Concept for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector from a second plug part of the electrical connector

Abstract

The invention relates to a concept for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part (103) of an electrical connector (101) connected to a first device (125) from a second plug part (105) of the electrical connector (101) connected to a second device (126). A corresponding method, a corresponding device (133), a corresponding electrical connector (101) and the first plug part (103) and the second plug part (105) of the connector (101), a corresponding device (125) and a computer program product are specified.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector, which is connected to a first device, from a second plug part of the electrical connector, which is connected to a second device. The invention further relates to a device for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector, which is connected to a first device, from a second plug part of the electrical connector, which is connected to a second device. The invention further relates to an electrical connector comprising a first plug part and a second plug part. The invention further relates to the first plug part of the electrical connector. The invention also relates to the second plug part of the electrical connector. The invention further relates to a device. The invention further relates to a computer program product.

[0002] US 2011 / 0 248 021 A1 shows an electrical connector with a so-called "first mate - last break" (FMLB) contact concept, in which three contact groups have contacts of different lengths, whereby the contact group assigned to a sensor is separated first in order to initiate a shutdown before the power contacts are separated, while the protective conductor contacts remain closed until last.

[0003] US 7 021 950 B2 shows another electrical connector with the FMLB contact concept for a load, in which previously disconnecting detection contacts trigger a power shutdown before the power contacts are disconnected, while the protective conductor contacts remain connected.

[0004] DE 20 2012 011 640 U1 shows a plug.

[0005] DE 10 2013 205 786 A1 shows techniques for detecting a connector removal.

[0006] DE 60 2005 001 268 T2 discloses a device and a method for minimizing arcing between electrical connectors.

[0007] DE 102 25 259 B3 describes an electrical connector.

[0008] Opening a connector that is carrying a direct voltage may result in arcing, which can be dangerous for people and electrical devices, such as machines or the connector itself in the event of contact burn-off.

[0009] There is therefore a need to detect the opening of a connector so that a DC voltage applied to the connector can be switched off in order to avoid or at least reduce arcing.

[0010] The object underlying the invention is therefore to provide a concept for efficiently detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector connected to a first device from a second plug part of an electrical connector connected to a second device.

[0011] This object is achieved by means of the respective subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject matter of the respective dependent subclaims.

[0012] According to one aspect, a method is provided for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector connected to a first device from a second plug part of the electrical connector connected to a second device, - wherein the first plug part has at least two first contacts for coupling a communication line between the first device and the second device, - at least two second contacts lagging behind the at least two first contacts during an unplugging process for coupling an electrical line between the first device and the second device and - comprises a protective conductor contact which lags behind the at least two second contacts during an unplugging process, - wherein the second plug part has at least two first counter contacts assigned to the at least two first contacts of the first plug part, - at least two second counter contacts assigned to the at least two second contacts of the first plug part and trailing the at least two first counter contacts and - comprises a protective conductor counter-contact assigned to the protective conductor contact of the first plug part and trailing the at least two second contacts, - so that during an unplugging process, the first contacts are necessarily separated from the first mating contacts, then the second contacts are separated from the second mating contacts and finally the protective conductor contact is separated from the protective conductor mating contact, the method comprising the following steps: - Providing a first electrical power by means of the first device via the electrical line for the second device, - Monitoring the communication line, - Termination of the provision of the first electrical power depending on the monitoring of the communication line.

[0013] According to a further aspect, a device is provided for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector connected to a first device from a second plug part of the electrical connector connected to a second device, - wherein the first plug part has at least two first contacts for coupling a communication line between the first device and the second device, - at least two second contacts lagging behind the at least two first contacts during an unplugging process for coupling an electrical line between the first device and the second device and - comprises a protective conductor contact which lags behind the at least two second contacts during an unplugging process, - wherein the second plug part has at least two first counter contacts assigned to the at least two first contacts of the first plug part, - at least two second counter contacts assigned to the at least two second contacts of the first plug part and trailing the at least two first counter contacts and - comprises a protective conductor counter-contact assigned to the protective conductor contact of the first plug part and trailing the at least two second contacts, - so that during an unplugging process, the first contacts are necessarily separated from the first mating contacts, then the second contacts are separated from the second mating contacts and finally the protective conductor contact is separated from the protective conductor mating contact, comprehensive: - a monitoring device for monitoring the communication line - and a shutdown device for terminating a provision of a first electrical power by means of the first device via the electrical line for the second device depending on the monitoring of the communication line.

[0014] According to another aspect, an electrical connector for electrically connecting a first device to a second device is provided, comprising a first plug part and a second plug part, - wherein the first plug part has at least two first contacts for coupling a communication line between the first device and the second device, - at least two second contacts lagging behind the at least two first contacts during an unplugging process for coupling an electrical line between the first device and the second device and - comprises a protective conductor contact which lags behind the at least two second contacts during an unplugging process, - wherein the second plug part has at least two first counter contacts assigned to the at least two first contacts of the first plug part, - at least two second counter contacts assigned to the at least two second contacts of the first plug part and trailing the at least two first counter contacts and - comprises a protective conductor counter-contact assigned to the protective conductor contact of the first plug part and trailing the at least two second contacts, - so that during an unplugging process, the first contacts are inevitably separated from the first mating contacts, then the second contacts are separated from the second mating contacts and finally the protective conductor contact is separated from the protective conductor mating contact.

[0015] According to another aspect, the first plug part of the electrical connector is provided.

[0016] According to a further aspect, the second plug part of the electrical connector is provided.

