Connectors, connector arrangement and method for making a plug connection

Abstract

Connector (1) for mating with a mating connector (2) along an insertion direction (z), the connector (1) having - one connector housing (100), - a locking device (200) with a locking element (210) for coupling with a counter-locking element (310) of the mating connector (2), - a contact layer protection (400), wherein the locking element (200) is elastically reversible to be displaced perpendicular to the insertion direction (z) onto the connector housing (100), wherein the contact position locking element (400) has a locking spring (410) and a locking spring (420) and is displaceable parallel to the insertion direction (z) between -- an unlocking position (P1) in which the locking spring (420) allows the locking element (200) to be displaced onto the connector housing (100), and -- a locking position (P2) in which the locking spring (420) prevents the locking element (200) from being displaced onto the connector housing (100), wherein the locking spring (410) can be elastically reversibly displaced from an engagement position (EL) perpendicular to the insertion direction (z) onto the connector housing (100) into an out-of-engage position (AL), wherein the detent spring (410) can be brought into engagement with the detent means (200) in the engagement position (EL), and in the out-of-engage position (AL) cannot be engaged with the locking device (200), wherein the contact position locking device (400) can only be moved from the unlocking position (P1) to the locking position (P2) when the detent spring (410) is in the out-of-engage position (AL).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector for plugging together with a mating connector along an insertion direction, a connector arrangement with such a connector and a mating connector, and a method for producing a plug connection. Background of the invention

[0002] Connectors and connector assemblies are used in numerous variations. Such connector assemblies can also feature a so-called "Connector Position Assurance" (CPA), which serves to guarantee the contact position of a connector on its mating connector. With such CPAs, on the one hand, haptic feedback can be provided to an installer, confirming that the connection between the connector and mating connector is correctly established. On the other hand, it can prevent a connector that has been latched onto a mating connector from unintentionally detaching from the mating connector, for example, due to vibrations, temperature-related expansion or contraction, pulling on a cable located in the connector housing, or other mechanical influences.For example, in the automotive sector, particularly with safety-relevant components such as airbags, high demands are placed on the reliability of the connector arrangement.

[0003] A connector with a contact position locking mechanism (CPA) is known from DE 10 2014 206 431 A1.

[0004] Another connector with a contact position locking mechanism (CPA) is known from EP 3 410 540 A1.

[0005] From US 8,016,606 B1, a contact layer locking device (CPA) is known, comprising a body section, a first arm, and a second arm. The first arm is attached to the body section, extends from the body section, and has a locking groove near its distal end. The second arm, which includes a locking bar, is spaced apart from the first arm, attached to the body section, and extends from the body section. As the contact layer locking device is guided along the socket housing, the locking groove and locking bar engage in a pre-locking position against complementary projections of the socket housing. They are then released to enter a final locking position upon contact of an inclined surface at the distal end of the first arm with the pin header connector during insertion of the pin header connector into the socket housing.

[0006] From KR 10 2016 0 049 491 A, an electrical connector arrangement with a plug connector is known. The plug connector comprises a plug housing with a flexible leg. The plug connector further comprises a flexible arm that surrounds the flexible leg to be contacted, and a second locking device with an insertion part when the plug connector is not connected to a mating plug connector. The plug connector can be directly mated with the mating plug connector. The second locking device serves to secure the plug position. Disclosure of the invention

[0007] According to the invention, a connector for mating with a mating connector along an insertion direction, a connector arrangement comprising such a connector and a mating connector, and a method for producing a plug connection with the features of the independent claims are proposed. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims and the following description.

[0008] A connector according to the invention comprises a connector housing, a locking element or locking hook (the locking element can, in principle, assume completely different forms) with a locking element for coupling or interacting with a mating locking element of the mating connector, and a contact position assurance (CPA, "Connector Position Assurance"). A connector arrangement consisting of a connector according to the invention and a mating connector having a mating locking element is also part of the invention. The mating locking element, in turn, is specifically designed for coupling or interacting with the locking element.

[0009] The locking element and counter-locking element thus constitute, in particular, the (especially mutually complementary) locking means of the connector assembly, which prevent the connector assembly from separating when the locking element and counter-locking element are interacting or coupled to each other, or are engaged or locked. In a merely exemplary embodiment, the locking element and counter-locking element can be selected from a recess, an opening, a projection, a hook, a lug, an undercut, etc.

