. In addition, this advantageously simplifies the manufacture of the plug connector or the wall assembly of the socket.

[0058] Therefore, except for the bottom region, a smooth wall of the socket can be achieved, thereby particularly significantly simplifying the insertion process of the plug-in module into the cup-shaped socket. In addition, this advantageously simplifies the manufacture of the plug connector or the wall assembly of the socket.

[0059] Furthermore, in this way, it is advantageously also possible to arrange additional functional elements (such as displaceable (secondary) locking elements) at the plug-in module, and these additional functional elements will not be damaged in terms of their functions due to, for example, alignment elements that run completely along the wall or have to be geometrically designed complexly.

[0060] The bottom region can, for example, extend along a maximum of 25%, preferably a maximum of 15%, and particularly preferably a maximum of 10% of the height of the corresponding wall. The height of the wall can, for example, be measured parallel to the insertion direction of the plug-in module into the corresponding socket.

[0061] According to a further preferred design of the present utility model, the plug-in module has at least one (secondary-) locking device which abuts against the slot in the inserted state of the plug-in module and is provided for locking or holding at least one plug-in element arranged in the plug-in module in the plug-in module.

[0062] The optional primary latching portion of the plug-in element in the plug-in module can be advantageously unloaded by the secondary locking device. In addition, it is advantageously automatically ensured by the proposed secondary locking portion that the plug-in element is secondarily locked into the slot in the inserted state of the plug-in module. The secondary locking device can be constructed, for example, such that the plug-in module can only be correctly inserted into or assembled in the slot when the secondary locking device is correctly inserted or closed. Thereby, it is advantageously possible to dispense with a separately operable secondary locking element (such as a slide) at the overall plug-in or plug connector.

[0063] It goes without saying that in the absence of the primary latching portion or primary locking portion of the corresponding plug-in module or the plug-in element in its plug-in element chamber, the secondary locking device can simply be a locking device. Such a primary latching portion or primary locking portion is exemplarily constructed as a locking gun at the plug-in element or in the plug-in module in the chamber corresponding to the plug-in element respectively. The primary latching portion or primary locking portion engages behind, for example, an undercut in the chamber or at the plug-in element. The primary latching portion or primary locking portion is, for example, elastically reversibly displaceable transversely to the insertion direction of the plug-in element into the chamber.

[0064] (The secondary-) locking device can be constructed, for example, to absorb a greater breaking force than a common primary latching device.

[0065] The secondary locking device preferably includes or has a first tongue. The first tongue can pivot about an axis to effect the locking process. Thereby, advantageously, at least one plug-in element or a plurality of plug-in elements can be directly locked in the plug-in module, especially before the plug-in module is assembled in the assigned slot. Thereby, it is advantageously possible to check whether the plug-in elements are correctly assembled in the plug-in module during or after the assembly of the plug-in module (and thus at a still relatively low level of value creation), and to correct the assembly if necessary.

[0066] For example, it can be provided that the secondary locking device has a second tongue, which is arranged on the side of the plug-in module opposite to the first tongue. The second tongue can pivot, for example, about (a further or second) axis (in particular parallel to the axis of the first tongue) in order to carry out the locking process. Thereby, the same advantages as those achieved by the first tongue can be realized. In addition, advantageously, even in the case of a plug-in module designed in two rows (i.e., a plug-in module in which two rows of in particular parallel plug-in elements can be inserted into corresponding chambers), it is possible to reliably lock the individual plug-in elements in the plug-in module or its chambers by easy means.

[0067] In other words: If one or both tongues do not close successfully, this indicates that at least one plug-in element is not correctly arranged in the plug-in module. By providing two tongues, an example of a locked assembly of the plug-in module and the plug-in elements can be advantageously achieved.

[0068] Alternatively, it can be provided that the only secondary locking device has a first tongue and a second tongue.

[0069] Preferably, no component independent of the plug-in module is required for the (secondary) locking part of the plug-in element.

[0070] Particularly preferably, the locking element (here in the form of the first tongue or the second tongue) is integrally constructed with the plug-in module and cannot be separated.

[0071] The first tongue and / or the second tongue can be integrally constructed with the plug-in module, for example. The first tongue and / or the second tongue can be arranged at the plug-in module by means of a film hinge, for example.

[0072] For example, it can be provided that the first tongue and / or the second tongue have a hook or a hook element or a hook-shaped element, for example, at their free ends. Such a hook or such a hook element or such a hook-shaped element can, for example, engage behind an undercut of the plug-in module, and the first and / or second tongue then latches or snaps at the plug-in module in the closed state. For this purpose, the hook or the hook element can only exemplarily have a protrusion or a curvature, etc. In other words: The corresponding tongue then prevents accidental or elastically reversible opening in the closed state. Then, for example, the opening of the corresponding tongue (that is: flipping outwards) can be caused by unlocking the hook element or the hook. In addition, it can only exemplarily be provided that the hook or the hook element engages behind an undercut of at least one plug-in element arranged in the plug-in module and locks it in this way.

[0073] Further preferably, at least one first alignment element and at least one first coding element are arranged side by side on a line in a cup-shaped socket. The line can, for example, extend parallel to the wall of the wall assembly. Thus, all of the alignment elements and coding elements are arranged on a common side at the wall of the socket. Thereby, it is advantageously possible to arrange the mechanical elements in a particularly space-saving manner for correctly correlating the plug-in module and correctly placing the plug-in module in the socket.

[0074] If a plurality of first alignment elements and a plurality of first coding elements are provided and these elements are arranged or provided on or at a plurality of walls of the wall assembly, for example, on or at opposite walls of the wall assembly, then preferably all of the first alignment elements and first coding elements on or at the walls are arranged side by side on a line.

[0075] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that at least one plug-in module is latched in the socket. Thereby, it is advantageously possible to particularly easily assemble the plug-in module in the socket.

[0076] Preferably, the plug-in module is non-detachably coupled or latched to the socket in the state of being assembled in the socket.