[0017] According to another aspect, a device is provided, comprising the device for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector connected to a first device from a second plug part of the electrical connector connected to a second device.

[0018] According to another aspect, a computer program product is provided which is stored in a medium which can be used in a computer, comprising computer-readable programming means with which a computer can carry out the method for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector which is connected to a first device from a second plug part of the electrical connector which is connected to a second device.

[0019] The invention is based on the finding that the above object can be achieved by using an electrical plug connector designed according to the so-called "first mate - last break" concept. The phrase "first mate - last break" can also be abbreviated to "FMLB." The plug connector according to the invention therefore provides that the first contacts or the first mating contacts, which are provided for coupling the communication line between the first and second devices, are the first to be disconnected during an unplugging process. The second contacts are then disconnected from the second mating contacts. Lastly, the protective conductor contact is disconnected from the protective conductor mating contact.

[0020] The connector is thus designed as a multi-stage connector, wherein the multiple stages are successively separated from one another during an unplugging process and are successively coupled during a plugging process. The multiple stages correspond to the first contacts or the first mating contacts, the second contacts or the second mating contacts, and the protective conductor contact or the protective conductor mating contact. A first stage thus comprises the first contacts or the first mating contacts. A second stage thus comprises the second contacts or the second mating contacts. A third stage thus comprises the protective conductor contact or the protective conductor mating contact.

[0021] This means that decoupling the first plug part from the second plug part will first have a detectable influence or effect on the communication line. This is because, due to the FMLB design, the communication line is the first to be disconnected during an unplugging process. So while the communication line is already disconnected, the electrical line is still intact. This means that the second contacts are electrically connected to the second mating contacts. This means that an arc cannot form, even though the unplugging process has already begun. This gains time to end the provision of the first power via the electrical line in time to prevent an arc from forming, or to minimize or extinguish any arc that has formed as quickly as possible.The termination of the provision of the first electrical power via the electrical line is carried out depending on the monitoring of the communication line. Because a disconnection or opening of the connector first leads to a disconnection of the communication line, the disconnection or opening of the connector can be efficiently detected or recognized due to the monitoring of the communication line. Thus, as soon as a disconnection or opening of the connector is recognized or detected based on the monitoring of the communication line, the invention provides that the provision of the first electrical power via the electrical line is terminated. This advantageously prevents the formation of an arc, or an arc that has already formed can be efficiently extinguished.

[0022] By providing a connector designed according to the "first mate - last break" concept, together with monitoring the communication line, the technical advantage is achieved in particular that a concept is created for efficiently detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector, which is connected to a first device, from a second plug part of the electrical connector, which is connected to a second device, wherein the formation of an arc due to an unplugging process is avoided or any arc that may have formed can be extinguished efficiently and quickly. This therefore advantageously reduces the danger to people and to the first or second device. In particular, damage to the connector due to contact burn-off can be avoided or at least reduced.

[0023] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the contacts of the first plug part are each designed as an electrical contact pin and the mating contacts of the second plug part are each designed as an electrical contact cup or vice versa.

[0024] In one embodiment, the following steps are provided: - Providing a second electrical power by means of the first device via the communication line for the second device, - wherein the monitoring comprises monitoring an electrical variable corresponding to the second electrical power provided, in particular an electrical supply current and / or an electrical supply voltage, wherein - the provision of the first electrical power is terminated depending on the monitored electrical quantity.

[0025] This provides the technical advantage that decoupling can be efficiently detected. This is because disconnecting the communication line will have an immediate impact on the electrical quantity. This means that disconnecting the communication line will have a direct impact on the electrical quantity. For example, an electrical supply current will immediately drop. For example, an electrical supply voltage will immediately increase. Such a change in the current flow or in the applied voltage can be efficiently measured and thus detected.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the method, it is provided that the monitored electrical variable is compared with a predetermined threshold value, wherein the provision of the first electrical power is terminated depending on the comparison.

[0027] If the electrical supply current is measured as an electrical quantity, according to one embodiment it is provided that if the electrical supply current is less than or less than or equal to the predetermined threshold value, the provision of the first electrical power is terminated.

[0028] If the electrical supply voltage is measured as an electrical quantity, according to one embodiment it is provided that if the electrical supply voltage is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold value, the provision of the first electrical power is terminated.

[0029] If the second electrical power provided via the communication line is measured as an electrical quantity, one embodiment provides that the provision of the first electrical power is terminated if the second electrical power is less than or less than or equal to the predetermined threshold value. Monitoring the second electrical power has the additional advantage, particularly compared to supply current monitoring, that a value (measured second electrical power) that is still constant when the supply voltage fluctuates can be obtained, which value is then compared with the threshold value. To measure, i.e. to monitor, the second electrical power, it is thus provided that both the electrical supply current and the electrical supply voltage are measured, in particular simultaneously.

[0030] In one embodiment, it is provided that a plurality of electrical variables, in particular an electrical supply voltage, in particular an electrical supply current, in particular the second electrical power, are monitored, each of which is compared with its own predetermined threshold value, wherein the provision of the first electrical power is terminated depending on the respective comparisons.

[0031] Specifying a threshold provides the technical advantage that decoupling can be detected efficiently. This is because specifying a control value creates an efficient shutdown criterion, which can be used to efficiently decide whether or not the provision of the first electrical power should be terminated.