[0010] The locking element is elastically and reversibly displaceable perpendicular to the insertion direction towards the connector housing, in particular from a locked position to an unlocked position. A direction perpendicular to the insertion direction, especially towards the connector housing, can also be referred to as the radial direction, and the insertion direction as the axial direction or z-direction. Specifically, if a mating connection exists with the mating connector, the connector can be detached or separated from the mating connector when the locking element is displaced towards the connector housing; that is, in this position (unlocked position), the locking element and mating locking element are neither engaged nor coupled, nor can they be brought into engagement or coupled.On the other hand, if a plug connection exists with the mating connector, the connector cannot be detached from the mating connector, especially if the locking element is not moved towards the connector housing, i.e., in this position (locking position) the locking element and the mating locking element are coupled or interact or engage with each other.

[0011] The contact position locking mechanism has a detent spring and a locking spring and is displaceable parallel to the insertion direction (i.e., axially) between an unlocked position, in which the locking spring allows the detent element to move towards the connector housing (i.e., into the unlocked position), and a locked position, in which the locking spring prevents the detent element from moving towards the connector housing (into the unlocked position). In other words, the contact position locking mechanism prevents the connector from being detached from the mating connector by preventing the detent element from moving into the unlocked position, thus ensuring that the coupling between the detent element and the mating element cannot be released. In one embodiment, the contact position locking mechanism (CPA) has more than one detent spring and / or more than one locking spring. For example, one detent spring and one locking spring can be provided on each of two opposite sides of the connector.Several detent or locking springs can be connected to a base part of the contact position locking device or the CPA, e.g. in the form of a bracket, whereby the contact position locking device then has the base part and the several detent and locking springs.

[0012] Furthermore, the detent spring can be elastically and reversibly displaced from an engagement position perpendicular to the insertion direction (i.e. radially) towards the connector housing into a non-engagement position, wherein the detent spring can be brought into engagement or coupled with the detent element in the engagement position, and in the non-engagement position cannot be brought into engagement or coupled with the detent element, nor is it in engagement or is not coupled.

[0013] The contact position locking mechanism can only be moved from the unlocking position to the locking position (especially axially) if the detent spring is in the out-of-engage position.

[0014] In other words, the locking spring (of the contact position lock or CPA) can only be moved into the locked position (and thus secure the plug connection) if the detent spring (of the contact position lock or CPA) is not coupled to the locking element, i.e., if the locking spring and detent spring can move axially freely relative to the locking element. If, however, the detent spring is coupled to the locking hook, the contact position lock or CPA is not movable relative to the locking element.

[0015] The invention, through this special design of the coupling between the contact position locking device and the locking element (e.g., locking hook or the like), enables particularly simple, reliable, and quick assembly and disassembly of the connector on and from the mating connector. This is advantageously achieved because the connection can be established and released solely by operating or handling the contact position locking device (CPA). In particular, after placing the connector on the mating connector, the connection can be established by pressing on the contact position locking device (CPA), i.e., the connector is moved into an insertion position (in which it is inserted into the mating connector and, in particular, the mechanical and electrical connection is finally established), and subsequently, by further pressing on the contact position locking device, it can be moved into the locking position.This can preferably be achieved by applying force along a single direction (e.g., the insertion direction), in particular by applying a linear force that does not follow a curved trajectory such as a rotation. Similarly, once the connector is connected and the contact position locking mechanism is in the locked position, pulling the contact position locking mechanism (CPA) can move it into the unlocked position, and further pulling on the contact position locking mechanism (CPA) can release the connector from the mating connector. Here, too, applying force along a single direction, in particular a linear force, is preferably sufficient.

[0016] In other words, a multi-step mating process (e.g., first connecting the plug and mating connector by applying force to a surface on the connector housing, and then repositioning the grip to move the contact position locking mechanism (CPA) from the unlocked position to the locked position) can thus be advantageously simplified to a single-step mating process. At the same time, a technician can immediately verify, for example, by touch, sight, and / or sound, that the connection is correctly established. This is the case when, upon applying force to the CPA, it can be moved relative to the connector housing at the end of the mating process. Furthermore, the CPA advantageously prevents the plug from being accidentally disconnected from the mating connector, as the locking spring prevents the locking element and its counterpart from disengaging.

[0017] In other words, this advantageously allows for a functional separation of the CPA: until an insertion or end-of-mating position is reached between the connector and mating connector (e.g., when the locking element and mating locking element engage), the CPA can function purely as an operating handle or control element, through which an axial force (in particular, a purely linear force, not a rotational movement) can be exerted on the connector housing. Once the insertion or end-of-mating position is reached (and, for example, correct locking is achieved), the function of the CPA changes from a control element for force transmission to its actual and inherent function, namely, to indicate that the correct insertion position (insertion or end-of-mating position) has been reached: it now becomes movable relative to the connector housing and thus indicates to an installer that the insertion or end-of-mating position has been reached.The end mating position is reached; on the other hand, further displacement can ensure a locking connection between the connector and mating connector. The inherent functions of a CPA described above are implicitly linked to the term contact position locking or CPA and therefore actually require no further explanation.