[0077] For the latching part, for example, a latching structure at the socket and a mating latching structure at the plug-in module can be provided. For example, it can be provided that a single latching structure and / or a single mating latching structure are provided. However, a plurality of latching structures (for example, two, three, four, five, six, or even more) and / or a plurality of mating latching structures (for example, two, three, four, five, six, or even more) can also be provided.

[0078] For example, it can be provided that all of the latching structures of the socket are constructed on the side of the wall assembly of the relevant socket or at a single wall of the wall assembly. Thereby, it is advantageously possible to particularly easily manufacture the socket. In addition, thereby, particularly little space in the socket is required.

[0079] It can be provided that one or more mating latching structures are respectively provided at opposite wall portions of the plug-in module. In this way, the plug-in module can be advantageously and reliably assembled in the socket regardless of which side of the socket wall the one or more latching structures are arranged on.

[0080] The latching part can, for example, be constructed releasably, for example, by an elastically reversible latching structure. In this way, in the case of a defect at the plug-in element or the plug-in module after assembly, the plug-in module can be removed from the socket without damage, for example, using a suitable tool. Thereby, it is advantageously possible to repair the plug connector in an easy manner.

[0081] Preferably, at least one latching structure and at least one mating latching structure are arranged or configured (especially laterally) outside of a first or second coding element or a plurality of first or second coding elements. In other words: No first or second coding element is arranged between the latching structure or the mating latching structure and the adjacent wall closest to the slot or the plug-in module. This advantageously causes a functional separation between the latching part and the coding part, especially in the transverse direction. For example, it can also be provided that at least one latching structure and at least one mating latching structure are arranged or configured (especially laterally) outside of a first or second alignment element or a plurality of first or second alignment elements.

[0082] If, for example, two latching structures are provided at the wall part with respect to the slot, it can be provided, for example, that all first coding elements and / or first alignment elements are arranged between the two latching structures. This can be provided in this way for each slot of the plug connector.

[0083] In an improved embodiment, it is provided that the wall assembly has a wall-latching element in the bottom region, which can latch with the plug-in module-undercut of the plug-in module.

[0084] This advantageously causes that the wall-latching element and the plug-in module-undercut do not affect further functional elements arranged above, such as, for example, a (secondary-) locking device. Thus, a spatial functional separation is achieved.

[0085] (Exemplarily elastically reversibly configured, for example, in the form of a latching hook or a locking gun) The wall-latching element can be used as a latching structure. The plug-in module-undercut can be used as a mating latching structure.

[0086] It goes without saying that exactly one wall-latching element can be provided, however, multiple wall-latching elements can also be provided.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment, all wall-latching elements are provided on the same side wall of the wall assembly of the respective slot.

[0088] It goes without saying that exactly one plug-in module-undercut can be provided, however, multiple plug-in module-undercuts can also be provided.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, plug-in module-undercuts are respectively provided at the mutually opposed plug-in module walls, especially the same number of plug-in module-undercuts are respectively provided (for example, respectively a single plug-in module-undercut or multiple plug-in module-undercuts). Particularly preferably, the plug-in module-undercuts are arranged symmetrically with respect to the middle plane mirror of the plug-in module at the mutually opposed plug-in module walls.

[0090] As an alternative or additional solution, it is provided that the wall assembly has a wall bottom cutout in the bottom region, which can be latched by means of a latching element of the plug-in module (exemplarily elastically reversibly, for example configured as a latching hook or a locking gun).

[0091] This advantageously results in that the wall bottom cutout and the plug-in module-latching element do not affect further functional elements arranged further above, such as, for example, a (secondary-)locking device. Thus, a spatial functional separation is achieved.

[0092] The wall bottom cutout can be used as a latching structure. The plug-in module-latching element can be used as a mating latching structure.

[0093] It goes without saying that exactly one wall bottom cutout can be provided, but multiple wall bottom cutouts can also be provided.

[0094] In a preferred embodiment, all wall bottom cutouts are provided on the same side of the wall part of the wall assembly of the respective socket.

[0095] It goes without saying that exactly one plug-in module-latching element can be provided, but multiple plug-in module-latching elements can also be provided.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, plug-in module-latching elements are respectively provided at opposite plug-in module walls, in particular respectively the same number of plug-in module-latching elements (for example, respectively a single plug-in module-latching element or multiple plug-in module-latching elements) are provided. Particularly preferably, the plug-in module-latching elements are arranged symmetrically with respect to the middle plane mirror of the plug-in module at opposite plug-in module walls.

[0097] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a plug connector assembly, which includes a plug connector according to the present invention and a mating plug connector having at least one mating plug element. The mating plug element is configured to be coupled to at least one plug element of a plug-in module arranged in the plug connector.

[0098] The plug connector assembly can, for example, be configured for electrical and / or optical plugging processes or connections or for introducing sensor elements.

[0099] (Secondary-)locking devices are preferably configured to permanently fix the respective particularly primarily latched plug elements arranged in the plug-in module. Here, preferably, a hook-shaped element of the (secondary-)locking device engages behind a bottom cutout at the plug element.

[0100] It can be provided, for example, that at least one tongue is closed manually or in a machine-like manner, in particular, before the plug-in module is inserted into the slot in the housing. The at least one tongue is, for example, flipped or pivoted in the inward direction towards the main area of the plug-in module. Thereby, it is possible to automatically secondarily lock a plurality or even all of the inserted plug-in elements, for example.

[0101] For example, the corresponding plug-in module is only assembled into the assigned slot in the case of a correctly assembled or correctly closed (secondary-) locking device.

[0102] Preferably, the (secondary-) locking device is arranged outside the bottom area (for example, in the middle area and / or the head area of the plug-in module).

[0103] The plug-in module can be smoothly pushed or assembled into the slot because preferably the coding element and the alignment element are arranged close to the bottom area of the slot and towards the mating plug connector. Thereby, no structural design of the (secondary-) locking device is required (for example, a notch for passing through the coding rib). When the plug-in module is removed from the slot, the secondary locking can then be easily released for several contact elements simultaneously by flipping open at least one tongue again.