[0032] In particular, by specifying a threshold value, efficient adaptation to specific boundary conditions, for example specific devices or specific supply voltages, can be achieved.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the method, the provision of the second electrical power comprises applying an electrical supply voltage of 24 V to the communication line so that a supply current of at least 60 mA can flow, the predetermined threshold value being 30 mA.

[0034] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the monitoring of the communication line comprises monitoring a data connection between the first device and the second device, wherein the provision of the first electrical power is terminated if, based on the monitoring of the data connection, a termination of the data connection has been detected.

[0035] This creates the technical advantage, for example, of creating a simple monitoring option with easy implementation.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the two devices each have a PHY (physical interface, also called an Ethernet physical layer) for communication over the data connection. Such a PHY provides a simple way to detect errors in the data connection without additional hardware, so that if one or more errors in the data connection are present, it can be determined that the data connection has been interrupted.

[0037] According to a further embodiment, it is provided that a frame comprising payload data and one or more checksums over the payload data is sent between the first and the second device via the data connection, wherein the payload data is checked for an error by means of a checksum check, wherein an interruption in the data connection is detected if the check has shown that the payload data has an error or a predetermined number of errors (predetermined number of errors can also be referred to as an error threshold) or a predetermined number of errors within the frame have exceeded.

[0038] This provides the technical advantage that a connection interruption can be detected efficiently.

[0039] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the first device and the second device are participants in a bus system.

[0040] This provides the technical advantage, for example, that the bus system can be operated efficiently and safely.

[0041] In one embodiment, the first device is an input / output module.

[0042] In one embodiment, the second device is an input / output module.

[0043] In one embodiment, the first device is a power distribution module.

[0044] In one embodiment, the second device is a power distribution module.

[0045] According to one aspect, a bus system is provided, comprising two devices which are electrically connected to one another by means of the electrical connector.

[0046] According to one embodiment, a communication connection comprises a communication connection according to the EtherCAT standard.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the bus system is designed for use in industrial automation. Thus, according to one embodiment, the bus system is a bus system of an industrial automation system or a bus system for industrial automation.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the device for detecting decoupling is designed or configured to execute or carry out the method for detecting decoupling. Technical functionalities of the method result analogously from corresponding technical functionalities of the device and vice versa. This means, in particular, that device features result from corresponding method features and vice versa.

[0049] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the method for detecting decoupling is carried out or executed by means of the device for detecting decoupling.

[0050] Features of the electrical connector or the first plug part of the electrical connector or the second plug part of the electrical connector result analogously from corresponding features of the method or the device and vice versa.

[0051] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the monitoring device is designed to monitor an electrical variable corresponding to a second electrical power provided by the first device via the communication line, in particular an electrical supply current and / or an electrical supply voltage, wherein the shutdown device is designed to terminate the provision of the first electrical power depending on the monitored electrical variable.

[0052] According to a further embodiment, it is provided that the monitoring device is designed to compare the monitored electrical variable with a predetermined threshold value, wherein the shutdown device is designed to terminate the provision of the first electrical power depending on the comparison.

[0053] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the shutdown device is designed to terminate the provision of the first electrical power if, when measuring the electrical supply current as an electrical quantity, the electrical supply current is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold value.

[0054] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the shutdown device is designed to terminate the provision of the first electrical power if, when measuring the electrical supply voltage as an electrical variable, the electrical supply voltage is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold value.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the shutdown device is configured to terminate the provision of the first electrical power when, upon measurement of the second electrical power, the second electrical power is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold value. To measure, i.e., to monitor, the electrical power, it is thus provided that both the electrical supply current and the electrical supply voltage are measured, in particular simultaneously.

[0056] According to a further embodiment, it is provided that the predetermined threshold value is 30 mA if the second electrical power provided comprises an electrical supply voltage of 24 V applied to the communication line, so that a supply current of at least 60 mA can flow.

[0057] According to another embodiment, it is provided that the monitoring device is designed to monitor a data connection between the first device and the second device, wherein the shutdown device is designed to terminate the provision of the first electrical power if, based on the monitoring of the data connection, a termination of the data connection has been detected.

[0058] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the monitoring device is designed to check the payload data for one or more errors by checking a checksum or checksums via payload data of a frame sent between the first device and the second device via the data connection and comprising the checksum or checksums, so that an interruption in the data connection is detected if the check has shown that the payload data has an error or has exceeded a predetermined number of errors or a predetermined number of errors within the frame.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the shutdown device comprises one or more transistors, in particular field-effect transistors (FETs), for example metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), in particular power MOSFETs.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the monitoring device comprises one or more microcontrollers.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the monitoring device comprises a current measuring device for measuring the electrical supply current. According to one embodiment, the monitoring device comprises a voltage measuring device for measuring the supply voltage. According to one embodiment, the monitoring device comprises both a voltage measuring device for measuring the supply voltage and a current measuring device for measuring the electrical supply current.

[0062] In one embodiment, four first contacts are provided.

[0063] In one embodiment, four first counter contacts are provided.

[0064] In one embodiment, exactly two first contacts are provided.

[0065] In one embodiment, exactly two first counter contacts are provided.

[0066] In one embodiment, the connector is designed as a BroadR-Reach connector. This means, in particular, that a data connection via the communication line is configured according to the BroadR-Reach with PoDL standard.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the device is designed to provide a second electrical power via the communication line.

[0068] For example, the device is the first device or the second device.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the device comprises one or more voltage supplies, in particular a DC voltage supply and / or an AC voltage supply.

