Connecting unit, component with a connecting unit, and method for releasing a connection between two component elements

Abstract

A connecting unit (1) comprising a first and a second retaining element (2, 3) which are connected to each other at least temporarily against an ejection force introduced into at least one of the retaining elements (2, 3) and which are each configured to be connected or connectable to different components, wherein a separation mechanism (4) is provided, the activation of which separates the connection between the first and the second retaining element (2, 3), wherein the separation mechanism (4) comprises a locking element (5) which is arranged to be movable at least partially relative to the first and the second retaining element (2, 3), and a locking unit (6), wherein, in the connected state of the first and the second retaining element (2, 3), the locking element (5) is held by the locking unit (6) in a locking position in which the introduced ejection force is transmitted via the locking element (5) from the second retaining element (3) to the first retaining element (2).and, upon activation of the separation mechanism (4), the locking unit (6) moves the locking element (5) out of the locked position in such a way that the connection between the first and the second retaining element (2, 3) is broken, characterized in that the locking unit (6) has a fixing element (10) which holds the locking element (5) in the locked position against a release force exerted by a release element (11), and that the fixing element (10) has a wire, a nut and / or a band which, upon activation of the separation mechanism (4), is at least partially destroyed due to a force exerted by the separation mechanism (4).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connecting unit, a component with such a connecting unit, and a method for releasing a connection between two component elements. The connecting unit comprises a first and a second retaining element, which are at least temporarily connected to each other via a coupling unit against an ejection force introduced into at least one of the retaining elements. The retaining elements are further configured to be connectable to, or already connected to, different components. The coupling unit includes a release mechanism, the activation of which disconnects the connection between the first and second retaining elements.

[0002] Hold-down-and-release mechanisms are known from the prior art. These mechanisms allow two components to be connected in such a way that they can be separated remotely or automatically, for example, upon the occurrence of a specific event. Hold-down-and-release mechanisms are often used in devices that are inaccessible or only accessible with comparatively high effort, as is the case, for example, in the fields of aerospace and deep-sea technology. For instance, this technology allows solar panels to be deployed advantageously in space, as well as components of underwater measuring instruments, such as data storage devices, to be retrieved to the surface after measurement. Similarly, such hold-down-and-release mechanisms are used in safety-critical devices that require the separation of a connection between two components in the event of an emergency.In this context, fire doors, special rescue equipment or safety gates represent further possible applications.

[0003] With their function of securing moving components, hold-down-and-release mechanisms are typically of considerable importance for the secured component, establishing a connection with known stiffness and strength. By employing hold-down-and-release mechanisms that can withstand the expected forces and torques, moving components can be designed more efficiently, thereby reducing the overall mass, which has a significant impact on cost-effectiveness, particularly in aerospace applications.

[0004] The launch of a spacecraft places considerable stress on the instruments and equipment it carries, with at least some of these items needing to be moved or positioned later after launch. For example, antenna arrays, solar panels, extendable masts, and similar devices that are moved into their operational position in space must be secured during the launch process to withstand the stresses encountered. Once the operational position is reached, the corresponding release mechanisms are activated, moving the equipment, initially secured during the launch phase, into its desired position.

[0005] A resettable mechanism for the releasable securing of spacecraft components during launch is known, for example, from WO 2018 / 112637 A1. In this case, a hold-and-release mechanism is also used to securely fix certain components during the launch of a spacecraft and later release them in a controlled manner, allowing them to move into a working position. A key feature of the described technical solution is that only very low impact forces are transmitted to the previously secured components during release. This is important because the moving components are used in space and therefore under weightless conditions.

[0006] The described shock-free release mechanism uses wedge elements which, after activation of the release mechanism, allow the retaining elements of different component parts to move along an inclined plane. Furthermore, it is important that the release mechanism can be returned to its initial state after the release process has been completed.

[0007] Furthermore, the MOVE project at the Technical University of Munich, Chair of Aerospace Engineering, has revealed a hold-and-release mechanism that uses a clamp to secure conically shaped retaining elements. The clamp is closed using a retaining wire designed as a fusible link. To open it, a voltage is applied to the wire, which eventually breaks due to the heat generated, allowing the clamp to open due to the released spring force.