[0104] Further preferably, the second coding unit or the second coding element and / or the second alignment unit or the second alignment element at the plug-in module are only arranged in the area of the plug-in module pointing towards the bottom area of the slot (for example, at most arranged in the lowest 35% of the height of the plug-in module, or at most arranged in the lowest 25%, preferably at most arranged in the lowest 15%, and particularly preferably at most arranged in the lowest 10%). Thereby, the function of at least one tongue of the plug-in module is not impaired. Thereby, other functions can also be smoothly arranged at the plug-in module, for example, outside the bottom area, without being disturbed or hindered or affected by the second coding element and / or the second alignment element. Description of the Drawings

[0105] In the following, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings:

[0106] Figure 1 A schematic three-dimensional exploded view of a plug connector assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention together with a modularly constructed plug connector is shown.

[0107] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 a schematic three-dimensional view of the plug connector with the inserted plug-in module and the empty slot.

[0108] Figures 3 to 5shows differently configured plug-in modules which are provided for insertion into a housing of a plug connector according to Figure 1 ,

[0109] Figure 6 shows Figure 1 a schematic top view of the housing of the plug connector according to

[0110] Figure 7 shows a cross-section of the plug-in module together with the inserted plug-in elements,

[0111] Figure 8 shows a schematic view of the housing of the plug connector from below,

[0112] Figure 9 shows Figure 1 a schematic cross-section of the plug connector according to DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0113] In the following, the plug connector assembly 1 together with the modularly configured plug connector 2 and the mating plug connector 3 is described in detail with reference to Figures 1 to 9 .

[0114] Figure 1 The basic structure of the plug connector assembly 1 is shown in an exploded view. The plug connector assembly 1 includes two main components, namely the plug connector 2 and the mating plug connector 3.

[0115] The mating plug connector 3 here exemplarily has a mating plug connector housing 31 in which here exemplarily a plurality of mating plug elements 30 are arranged.

[0116] The plug connector 2 can be plugged together with the mating plug connector 3.

[0117] Furthermore, the plug connector assembly 1 optionally also includes a cover 10 (for the cable lead) of the plug connector 2 and optionally includes a rod 11 or generally an actuating element (which can also be a slide, for example), which rod here exemplarily effects the actual plugging process between the plug connector 2 and the mating plug connector 3 during actuation, or by means of which the plug connection can be released again. The rod 11 or the actuating element can for example be provided for reducing the operating force during the plugging process or during the plugging together. The plugging together takes place along a plugging direction which here extends parallel to the z-axis.

[0118] The optional cover 10 of the plug connector 2 can also be arranged, assembled or plugged smoothly and rotated by 180° as desired at or above the housing 20 of the plug connector 2 described below. In this case, the cable lead is different from Figure 1and points to the right.

[0119] The optional rod 11 can also be rotated or twisted 180° and arranged at the plug connector 2 or at the housing 20 of the plug connector 2, which will be described in more detail below, or at the cover 10, depending on the structural space conditions and / or the orientation of the optionally present cover 10 (about the vertical axis).

[0120] The plug connector 2 includes a (plug connector -) housing 20, the details of which are visible from Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 . The housing 20 is exemplary constructed in a square shape here. Its edges extend here exemplary parallel to the x-axis (longer side) and the y-axis (shorter side) of the Cartesian coordinate system, and its third axis is shown as the z-axis. The housing has a plurality of slots 21, here exemplary nine slots 21. The slots 21 are exemplary arranged in three rows of three here. Thus, a 3×3 matrix array is shown here, where, it goes without saying, other arrangements (such as a 2×3 matrix array or other matrix arrays) can also be envisioned. Each slot 21 is delimited by a wall part or a wall assembly 22 surrounding the slot, or the slot is defined by the wall assembly 22, or the wall assembly 22 surrounds the respective slot 21.

[0121] Each slot 21 is provided for receiving a plug module 7. However, it can be provided that not all slots 21 are equipped with plug modules 7. In Figure 2 , a plug module 7 is exemplary inserted into the slot 21. In Figures 3 to 5 , examples of differently designed plug modules are shown. The plug module 7 can for example have a plug module housing 9. In the plug module 7, for example, at least one chamber 70 can be provided for receiving a plug element 12, or the plug module housing 9 can have at least one such chamber 70. In the present embodiment, each plug module 7 has a plurality of chambers 70.

[0122] In the present embodiment, particularly advantageously, all slots 21 are constructed identically in terms of cross-section or external dimensions or external specifications. All plug modules 7 exemplary have the same cross-section or the same external dimensions or the same external specifications. This makes the planning of occupying the individual plug modules easier and also makes the assembly easier and in particular enables its automation.

[0123] A particularly simple and cost-effective modular plug-in connector solution can be obtained. If the user does not want or cannot use the entire surface of the plug-in module 7, the individual chambers 70 of the plug-in module 7 can remain empty, or a plug-in module 7 with fewer chambers 70 can be provided. The internal occupation of the plug-in module 7 can therefore be variably specified by the user. However, the external shape of the corresponding plug-in module 7 ensures that the plug-in module 7 can only be correctly assembled at a single slot 21. This makes it possible to simply and easily automate the assembly of the plug-in module 7 into the slot 21, wherein at the same time the user has a high degree of flexibility for the occupation of the plug-in surface. Complex plug-in connector occupation solutions can thus be realized and assembled in an easy and cost-effective manner.

[0124] It can be advantageously provided that the plug-in module 7 has different color designs or different colors (in the example of FIG. 1 ) depending on the slot 21 to which the plug-in module is assigned or on the type of the coding device 4 or on the type of the second coding element 42. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 9 ). This makes it easier to assemble the slot 21 with the associated plug-in module 7. It is particularly advantageous to set different colors of the corresponding plug-in module 7 for each slot 21. This type of color design can realize the automated assembly of the housing 20 and the plug-in module 7 particularly easily and reliably. Color recognition during automated assembly can be realized, for example, by a camera and evaluation electronics. It can also be provided, for example, that the plug-in module 7 is illuminated at a specified wavelength, and for example the infrared spectrum (or other spectrum) of the illuminated plug-in module 7 is recorded and evaluated, and the allocation to the corresponding slot 21 is performed according to the evaluation situation. This is then verified by a mechanical encoding device 4. For example, the color design of the plug-in module 7 can be caused by the different colors of the materials used, such as plastics, when manufacturing by injection molding technology. This makes it possible to easily and cost-effectively manufacture the plug-in module 7. In addition, the color design of the plug-in module 7 and thus its type or variety of the plug-in module 7 can thus also be easily recognized from all directions, so that automated assembly of the housing and the plug-in module 7 can be achieved particularly easily and reliably.

