Electrical plug element, plug-in module with a plug element and adjustment device with such a plug-in module

Abstract

Electrical connector element (ESE) for a plug-in module (ESM) for connection to a motor unit, with the following features: - a fixing section (FAS) for holding the plug element; - a contact portion (KAB) for engaging with a corresponding connector (SV) of the motor unit in a mounting direction (RM) to establish an electrical connection; - a position alignment section (LAA) connecting the fixing section (FAS) and the contact section (KAB) and designed to allow movement of the contact section (KAB) in a direction (RS) perpendicular to the mounting direction (RM), - wherein the position alignment section (LAA) has at least two webs (ST1, ST2) which connect the fixing section (FAS) to the contact section (KAB) and of which at least one of the webs (ST1) has a deformable section (VAB), characterized in that the deformable section (VAB) can be expanded or compressed for a movement of the contact section (KAB) in a direction (RS) perpendicular to the mounting direction (RM).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical plug element for a plug-in module, as well as the plug-in module itself. Such a plug-in module can be used in conjunction with a motor unit, in particular an adjusting motor, which is used, for example, to move window panes, doors, flaps or hoods.

[0002] Modern motor vehicles nowadays have externally powered or motor-driven devices for moving (opening or closing) window panes. Such devices comprise a motor unit as an adjusting motor, which is provided in a motor vehicle door by means of a gear device and corresponding cables for moving the window pane. The assembly process in motor vehicles generally requires a modular design of the individual components, such as those of a window lifting device. One module is formed by the motor unit, which can have both an electric motor and a corresponding gear box in a housing, wherein a second module, which can be designed as a plug-in module, can be connected to the module of the motor unit to supply power to and control the electric motor. To supply the motor with electrical energy or electrical current, modules are provided in the housing orElectrical contact elements are arranged in the motor unit module, which must be electrically connected to the corresponding motor contacts of the plug-in module when the plug-in module is inserted. If the plug-in module is not precisely guided, which in practice is only achievable with considerable effort, then due to the corresponding play of the plug-in module, inserting it into the housing or module of the motor unit is only possible with great effort and requires repeated trial and error if a reliable plug-in connection is to be achieved for the electrical contact between the motor contacts of the plug-in module and the electrical contacts of the motor unit.

[0003] US 2008 / 0 153 316 A1 discloses a connector for a control unit of a window regulator in a motor vehicle, which connector comprises a box-shaped housing. The connector contains a plurality of motor terminals arranged in corresponding elongated receptacles. Each motor terminal consists of a socket partially embedded in the housing and a clamping end portion that engages with a corresponding comb-shaped connector of the mating connector. An elongated slot is located in a central portion of the connector. The areas where the elongated prongs connect to the socket and the clamping portion deform like the hinge points of a parallelogram with pivot joints.

[0004] US 5 100 338 A relates to a contact for a printed circuit board socket, consisting of a flat conductor having an elongated base with two opposite ends. At one end of the base is a support leg containing a recess extending from the outer edge to the central inner zone of the base. This recess makes the support leg more flexible. At the other end of the base is a contact leg, which also has an elongated recess. This runs between two parallel, spaced-apart flat support sections. The ends of these support sections, which are remote from the base, are connected to each other. The recess extends to the center of the base but is not connected to the recess of the support leg. In addition, the conductor has a stop device on the side of the contact leg.This works in conjunction with a similar stop device on the outer portion of the support leg to create a pair of stops. These serve to protect the contact from excessive deformation while also providing a holding position for a special tool to grip the contact during insertion into the socket.

[0005] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to create a possibility with which a reliable contact can be established, in particular within the framework of a plug-in connection between a plug-in module and a motor unit to be connected thereto.