[0008] Incidentally, the NEA ®The EBAD (Ensign-Bickford Aerospace and Defense) hold-and-release mechanism is known for its electrically initiated, single-stage release mechanism capable of withstanding a comparatively high preload. In this case, the preload is applied by a release rod held by two separable coil halves, which are in turn held together by a tightly wound retaining wire. This retaining wire is further secured by redundant electrical safety wires.

[0009] To trigger the system, a voltage is applied to the fuse wires. With a sufficiently high current, these wires break, the retaining wire unwinds from the coil halves, and finally, the coil halves and the release rod separate. To reliably withstand the required holding force and prevent premature breakage, the fuse wires, each designed as a fusible link, must have a comparatively large diameter. This results in a higher energy requirement for melting the wires compared to other systems.

[0010] Furthermore, DE 10 2011 008 194 A1 describes a connecting unit with a release device designed such that the two connected parts are separated from each other as soon as a force acting on the release device exceeds a predetermined limit. For this purpose, the connecting unit has spring pins that engage in a groove arranged in a coupling head and are moved when the predetermined limit force is exceeded, causing the coupling head to slip out of the coupling receptacle. The essential technical concept of the described connecting unit with safety release device is that the release force, which causes the coupling head and receptacle to separate, acts directly on the spring elements.

[0011] German patent DE 10 2017 130 168 A1 describes a belt buckle with a special release device, whereby moving a retaining element against a spring force unlocks the connection and allows the plug to be pulled out of the connector receptacle. The described buckle is used to secure luggage in the cargo hold of an aircraft and to ensure that the tensile forces acting on the buckle during load securing, and thus the stress on the aircraft fuselage, do not exceed a permissible limit. This is an overload protection device designed, in particular, to prevent damage to the aircraft's hull.

[0012] From GB 2 050 485 A, a plug-in connector with a mechanism for connecting and selectively disconnecting a plug and a plug socket is known. This mechanism includes a manually adjustable sleeve, the actuation of which pushes movable balls out of notches in the plug, allowing the plug to be removed from the socket. In the locked position, force is transmitted via the balls and the notches, which together form a locking element. Manual actuation of a locking unit, in this case spring-loaded pins, causes movement of the locking element to disconnect the plug and socket.

[0013] Furthermore, US Patent 5,129,753 A describes an HDRM mechanism designed for the controlled deployment of devices, such as antennas, in space. A key feature of the described solution is the use of a wire made of a shape-memory material, which changes its length upon reaching a specific temperature to unlock the connecting unit. During the unlocking process, the wire elongates, and a sleeve previously held in place by the wire is displaced by a force acting upon it. This allows arms located within the sleeve, which are operatively connected to a torsion spring, to unfold. Thus, two springs are provided: one, which moves the sleeve-like locking element according to the length of the wire, and the second spring, acting as an ejector, actually separates the two initially connected components.

[0014] Based on the technical solutions known from the prior art and the problems described above, the invention aims to provide a unit for the detachable connection of two components that, on the one hand, ensures the secure fastening of the component to be fixed and, on the other hand, enables the safe and reliable separation of the initially connected component elements with minimal energy expenditure. Since the described detachable connections are used, at least to a large extent, in aerospace applications or in safety-critical components, and since a failure of the separation mechanism regularly renders the device in which the mechanism is installed inoperable, a fail-safe operation of the separation mechanism to be specified is of particular importance.Furthermore, the separation mechanism should be designed in such a way that, in its unreleased state, it can reliably absorb comparatively large forces caused, for example, by shocks, vibrations, or impacts. The proposed technical solution should also be characterized by a relatively simple design, requiring only a few, ideally simple, components.

[0015] The problem described above is solved in a connecting unit according to claim 1. Uses of the connecting unit according to the invention are specified in claims 8 and 9. Furthermore, claim 10 specifies an object and claim 11 a method for releasing a connection, each of which solves the problem underlying the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description with partial reference to the figures.