[0125] Figure 3 By way of example, a plug-in module 7 is shown in which two rows of chambers 70 are arranged parallel to one another and are rectangular in cross section, by way of example almost square.

[0126] Figure 4 An alternative plug-in module 7 is shown by way of example, in which three larger chambers 70 with rounded corner regions are arranged in series.

[0127] Figure 5 Exemplarily, five smaller chambers 70 each having a substantially square cross-section with rounded corners are shown.

[0128] Thus, the plug-in module 7 is configured to receive at least one plug-in element 12, preferably a plurality of plug-in elements 12, in a non-detachable manner. Here, preferably each chamber 70 is provided with a plug-in element 12 respectively. (For example, in Figure 7 ) The plug-in element 12 shown, for example, can be an electrical contact element or an optical plug-in element (such as an optical conductor, a diode, etc.) or a sensor element. At least one plug-in element 12 can, for example, have a locking gun 13 or a primary latching element for primary locking or primary latching. The locking gun 13 can, for example, be configured to be elastically reversibly displaceable transversely to the plugging direction. When the plug-in element 12 has been inserted into the plug-in module 7, the locking gun can, for example, latch at the (primary latching-) undercut 86 of the plug-in module 7 or of the plug-in module housing 9. Thereby, at least temporarily, the plug-in element 12 is prevented from being pulled out or falling out of the plug-in module 12. The plug-in element 12 can, for example, be connected to a cable 14. For example, the line of the cable 14 can be pressed onto the plug-in element 12 (see Figure 7 ).

[0129] As further visible from Figures 3 to 5 , the plug-in module 7 substantially has a square shape, which has two longer sides (here exemplarily parallel to the x-axis) and two shorter sides (here exemplarily parallel to the y-axis), wherein, here exemplarily, (secondary-) locking means 8 are arranged at the longer sides. The (secondary-) locking means 8 here exemplarily includes a first tongue 81 at the first longer side and a second tongue 82 at the opposite second longer side. The two tongues 81, 82 can pivot about an axis here parallel to the x-axis or parallel to the longer side. These tongues are arranged at the plug-in module 7 or at the plug-in module housing 9 only exemplarily by means of a membrane hinge 85 (see Figure 7 ). These tongues have a hook region or hook elements 83 at their free ends. The hook or hook elements 83 here exemplarily point inwards, i.e., towards the plug-in module housing 9, at their free ends, wherein the chambers 70 are formed in the plug-in module housing 9. The hook region or hook elements 83 are provided for locking ((secondary) locking) the plug-in element 12 arranged in the chamber 70 of the plug-in module 7 and which can optionally be primarily latched (see Figure 7 ). In addition, the hook element 83 has a protrusion 84 or a thickening (also see Figure 7 : there: pointing upwards). By means of the protrusion 84, the corresponding tongues 81, 82 can be latched, in particular without damage and releasably, at the (locking-) undercut 87 of the plug-in module housing 9, such that when the tongues 81, 82 are displaced into the closed (locked) position (seeFigure 7 ), these tabs cannot be accidentally released.

[0130] Before the housing 20 or the corresponding slot 21 is assembled, it is necessary to close or lock the (secondary) locking device 8. For this purpose, the first and second tongues 81, 82 are pressed here, for example, toward the plug-in module housing 9 of the plug-in module 7. The locking is carried out with the help of the hook area or the hook element 83. The hook element 83 engages the plug-in element undercut 15 from behind. The plug-in element 12 or the plug-in element 12 is thus protected or blocked from being pulled out of the plug-in module 7. Optionally, the existing primary locking gun or locking gun 13 or the primary latching element is relieved (see Figure 7 ).

[0131] It goes without saying that the plug-in module 7 can also be designed without a secondary locking device 8 in other embodiments.

[0132] It goes without saying that embodiments are possible in which the plug-in element 12 is arranged in the plug-in module 7 without primary latching or primary locking. In this case, the secondary locking device 8 can be, for example, a single locking part or a single element that protects or blocks the plug-in element 12 from being pulled out at least along the insertion direction into the corresponding chamber 70 (here, parallel to the z-axis). Nevertheless, for reasons of better readability, the term secondary locking device 8 is still used for such a case, although in such a case it is generally referred to as a locking device.

[0133] In order to enable or facilitate automation when plugging the plug-in modules 7 into the housing 20, the plug connector 2 has a mechanical coding device 4, which is formed between each slot 21 and each inserted plug-in module 7. The mechanical coding device 4 therefore has coding elements both at the slot 21 and at the plug-in module 7. This results in a defined association between the plug-in module 7 and the slot 21. A single plug-in module 7 can therefore only be correctly mounted in exactly one slot 21. Therefore, only a single plug-in module type or a single plug-in module variety should be placed in each slot 21 (not shown here is an "adapter solution" for the plug-in module 7, which is adapted to a plurality of slots 21 by means of a clever coding arrangement, such as a recess at all locations of the plug-in module 7, at which, in principle, a projection-like or rib-like first coding element 41 can be formed, for example, or a variant opposite thereto).