[0006] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, an electrical plug element for a plug-in module is created, which serves for connection to a motor unit, in particular an adjusting motor of a motor vehicle. The electrical plug element has a fixing section for holding or fixing the plug element. In particular, during normal use, it can be introduced into a carrier element provided for this purpose in the plug-in module. The carrier element preferably has a recess into which the electrical plug element is pressed, wherein it is then held by the fixing section. The electrical plug element further has an (end-side) contact section for engaging with a corresponding plug connector of the motor unit in an assembly direction in order to establish an electrical connection. The contact section can have a contact-section-side axis that runs parallel to the assembly direction.Furthermore, the electrical plug element has a position alignment section that connects the fixing section and the contact section and is designed to enable movement of the contact section in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction or to the contact section-side axis. The position alignment section has at least two webs that connect the fixing section to the contact section, and at least one of the webs has a deformable section that can be expanded or compressed for movement of the contact section in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction. In other words, one of the at least two webs can be changed in length with the deformable section. In particular, deformation of the deformable section can take place such that its length is deformed parallel to the mounting direction.This design of the bearing section of the electrical connector element has the advantage that the connector element is suitable for compensating for assembly tolerances when used in the plug-in module when connecting to the motor unit. This prevents damage to the contact section and a possible loss of functionality of the plug-in module even if the contact section is not properly mated with the corresponding connector of the motor unit. This is made possible by the adaptability of the position alignment section, which allows movement of the contact section of the electrical connector element in a direction perpendicular to the assembly direction, thus compensating for misalignment of the corresponding connectors on the motor unit side.Furthermore, the connection of the fixing section to the contact section by at least two webs of the bearing section guarantees a high current carrying capacity of the entire electrical plug element, since the available cross section for current conduction remains large despite the movable or deformable design, in particular larger than if only one web were used for the connection.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the electrical plug element, the deformable section on at least one of the webs of the position alignment section is meander-shaped and has, for example, an S-shape. Such a design of the deformable section is easy and inexpensive to implement and enables good deformability of the deformable section. Generally, and particularly in this design in a meander shape or S-shape, the deformable section can also be designed as an elastically deformable section. The meander shape or S-shape enables a spring effect so that alignment errors can be reliably compensated during assembly. However, it is also conceivable to design the deformable section in a shape other than the meander shape, for example in a zigzag shape (in the simplest case in a V-shape), so that the geometric dimension or length can be expanded and / or reduced.

[0009] According to a further embodiment of the bearing section of the plug element, at least a first of the at least two webs of the bearing section has a deformable section, wherein a second of the at least two webs does not have such a deformable section. In particular, the second of the at least two webs is aligned in the direction of assembly or the contact section-side axis. This means that this second of the at least two webs is not deformable in the assembly direction and thus imparts a certain rigidity to the electrical plug element when the plug-in module on or in the motor unit comes into contact with the motor unit-side plug connectors. This is important if the motor unit-side plug connector does not properly contact the contact section of the electrical plug connector, as this would then result in unwanted deformation of the electrical plug connector.

[0010] In contrast, the second of the at least two webs has a joint section which enables pivoting of the at least one second web and consequently of the contact section connected thereto in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction (and perpendicular to the axis of the contact section). In this case, the joint section can in particular be provided directly on the fixing section of the electrical connector, for example as an area with a reduced cross-section compared to the further extension of the web in the direction of the contact section. In this way, despite a certain rigidity in the mounting direction, a relatively low force is required to move the contact section in the direction perpendicular to the mounting direction, so that even in the event of alignment errors during insertion of the plug-in module into the motor unit or a housing thereof, only low forces are required for assembly.

[0011] According to a further embodiment, the electrical connector element is designed as a stamped part, in particular as a flat stamped part. It can be formed as a sheet metal part, for example, in a wrought copper alloy. The possibility of forming the electrical connector element as a stamped part allows the process and device complexity required for manufacturing the connector element, and thus the costs, to be kept to a minimum.

[0012] According to a further embodiment, the deformable portion of a web of the position alignment portion has a lower flexural strength than the contact portion. In this way, in the event of an alignment error when the contact portion meets a corresponding connector of the motor unit, the contact portion is not deformed, but rather the force causing deformation is directed to the deformable portion of a web of the position alignment portion, causing it to deform and causing the contact portion to move.

[0013] According to a further embodiment, the contact section has a base web from which two opposing spring webs (contact webs) extend, forming a contact point at their ends. Each web is connected to the base web at its inner end. In particular, each spring web has a thickness transverse to the mounting direction that is less than the thickness of the base web transverse to the mounting direction. In this way, a force causing deformation when the contact section improperly contacts a corresponding connector of a motor unit can be absorbed by the respective spring webs, thus preventing unwanted deformation of the entire electrical connector element. However, such misalignments are compensated for by the deformation of the spring element.