[0016] The invention relates to a connecting unit comprising a first and a second retaining element, which are at least temporarily connected to each other via a coupling unit against an ejection force introduced into at least one of the retaining elements, and which are each configured to be connected or connectable to different components. The retaining elements can thus advantageously be attached either by means of suitable fastening elements to different components that are to be fixed in a desired position relative to each other, or they can be an integral part of different components. The coupling unit includes a release mechanism, the activation of which disconnects the connection between the first and the second retaining element, thereby allowing relative movement between the different components.According to the invention, the connecting unit is characterized in that the coupling unit has a locking element and a detent unit, wherein the locking element is at least partially movable relative to the first and second retaining elements, preferably axially movable, and is held by the detent unit in a locked position when the first and second retaining elements are connected, in which the applied ejection force is transmitted via the locking element from the second retaining element to the first retaining element. When the disconnection mechanism is activated, the detent unit moves the locking element out of the locked position such that the connection between the first and second retaining elements is broken.Furthermore, the locking unit has a fixing element that holds the locking element in the locked position against an ejection force, as long as no relative movement is to take place between the first and the second holding element, wherein the fixing element has a wire, a nut or a band, each of which holds the locking element in the locked position and which are at least partially destroyed when the release mechanism is activated due to a force exerted by the release mechanism.

[0017] The locking unit is designed such that the fixing element holds the shaped body of the locking element in the locked position for as long as required and is released upon activation of the release mechanism in such a way that the shaped body is set in motion by the ejection force acting upon it. Generally, the design of the fixing element is irrelevant for securely holding the locking element in the locked position. According to the invention, however, the fixing element comprises a wire, a nut, or a band, each of which holds the locking element in the locked position and is at least partially destroyed upon activation of the release mechanism due to a force exerted by the release mechanism.According to a specific embodiment, the fixing element is designed as a fusible link that holds the locking element in the locked position. When the release mechanism is activated, a voltage is applied to the fusible link, causing it to heat up due to the current flowing through it and eventually break. For this purpose, the release mechanism has a suitable voltage source or can be connected to one, which is preferably switched on remotely and / or automatically when the release mechanism is activated. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that, when the release mechanism is activated, the fixing element is moved electrically, electromechanically, pneumatically, and / or hydraulically in such a way that the locking element is then at least partially moved out of the locked position due to the resulting ejection force.In this context, it is conceivable, for example, that the fixing element has a movable stop against which the locking element, arranged in the locked position and subjected to the ejection force, is pressed or pulled. When the release mechanism is activated, the stop is moved such that the locking element can move out of the locked position. According to this particular embodiment of the invention, the release mechanism has at least one electrically, electromechanically, pneumatically, and / or hydraulically actuated drive element that acts on the fixing element when activated.

[0018] The locking unit is designed such that the locking element, which in the locked position at least partially serves to transmit force between the retaining elements, is securely held in the locked position and, when required, moves quickly and reliably from the locked position to another position, so that the ejection force results in relative movement between the retaining elements. With the aid of such a connecting unit, it is not only possible to separate two components as needed, particularly remotely and / or automatically, but also to transmit relatively large forces between the two retaining elements.This is achieved primarily by providing a movable locking element that transfers the ejection force introduced into at least one of the retaining elements to the other retaining element in such a way that relative movement between the first and second retaining elements is excluded in the locking position.

[0019] The ejection force is a force, for example a spring force, which, after activation of the separation mechanism, is intended to cause a relative movement between the two retaining elements, in particular to move a component attached to one of the retaining elements into a working position. Preferably, the ejection force is introduced into one of the retaining elements by a spring element that exerts a tensile or compressive force on one of the two retaining elements, or by another element whose weight acts on one of the retaining elements. In this context, it is conceivable that the ejection force is caused by the weight of a component that, upon the occurrence of a specific event and activation of the separation mechanism, is to be moved into a specifically designated operating and / or emergency position.For example, it is possible to provide a connecting unit designed according to the invention on a fire door which is to be automatically closed in the event of a fire.

[0020] Regardless of the type of ejection force chosen, it is essential to the invention that the ejection force introduced into at least one of the retaining elements when they are connected, which may be supplemented by further forces occurring at least temporarily during operation, such as accelerations and / or vibrations, is transmitted from one retaining element to the other via the locking element, which is held in its locked position by the locking unit. This prevents forces that would cause the retaining elements and any components connected to them from acting on the locking unit, which holds the locking element in the locked position and releases it only when necessary, from acting on it at all or only to a minimal extent.In particular, the locking unit can therefore be designed and / or dimensioned largely without taking into account the forces that cause the connected retaining elements to separate.