[0134] More precisely, the mechanical encoding device 4 comprises a first encoding element 41 (see Figure 6 ) and a second coding element 42 complementary to the first coding element 41 (see Figures 3 to 5)。The first coding element 41 is arranged at the (cup-shaped) socket 21, and the complementary second coding element 42 is arranged at the plug-in module 7. For example, it can be arranged that the first coding element 41 of the socket 21 is constructed or injection-molded in or at the corresponding wall. In particular, they can be integrally constructed with the corresponding wall. As can be seen from Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the second coding element 42 is constructed as a slot-shaped recess at the longitudinal side of the plug-in module 7. The second coding element only extends in the lower region (about the lowest 10%-20%) of the plug-in module housing 9, and this lower region can also be referred to as the bottom region 23. The first coding element 41 is constructed as a protruding region complementary to the recess at the socket 21 in the housing 20. In principle, other construction schemes can also be envisaged. For example, instead of or in addition to the slot 21, a downward or laterally protruding journal or protrusion can be constructed at the plug-in module 7, which is inserted into the corresponding void in the socket 21.

[0135] As the first coding element 41, a single element (such as a journal, a protruding or projecting region, a protrusion, a void, a hole, etc.) or multiple elements (such as a journal or a protruding or projecting region or a protrusion, a void, a hole, etc.) can be provided.

[0136] In the same way, as the second coding element 42, a single element or multiple elements can be provided, wherein the element or the elements are mechanically adapted to the corresponding first coding element 41 (key-lock principle). Therefore, it can involve elements that are complementary to each other.

[0137] Here, each first and second coding element 41, 42 of each coding device 4 is constructed differently, and / or each first coding element 41 is arranged at different positions in or at the socket 21, and the corresponding second coding element 42 adapted to it is correspondingly arranged at different positions in or at the plug-in module 7. In other words: Only one or one type of plug-in module 7 is adapted in each socket 21, or only one or one type of plug-in module 7 can be correctly inserted or assembled.

[0138] As can be seen from Figure 6 , the first mechanical coding element 41, as a protruding region at the socket 21, is only arranged at the bottom region 23 of the socket 21 facing the mating plug connector (the bottom region 23 here, for example, extends up to a maximum of 10% or up to a maximum of 15% or up to a maximum of 20% of the height of the wall of the socket 21 (parallel to the z direction)). This can also be clearly seen in Figures 3 to 5As can be seen, the second coding element 42 is only constructed in the lowermost region of the plug-in module housing 9 (about the lowermost 10%-20% of the height of the plug-in module housing 9 facing the bottom region 23).

[0139] As can be seen from Figure 2 As is evident, in the remaining wall region (upper region) extending from the bottom region 23 towards the insertion opening, there is a wall or wall part of the wall assembly 22, which has no coding elements and no other elements. The wall is thus smoothly constructed in this region, in particular without protrusions. In the present embodiment, there is also no deepening or the like in the upper region of the bottom region 23. This enables the plug-in module 7 to be inserted into the slot 21 particularly easily, without skew, and with low friction. In addition, in this way, additional functional solutions can be installed on the outside of the plug-in module 7, such as the tongues 81, 82 of the (secondary-) locking device 8, without adversely affecting these additional functional solutions, for example, due to coding ribs along (almost the entire or the whole) wall height or in the upper region of the corresponding wall. In other words: functional separation can be achieved by dividing functions (such as coding, orientation, locking, etc.) at different heights of the slot 21 or the plug-in module 7.

[0140] In each of the two (exemplarily here) corners of the slot 21, there are ribs or torsion ribs 25 extending upward from the bottom region 23. The rib or torsion rib serves as an anti-torsion structure that prevents the plug-in module 7 from being inserted into the slot 21 by twisting 180° about the vertical axis. Corresponding cutouts are also provided at the plug-in module 7 (at the same location on all plug-in modules 7). However, the anti-torsion element does not interfere with the functional separation described above, because the anti-torsion element is only arranged in the corners and the wall in the upper region is smoothly constructed without interruption, in particular without protrusions.

[0141] As Figure 6 As shown, there is a surrounding edge 24 constructed at or in the bottom region 23, and the first coding element 41 is placed on or connected to the first coding element 41. The first coding element 41 is also connected to the wall part of the wall assembly 22 here by way of example. Therefore, the height of the first coding element 41 along the insertion direction is very small, as is evident from Figures 3 to 5 the second coding element 42 constructed complementarily at the plug-in module 21, so that the remaining wall region of the slot 21 is smooth.

[0142] In addition, the plug connector 2 includes an alignment assembly 6 having a first alignment element 61 and a second alignment element 62. The alignment assembly 6 hereby ensures the correct orientation (in the x-y plane) of the inserted plug module 7 in the socket 21. Similar to the coding elements 41, 42 of the mechanical coding device 4, the alignment elements 61, 62 of the alignment assembly 6 are here exemplarily constructed complementary to each other by means of slots and protruding regions. Here, the second alignment element 62 is exemplarily constructed as a slot or recess (at least one slot or recess), and the first alignment element 61 is constructed as a protruding region or journal or projection (at least one protruding region or journal or projection). It goes without saying that the opposite construction or a mixed construction (at least one slot or recess as the first alignment element; at least one protruding region or journal or projection as the second alignment element) can also be envisaged.

[0143] As can be seen from Figure 6 it is obvious that the first coding element 41 and the first alignment element 61 are respectively arranged at or above the edge 24 in the bottom region 23. Thus, the first coding element 41 and the first alignment element 61 are on a common line perpendicular to the plugging direction of the plug module 7 (parallel to the z-axis). In the bottom region 23, the first coding element 41 and the first alignment element 61 are arranged at each longitudinal side of each socket.

[0144] For example, it can be provided that the first alignment element 61 of the alignment assembly 6 has a greater height or is arranged at a greater distance from the edge compared to the first coding element 41 of the coding device 4. For example, the first alignment assembly can be at least 10% higher than the coding device. This advantageously causes that during the assembly process, first the correct positioning of the plug module 7 in the socket 21 is obtained, and at the end of the plugging process, it is ensured or recognized that the correct plug module 7 has been plugged into the socket 21 or whether it has been plugged into this socket.