[0014] In particular, a high current-carrying capacity can be achieved by designing the contact section as two spring bars, which can thus make contact with the corresponding connector of the motor unit at two points to establish an electrical connection. Furthermore, the special design of the position alignment section, which allows movement of the contact section perpendicular to the mounting direction, ensures that in the event of an alignment error, the contact section can adapt to the "incorrect" position of the corresponding connector of the motor unit, thus ensuring that both spring bars always remain in contact with the corresponding connector of the motor unit.According to one embodiment of the contact section, the contact point is formed by opposing beads that protrude from each of the spring bars in a direction toward each other. The clear distance between the beads in the area of ​​the contact point is smaller than the extension of the mating contact of the corresponding connector of the motor unit transversely to the mounting direction. This enables reliable and stable electrical contact.

[0015] According to a further design of the contact section, the spring bars form a contact funnel between the contact point and their free ends. This funnel ensures that an incorrectly positioned connector of a motor contact hits the inside of the funnel when it encounters the spring bars during assembly, thus allowing the spring bars or contact section to move or align in a direction perpendicular to the assembly direction as the contact section moves further in the assembly direction. This prevents "snagging" during assembly.

[0016] According to a further aspect of the invention, a plug-in module is provided for connection to a motor unit, in particular to an adjustment motor. Such an adjustment motor can be used to move an adjustable element of a motor vehicle, such as, for example, as an adjustment motor for a window lift device. The plug-in module has a connecting section for mechanically connecting the plug-in module in a housing to the motor unit. It further has at least one electrical plug element as explained above or in a configuration thereof for electrically contacting a corresponding complementary plug connector of the motor unit. In particular, the plug-in module has an electrical plug connector as shown above or in a configuration thereof.

[0017] According to a further aspect of the invention, an adjusting device for a motor vehicle, in particular a window lifter device, is provided. The adjusting device comprises a motor unit for the externally powered movement of a vehicle-mounted movable element, such as a window pane, a flap, a convertible top, or a bag, generally speaking for closure elements of openings in the passenger compartment. It further comprises a plug-in module as shown above or in a configuration thereof for connection to the motor unit, for supplying the motor unit with power and, if necessary, additionally controlling its operation with respect to speed and direction of movement.

[0018] Advantageous embodiments of the electrical plug element, insofar as they are applicable to the plug-in module or the adjusting device, are also to be regarded as advantageous embodiments of the plug-in module or the adjusting device, and vice versa.

[0019] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show: Fig. 1 a perspective view from above and rear or front of a plug-in module according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 an electrical plug element according to an embodiment of the invention for use, for example, in the plug-in module according to the Fig. 1; Fig. 3 a sectional view through the front part of a support element of the plug-in module according to the Fig. 1 along an axis of the support element to illustrate the arrangement of the electrical plug element according to the Fig. 2 in a recess of the support element; Fig. 4 a plan view from below of the plug-in module according to the Fig. 1; Fig. 5 a side view of the plug-in module according to the Fig. 1; Fig. 6 a view from below of the plug-in module of Fig. 1, which is an intermediate assembly state in which the contact pins have not yet been machined; Fig. 7 a sectional view through the Fig. 6 shown plug-in module in a plane parallel to the image plane of Fig. 6 to explain the arrangement of the contact pins in a connector body; Fig. 8 a representation of the plug-in module with connected circuit board; Fig. 9 a schematic representation of a motor unit as an adjustment motor for a window lift device, which is connected to a plug-in module according to the above representation.

[0020] First of all, it should be noted that Fig. 1, in which a perspective view of a plug-in module ESM according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in a perspective view from above. More specifically, Fig. 1A the plug-in module ESM essentially from a view from above and behind (with focus on a connection body ASK or a connection piece AST), while Fig. 1B shows the ESM plug-in module from a view from above and from the front (with focus on a connector STK or a carrier element TRE of it).

[0021] As it is in Fig. As will be explained in more detail in Section 9, the plug-in module ESM is a component that is plugged into a housing MGH of a motor unit ME to supply the motor with electrical energy or current. In particular, such adjustment motors are used to move windows, doors, flaps, or hoods, generally speaking, for closing elements of openings in the passenger compartment.

[0022] The plug-in module's main components include a connector STK connected to a connector body ASK. More specifically, a connector support element TRE and a connector body housing AGH of the connector body ASK are made of a plastic (preferably injection-molded, and preferably formed as a single piece). Manufacturing a single-piece plastic component using injection molding is cost-effective and involves minimal process complexity.