[0018] In the insertion position or the end insertion position, the contact position locking mechanism (CPA) can be moved from the unlocking position to the locking position due to its intrinsic CPA function, and therefore, in the insertion position or end insertion position, or upon reaching the end insertion position, the detent spring can be moved into the out-of-engage position, or is moved into the CPA position upon (further) force being applied, especially in the axial direction.

[0019] In other words, the function of the CPA advantageously transforms from an operating element for force transmission to the actual CPA during a single operating operation: when force (especially axial, linear) is applied to the CPA, this force is initially transmitted to the connector housing by means of the CPA and the coupling of the detent spring and detent element (operating element function), and, for example, upon reaching the insertion or final insertion position, this operating element function or force transmission function is replaced by the intrinsic CPA function(s), which indicates the correct insertion position to the assembler and secures the connection by moving the CPA relative to the connector housing.

[0020] When disconnecting, the two functions run in reverse order: first the CPA function (releasing the locking mechanism, moving the CPA to a display state: "not secured"), then the force transmission function or control element function with respect to the connector.

[0021] Thus, the insertion (and removal) process can advantageously be carried out by a single operating movement (e.g., axial force application, in particular purely or predominantly linear force application, no rotational movement or the like) on a single element (the CPA), e.g., with one hand. This advantageously enables particularly simple and intuitive operation.

[0022] The contact position locking device (CPA) can, for example, be designed as a separate element from the locking mechanism. It can, for example, be mounted to the connector housing as a loose part, or in particular, be permanently attached to the connector housing.

[0023] The locking mechanism can, for example, be permanently bonded to the connector housing and / or be formed integrally with the connector housing (i.e., not detachable from the connector housing without damage). The locking mechanism can, for example, be injection-molded onto the connector housing or be injection-molded together with the connector housing.

[0024] The term "encompass" is used synonymously with the term "exhibit" unless otherwise stated.

[0025] An inventive method for producing a plug connection with such a connector arrangement comprises placing the connector on the mating connector, applying a force in the insertion direction to the connector housing and / or the contact position locking device or CPA, whereby the connector is displaced in the insertion direction until it reaches the insertion position or end insertion position, and applying a force in the insertion direction to the contact position locking device, whereby the contact position locking device is displaced into the blocking position.

[0026] In one embodiment, the locking device has at least one limb and a locking strut projecting from the at least one limb. The locking spring is located between the locking strut and the connector housing when the contact position lock (CPA) is in the locked position, and the locking spring is not located between the locking strut and the connector housing when the contact position lock is in the unlocked position.

[0027] The locking bar runs axially, i.e., in or parallel to the insertion direction. The locking bar, through interaction with the locking spring, serves to prevent the locking hook from moving into the disengaged position. Specifically, the locking spring can block any movement of the locking bar, and thus of the locking hook, onto the connector housing. This interaction with the locking spring can therefore be a blockage by the locking spring. This advantageously provides a simple and robust way to block the movement of the locking hook and thus prevent the connector from detaching from the mating connector.

[0028] The locking strut can project from the spar, for example, transversely and / or parallel to the connector housing. In this case, it projects from the spar in a radial direction (e.g., also referred to as the transverse direction or the y-direction), whereby this radial direction (transverse direction or y-direction) runs both perpendicular to the insertion direction and perpendicular to the (radial) direction in which the locking spring can be moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position (e.g., referred to as the x-direction).

[0029] In one embodiment, the locking device has two stiles and a locking strut connecting them. This allows the space between the two stiles to be used for the locking spring and, if necessary, other components, simplifying the overall design of the connector. Furthermore, this design advantageously results in a particularly robust locking device and locking strut.

[0030] It goes without saying that more than two rails can be provided on the locking device. More locking struts than just a single locking strut can also be provided. For example, a locking strut can extend from each rail, or several locking struts can extend from one rail or from several rails.

[0031] In one embodiment, the detent spring and the locking spring each extend from a connecting area where they are joined to a disconnected end area. This advantageously enables particularly simple manufacturing of the contact position locking device (CPA) (e.g., using an injection molding process) with low manufacturing tolerances and results in high stability. The free end allows for the necessary elasticity of at least the detent spring to be achieved very easily. In another embodiment, the detent spring and locking spring extend parallel from the connecting area in the insertion direction. This allows the overall length of the contact position locking device (CPA) to be kept short, or the contact position locking device to be designed in a very compact form.