[0145] The plug connector assembly 1 furthermore includes an insertion aid 5 which facilitates the insertion of the plug connector 2 into the mating plug connector 3 and vice versa. The insertion aid 5 includes a recess 52 which is configured to receive the sword-shaped part 51 of the mating plug connector 3 (also see Figure 1 and Figure 8 ). As can be seen from Figure 6 it is obvious that the recess 52 is arranged between the sockets 21. Complementary to the recess 52, the sword-shaped part 51 is correspondingly constructed at the mating plug connector 3 (see Figure 1)。The insertion aid device 5 here makes it easier to insert the plug connector 2 onto the mating plug connector 3 and guides the plug connector 2 in the recess 52 during a further insertion process. The recess 52 is here exemplarily closed off by a partition 53 (see Figure 9 )。The recess has an end that is open downward (facing the mating plug connector 3 or the sword-shaped part 51, see Figure 8 、 Figure 9 )。The recess is constructed in a pocket shape. The upper end here is also open and pocket-shaped. The partition 53 prevents fluids, media, dirt, and grime from penetrating into the mating plug connector 3 through the recess 52. The partition can also, for example, increase the stability of the recess 52 and / or enable the walls defining the recess 52 to be designed thinner. The sword-shaped part 51 can at the same time function as a touch protection at the mating plug connector 3 and / or function as a damage protection for the mating plug element 30 of the mating plug connector 3.

[0146] The recess 52 has a cross-section that is smaller than the cross-section of the slot 21. By the arrangement between the two rows of slots 21, a very compact plug connector assembly 1 can be provided.

[0147] An alignment assembly 6 is constructed between each slot 21 and each plug-in module 7. The alignment assembly 6 here ensures the final insertion position (in the x-y plane) of the plug-in module 7 in the (in particular cup-shaped) slot 21. Here, the alignment assembly 6 can have a tolerance between the first and second alignment elements 61, 62 that is smaller than the tolerance of the first and second coding elements 41, 42 of the mechanical coding device 4.

[0148] The first alignment element 61 and the first coding element 41 are here exemplarily constructed as a journal or a rib or a protrusion that projects from the wall into the interior of the slot.

[0149] In the present exemplary embodiment, the alignment assembly 6 is higher than the coding device 4. Currently, when observed parallel to the insertion direction z, exemplarily one first alignment element 61 or a plurality of first alignment elements 61 are higher than one first coding element 41 or a plurality of first coding elements 41 (however, in Figure 6 ), the first alignment element 61 is closer to the observer than the first coding element 41). When the plug-in module 7 is inserted into the slot 21, first at least one first alignment element 61 is coupled to at least one second alignment element 62. The correct lateral orientation (x-y plane) of the plug-in module 7 in the slot is achieved. During a further insertion process, the coding device 4 then comes into play. When a plug-in module 7 that is adapted to the slot 21 has been inserted, the first and second coding elements 41, 42 are adapted to one another or the first and second coding elements 41, 42 are adapted to one another. The plug-in module 7 can be fully inserted into the slot 21 along the insertion direction z (and seeFigure 9 At the end of the plugging process, the latch). At Figures 3 to 5 As can be seen, the second alignment element 61 and the second coding element 41 (exemplarily implemented here as a cutout) have the same height, which, however, does not prevent the functional flow described above (firstly oriented in the transverse direction and then an incorrect plugging test is carried out).

[0150] As an alternative or additional option, it is also feasible that the coding device is arranged at a different height above or within, in particular, the socket 21 compared to the alignment assembly 6.

[0151] Since the first and second alignment elements 61, 62 and also the first and second mechanical coding elements 41, 42 are arranged at the bottom region 23 of the socket 21, they do not cause interference during the insertion process, which can take place at the smooth walls over most of the extent of the socket 21.

[0152] The alignment elements 61, 62 and the coding elements 41, 42 also do not interfere with the secondary locking device 8, which is preferably activated by the folding of the tongues 81, 82 before the plugging module 7 is inserted into the socket 21.

[0153] Figure 7 The cross-section of the plugging module 7 is shown by way of example. In Figure 7 Two plugging elements 12 are shown, which are configured here as electrical contact elements. These plugging elements 12 can thus be introduced into the chamber 70 in a simple manner and, for example, are initially latched by means of a primary locking device or a primary latching device. Thereby, the anti-separation of the plugging elements 12 in the chamber 70 of the plugging module 7 is achieved. In Figure 7 At the lower end (facing the mating plug connector 3) in, inlet openings 88 are provided in the plugging module housing 9 for the two cut chambers 70 respectively. Through this inlet opening 88, for example, the mating plugging element 30 can be introduced into the chamber 70 and coupled to the plugging element 12, for example, an electrical and / or mechanical connection and / or an optical connection is established.

[0154] This can be achieved, for example, by means of at least one, in particular, elastically reversibly displaceable locking gun 13 or a primary latching gun or a primary locking gun in or at the plugging element 12 itself (in principle, it can also be envisaged that such a locking gun is provided at or in the plugging module housing 9 or in the chamber 70, which then latches at the undercut of the plugging element 12). In Figure 7 On the left side in, the first tongue 81 is shown in the open (first) position P1. The hook element 83 has not yet been displaced into the locking position. In Figure 7On the right side, the second tongue 82 pivots about a pivot axis (exemplarily configured here in or near the film hinge 85) into the closed (second) position P2, in which the hook element 83 engages behind the plug-in element - undercut 15 of the plug-in element 12 on the right side, and thus prevents the plug-in element 12 from being pulled out against the insertion direction (here, upward) into the plug-in module 7. In the state where the plug-in module 7 is inserted into the slot 21, the two tongues 81, 82 are in the closed (second) position.

[0155] In the closed (second) position P2, the first or second tongue 81, 82 is coupled or, here exemplarily, latched at its free end to the plug-in module housing 9, so that they do not displace themselves into the open (first) position P1. This is exemplarily caused here by the protrusion 84 extending upward at the hook element 83, which engages behind the (locking -) undercut 87. On the side opposite to the protrusion (facing the mating plug connector 3), the hook element 83 is in engagement with the plug-in element - undercut 15. The hook element 83 is thus arranged relative to the plug-in element 12 in the closed (second) position between the plug-in element - undercut 15 and the cable 14 or the crimping section 16 for the cable 14.