[0023] The connection body housing AGH has as a central part a plate-shaped receptacle or a plate-shaped connecting section VAS, on which fastening holes BBO are formed for fixing the plug-in module ESM in the motor housing MGH (cf. Fig. 9), preferably a gearbox housing of the engine.

[0024] A connecting piece AST with a substantially rectangular cross-section, which has a circumferential thin-walled collar BU at its free end, protrudes at a predetermined angle from a front side STS of the connecting section VAS. This collar BU surrounds a connection shaft ASS, in which exposed first end sections EA11, EA21 (cf. Fig. 7) protrude from electrical contact pins ESK1, ESK2 (and further contact pins) arranged in the connecting piece AST or connecting body ASK. These first end sections EA11, EA21 are intended for contact with a connector plug (not shown), which is plugged into the connection shaft ASS and, guided by the collar BU, is precisely positioned relative to the first end sections EA11 and EA21. The connector plug can be connected to a wiring harness in the vehicle or emerge from it. This connector plug can be used to transmit electrical energy or current to operate the motor, as well as control signals to adjust the speed or direction of movement of the motor.

[0025] On a front side or second side surface FS2 of the connecting section VAS, second end sections EA12 and EA22 of the electrical contact pins ESK1, ESK2 and further contact pins protrude, which are supplied in an angled form to contact holes of a printed circuit board LP and are contacted in these by means of a material connection (for example, soldered), as shown in Fig. 8. The printed circuit board LP itself is mounted in the connecting section VAS in a manner not shown in detail and protrudes perpendicularly from the second surface or side surface FS2. The printed circuit board LP fulfills a holding or supporting function for electronic components EBS, for example, a relay RL or a sensor SE.

[0026] In a manner not shown in detail, motor contacts or electrical connector elements ESE are also electrically connected to the printed circuit board LP, at least indirectly (see also Fig. 3). In particular, these electrical connector elements make material contact with the printed circuit board or are soldered to it. As will be explained in more detail below, two electrical connector elements ESE are arranged in a respective recess in the carrier element TRE of the connector and are fixed in the respective recess via a press connection. As will be further explained in Fig. 3, two exposed contact sections KAB of the electrical plug elements ESE and ESE2 are arranged in the carrier element TRE in such a way that they are offset perpendicular to a mounting direction RM and in the image plane of Fig. 3 from top to bottom. Electrical current or electrical output signals from the plug-in module ESM are transmitted to the motor unit ME via these contact sections KAB.

[0027] When the plug-in module ESM is inserted into the motor housing MGH, in which the actual electric motor is rigidly mounted, the electrical plug elements ESE, ESE2 meet a corresponding complementary, respective stationary counter-contact, in Fig. 9 is identified by the connectors SV1 and SV2. In order to achieve a precise position assignment between the electrical connector elements ESE, ESE2 or their contact sections KAB and the complementary mating contacts of the motor unit, despite the dimensional tolerances that are unavoidable due to the play between the ESM plug-in module and the MGH motor housing during the insertion process, the electrical connector elements are designed so that they can execute sufficient position changes perpendicular to the mounting direction RM of the ESM plug-in module.

[0028] To explain this particular function of an electrical plug element according to an embodiment of the invention, Fig. 2 shows the electrical connector element ESE in detail. This connector element can be designed, in particular, as a stamped part made of sheet metal, for example, a wrought copper alloy.

[0029] In Fig. 2A shows the electrical connector element ESE in a position where, in an unloaded state or in a rest position, it is connected to a leaf-like or comb-like mating contact GK. The mating contact GK is intended to represent an electrical contact of the motor unit, such as one of the connector contacts SV1 or SV2 in the housing MGH of the motor unit ME. Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C, the electrical connector element is shown in a state in which, in order to adjust an incorrect positioning of the counter contact GK, a movement perpendicular to the mounting direction RM is carried out, once in a direction upwards in the image plane ( Fig. 2B) and once in a direction of the image plane downwards ( Fig. 2C).

[0030] The plug element ESE essentially comprises three main components, firstly a fixing section FAS for holding the plug element in the carrier element TRE, a contact section KAB for engaging with a corresponding plug connector SV1, SV2 of the motor unit, and a position alignment section LAA for connecting the fixing section FAS to the contact section KAB and for positionally aligning the contact section during the connection of the electrical plug element to a corresponding (incorrectly positioned) mating contact.