[0021] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the locking element comprises a movably arranged shaped body with a detent structure and at least one detent element that is at least partially receptacled within the detent structure. Advantageously, the locking element is designed such that the detent element is movable relative to the shaped body and is at least partially receptacled within the detent structure as soon as the separation mechanism is activated and relative movement between the retaining elements is to occur. When the locking element is in the locked position, the detent element is arranged at least partially outside the detent structure of the shaped body such that the ejection force, possibly supplemented by other forces, is transmitted via the detent element from one of the retaining elements to the other retaining element.The ejection forces can be transmitted directly or indirectly via the locking element. It is advantageous if the locking element, in the locked position, rests at least partially against both the first and second retaining elements. In the locked position, this reliably prevents relative movement between the two retaining elements, even when the ejection force and any other forces that might separate them occur.

[0022] In a specific further development, the molded body with its locking structure and the locking element are designed such that, after activation of the separation mechanism, the locking element moves at least partially into the locking structure of the molded body. Due to this movement of the locking element into the locking structure, which is preferably initiated by a suitable movement of the molded body with its locking structure, the force flow between the at least two retaining elements is interrupted, resulting in a relative movement between the first and second retaining elements caused by the ejection force.

[0023] In a particularly advantageous manner, the ejection force by which the locking element is moved from the locked position when the separation mechanism is activated is generated by means of a release element of the locking unit. Preferably, the release element has at least one spring element, in particular a coil spring, which is pre-tensioned when the locking element is in the locked position, and which, after activation of the separation mechanism and release of the fixing element, exerts a spring force, preferably a compressive force, on the locking element, which thereby moves out of the locked position.

[0024] In a further specific embodiment of the invention, one of the retaining elements has a guide element that is symmetrical with respect to its longitudinal axis, in the interior of which at least a part of the locking element is movably mounted and / or along the outer surface of which the other retaining element is movably mounted. According to this specific embodiment, one of the retaining elements has a guide element that preferably has a channel in which the locking element is moved relative to the guide element after activation of the release mechanism. Preferably, the guide element is rotationally symmetrical, for example as a tube section, in which a piston-like shaped body of the locking element is movably mounted in the longitudinal direction.As long as the two retaining elements are to remain connected, the portion of the locking element located inside the guide element is advantageously held in the locked position by a fixing element against an ejection force acting upon it. Upon activation of the separation mechanism, the fixing element is released, and the portion of the locking element located inside the guide element is moved relative to the guide element due to the ejection force. In a particularly preferred manner, this movement separates the connection between the first and second retaining elements.

[0025] According to a particular embodiment, the guide element has a suitable contour for guiding a detent element, which, after activation of the release mechanism, is at least temporarily engaged in a detent structure of the movable shaped body of the locking element. The contour is advantageously designed such that, as long as the locking element is in the locked position, the detent element arranged in the contour transmits a force between the two retaining elements. Only after activation of the release mechanism is this force flow between the retaining elements interrupted by a movement of the locking element, in particular a shaped body with a detent structure and a suitably shaped detent element, and the connection between the retaining elements is severed. Preferably, the contour of the guide element is designed as a recess, in particular as a through-hole, within which the detent element, for example in the form of a ball or a pin, is located.The cylinder is movable between at least two positions. In the locking position of the locking element, the detent element is located outside the detent structure and preferably at least partially within the detent structure of at least the retaining element, on which at least the ejection force acts. The ejection force acting on this retaining element is thus transferred to the detent element and from it to the second retaining element, so that relative movement between the two retaining elements is reliably prevented.

[0026] In its second position within the contour of the guide element, after activation of the separation mechanism, the locking element is no longer located within the locking structure of the retaining element, but in the locking structure of the locking element which is movably arranged within the guide element, so that the retaining element with its locking structure moves with the guide element relative to the other retaining element due to the acting ejection force.

[0027] In a further specific embodiment of the invention, an ejection element, particularly in the form of an elastic element, is provided and arranged such that the ejection force, which is intended to cause movement of at least one of the retaining elements after activation of the separation mechanism, is exerted by the ejection element on one of the two retaining elements. When the first and second retaining elements are connected, the ejection force is exerted by the ejection element on one of the two retaining elements and transmitted from this one to the other retaining element, so that no relative movement occurs between the retaining elements. When the two retaining elements are connected, the ejection force is again transmitted at least partially via the locking element, in particular via a movable detent element of the locking element, which is arranged between the first and second retaining elements.