[0032] In one embodiment, the end region of the detent spring and the end region of the locking spring are elastically and reversibly displaceable relative to each other perpendicular to the insertion direction (i.e., radially or in the x-direction, as explained previously). Thus, the displacement of the detent spring from the engaged position to the disengaged position corresponds to a displacement of the end region of the detent spring relative to the end region of the locking spring, and in particular, also to a pivoting or bending of the end region of the detent spring relative to the connection area. In this way, the function of the detent spring can be provided in a structurally advantageously simple manner, without hinges or similar components. Due to the elastic reversibility, the function of the contact position locking (CPA) is advantageously ensured even for a large number of insertion and uninsulation cycles. This advantageously improves the durability of the connector.

[0033] In one embodiment, the detent spring has a push stop that can be engaged or coupled with the detent means, or is engaged or coupled when the contact position lock or CPA is in the unlocked position, and that cannot be engaged or coupled with the detent means, or is not engaged or coupled when the detent spring is in the out-of-engage position.

[0034] This advantageously enables particularly easy operation of the connector and the contact position locking mechanism during the assembly process.

[0035] Here, two prerequisites are distinguished: on the one hand, the position of the contact position locking mechanism or CPA or the locking spring of the CPA, and on the other hand, the position of the detent spring of the CPA.

[0036] When the contact position lock (CPA) is in the unlocked position, the detent spring's push stop can engage with the locking element, or is already engaged with it. This advantageously provides a simple solution for transferring a (pressing) force from the contact position lock (CPA) to the connector via the CPA's detent spring and its push stop to the locking element, and thus to the connector or connector housing. As described above, this allows insertion to be accomplished solely by pressing or applying an (axial) force to the contact position lock (CPA).

[0037] If such force transmission from the CPA via its detent spring to the connector housing is possible, then, for example, displacement of the detent spring relative to the detent element can be prevented. Detent spring and detent element can thus be connected to each other, at least with respect to one direction of force (e.g., nearly rigidly or with bending stiffness).

[0038] When the detent spring is in the disengaged position, its pressure stop cannot engage with the locking element, nor can it be coupled to it. This advantageously provides a simple solution to prevent a (pressure) force on the contact position lock (CPA) from being transmitted via the pressure stop to the locking element and the connector when the detent spring is deflected in the disengaged position. The connector is therefore specifically designed so that this situation occurs when the connector is in the insertion or end-of-mating position in the mating connector. Thus, as described above, at the end of the insertion process, the contact position lock can still be moved into the locked position simply by pressing on it.

[0039] In this situation, the detent spring and detent mechanism can therefore be displaced relative to each other at least along one spatial direction.

[0040] In one embodiment, a force (compressive force and / or axial force) acting on the locking spring in the insertion direction is exerted on the connector housing when the push stop is engaged or coupled with the locking mechanism. This allows a compressive force to be transferred to the contact position locking device and thus to the locking spring via the push stop onto the connector housing. As described above, this allows an insertion process to be advantageously completed solely by pressing on the contact position locking device. This advantageously enables a particularly simple and secure mating of the connector and mating connector (e.g., one-step assembly).

[0041] In one embodiment, the detent spring has a pull stop that can be engaged with the locking element when the contact position lock (CPA) is in the unlocked position. When the CPA is in the unlocked position, the pull stop of the detent spring can be engaged with the locking element. This provides a simple solution for transferring a tensile force (e.g., along the axial direction, such as when disconnecting a connector and mating connector) to the CPA and thus to its detent spring, via the pull stop, to the locking element and thus to the connector or its housing. As described above, this allows for advantageous disconnection simply by pulling the contact position lock.First, the CPA (Central Release Attachment) is pulled to move it from the locked position to the unlocked position. The pull stop then engages with the locking mechanism. Further pulling on the CPA transfers the tensile force to the connector housing, disconnecting the connector from its mating connector. The CPA can therefore advantageously serve as a handle or operating element for disconnecting the connector from its mating connector.

[0042] In one embodiment, a force (tensile force) acting on the locking spring in the opposite direction to the insertion direction is exerted on the connector housing when the pull-out stop is engaged or coupled with the locking mechanism. This allows a tensile force to be transferred to the contact position locking device (CPA) and thus to the locking spring via the pull-out stop and onto the connector housing. As described above, this advantageously allows an unplugging operation to be performed solely by pulling the contact position locking device.