[0070] This means, in particular, that according to one embodiment, a DC voltage or an AC voltage is provided, for example, by means of the power supply via the communication line, in particular to the second device. A supply voltage provided via the communication line is, for example, 24 V, in particular a maximum of 24 V. For example, two supply voltages are provided via the communication line, for example, two 24 V voltages, in particular a maximum of 24 V.

[0071] A supply voltage within the meaning of the present invention, for example, has a tolerance of +20% / -15%. This provides the technical advantage of meeting the IEC61131 standard. This means, in particular, that for a supply voltage of 24 V, for example, this value may be within 20.4 V to 28.8 V.

[0072] According to one embodiment, an alternating voltage or a direct voltage is provided via the electrical line, in particular by means of the power supply or by means of another of the several power supplies. The provided voltage is, for example, 230 V, 400 V, or 600 V, in particular 230 VAC, 400 VAC, or 600 VDC.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the first plug part comprises at least two third contacts, which trail the at least two second contacts during an unplugging process, for coupling a second electrical line between the first device and the second device, wherein the second plug part has at least two third counter contacts assigned to the at least two third contacts of the first plug part and trailing the at least two second counter contacts, so that during an unplugging process, the third contacts are necessarily separated from the third counter contacts after the second contacts and lastly the protective conductor contact is separated from the protective conductor counter contact.

[0074] This principle can be continued so that, according to a further embodiment, for example, the first plug part comprises at least two n-th contacts lagging behind the at least two (n-1)-th contacts during an unplugging process for coupling an n-th line between the first device and the second device, wherein the second plug part comprises at least two n-th mating contacts assigned to the at least two n-th contacts of the first plug part and lagging behind the at least two (n-1)-th mating contacts, wherein n is a natural number and greater than or equal to 2.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the first plug part is designed as a male plug part of the electrical connector, wherein the second plug part is designed as a female plug part of the electrical connector, or vice versa.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the male plug part is designed as a plug, in particular as a built-in plug.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the female plug part is designed as a coupling, in particular as a socket.

[0078] A contact within the meaning of the present invention, i.e. in particular the first contacts and / or the second contacts, generally the nth contacts, and / or the protective conductor contact, is designed as a contact pin according to one embodiment.

[0079] A contact within the meaning of the present invention, i.e. in particular the first contacts and / or the second contacts, generally the nth contacts, and / or the protective conductor contact, is designed as a contact cup according to one embodiment.

[0080] In one embodiment, the contacts are configured differently or identically. This means, in particular, that one or more contacts, in particular the first contacts and / or the second contacts, generally the nth contacts, and / or the protective conductor contact, are each configured as a contact pin, with one or more further contacts each configured as a contact cup.

[0081] A mating contact within the meaning of the present invention, i.e. in particular the first mating contacts and / or the second mating contacts, generally the nth mating contacts, and / or the protective conductor mating contact, is designed as a contact pin according to one embodiment.

[0082] A mating contact within the meaning of the present invention, i.e. in particular the first mating contacts and / or the second mating contacts, generally the nth mating contacts, and / or the protective conductor mating contact, is designed as a contact cup according to one embodiment.

[0083] In one embodiment, the mating contacts are configured differently or identically. This means, in particular, that one or more mating contacts, in particular the first mating contacts and / or the second mating contacts, generally the nth mating contacts, and / or the protective conductor mating contact, are each configured as a contact pin, with one or more further mating contacts each configured as a contact cup.

[0084] By providing differently designed contacts or mating contacts, it can be advantageously ensured that the first connector part and the second connector part have a coding. Such a coding includes, for example, information about which communication method is to be used between the two devices. In particular, such a coding includes whether or not electrical power may be applied to the communication line. For example, with appropriate coding, a distinction can be made between an EtherCAT connector and an EtherCAT-P connector.

[0085] In one embodiment, a contact pin is designed as a spring contact pin.

[0086] In one embodiment, a contact cup is designed as a spring contact cup.

[0087] In one embodiment, a contact is designed as a spring contact.

[0088] In one embodiment, a counter contact is designed as a spring counter contact.

[0089] A contact pin can also be called a contact pin.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the communication line, the electrical line or lines and the protective line are comprised of a common cable.

[0091] In one embodiment, the shutdown device is designed to switch off the voltage supply.

[0092] In one embodiment, the shutdown device is designed to interrupt an electrical connection between the voltage supply and the electrical line.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the communication line is designed as a multi-core communication line, so that each of the multiple cores of the communication line electrically contacts one of the multiple first contacts.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the electrical line is designed as a multi-core electrical line, so that each of the plurality of cores of the electrical line electrically contacts one of the plurality of second contacts.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the communication line is designed as a four-wire communication line, so that each of the four wires of the communication line electrically contacts one of the four first contacts. For example, two supply voltages are applied to a four-wire communication line, one supply voltage per wire pair.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the electrical line is designed as a two-wire electrical line, so that each of the two wires of the electrical line electrically contacts one of the two second contacts. For example, a supply voltage is applied to a two-wire electrical line.

[0097] In one embodiment, it is provided that the device, the first and / or the second device, is designed to provide a first electrical power via the electrical line.

[0098] In one embodiment, it is provided that the device, the first and / or the second device, is designed to provide a second electrical power via the communication line.

[0099] A computer program product is understood to mean, in particular, a computer program stored on a medium. The medium may be, for example, a CD, a DVD, a ROM, a RAM, a BD (Blu-ray Disc), or an electronic device.

[0100] A computer program product is understood to mean, in particular, an embedded system with a computer program, for example an electronic device with a computer program.