[0031] First, we will discuss the fixing section FAS in more detail. This section has a fixing structure TST, which essentially has a Christmas tree structure. During assembly or mounting of the plug-in module, this fixing structure TST, as shown in Fig. 3, is introduced into a holding section HAA of a corresponding recess in the carrier element and pressed into place with the latter under the action of force. As a result of the pressing process, the plastic material of the carrier element flows into the spaces between the projections of the fir-tree-like structure TST, thus providing fixation and preventing a plug element ESE from being pulled out of a holding section HAA (in the direction upwards in the image plane). The fixing structure TST merges (in a direction downwards in the image plane) into a contacting section LPA, which serves for electrical contact with the circuit board and via which electrical current or electrical energy can be introduced into the electrical plug element.

[0032] In the presentation of the Fig. 2 On the respective right-hand side, the electrical plug element ESE has the contact section KAB for contacting a mating contact GK or corresponding plug connector of the motor unit. The contact section KAB comprises a base web 43, from each end of which protrudes a spring web FE1 and FE2 directed in the assembly direction RM. These form an (elongated) slot SZ between them. The webs FE1 and FE2, which initially run parallel to one another, each have an inward-facing bead W1 and W2 in a symmetrical arrangement as they continue (towards the free end in the illustration towards the right). A narrow contact point KS is formed between these beads. The clear distance between the beads W1 and W2 in the area of ​​the contact point KS is less than the extension E of the mating contact GK perpendicular to the assembly direction.As a result, the spring bars FE1 and FE2 spring back slightly (move away from the mating contact GK in a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction) when the mating contact GK passes the contact point KS.

[0033] To facilitate the feeding of the mating contact GK to the contact point KS, the distance between the two spring bars FE1 and FE2 from the contact point KS to their free ends increases again (in the image plane from left to right), so that a contact funnel KTR is formed here.

[0034] Now runs as in Fig. 2A, the mating contact GK is eccentrically directed toward the contact point KS, and the mating contact is eccentrically directed toward the contact funnel KTR. To enable secure engagement of the mating contact with the contact point and to prevent damage to both components, the electrical connector element ESE now has the position alignment section LAA. This initially has a foot section FAB, which is connected to the fixing section FAS. Two webs ST1 and ST2 protrude from the foot section FAB in a direction parallel to the assembly direction RM (perpendicular to the orientation of the fixing section), which connect the fixing section FAS to the contact section KAB and of which at least one of the webs, here the web ST1, has a deformable section VAB. This deformable section ultimately serves to prevent movement of the contact section KAB in a direction RU or RO, as described in the Fig. 2B and Fig. 2B, perpendicular to the mounting direction. More precisely, the movement or pivoting of the contact section KAB is enabled by the fact that, on the one hand, the second web ST2 has a section between the foot section FAB and the base web BAS, where its cross-section is at a minimum. This section serves as a joint section or joint point GP for achieving pivoting of the contact section KAB about the joint point GP.

[0035] In contrast, the first web ST1 is designed such that it has a region that can be expanded or compressed in its length or dimensions. In particular, it is advantageous if the deformable section VAB can change its extension in a direction parallel and perpendicular to the mounting direction in order to follow the pivoting movement of the contact section about the pivot point GP. This is achieved as shown in the Fig. 2 is achieved by a meandering, here in particular S-shaped, variable section VAB.

[0036] Based on the Fig. 2A, in which the mating contact GK meets the funnel-shaped section KTR off-center, it is now necessary for the contact section KAB to be pivotable in a direction RU (one image upwards) to achieve secure engagement, so that the mating contact GK can meet the contact point and contacting of the mating contact by both spring bars FE1 and FE2 is enabled for good current carrying capacity. By designing the variable section VAB in an S-shape, when the contact section VAB is pivoted in the direction RU, the S-shaped section is stretched apart (the curvature of the bulbous sections of the "S" is reduced), so that a connection point VP of the first bar ST1 with the base bar BAS experiences a movement to the right in the direction of the arrow LR and upwards in the direction of the arrow LU (i.e. along the assembly direction RM and perpendicular to it) due to the pivoting around the pivot point GP.

[0037] Assuming that the pivoting of the contact section KAB takes place around the pivot point GP, the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 2B, an axis AO is offset or pivoted counterclockwise by an angle V1 corresponding to a resting or unloaded state of the electrical plug element ESE, so that the plug element ESE, after pivoting in the direction of the arrow RU, has a first offset axis AU which, as stated, is rotated by the angle V1 from the unloaded axis AO.