[0028] The ejection element preferably comprises at least one spring, foam, or rubber element which, when the retaining elements are connected (i.e., when the locking element is in the locked position), is pre-tensioned such that, upon activation of the release mechanism and the release of the locking element's locking mechanism (caused by the locking unit), this pre-tension is released, thus introducing the ejection force into one of the retaining elements, causing it to move or resulting in relative movement between the retaining elements. Preferably, such an elastic element is designed as a spring element, most preferably as a coil spring, which exerts a compressive force on one of the two retaining elements at least temporarily. According to a specific embodiment of the invention, the ejection element, particularly a spring element, is arranged outside a guide element of at least one of the retaining elements.The ejection element preferably surrounds the guide element, thereby fixing its position and orientation.

[0029] Furthermore, the invention provides for a preferred use of a connecting unit, configured according to at least one of the previously described embodiments, in which a component is transferred from a first to a second operating state upon the occurrence of a specific event, in particular upon reaching a certain position or in an emergency. A connecting unit designed according to the invention can be used particularly advantageously for unfolding a solar panel or other functional element of a device deployed into space. Upon reaching the designated position in space, the release mechanism is activated and the device, which until then was fixed to the spacecraft, is moved into its operating position.

[0030] Furthermore, it is conceivable to use a connecting unit designed according to the invention, for example, to close an emergency door, an emergency gate, or an emergency airlock in the event of an emergency, such as a fire or flooding on a ship. Likewise, such a connecting unit can be used for the targeted release of a lifeboat and / or a life raft from a ship or other rescue equipment in the event of an emergency. In this context, it is conceivable that the disconnecting mechanism is activated either automatically upon the occurrence of a predetermined event or by manual, in particular remote, operation by an operator.

[0031] Furthermore, the invention also relates to an object comprising a first and a second component element which are at least temporarily connected to each other by a connecting unit which is designed according to at least one of the embodiments described above, wherein the first and the second retaining element are either attached to the first and the second component element respectively by means of suitable fastening elements or at least one of the retaining elements is formed integrally with the first and / or the second component element.It is therefore generally conceivable that the first and second retaining elements of a connecting unit designed according to the invention are each attached to different component elements which are to be moved relative to each other when a predetermined event occurs, for example by means of a screw, weld or solder connection, or that at least one of the retaining elements is an integral part of a component element that can be moved if necessary.

[0032] The invention further relates to a method for releasing two component elements connected to one another via a coupling unit against an ejection force and retaining elements, wherein the coupling unit has a locking element that is at least partially movable relative to the two retaining elements and a locking unit, and wherein, in the connected state of the first and second retaining elements, the locking unit holds the locking element in a locked position. In this locked position, the ejection force is transmitted via the locking element from the first retaining element to the second retaining element, while upon activation of the release mechanism, the locking unit moves the locking element out of the locked position such that the connection between the first and second retaining elements is broken.This involves the use of a locking unit with a fixing element comprising a wire, a nut and / or a band that holds the locking element in the locked position against a release force exerted by a release element and that is at least partially destroyed when the release mechanism is activated due to a force exerted by the release mechanism.

[0033] Using the method according to the invention, it is thus possible to release two retaining elements, to which preferably a component is attached in each case, so that at least one of the two retaining elements or component elements is moved into the desired operating position upon the occurrence of a predetermined event due to the applied ejection force. Preferably, the locking unit has, on the one hand, at least one fixing element that holds the locking element in the locked position for as long as required, and on the other hand, at least one release element designed such that, upon activation of the release mechanism, the locking element is moved out of the locked position, thus establishing a relative movement between the two retaining elements and the component elements attached to them.

[0034] In a particular embodiment of the method according to the invention, the locking element has a shaped body with a locking structure and at least one locking element, wherein, in the connected state of the first and the second retaining element, the locking element is arranged such that a force is transmitted from the first retaining element, in particular from a locking structure of the first retaining element in which the locking element is at least partially arranged, via the locking element to the second retaining element, and after activation of the separation mechanism, the locking element is moved relative to the shaped body and at least partially inserted into the locking structure of the shaped body in such a way that the force flow between the two retaining elements is interrupted and a relative movement takes place between the two retaining elements or the respective component elements attached thereto.