[0101] A computer program product is understood to mean, in particular, a computer on which a computer program is loaded, for example, runs, preferably is stored, for example, executed or, for example, is developed.

[0102] A computer program product is understood to mean, in particular, a discrete or integrated circuit which is designed to carry out the method according to the invention.

[0103] The wording “respectively” includes in particular the wording “and / or”.

[0104] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to preferred embodiments. Fig. 1 an electrical connector, Fig. 2 to 4 each show a time of unplugging the electrical connector according to Fig. 1 and Fig. 5 a flowchart of a method for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector from a second plug part of the electrical connector.

[0105] Fig. 1 shows an electrical connector 101.

[0106] The connector 101 comprises a first connector part 103 and a second connector part 105. The first connector part 103 is designed, for example, as a male connector part of the connector 101, wherein the second connector part 105 is designed as a female connector part of the connector 101, or vice versa.

[0107] The first plug part 103 comprises four first contacts 107. The first plug part 103 further comprises two second contacts 109. The first plug part 103 further comprises a protective conductor contact 111.

[0108] The contacts 107, 109, 111 of the first plug part 103 are each designed as an electrical contact pin, for example.

[0109] The two second contacts 109 lag behind the four first contacts 107 during an unplugging process. This means that the four first contacts 107 lead the second contacts 109 during an unplugging process.

[0110] The two second contacts 109 precede the protective conductor contact 111 during an unplugging process. This means that the protective conductor contact 111 lags behind the second contacts 109 during an unplugging process.

[0111] The second plug part 105 comprises four first mating contacts 113 assigned to the four contacts 107 of the first plug part 103. Furthermore, the second plug part 105 comprises two mating contacts 115 assigned to the two second contacts 109 of the first plug part 103. Furthermore, the second plug part 105 comprises a mating protective conductor contact 117 assigned to the protective conductor contact 111 of the first plug part 103.

[0112] The four first mating contacts 113 precede the two second mating contacts 115 during an unplugging process. This means that during an unplugging process, the two second mating contacts 115 precede the four first mating contacts 113.

[0113] The protective conductor mating contact 117 lags behind the two second mating contacts 115 during an unplugging process. This means that the two second mating contacts 115 lead the protective conductor mating contact 117 during an unplugging process.

[0114] The mating contacts 113, 115, 117 of the second plug part 105 are each designed, for example, as an electrical contact cup.

[0115] Alternatively, for example, it is provided that, if the contacts 107, 109, and 111 of the first plug part 103 are formed in advance as described above, the corresponding mating contacts 113, 115, and 117 of the second plug part 105 are formed in one plane, provided that the described advance decoupling is ensured during the unplugging process. This embodiment is not shown in the figures.

[0116] Alternatively, for example, it is provided that, if the mating contacts 113, 115, and 117 of the second plug part 105 are formed in advance as described above, the corresponding contacts 107, 109, and 111 of the first plug part 103 are formed in one plane, provided that the described advance decoupling is ensured during the unplugging process. This embodiment is also not shown in the figures.

[0117] At this point it is noted that according to the drawings of the Fig. 1 to 4, a contact and its corresponding mating contact do not touch when plugged or coupled. However, this is purely for illustrative purposes and clarity. Of course, when plugged or coupled, the contact is electrically connected to its corresponding mating contact, i.e., touching its corresponding mating contact.

[0118] In a plugged-in state, i.e., when the first plug part 103 is fully coupled to the second plug part 105, the respective contacts 107, 109, 111 are electrically connected to their respective mating contacts 113, 115, 117. During an unplugging process, i.e., when the two plug parts 103, 105 are separated or decoupled from each other, the first contacts 107 are necessarily separated first from the first mating contacts 113, then the second contacts 109 are separated from the second mating contacts 115, and finally the protective conductor contact 111 is separated from the protective conductor mating contact 117.

[0119] This means that the electrical connector 101 is an FMLB connector. During unplugging, the protective conductor contact 111 is always the last to be disconnected from the mating protective conductor contact 117. This advantageously allows compliance with legal standards or specifications, for example. Furthermore, electric shock to humans can be reduced or avoided.

[0120] The first connector part 103 is electrically connected to a first device 125. A communication line 119 is provided for this connection, connecting the first contacts 107 to the device 125. The communication line 119 is configured, for example, as a four-wire communication line, so that each of the four wires electrically contacts one of the four first contacts 107.

[0121] Furthermore, an electrical line 121 is provided, which electrically connects the second contacts 109 to the first device 125. For example, the electrical line 121 is designed as a two-wire electrical line, so that each of the two wires electrically contacts one of the two second contacts 109.

[0122] Furthermore, a protective conductor 123 is provided, which electrically connects the protective conductor contact 111 to the first device 125.

[0123] In the Fig. In the illustration shown in Figure 1, the first plug part 103 of the electrical connector 101 is arranged outside the first device 125. However, according to one embodiment, the first plug part 103 can also be designed as a built-in plug or as a built-in socket and thus be integrated into the first device 125. In this case, the communication line 119, the electrical line 121, and the protective conductor 123 run within the device 125.

[0124] Analogous to the first plug part 103, the second plug part 105 of the electrical connector 101 is connected to a second device 126.

[0125] Accordingly, a further communication line 127 conductively connects the first mating contacts 113 to the second device 126. The further communication line 127 is designed, for example, as a four-wire communication line, so that each of the four wires electrically contacts one of the four first mating contacts 113.