[0156] It can be stipulated that the plug-in module 21 with the (secondary) locking device 8 can only be assembled or inserted or pushed into the slot 21 (e.g., without damage and / or with less power consumption) when the (secondary) locking device 8 is in the closed (second) position P2 or closed. If, for example, the plug-in element 12 is not correctly assembled in the plug-in module 7, then the corresponding tongues 81, 82 cannot be displaced into the closed (second) position P2, and thus the plug-in module 7 cannot be assembled into the slot 21. In this way, even in the case of automatically machining the housing 2 or assembling the plug-in module 7 for it, errors can be particularly easily identified.

[0157] Furthermore, it should be noted that other plug-in elements 12 can be arranged in each plug-in module 7, so that the plug-in module 7 can serve various purposes. The plug-in element 12 is, for example, selected from the group of electrical contact elements or optical elements (such as transmitting elements, receiving elements or optical coupling elements or sensor elements, etc.). Combinations of electrical and optical elements or sensor elements (such as a magnetic sensor that is coupled to a magnetic field or a magnet in the mating plug connector 3, or an inductive sensor, etc.) can also be envisaged in the plug-in module 7.

[0158] In addition, each plug-in module 7 can be configured to receive different plug-in elements 12 and / or different numbers of plug-in elements 12 according to the mating plug connector 3 or the intended use. As is also the case withFigure 2 As is obvious and as described above, one or more torsion ribs 25 can be arranged in the corners of the wall assembly 22 of the socket 21. The torsion ribs 25 prevent the plug-in module 7 from twisting relative to the housing 20 of the plug connector 2 during the insertion process, or the plug-in module 7 is inserted or inserted into the assigned socket 21, for example, by twisting 180°.

[0159] The tolerance dimensions of the alignment assembly 6 can be, for example, at least 20% smaller than the tolerance dimensions of the coding device 4. The tolerance dimensions preferably relate here to the position in the socket 21 and / or also to the dimensions of the elements in terms of width and / or length and / or height.

[0160] In the present embodiment, the coding elements 41, 42, the alignment elements 61, 62 and the elements of the insertion aid 5 have been basically described as protruding and recessed elements arranged on a respective component. However, it is self-evidently feasible that the protruding and receiving elements can also be constructed on respective other components. For example, in the case of a mechanical coding device 4, it can also be envisaged that a plurality of first coding elements 41 are arranged on the housing 20, and these first coding elements are constructed differently, for example as protruding regions and recesses. This is also feasible for the alignment elements 61, 62.

[0161] The extensions of the coding elements 41, 42 and the alignment elements 61, 62 along the insertion direction (here: parallel to the z-direction or the z-axis) are, for example, at most 25%, preferably at most 20%, particularly preferably at most 10%, and especially at most 5% of the entire wall height (z-direction) of the socket 21.

[0162] Figure 8 A schematic view of the housing 20 of the plug connector 2 is shown along the line of sight starting from the mating plug connector 3 (from below).

[0163] Here, two latching structures 92 can be seen for each socket 21 by way of example, and these latching structures are provided for coupling with the mating latching structures 93 on the plug-in module 7 (see Figure 9 ). The plug-in module 7 is thereby fixed or fastened in the socket 21 (see also Figure 9 ). In particular, it can relate to releasable latching parts, so that the individual plug-in modules 7 can be replaced in an easy and quick manner. The two latching structures 92 are arranged here, by way of example, at the outer ends of one of the two longitudinal sides or longitudinal walls respectively. The alignment assembly 6 together with at least one first alignment element 61 and the coding device 4 together with at least one coding element 41 can be arranged between them (or at least part of these elements can be arranged between these latching structures).

[0164] As the latching structure 92, two wall-latching elements 90 are here exemplary constructed, which are constructed in the bottom region 23 of the wall assembly 22. The two wall-latching elements 90 of the corresponding slots 21 can be latched with two corresponding plug-in module-undercuts 91 of the plug-in module 7, and these plug-in module-undercuts are designated as mating latching structure 93 (see Figure 9 ).

[0165] As an alternative or in addition, the wall assembly 22 can have at least one wall undercut in the bottom region 23, and this wall undercut can be latched with at least one plug-in module-latching element of the plug-in module 7.

[0166] Figure 9 There is shown Figure 1 a schematic cross-section of the plug connector 2. Three slots 21 are shown in the cross-section, wherein the plug-in module 7 is respectively inserted into two outer slots 21. It can be well seen (also in conjunction with Figures 3 to 5 ) that the mating latching structure 93, in this case the plug-in module-undercut 91, is arranged at two longitudinal sides of the plug-in module 12, even though the latching structure 92, in this case the wall-latching element 90, is only arranged at a single side of the slot 21. Despite the reliable retention of the plug-in module 7, the slots 21 (particularly narrow) can in this way still be constructed with a particularly low space requirement. At the same time, high flexibility can be provided for arranging the latching structure 93 in the slots 21 by arranging the mating latching structure 93 at the opposite sides (walls) of the plug-in module 7. Because for other housing shapes (for example with other matrix arrays), the latching structure 92 (only) can be smoothly arranged on the opposite sides without having to change the plug-in module 7 for this purpose. In principle, of course, it is also feasible that the latching structure 92 is also arranged at two (opposite) walls or sides.

[0167] Preferably, the mating latching structure 93 is arranged at the plug-in module 7 symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal plane (or transverse plane) of the plug-in module 7 in a mirror image manner.

[0168] It goes without saying that in other embodiments, the latching structure 92 or the mating latching structure 93 can also be arranged at one of the two shorter sides or at the two shorter sides. In addition, it is feasible to provide only a single latching structure 92 or the mating latching structure 93 or more than two latching structures 92 or the mating latching structure 93.