[0035] Furthermore, it is advantageous if, after activation of the separation mechanism, the locking element is moved at least sectionally within a guide element that forms part of one of the two retaining elements and / or the other retaining element slides along an outer surface of the guide element, which is preferably tubular in shape.

[0036] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments and the figures, without limiting the general concept of the invention. The figures show: Fig. 1: Sectional view of a connecting unit designed according to the invention with a locking element in the locking position; Fig. 2: Schematic sectional view of a connecting unit designed according to the invention in three different operating situations as well as Fig. 3: Schematic representation of a solar panel with a connecting unit designed according to the invention in three different operating situations.

[0037] Fig. Figure 1 shows a sectional view of a connecting unit 1 designed according to the invention with a locking element 5 which is in a locking position. The connecting unit 1 has a first and a second retaining element 2, 3 which are mounted to be movable relative to each other. To ensure that the Fig. To produce the operating state shown in 1, in which the two retaining elements 2, 3 are in a connected state, a locking element 5 is provided which is held in the locking position by a locking unit 6 with a fixing element 10 against an ejection force acting on the second retaining element 3.

[0038] The ejection force is exerted by an elastic ejection element 12, here in the form of a spiral spring, which surrounds the first retaining element 2 at least partially along its circumference, wherein the ejection element 12 is arranged and pre-tensioned in a space 21 between the first and the second retaining element 2, 3.

[0039] The first retaining element 2 is tubular, the second retaining element 3 is sleeve-shaped, with the outer diameter of the first retaining element 2 being only slightly smaller in its upper region than the inner diameter of the second retaining element 3. The tubular part of the first retaining element 2 thus forms a guide element 15, which has an interior channel 16 in which a portion of the locking element 5, designed as a piston-shaped body 7 with a special outer contour, is movably mounted. The outer surface 17 of the guide element 15 enables guided movement of the second retaining element 3 relative to the first retaining element 2. In this way, virtually backlash-free movement of the first retaining element 2 relative to the second retaining element 3 is possible.

[0040] To hold the locking element 5 in the locked position, the locking unit 6 has a fixing element 10, which is designed according to the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the melting wire is designed as a fusible link and exerts a tensile force on the shaped body 7 of the locking element 5 in the opposite direction to the ejection force. The melting wire is attached at one end to the shaped body 7 and at the opposite end to the first retaining element 2. The melting wire is connected to a voltage source 22, which, when the separation mechanism 4 is activated, is controlled such that a current flows through the melting wire, causing it to heat up and ultimately break.

[0041] Furthermore, the in Fig. The shaped body 7 of the locking element 5 shown in Figure 1 is connected via a locking structure 8, and an additional, movable locking element 9 is provided which, after activation of the separation mechanism 4, the resulting release of the fixing element 10 (here, the breaking of the melting wire), and the movement of the shaped body 7, which is initiated by a release force caused by a release element 11 in the form of a coil spring, engages in the locking structure 8 of the shaped body 7. Fig. Figure 1 shows the locking element 5 in its locked position, in which the detent element 9 is located outside the detent structure 8 and is arranged such that a force flow is established between the first and second retaining elements 2, 3 via the detent element 9. Here, the ejection force, which is a compressive force, introduced into the second retaining element 3 by means of the spring-shaped ejection element 12, is transmitted from the second retaining element 3 via the detent element 9 to the first retaining element 2. Crucially, the illustrated technical solution is that the ejection force, as well as any additional forces acting on the second retaining element 3, do not act on the locking unit 6, and in particular not on the fixing element 10, which is designed as a melt wire. Therefore, the fixing element 10, in this embodiment the melt wire, can be designed and dimensioned independently of the magnitude of the aforementioned forces.

[0042] According to the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first retaining element 2 is designed as a base plate with a pipe section or as a cylinder onto which the second retaining element 3 is slid. Since the ejection force emanating from the ejection element 12 does not act on the locking unit 6, it is possible to attach comparatively large loads to the second retaining element 3. Using the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first retaining element 2 is designed as a base plate with a pipe section or as a cylinder onto which the second retaining element 3 is slid. Fig. The connecting unit 1 shown in Figure 1 thus allows a component attached to or connected with the second holding element 3, such as the antenna or solar panel of a spacecraft, to be moved into the required operating position upon the occurrence of a predetermined event, such as reaching the desired flight altitude.