[0126] Accordingly, a further electrical line 129 electrically connects the two second mating contacts 115 to the second device 126. For example, the further electrical line 129 is designed as a two-wire electrical line, so that each of the two wires electrically contacts one of the two second mating contacts 115.

[0127] Analogously, a further protective conductor 131 is provided, which electrically connects the protective conductor counter contact 117 to the second device 126.

[0128] In the Fig. 1, the second plug part 105 is arranged outside the second device 126. In an embodiment not shown, for example, the second plug part 105 is designed as a built-in plug or as a built-in socket and is thus integrated into the second device 126. In this case, the additional communication line 127, the additional electrical line 129, and the additional protective conductor 131 run within the second device 126.

[0129] In an embodiment not shown, the connector 101 is designed as a coupling.

[0130] When the two plug parts 103, 105 are fully coupled, i.e., when the electrical connector 101 is closed, an electrically conductive connection is formed between the communication line 119 and the further communication line 127. Furthermore, the two electrical lines 121, 129 are electrically connected to each other. The two protective conductors 123, 131 are also electrically connected to each other.

[0131] Thus, the two devices 125, 126 can communicate with each other via the communication lines 119, 127. In particular, electrical power can be provided from the first device 125 to the second device 126 via the electrical line 121 and thus also via the further electrical line 129.

[0132] For this purpose, the first device 125 has, for example, a voltage supply 139 which can apply a voltage, for example a direct voltage or an alternating voltage, to the two second contacts 109 via the electrical line 121.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the voltage supply 139 is designed to apply a second electrical voltage, for example an alternating voltage or a direct voltage, to the four first contacts 107 via the communication line 119.

[0134] According to one embodiment, a further voltage supply (not shown) is provided for applying such a voltage to the four contacts 107.

[0135] This advantageously enables the first device 125 to provide an electrical voltage, in particular an alternating voltage or a direct voltage, to the second device 126 via the two contacts 109. In particular, this advantageously enables the first device 125 to provide one or more second electrical voltages, for example, a direct voltage or an alternating voltage, to the second device 126 via the four first contacts 107. This means that the communication line 119 can be used efficiently for both communication and power supply.

[0136] If a voltage, in particular a direct voltage, is applied to the two second contacts 109 in the plugged-in state, arcing may occur during unplugging. To prevent such arcing or to efficiently and quickly extinguish any arc that may have formed, it is advisable and provided to detect decoupling of the first plug part 103 from the second plug part 105. For this purpose, the first device 125 comprises a device 133 for detecting decoupling of the first plug part 103 of the electrical connector 101, connected to the first device 125, from the second plug part 105 of the electrical connector 101, connected to the second device 126.

[0137] The device 133 comprises a monitoring device 135 configured to monitor the communication line 119. The device 133 further comprises a shutdown device 137 configured to terminate the provision of a first electrical power by the first device 125 via the electrical line 121 for the second device 126 depending on the monitoring of the communication line 119. For example, the shutdown device 137 is configured to shut off the power supply 139. For example, the shutdown device 137 is configured to interrupt an electrical connection between the power supply 139 and the electrical line 121.

[0138] If a second electrical power is provided to the second device 126 by means of the first device 125 via the communication line 119, one embodiment provides that the monitoring device 135 monitors an electrical supply current or an electrical supply voltage.

[0139] When the first plug part 103 is separated from the second plug part 105, a drop in the electrical supply current or an increase in the electrical supply voltage is measured as soon as the four first contacts 107 no longer electrically contact the four first mating contacts 113. If the measured supply current drops below a predetermined threshold or the measured supply voltage rises above a predetermined threshold, the shutdown device 137 is instructed to stop providing electrical power via the electrical line 121, for example, by switching off the voltage supply 139 and / or by disconnecting an electrical connection between the voltage supply 139 and the electrical line 121.

[0140] This means, in particular, that according to one embodiment, an electrical supply current flowing via the communication lines 119, 127 from the first device 125 to the second device 126 is monitored. When the electrical connector 101 is opened, the opening is immediately noticeable through a change, more precisely a drop, in the supply current at the supplying device, here the first device 125, which is therefore measurable. The drop in the supply current takes into account, for example, a latency of another electronic component connected in the electrical circuit comprising the communication line 119. This can be, for example, a coil.

[0141] If the supply current falls below a defined limit, i.e. below a predetermined threshold value, it is provided in particular that a voltage supply via the electrical line 121 is switched off.

[0142] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the voltage supply via the electrical line 121 is switched off when the measured supply current is greater than or equal to a predetermined further threshold value.

[0143] Advantages of the concept described here are in particular a simple measurement setup as well as a very low latency and a very low sensitivity to other disturbances in a communication between the two devices 125, 126, the cause of which may not lie in the electrical connector 101.

[0144] In a further embodiment, it is provided that a communication connection between the two devices 125, 126 is monitored. Such a communication connection is formed, for example, via the communication lines 119, 127.

[0145] If the electrical connector 101 is opened, this will be detected by a communication interruption. If such a connection interruption is detected, the power supply 139 will be switched off, or an electrical connection between the power supply 139 and the electrical line 121 will be interrupted, analogously to the monitoring of the electrical variable described above.

[0146] The first plug part 103, the second plug part 105 and the two devices 125, 126 are each also disclosed individually.

[0147] Fig. 2 to 4 each show a successive time of an unplugging process of the first plug part 103 from the second plug part 105.