[0043] In one embodiment, the locking device has a push / pull strut projecting from at least one limb, wherein the push stop or the pull stop engages with or is coupled to the push / pull strut when the push stop or the pull stop engages with or is coupled to the locking device. In other words, the push stop or the pull stop couples with the push / pull strut to transmit the forces described above from the CPA to the connector housing.

[0044] The push / pull strut can, for example, project transversely and / or parallel to the connector housing from at least one spar. It can, for example, project along the y-direction or transverse direction from at least one spar. It can, for example, be oriented perpendicular to the insertion direction and simultaneously perpendicular to the displacement direction of the detent spring from the engaged position to the disengaged position, or project from at least one spar.

[0045] In one embodiment, the locking device has two stiles, and the push / pull strut connects the two stiles, particularly perpendicular to the insertion direction (e.g., in the transverse direction or the y-direction). This advantageously allows the forces to be transferred to the locking device particularly well and evenly, thus preventing, for example, tilting and similar issues.

[0046] In one embodiment, the pull stop, particularly when viewed from the connection area, is positioned closer to the end of the locking spring than the push stop. This creates space between the pull and push stops, which can accommodate the push / pull strut, especially when the push or pull stop is coupled to the push / pull strut. This allows a single strut on the locking device to be advantageously sufficient to absorb both compressive forces when connecting the plug and mating connectors and the pulling forces when disconnecting them. The push / pull strut can therefore be made somewhat more robust, as space is not required for two separate struts (a push strut and a pull strut). This advantageously enables a particularly simple manufacturing process and a robust design for the locking device.

[0047] In one embodiment, the locking spring has a first deflection element which, when force is applied against the insertion direction, deflects the locking spring perpendicular to the insertion direction (radially, e.g., x-direction) into the disengaged position. Force being applied to the first deflection element against the insertion direction can occur, in particular, when the connector is inserted into the mating connector, if the first deflection element is pressed against a counter element, which is located, in particular, on the mating connector – this counter element then exerts a force against the insertion direction on the first deflection element. The counter-locking element of the mating connector can, in particular, serve as such a counter element, which simplifies the design. This advantageously provides a simple way to ensure that the locking spring engages at the correct time during insertion (especially when the connector is in the insertion position).Once the end mating position is reached, the locking spring is decoupled from the locking element, allowing a further compressive force on the contact position locking mechanism (CPA) to move it into the locked position. The first deflection element can, for example, be designed as a ramp. A particularly advantageous feature of the first deflection element is that it provides a directional transformation. The axial force and axial displacement of the CPA result in a radial force (x-direction) on the locking spring and deflection (x-direction) of the locking spring, so that it is moved into the disengaged position without any further operating steps. This advantageously leads to particularly simple and intuitive operation of the connector when mating with the mating connector.

[0048] In one embodiment, the first deflection element is arranged behind the detent element in the insertion direction when the contact position locking mechanism is in the unlocked position (if the insertion direction were a river, the detent element of the locking device would be arranged downstream of the first deflection element of the detent spring of the CPA). Starting from the unlocked position, during an insertion process, the detent element first comes into contact with the mating detent element, followed by the first deflection element. This provides a simple way to decouple the detent spring from the locking device or detent hook at the correct time during insertion (especially when the detent element is engaged with the mating detent element), so that a further compressive force on the contact position locking mechanism moves it into the locked position.

[0049] Furthermore, it is advantageously achieved that the detent spring is only moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position once the tactile element is engaged with the mating detent element. This advantageously allows for the functional separation of the CPA (force transmission function and CPA function(s)) using particularly simple means: until the detent element and mating element engage, the CPA acts as a simple operating handle or control element, through which an axial force can be exerted on the connector housing. Once correct engagement is achieved and / or the insertion or end-of-insertion position is reached, the first ramp element is deflected and moves the detent spring into the disengaged position. The function of the CPA then changes from a control element for force transmission to the actual CPA function: it now becomes movable relative to the connector housing, thus indicating to the installer that the insertion or end-of-insertion position has been reached.The end insertion position is reached; furthermore, it can secure the locking mechanism between the connector and mating connector by further displacement.

[0050] It is understood that this functional separation can also be achieved through a different geometry and that a separate deflection element is not an essential element for this.