[0038] It is now on Fig. 2C, which again illustrates a case where an off-centered counter contact GK engages the contact point KS. In an initial state analogous to Fig. 2A the mating contact GK does not strike the upper but the lower spring bar FE1 (off-center). In order to enable engagement with the contact point, the contact section KAB can move along the arrow RD perpendicular to the assembly direction during assembly, i.e. the movement of the electrical plug element ESE in the assembly direction RM, in order to enable positional alignment and thus secure engagement. For this purpose, the contact section KAB is again pivoted about the pivot point GP, whereby the variable VAB is compressed or compressed. More precisely, the connection point VP now moves downwards in a direction of the arrow LD and to the left in a direction of the arrow LL towards the foot section FAB. This increases the curvature of the bulbous sections of the S-shape.

[0039] Assuming that the pivoting of the contact section KAB takes place around the pivot point GP, the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 2C, the axis AO is displaced or pivoted clockwise by an angle V2 in accordance with the resting or unloaded state of the electrical plug element ESE, so that the plug element ESE, after pivoting in the direction of the arrow RD, has a first displaced axis AD which, as stated, is rotated by the angle V2 from the unloaded axis AO.

[0040] In this way, the special design of the deformable section VAB enables pivoting of the contact section KAB around the pivot point GP of the first web. In particular, the provision of two webs ST1 and ST2 for connecting the fixing section to the contact section ensures a high current-carrying capacity of the electrical connector element and enables positional compensation of the contact section in the event of misalignment.

[0041] It is now on Fig. 3, in which a sectional view of the front or free end of the carrier element TRE is shown in order to illustrate the reception of an electrical plug element ESE in the carrier element. The carrier element TRE has a respective recess for both the electrical plug element ESE and the electrical plug element ESE2. This recess AMM (shown in the example only for the electrical plug element ESE, but applicable analogously to ESE2) has an opening OFN through which a respective electrical plug element ESE can be inserted into the recess. In the example of the plug element ESE, the opening is oriented upwards in the image, so that the electrical plug connector ESE is placed during assembly in the direction from top to bottom along the arrow RE such that the fixing section FAS of the electrical plug element engages in the holding section HAA of the carrier element.As already mentioned, the electrical connector is then pressed into the holding section HAA using the TST fir tree structure.

[0042] As it is in Fig. 3, the opening OFN is aligned such that the electrical plug element ESE (also ESE2) can be inserted into the corresponding recess ANM perpendicular to the mounting direction. This makes it possible for the foot section FAB of the electrical plug element ESE to rest against an inner wall or a stop section AAS of the recess ANM. This direct contact with the inner wall running perpendicular to the mounting direction stabilizes the electrical plug element ESE when it comes into contact with the corresponding plug connectors when the plug-in module ESM is being assembled into the motor housing MGH. In particular, if the plug connectors SV1 or SV2 are incorrectly positioned, the electrical plug element ESE is supported by the stop section AAS.

[0043] To further improve stability, the recess ANM is aligned in the carrier element such that the electrical plug element ESE is aligned in the assembly direction when inserted. In addition, the distance between the inner walls of the recess ANM, which run parallel to the image plane, in the region of the contact section essentially corresponds to the width of the electrical plug element, so that the electrical plug element is guided by the inner walls of the recess. As shown in particular for the recess of the second electrical plug element ESE2, a respective recess ANM of the carrier element further comprises an elongated slot ASZ, which essentially corresponds to the slot SZ between the spring bars FE1 and FE2 of the contact section. This slot ASZ enables a comb-like counter-contact GK, as is shown, for example, in Fig. 2A, can properly engage with the contact point KS. For the positional alignment of the carrier element relative to a mating contact GK, a respective slot ASZ of the recess ANM advantageously has a recess-side funnel section TTR at its free end to guide the mating contact toward the contact point from the carrier element side.

[0044] It should also be mentioned that the corresponding receptacle for the second plug element ESE2 is designed such that its opening is also perpendicular to the mounting direction RM and in an opposite direction to the opening OFN.