[0043] In addition to Fig. 1 shows Fig. 2 the schematic sectional view of a connecting unit 1 designed according to the invention in three different operating states. Fig. Figure 2 a) shows an operating state in which the first and second retaining elements 2, 3 are connected, the locking element 5 is in its locked position, and the ejection force is transmitted from the second retaining element 3 via the detent element 8 into the first retaining element 2. After activation of the release mechanism 4, an electrical voltage is applied to the fixing element 10, which is designed as a melting wire, causing the melting wire to eventually break due to heating. Once the fixing element 10 no longer holds the shaped body 7 of the locking element 5, the locking element 5 is pushed upwards by the release force emanating from the release element 11, which is designed as a coil spring. This causes the detent element 9, here in the form of a ball movably arranged in a cylindrical through-opening 14 in the first retaining element 2, to engage in the detent structure 8 of the shaped body 7.The movement of the locking element 9 into the locking structure 8 of the molded body 7 is initiated by the movement of the second retaining element 3 relative to the first retaining element 2 and is facilitated both by a suitably shaped locking structure 13 in the second retaining element 3 and by the conical shape of the through-opening 14 in the first retaining element 2. The locking element 9 is thus reliably moved from the locking structure 13 of the second retaining element 3 into the locking structure 8 of the molded body 7, so that the force flow between the second and first retaining elements 3, 2, established by the locking element 9 in the locking position, is interrupted. The operating state in which the locking element 9 is now partially located within the locking structure 8 of the molded body 7 and the second retaining element 3 begins to move relative to the first retaining element 2 due to the ejection force exerted by the spring-shaped ejection element 12, is described in [reference missing]. Fig. 2 b) shown.

[0044] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 2 c) finally, an operating state in which the second retaining element 3 moves further upwards and has completely separated from the first retaining element 2. Preferably, the first retaining element 2 is connected to a first component 19 of an object 18, such as a tool or a larger assembly, which is not shown in this view, but Fig. 3 are to be removed, connected or attached to it, while the second retaining element 3 is connected to a second component 20, in particular a special functional component or an instrument, which, upon the occurrence of a special event and the subsequent activation of the separation mechanism 4, is transferred from a fixed operating position, which is assumed, for example, during transport, to a specific working position.

[0045] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a solar panel for a spacecraft, for example for a satellite, with a connecting unit 1 designed according to the invention in three different operating situations. Fig. Figure 3 a) shows the solar panel in a folded operating state, which the solar panel assumes during launch and placement in space. The first retaining element 2 of the connecting unit 1 according to the invention is attached to the base structure of the satellite and the second retaining element 3 to the foldable solar panel, wherein the two retaining elements 2, 3 are in the Fig. 3 a) shown operating state are still connected to each other.

[0046] Fig. Figure 3 b) shows an operating state in which the separation mechanism 4 is already activated and the connection between the first and second retaining elements 2, 3 has already been released. Due to the force exerted by the ejection element 12, the solar panel is now moved relative to the first retaining element 2 and thus to the basic structure of the satellite, and is therefore deployed.

[0047] In conclusion, it shows Fig. 3 c) an operating state in which the solar panel has been fully unfolded and is now in the desired working position. Reference symbol list 1 connection unit 2 first retaining element 3 second retaining element 4. Separation mechanism 5 Locking element 6 locking unit 7 Molded parts 8 Grid structure of the molded body 9 locking element 10 fixing elements 11 Trigger element 12 Ejection element 13. Locking structure of the second retaining element 14 Passage opening 15 guide element 16 Interior of the guide element 17 Outer surface of the guide element 18 Item 19 first component 20 second component 21 space 22 Voltage source