[0051] In one embodiment, the locking spring has a second deflection element which, when force is applied along the insertion direction, deflects the locking spring perpendicular to the insertion direction (radially, e.g., in the x-direction) into the disengaged position. Force being applied to the second deflection element along the insertion direction can occur, in particular, when the connector is unplugged from the mating connector, if the second deflection element is pressed against a counter element, which is located, in particular, on the connector. This counter element then exerts a force on the first deflection element opposite to the insertion direction. The locking mechanism, especially its push / pull strut, can serve as such a counter element, which simplifies the design.This advantageously provides a simple way to decouple the locking spring from the locking mechanism and / or from the counter-locking element at the correct time (especially from the beginning) when unplugging, so that a tensile force on the contact position locking mechanism is not initially transmitted to the locking mechanism and / or the counter-locking element, but only moves the contact position locking mechanism into the unlocked position. The second deflection element can, for example, be designed as a ramp. The second deflection element is particularly advantageous because it provides an element that effects a directional transformation. The axial force and axial displacement of the contact position locking mechanism (CPA) exert a radial force (x-direction) on the locking spring and deflects the locking spring (x-direction), so that it moves into the disengaged position without any further operating steps.This advantageously results in particularly simple and intuitive operation of the connector when disconnecting it from the mating connector.

[0052] In one embodiment, the first deflection element is positioned in the insertion direction before the second deflection element (if the insertion direction were a river, the first deflection element would be positioned downstream of the second deflection element). In other words, during insertion, the first deflection element always reaches a specific point on the connector housing first, followed by the second deflection element, and vice versa during unplugging. This advantageously ensures reliable operation of the connector, preventing jamming or inconsistent functionality.

[0053] Further advantages and embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the description and the accompanying drawing.

[0054] The invention is schematically illustrated in the drawing using exemplary embodiments and is described below with reference to the drawing. Brief description of the drawings. They show Fig. 1 an embodiment of a connector arrangement according to the invention in a perspective view, wherein the connector and mating connector are not yet connected; Fig. 2 the connector arrangement from Fig. 1, wherein the connector and mating connector are connected, with a contact position lock or CPA in an unlocking position; Fig. 3 the connector arrangement Fig. 2 with contact position protection or CPA in a blocking position; Fig. 4a partial view of a locking device of the connector and the contact position locking mechanism or CPA in the unlocked position; Fig. 4b the locking device and the contact layer protection or CPA from Fig. 4a in the restricted area; Fig. 5a to 5c Sectional views through the locking device and the contact layer locking mechanism from the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b along line AA; Fig. 6a to 6c Sectional views through the locking device and the contact layer locking mechanism from the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b along line BB. embodiment(s) of the invention

[0055] In the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. Figure 3 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a connector arrangement 500 according to the invention in a perspective view. The connector arrangement 500 comprises a connector 1 according to an embodiment of the invention and a mating connector 2, which here, by way of example, has a mating connector housing 20, which here is only by way of example designed to be cup-shaped and is configured, for example, to receive the connector 1. The connector 1 is designed for mating with the mating connector 2 along an insertion direction z and has a connector housing 100 and a locking element 200 with, in the example shown, two locking elements 210, which are designed to interact or couple with a counter-locking element 310 of the mating connector 200. The locking element 200 can be elastically and reversibly displaced onto the connector housing 100 perpendicular to the insertion direction z.The locking element 200 is shown here as an example only, but can also be designed differently (e.g., as a locking eyelet, etc.). Furthermore, the connector 1 includes a contact position locking device 400 or CPA, wherein the contact position locking device 400 or CPA has a locking spring 410 and a locking spring 420 (see also ). Fig. 4a to 6c) and can be displaced parallel to the insertion direction z. In addition to the insertion direction z, the following are also present in the Fig. Figure 1 shows a radial direction x and a (further radial) direction y. The x, y, and z directions define a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0056] The locking element(s) 210 and the counter-locking element 310 form the locking means of the connector assembly 500, which prevent the connector assembly from being separated or released when the locking element and counter-locking element are coupled. In the example shown, the locking elements 210 are designed as projections and the counter-locking element 310 as a recess or undercut.

[0057] The 500 connector assembly is in Fig. Figure 1 shows the connector in an unconnected position or a position at the beginning of an insertion process. Specifically, the connector 1 is positioned against the mating connector 2, whereby the connector 1 is displaced in the insertion direction z by applying a force (particularly predominantly or exclusively linear) in the insertion direction z to the connector housing 100 and / or the contact position locking device 400 or CPA. In doing so, the locking elements 210, which are located in Fig. 1. A sloped slope at the bottom (see below). Fig. 5b) exhibit, from the mating connector housing 20 (by a housing strut 21 above the recess serving as a locking element 310) inwards or towards the connector housing 100 (in a radial direction, here: parallel to the x-direction), so that the connector 1 can be inserted into the mating connector 2. As soon as the connector 1 is inserted far enough into the mating connector housing 20 and has reached an insertion or end insertion position which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the locking elements 210 can elastically and reversibly pivot back into the recess 310 (under the housing strut 21) (parallel to the x-direction), thereby creating a locking position. An unplugging operation works in the reverse direction from this point. Accordingly, the locking elements 210 can also be... Fig. 1. A sloped slope at the top (see above). Fig. 5b) which interact or couple with the housing strut 21 or with the upper edge of the recess 310 when unplugging, in order to press the locking elements 210 onto the connector housing 100 (inwards).