[0045] It is now on Fig. 4, which shows a view from below of the plug-in module according to the embodiment of the invention as described above. In this figure, the geometric relationships between the plug and the connection body will now be examined in more detail. As already evident in the previous figures, the plug-in module ESM has a plug STK for insertion into a housing MGH of the motor unit along the mounting direction RM. The plug has the carrier element TRE with an axis ATR parallel to the mounting direction RM. In the carrier element, a recess ANM can be seen, into which an electrical plug element can be inserted via the opening OFN and pressed into the recess ANM, as shown in Fig. 3. As shown in the middle of Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the support element TRE protrudes at a right angle to or from an edge section RAB of the second surface FS2 of the connecting section VAS. Furthermore, the connecting piece AST of the connecting body ASK protrudes at an angle W from the connecting section VAS. Due to this arrangement of the connecting piece AST at an angle to the connecting section VAS, the through-holes DGA or the axes ADG of the through-holes passing through them are not aligned parallel to the mounting direction RM. Rather, the axes of the respective through-holes also have the predetermined angle W to the mounting direction RM, which is less than 180°.

[0046] As it is in Fig. 4, the support element TRE is arranged on the edge portion RAB of the second surface FS2 such that the outlet openings of the through-holes on the second surface FS2 face the support element TRE or its inner side. In other words, the support element TRE is attached to the second side surface such that an imaginary extension of each through-hole crosses the axis ATR of the support element TRE. As shown in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the axes ADG of the through-holes also cross the axis ATR of the support element at the angle W.

[0047] Fig. Figure 5 now shows a view of the plug-in module ESM from the side, in particular from a view direction onto the outside of the carrier element TRE, ie the second surface FS2 or the side of the carrier element opposite the outlet openings of the through-holes. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the support element has a recess AUS between the section for receiving the plug elements (the exposed section of the support element) and the section connected to the connecting section VAS. As will be explained in the following figures, this recess serves in particular for inserting or mounting the contact pins ESK1, ESK2 and other contact pins in the connector body ASK.

[0048] To explain the assembly of the electrical contact pins in the ASK connector body, we will now refer to Fig. 6, which again shows a view of the ESM plug-in module from below. Fig. 7, which shows a section parallel to the image plane of the Fig. 6 to illustrate the geometric relationships within the ASK connection body.

[0049] After the plug and the connector body have been manufactured as a single-piece component using an injection molding process, and the contact pins have also been manufactured, preferably as stamped parts from sheet metal, these components must be brought together. During the injection molding process, a plurality of through-holes DGA were created in the connector body ASK. These through-holes extend from a first side surface FS1 to an opposite second side surface or surface FS2 of the connector body in order to accommodate electrical contact pins therein. When assembling the plug-in module ESM, the electrical contact pins ESK1 and ESK2 (and possibly others) are brought together in such a way that the second end sections EA12 and EA22 of the electrical contact pins are inserted into the respective inlet openings of the respective through-holes on the first side surface FS1.The respective contact pins are then moved or pushed along the axis ADG of the through-holes DGA or along the insertion directions RE1 and RE2 (from left to right in the image). More precisely, the electrical contact pins ESK1, ESK2 are pressed into the connection body ASK in such a way that a respective fir-tree-like structure KST1 and KST2 of the electrical contact pins is pressed into a respective through-hole, so that this section of the through-hole expands in size and begins to flow. In this way, the electrical contact pins are held by the material of the connection body, which has flowed between the extensions of the fir-tree-like structure. Furthermore, a projection V1 or V2 is formed on a respective electrical contact pin ESK1 and ESK2, which projection V1 or V2, after coming into contact with a corresponding shoulder S1 orS2 of the connector body prevents further movement of the contact pin in one direction RE1 or RE2. This ensures precise positioning of the electrical contact pins.

[0050] As it is on the right side of Fig. 6 or Fig. 7, the angled arrangement of the connecting piece AST relative to the connecting section VAS means that at least the second end section EA12 of the first electrical contact pin ESK1 would abut the carrier element TRE due to its elongated structure (which is necessary for passing through the through-holes during assembly). However, as will be seen with reference to Fig. As already mentioned in Figure 5, the carrier element has a recess AUS which is dimensioned such that electrical contact pins, the ends of which protrude from the second side surface FS2, can pass through the carrier element and do not abut against it. By providing the recess AUS in the carrier element and a corresponding measurement, it is further possible for a tool for subsequent machining of the respective second end section of an electrical contact element to penetrate from the outside through the carrier element to the second end sections in order to machine them. In a subsequent machining step, the second sections EA12 and EA22 (and possibly further end sections) are then also machined such that they are bent downwards perpendicular to their exit direction, as shown in Fig. 5 can be seen. Thus, it is then possible that a picture taken from below (cf. Fig. 5 and Fig. 8) the printed circuit board brought to the plug-in module can be connected on the one hand to the second end sections EA1, EA2 and other electrical contact pins, as well as to the terminals LPA and LPA2 of electrical plug elements ESE and ESE2 respectively.