[0169] With the described utility model, the plug connectors 2 can thus be realized with different configurations, and these plug connectors can be provided as a modular system according to the modules. In particular, by providing other housings 20 in an easy manner, the number of slots 21 can be increased or decreased in an easy manner (generally: adapted to the user requirements). The plug-in modules 7 can be used here independently of the housing size. These modular systems can be realized, and the costly development of user-specific plug connectors or plug connector assemblies can be dispensed with, and only the housing 20 needs to be adapted to the corresponding mechanical coding part in order to prevent incorrect insertion of the module. If, for example, the number of slots 21 is increased from nine to twelve (a 3×3 matrix to a 4×3 matrix), then, for example, the first nine coding parts can remain the same and only three new coding parts are added. Thus, in this modular system, the first nine types of plug-in modules can be used for two plug connectors 1, and only three additional categories of plug-in modules need to be added for the new plug connectors.

[0170] The geometry of the mechanical coding device can be arbitrarily selected, preferably as small struts or small ribs and complementary recesses. By the arrangement at the bottom region 23 of the slot 21 facing the mating connector 3, an easy plugging process can also be achieved at other smooth walls.

Claims

1. A modularly constructed plug connector for connecting to a mating plug connector, the plug connector comprising: a housing (20) having a plurality of cup-shaped receptacles (21), wherein the receptacles (21) are each defined by a surrounding wall component (22), at least one plug-in module (7), which is arranged in the slot (21) and is designed to receive at least one plug-in element (12), and a mechanical encoding device (4) which is arranged between each slot (21) and each inserted plug-in module (7) in order to provide a defined association between the plug-in module (7) and the slot (21), It is characterized in that the mechanical encoding device (4) has a first encoding element (41) and a second encoding element (42) complementary to the first encoding element (41), The first coding element (41) is arranged on the cup-shaped slot (21), and the second coding element (42) is arranged on the plug-in module (7), and Each first coding element (41) and the second coding element (42) complementary thereto are differently designed and / or arranged at different positions on the slot (21).

2. The plug connector according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The plug-in module (7) is designed to receive at least one plug-in element (12) in a separation-proof manner.

3. The plug connector according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The plug-in module (7) is designed to receive a plurality of plug-in elements (12).

4. The plug connector according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The plug-in module (7) is designed to receive a plurality of plug-in elements (12) in a separation-proof manner.

5. The plug connector according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The cup-shaped slots (21) all have the same cross-section.

6. The plug connector according to claim 5, It is characterized in that The cup-shaped insertion slot (21) is substantially configured as a cuboid.

7. The plug connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, It is characterized in that The first coding element (41) is arranged at the slot (21) only at the bottom area (23) of the cup-shaped slot (21) pointing toward the mating plug connector, so that each wall of the wall component (22) of the cup-shaped slot (21) is constructed at the remaining wall area without a coding element.

8. The plug connector according to claim 7, It is characterized in that The base region (23) has an opening at the slot (21) and a substantially circumferential edge (24), on which the first coding element (41) is arranged.

9. The plug connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, It is characterized in that An insertion aid (5) is arranged between adjacent cup-shaped slots (21) and is designed to guide a plug-in process between the plug connector (2) and the mating plug connector (3).

10. The plug connector according to claim 9, It is characterized in that The introduction aid (5) comprises at least one recess (52) which is designed to receive a sword (51) of the mating plug connector (3). The at least one recess (52) has a cross section that is smaller than a cross section of the slot (21).

11. The plug connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising at least one alignment component (6) between each slot (21) and each inserted plug-in module (7), the alignment component being designed to ensure the final insertion position of the plug-in module (7) in the cup-shaped slot (21), It is characterized in that The alignment component (6) has a first alignment element (61) at the cup-shaped slot (21) and a second alignment element (62) at the plug-in module (7). wherein the tolerance of the alignment component (6) is smaller than the tolerance of the encoding device (4) of the machine, and / or wherein the alignment component (6) has a height that is smaller or greater than that of the encoding device (4), and / or The alignment component (6) is arranged at a lower or higher height than the encoding device (4).

12. The plug connector according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The first alignment element (61) of each cup-shaped receptacle (21) is arranged at the same position in each receptacle (21) and / or is designed to be geometrically identical.

13. The plug connector according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The first alignment element (61) and the second alignment element (62) are constructed to be complementary to each other, and / or the first alignment element (61) is arranged only in the bottom area (23) of the cup-shaped socket (21) pointing toward the mating plug connector, so that each wall of the wall component (22) of the cup-shaped socket (21) is constructed in the remaining wall area without the first alignment element (61).

14. The plug connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, It is characterized in that The plug-in module (7) has at least one secondary locking device (8), which, in the inserted state of the plug-in module (7), abuts against the cup-shaped slot (21) and is designed to lock at least one plug-in element arranged in the plug-in module (7) in the plug-in module (7).

15. The plug connector according to claim 14, It is characterized in that The secondary locking device (8) has a first tongue (81), Therein, the first tongue can be pivoted about an axis in order to implement a locking process.

16. The plug connector according to claim 15, It is characterized in that The secondary locking device (8) has a second tongue (82) which is arranged on the side of the plug-in module (7) opposite the first tongue (81). The second tongue (82) is pivotable about an axis in order to implement a locking process.

17. The plug connector according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The at least one first alignment element (61) and the first encoding element (41) are arranged next to each other in a line in the cup-shaped slot (21).

18. The plug connector according to claim 17, It is characterized in that The lines are parallel to the walls of the wall assembly.

19. The plug connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, It is characterized in that The at least one plug-in module (7) is locked in the slot (21).

20. The plug connector according to claim 19, It is characterized in that The at least one plug-in module (7) is releasably latched in the slot (21).

21. The plug connector according to claim 7, It is characterized in that The wall component (22) has a wall latching element (90) in the base region (23), which can latch with a plug-in module undercut (91) of the plug-in module (7). and / or The wall component (22) has a wall undercut in the bottom region (23), which can be latched with a plug-in module latching element of the plug-in module (7).

22. A plug-in connector assembly (1), comprising a plug-in connector (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 21 and a mating plug-in connector (3) having at least one mating plug-in element (30), which is configured to couple with at least one plug-in element of a plug-in module (7) arranged in the plug-in connector (2).

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