[0148] In the Fig. In the illustration shown in Figure 2, the electrical connector 101 is completely closed. This means that all contacts 107, 109, 111 of the first connector part 103 electrically contact the corresponding mating contacts 113, 115, 117 of the second connector part 105.

[0149] Fig. Figure 3 shows the electrical connector 101 at a time when the four first contacts 107 are already separated from the four first mating contacts 113. The two second contacts 109 continue to contact the two second mating contacts 115. Furthermore, the protective conductor contact 111 contacts the protective conductor mating contact 117. At this time, a drop in the supply current or a loss of a communication connection between the two devices 125, 126 can be measured or detected. Furthermore, at this time, an arc cannot yet be formed, as the two second contacts 109 are still electrically contacting the two second mating contacts 115.However, since decoupling can already be detected at this point in time due to the interruption in the communication connection or the drop in the supply current, the voltage supply 139 is switched off or an electrical connection between the voltage supply 139 and the electrical line 121 is interrupted, so that no voltage is applied to the second contacts 109 any longer.

[0150] Fig. Figure 4 shows the electrical connector 101 at a time when only the protective conductor contact 111 is still electrically connected to the protective conductor mating contact 117. The first contacts 107 and the second contacts 109 are already separated from their respective mating contacts 113, 115. This means that during an unplugging process, the protective conductor 123 is the last to be separated from the further protective conductor 131.

[0151] Fig.5 shows a flowchart of a method for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector connected to a first device from a second plug part of the electrical connector connected to a second device, - wherein the first plug part has at least two first contacts for coupling a communication line between the first device and the second device, - at least two second contacts lagging behind the at least two first contacts during an unplugging process for coupling an electrical line between the first device and the second device and - comprises a protective conductor contact which lags behind the at least two second contacts during an unplugging process, - wherein the second plug part has at least two first counter contacts assigned to the at least two first contacts of the first plug part, - at least two second counter contacts assigned to the at least two second contacts of the first plug part and trailing the at least two first counter contacts and - comprises a protective conductor counter-contact assigned to the protective conductor contact of the first plug part and trailing the at least two second contacts, - so that during an unplugging process, the first contacts are necessarily separated from the first mating contacts, then the second contacts are separated from the second mating contacts and finally the protective conductor contact is separated from the protective conductor mating contact, the method comprising the following steps: - Providing 501 a first electrical power by means of the first device via the electrical line for the second device, - Monitoring 503 the communication line, - Terminating 505 the provision of the first electrical power depending on the monitoring of the communication line.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the monitoring of the communication line is performed before the first electrical power is provided. In particular, it is provided that a first electrical power is only provided via the communication line if the monitoring has revealed that a second device, which can be referred to in particular as a communication participant, needs to be supplied with electrical power.

[0153] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the monitoring of the communication line and the monitoring of an electrical variable corresponding to the provided second electrical power are carried out before the provision of the first electrical power. In particular, it is provided that a first power is only provided if monitoring of the communication line shows that the line is connected to a second communication participant. This means, in particular, that the first electrical power is provided and an electrical variable corresponding to the provided second electrical power is monitored before the provision of the second electrical power. By monitoring the electrical variable, it can advantageously be detected whether a second communication participant (second device) is connected.

[0154] According to a further embodiment, a second threshold value or second threshold values ​​is or are specified for the measured electrical variable(s) on the communication line, for example a maximum electrical current and / or a maximum electrical power and / or a minimum electrical voltage, wherein the measured electrical variable(s) are compared with their respective second threshold values, wherein, depending on the comparison, it is determined that the communication line is short-circuited. This means that if the current or power exceeds the respective second threshold value, it is determined that the communication line is short-circuited. This means that if the voltage falls below the corresponding second threshold value, it is determined that the communication line is short-circuited.This means, in particular, that a short circuit is detected when the second threshold values ​​are exceeded or undershot. If a short circuit is detected, i.e., if it has been determined that the communication line is short-circuited, the provision of the first electrical power is blocked according to this embodiment.

[0155] This has the particular technical advantage that an open cable end that has become electrically conductive, for example due to contamination, is not recognized as a communication device that requires power. This prevents, in particular, the initial supply of power to an open connector.

[0156] According to another method, the first electrical power is only provided once a communication connection has been established via the communication line between the first participant (first device) and the second participant (second device). This has the particular advantage that a communication participant is unambiguously identified, and the first electrical power is only provided once a connection has been reliably established. This embodiment has the particular advantage that the technical implementation is particularly simple, because the correct establishment of a connection can be easily implemented using existing resources. Therefore, no additional hardware is required.

[0157] In summary, the invention provides an efficient concept for efficiently detecting the decoupling of a first plug part of an electrical connector, connected to the first device, from a second plug part of the electrical connector, connected to a second device. In particular, the formation of an arc can be efficiently prevented, or any arc that may have occurred can be efficiently and quickly extinguished.