[0058] In the insertion position or end insertion position, the locking elements 210 and the counter-locking element 310 are already locked, however the contact position locking device 400 or CPA is located in both Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 in an unlocked position P1 (see Fig. 4a), in which locking and unlocking of the locking elements 210 with and from the counter-locking elements 310 is made possible.

[0059] As is usual with contact layer locks 400 or CPAs, the contact layer lock 400 or CPA in this state of the insertion position or end insertion position (but only now) is moved along the insertion direction z from the unlocking position P1 to a locking position P2 (cf. Fig. 4b) transferable. In the unlocked position P1, the locking spring 420 allows the locking element 200 to move towards the connector housing 100 (in the x-direction) or does not block this movement. In the locked position P2, the locking spring 420 prevents the locking element 200 from moving towards the connector housing 100 (in the x-direction) or blocks this movement.

[0060] The detent spring 410 is made of an engagement position EL (see Fig. 5a) elastically reversible perpendicular to the insertion direction z onto the connector housing 100 to an out-of-engage position AL (see Fig. 5b) movable, wherein the detent spring 410 can be brought into engagement with the detent means 200 in the engagement position EL, and cannot be brought into engagement with the detent means 200 in the disengagement position AL, wherein the contact position locking device 400 can only be moved from the unlocking position P1 to the locking position P2 when the detent spring 410 is in the disengagement position AL.

[0061] How this is implemented or constructively solved in detail is explained below.

[0062] As also shown by the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b, which will be explained further below, leads from the point in Fig. In the state shown in Figure 2 (connector 1 and mating connector 2 in insertion position or end insertion position and contact position locking device 400 or CPA not yet in unlock position P1), further pressure or a further (in particular axial, preferably linear) force is applied to the contact position locking device 400 or CPA to such an extent that it is moved in the insertion direction z into the locked position P2, in which disengagement or release of the locking elements 210 from the mating locking elements 310 (and thus of connector 1 from mating connector 2) is prevented. This is shown in Figure 2. Fig. 3 shown.

[0063] In the Fig. Figures 4a to 6c illustrate the positions of the elements of connector 1 and mating connector 2 that occur during an insertion and removal process, using different perspective and sectional views. Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b Detailed sections of the locking device 200 and the contact layer locking device 400 or CPA are shown. Fig. Figures 5a to 5c show sectional views through the locking device 200 and the contact layer locking device 400 or CPA from the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b along line AA; the Fig. Figures 6a to 6c show corresponding sectional views along line BB.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 200 has two stiles 220 and a locking strut 230 connecting the two stiles 220, the locking strut 230 extending along the y-direction. The contact position locking device 400 or CPA has a base part designed as a bracket 405 (which here extends in the x-direction and crosses or overlaps the connector housing 100) (see Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. 3) and at both ends of the bracket 405 a detent spring 410 and a locking spring 420, which here by way of example run between the two arms 220 of the detent device 200.

[0065] The Fig. 4a and Fig. Figure 4b shows perspective schematic views of a section of the contact layer locking device 400 or CPA in the unlocking position P1 ( Fig. 4a) and in the blocking situation ( Fig. 4b).

[0066] In the Fig. Figures 5a to 6c show the contact layer locking device 400 or CPA in the unlocking position P1. Fig. Figures 1 and 2 show the contact position locking device 400 and CPA, respectively, in the locked position P2. Figures b show an intermediate state in which the detent spring 410 is moved into an out-of-engagement position AL to decouple the detent spring 410 from the detent means 200 and to allow the contact position locking device 400 and CPA to be moved from the unlocked position P1 to the locked position P2 or vice versa.

[0067] The contact layer locking mechanism 400 or CPA is parallel to the insertion direction z between the unlocking position P1, which is in Fig. 4a is shown, and the blocking position P2, which is in Fig. As shown in 4b, it is relocatable. In the unlocked position P1, the contact position locking device 400 or CPA is relative to the locking element 200 opposite to the insertion direction z (in Fig. 4a upwards). In the blocked position P1, the contact position lock 400 or CPA is shifted downwards in the insertion direction z (see Fig. 4b) shifted, whereby it may be provided that the locking strut 230 forms a stop for the detent spring 410.