[0051] If the circuit board has now been attached to the STK connector and connected to the corresponding electrical connections of the contact pins or the electrical connector elements, a functional plug-in module ESM is created, as shown in Fig. 8. The connector STK now has both a carrier element and a printed circuit board LP connected to it, to which the electrical contact pins and the electrical connector elements are connected, and which also carries electronic components EBS, for example a relay RL, etc.

[0052] Such a functional ESM plug-in module can now, as described in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, a motor unit ME is inserted into a housing MGH along an assembly direction RM. Electrical plug elements ESE provided on the carrier element TRE can then engage with the corresponding mating contacts or plug connectors SV1 or SV2 of the motor unit ME in order to supply electrical current or electrical energy via the plug-in module ESM to the motor unit ME. To facilitate the insertion of the plug-in module into the housing MGH and to improve the alignment of the carrier element and the electrical plug elements held therein, the carrier element has a guide section FUA (see also Fig.1) . In order to further enable tolerance compensation between the electrical plug elements and the corresponding mating contacts SV1 and SV2, the carrier element or the electrical plug contacts have the measures described in the previous figures, so that a loss of function of the ESM plug-in module is avoided if the electrical plug elements or motor contacts are not aligned with their mating contacts in the motor housing due to damage to the electrical plug elements.

Claims

[1] Electrical connector element (ESE) for a plug-in module (ESM) for connection to a motor unit, with the following features: - a fixing section (FAS) for holding the plug element; - a contact portion (KAB) for engaging with a corresponding connector (SV) of the motor unit in a mounting direction (RM) to establish an electrical connection; - a position alignment section (LAA) connecting the fixing section (FAS) and the contact section (KAB) and designed to allow movement of the contact section (KAB) in a direction (RS) perpendicular to the mounting direction (RM), - wherein the position alignment section (LAA) has at least two webs (ST1, ST2) which connect the fixing section (FAS) to the contact section (KAB) and of which at least one of the webs (ST1) has a deformable section (VAB), characterized in that the deformable section (VAB) can be expanded or compressed for a movement of the contact section (KAB) in a direction (RS) perpendicular to the mounting direction (RM). [2] Plug element (ESE) according to claim 1, wherein the deformable section (VAB) is meander-shaped and in particular has an S-shape. [3] Plug element (ESE) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein at least a first of the at least two webs (ST1, ST2) has a deformable section (VAB), while a second of the at least two webs (ST2) does not have such a deformable section (VAB). [4] Plug element (ESE) according to claim 3, wherein the second (ST2) of the at least two webs (ST1, ST2) is aligned in the direction of the mounting direction (RM). [5] Plug element (ESE) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the second (ST2) of the at least two webs (ST1, ST2) has a joint section (GP) which enables pivoting of the second (ST2) of the at least two webs (ST1, ST2) in a direction (RS) perpendicular to the mounting direction (RM). [6] Plug element (ESE) according to one of claims 1 to 5, which is designed as a stamped part, and in particular as a sheet made of a wrought copper alloy. [7] Plug element (ESE) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the deformable section (VAB) has a lower bending strength than the contact section (KAB). [8] Plug element (ESE) according to one of claims 1 to 7, in which the contact section (KAB) comprises a base web (BAS) from which two opposing spring webs (FE1, FE2) extend, which form a contact point (KS) at the end. [9] Plug-in module (ESM) for connection to a motor unit, in particular an adjusting motor, comprising a plug (STK) for plugging into a housing (MGH) of the motor unit (ME) along a mounting direction (RM), which has a carrier element (TRE) which has electrical plug elements (ESE) according to one of claims 1 to 8 for engaging with a corresponding plug connector (SV1, SV2) of the motor unit (ME). [10] Adjustment device (VSTV) for a motor vehicle, with the following features: - a motor unit for moving an adjustable element of the motor vehicle; - a plug-in module (ESM) according to claim 9 for connection to the motor unit and for supplying the motor unit with energy and for controlling its operation.

Images