Claims

[1] Method for detecting a decoupling of a first plug part (103) of an electrical connector (101) connected to a first device (125) from a second plug part (105) of the electrical connector (101) connected to a second device (126), - wherein the first plug part (103) has at least two first contacts (107) for coupling a communication line (119) of the first device (125), - at least two second contacts (109) trailing the at least two first contacts (107) during an unplugging process for coupling an electrical line (121) of the first device (125), and - a protective conductor contact (111) trailing the at least two second contacts (109) during an unplugging process for coupling a protective line (123) of the first device (125), - wherein the second plug part (105) has at least two first counter contacts (113) associated with the at least two first contacts (107) of the first plug part (103) for coupling a communication line (127) of the second device (126), - at least two second counter-contacts (115) assigned to the at least two second contacts (109) of the first plug part (103) and trailing the at least two first counter-contacts (113) for coupling an electrical line (129) of the second device (126), and - a protective conductor counter-contact (117) assigned to the protective conductor contact (111) of the first plug part (103) and trailing the at least two second contacts (109) for coupling a protective line (127) of the second device (126), - so that during an unplugging process, the first contacts (107) are necessarily separated from the first mating contacts (113), then the second contacts (109) are separated from the second mating contacts (115) and finally the protective conductor contact (111) is separated from the protective conductor mating contact (117), the method comprising the following steps: - providing (501) a first electrical power by means of the first device (125) via the electrical lines (121, 129) for the second device (126), - providing a data connection between the first device (125) and the second device (126) via the communication lines (119, 127), - monitoring (503) the communication line (119) of the first device (126), - terminating (505) the provision of the first electrical power depending on the monitoring of the communication line (119) when an interruption of the data connection between the first device (125) and the second device (126) has been detected. [2] The method of claim 1, further comprising: - providing a second electrical power by means of the first device (125) via the communication lines (119, 129) for the second device (126), - monitoring (503) the communication line (119) of the first device (126), wherein an electrical variable corresponding to the second electrical power provided, in particular an electrical supply current and / or an electrical supply voltage, is monitored, - the provision (501) of the first electrical power is terminated depending on the monitored electrical variable. [3] Method according to claim 2, wherein the monitored electrical quantity is compared with a predetermined threshold value, wherein the provision (501) of the first electrical power is terminated depending on the comparison. [4] The method of claim 3, wherein providing the second electrical power comprises applying an electrical supply voltage of 24 V to the communication line (119) such that a supply current of at least 60 mA can flow, the predetermined threshold being 30 mA. [5] Method according to claim 4, wherein a frame comprising payload data and one or more checksums over the payload data is sent between the first device (125) and the second device (126) via the data connection, wherein the payload data is checked for an error by means of a checksum check, wherein an abort in the data connection is detected if the check has shown that the payload data has an error or has exceeded a predetermined number of errors or a predetermined number of errors within the frame. [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first device (125) and the second device (126) are participants of a bus system. [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the data connection is a data connection according to the EtherCAT standard. [8] Bus system with a first device (125), a second device (126), an electrical connector (101) having a first plug part (103) connected to a first device (125) and a second plug part (105) of the electrical connector (101) connected to a second device (126), and a device (133) for detecting a decoupling of the first plug part (103) from the second plug part (105), - wherein the first plug part (103) has at least two first contacts (107) for coupling a communication line (119) of the first device (125), - at least two second contacts (109) trailing the at least two first contacts (107) during an unplugging process for coupling an electrical line (121) of the first device (125) and - a protective conductor contact (111) trailing the at least two second contacts (109) during an unplugging process for coupling a protective line (123) of the first device (125), - wherein the second plug part (105) has at least two first counter contacts (113) associated with the at least two first contacts (107) of the first plug part (103) for coupling a communication line (127) of the second device (126), - at least two second counter-contacts (115) assigned to the at least two second contacts (109) of the first plug part (103) and trailing the at least two first counter-contacts (113) for coupling an electrical line (129) of the second device (126), and - a protective conductor counter-contact (117) assigned to the protective conductor contact (111) of the first plug part (103) and trailing the at least two second contacts (109) for coupling a protective line (127) of the second device (126), - so that during an unplugging process, the first contacts (107) are necessarily separated from the first mating contacts (113), then the second contacts (109) are separated from the second mating contacts (115) and finally the protective conductor contact (111) is separated from the protective conductor mating contact (117), wherein the device (133) for detecting a decoupling of the first plug part (103) from the second plug part (105) - a monitoring device (135) for monitoring the communication line (119) of the first device (125), wherein a data connection exists between the first device (125) and the second device (126) via the communication lines (119, 127), and - a shutdown device (137) for terminating (505) a provision (501) of a first electrical power by means of the first device (125) via the electrical lines (121) for the second device (126) depending on the monitoring (503) of the communication line (119) when an interruption of the data connection between the first device (125) and the second device (126) has been detected. [9] Bus system according to claim 8, wherein the monitoring device (135) is designed to monitor an electrical variable corresponding to a second electrical power provided by means of the first device (125) via the communication lines (119, 129), in particular an electrical supply current and / or an electrical supply voltage, wherein the shutdown device (137) is designed to terminate the provision (501) of the first electrical power depending on the monitored electrical variable. [10] Bus system according to claim 9, wherein the monitoring device (135) is designed to compare the monitored electrical variable with a predetermined threshold value, wherein the shutdown device (137) is designed to terminate the provision (501) of the first electrical power depending on the comparison. [11] Bus system according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined threshold value is 30 mA when the second electrical power provided comprises an electrical supply voltage of 24 V applied to the communication line (119), so that a supply current of at least 60 mA can flow. [12] Bus system according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the monitoring device (135) is designed to check the payload data for an error by checking one or more checksums over payload data of a frame sent between the first device (125) and the second device (126) via the data connection and comprising the checksums, so that an interruption in the data connection is detected if the check has shown that the payload data has an error or has exceeded a predetermined number of errors or a predetermined number of errors within the frame. [13] Bus system according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the first plug part (103) has four first contacts (107) and the second plug part (105) has four first mating contacts (113), wherein the communication lines (119, 127) are designed as a four-wire communication line.

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