Claims

A connecting unit (1) comprising a first and a second retaining element (2, 3) which are connected to each other at least temporarily against an ejection force introduced into at least one of the retaining elements (2, 3) and which are each configured to be connected or connectable to different components, wherein a separation mechanism (4) is provided, the activation of which separates the connection between the first and the second retaining element (2, 3), wherein the separation mechanism (4) comprises a locking element (5) which is arranged to be movable at least partially relative to the first and the second retaining element (2, 3), and a locking unit (6), wherein, in the connected state of the first and the second retaining element (2, 3), the locking element (5) is held by the locking unit (6) in a locking position in which the introduced ejection force is transmitted via the locking element (5) from the second retaining element (3) to the first retaining element (2).and, upon activation of the separation mechanism (4), the locking unit (6) moves the locking element (5) out of the locked position in such a way that the connection between the first and the second retaining element (2, 3) is broken, characterized in that the locking unit (6) has a fixing element (10) which holds the locking element (5) in the locked position against a release force exerted by a release element (11), and that the fixing element (10) has a wire, a nut and / or a band which, upon activation of the separation mechanism (4), is at least partially destroyed due to a force exerted by the separation mechanism (4). Connection unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking element (5) has a movably arranged shaped body (7) with a locking structure (8) and at least one locking element (9) which is at least partially receptible within the locking structure (8). Connecting unit according to claim 2, characterized in that, in the connected state of the first and the second retaining element (2, 3), a force is transmitted via the locking element (9) from the second retaining element to the first retaining element. Connecting unit according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, after activation of the separation mechanism (4), the locking element (9) moves at least partially into the locking structure (8) of the molded body (7). Connecting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the release element (11) is elastically designed. Connecting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the retaining elements (2, 3) has a guide element (15) designed symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal axis, in the interior (16) of which at least a part of the locking element (5) is movably mounted and / or along the outer surface (17) of which the other retaining element (3, 2) is movably mounted. Connecting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an elastic ejection element (12) is provided and arranged such that, in the connected state of the first and the second retaining element (2, 3), an ejection force exerted by the elastic ejection element (12) is at least partially transferred via the locking element (5) from the second retaining element (3) to the first retaining element (2). Use of a connecting unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims to transfer a component from a first to a second operating state upon the occurrence of an event. Use of a connecting unit (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, for unfolding a solar panel or other functional element of a device placed in space, for closing an emergency door or gate in the event of an emergency and / or for releasing a lifeboat or life raft of a ship or other rescue device in the event of an emergency. Object (18) comprising a first and a second component (19, 20) which are at least temporarily connected to each other by a connecting unit (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first and the second retaining element (2, 3) are either attached to the first and the second component (19, 20) respectively by suitable fastening elements or are each formed integrally with the first and the second component (19, 20). A method for releasing two retaining elements (2, 3) connected to each other against an ejection force and / or components (19, 20) attached to the retaining elements, wherein a separation mechanism with a locking element (5) which is moved at least partially relative to the two retaining elements (2, 3), and a locking unit (6) are provided, wherein, in the connected state of the first and the second retaining elements (2, 3), the locking unit (6) holds the locking element (5) in a locking position in which the ejection force is transmitted via the locking element (5) from the second retaining element (3) to the first retaining element (2), and wherein, upon activation of the separation mechanism (4), the locking unit (6) moves the locking element (5) out of the locking position in such a way that the connection between the first and the second retaining elements (2, 3) is broken, characterized in that a locking unit (6) with a fixing element (10) is used.which includes a wire, a nut and / or a band, and the fixing element (10) holds the locking element (5) in the locked position against a release force exerted by a release element (11), and that the fixing element (10) is at least partially destroyed when the release mechanism (4) is activated due to a force exerted by the release mechanism (4). Method according to claim 11, characterized in that the locking element (5) has a shaped body (7) with a locking structure (8) and at least one locking element (9), wherein in the connected state of the first and the second retaining element (2, 3) the locking element (9) is arranged such that a force is transmitted from the second retaining element (3) via the locking element (9) to the first retaining element (2) and after activation of the separation mechanism (4) the locking element (9) is moved relative to the shaped body (7) and is at least partially inserted into the locking structure (8) of the shaped body (7) such that no force is transmitted between the two retaining elements (2, 3) via the locking element (9). Method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that after activation of the separation mechanism (4) at least a part of the locking element (5) is moved in an interior (16) of a guide element (15) of one of the two retaining elements (2, 3) and the other retaining element (3, 2) moves along an outer surface (17) of the guide element (15).

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