[0068] The detent spring 410 and the locking spring 420 of the contact position locking device 400 or CPA each extend from a connection area 430, where they are connected to each other, to an end area 440a or 440b, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the end area 440a of the detent spring 410 and the end area 440b of the locking spring 420 are elastically reversible relative to each other perpendicular to the insertion direction z (i.e., radially, here: parallel to the x-direction, e.g., to and from the connector housing 200). In particular, the detent spring 410 can be deflected relative to the locking spring 420, as shown in Fig. 5b is recognizable.

[0069] The locking element 200 can be elastically and reversibly displaced perpendicular to the insertion direction z onto the connector housing 100 (here, for example: parallel to the x-direction), whereby, for example, in Fig. 5b and Fig. Figure 6b shows a first gap 50 with a first distance d1 between the locking element 200 and the connector housing 100, which is reduced when the locking element 200 is moved (towards the connector housing 100, e.g. for disengagement). In particular, the locking element 200 can pivot towards the connector housing 100 until it abuts and the first distance d1 becomes zero.

[0070] In the unlocked position P1 of the contact position locking device 400 or CPA, the locking spring 420 allows the locking element 200 to be displaced onto the connector housing 100, as is particularly evident in the Fig. 5a, Fig. 5b, Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b can be seen, whereas in the locking position P2 the locking spring 420 prevents the locking element 200 from shifting onto the connector housing 100, as is particularly evident in Fig. 6c is recognizable (here, the locking spring 420 is inserted into the first gap 50 with its end section 440b and thus blocks the movement of the locking element 200). In the example shown, this is solved by the fact that the locking spring 420, here with its end section 440b, is arranged in the first gap 50 in the locked position of the contact position lock 400 or CPA, or is moved there, so that it is located between the locking element 200, here specifically the locking bar 230, and the connector housing 100. In other words, when the contact position lock 400 or CPA is in the locked position P2, the locking spring 420 is located between the locking bar 230 of the locking element 200 and the connector housing 100 (see Fig. 6c). When the contact position lock 400 or CPA is in the unlocked position P1, the locking spring 420 is not located between the locking strut 230 and the connector housing 100 (see Fig. 6a) - the first gap 50 is released for pivoting the locking device 200.

[0071] The detent spring 410 is made of an engagement position EL, which is used, for example, in the Fig. As shown in 5a, c, the out-of-intervention situation AL, which is, for example, in Fig. As shown in Figure 5b, the detent spring 410 is displaceable. In the engaged position EL, it can be brought into engagement with the detent element 200, or is engaged, or is coupled. In the disengaged position AL, it cannot be brought into engagement with the detent element 200, or is not engaged, or is not coupled. To move the detent spring 410 between the engaged position EL and the disengaged position AL, it can be moved elastically and reversibly perpendicular to the insertion direction z (i.e., in the x direction or radially) onto the connector housing 100. It can thus be moved into a second gap 60 with a second distance d2 between the detent spring 410 and the connector housing 100 (see Figure 5b). Fig. 5a). By shifting from the intervention position EL to the non-intervention position AL (see transition from Fig. 5a to Fig. 5b) the second distance d2 is reduced, as in Fig. 5b is evident. In particular, the detent spring 410 is not deflected towards the connector housing 100 in the engagement position EL, whereas in the disengaged position AL it is deflected towards the connector housing 100 (“inwards”) (in Fig. 5b to the right) is deflected.

[0072] The detent spring 410 has a push stop 411 which can be coupled or engaged with the detent means 200, more precisely a push / pull strut 240 connecting the two stiles 220 (along the y-direction), or is engaged or coupled when the contact position lock 400 or CPA is in the unlocked position P1, as shown in Fig. 4a, Fig. 5a and Fig. 6a is evident. Furthermore, the push stop 411 cannot be engaged with the detent 200 or is not engaged when the detent spring 410 is in the out-of-engage position AL, as is particularly evident in Fig. 5b and Fig. 6b is evident. When the push stop 411 engages or is coupled with the locking element 200, a force acting on the locking spring 410 in the insertion direction z also acts on the connector housing 100. The push stop 411 is designed as a projection or surface that extends perpendicularly from or projects away from the locking spring 410 (parallel to the x-direction) in order to engage with the push / pull arm 240. The surface faces the mating connector 2.

[0073] The contact position lock 400 or CPA can only be moved from the unlocking position P1 to the locking position P2 (in Fig. 4a downwards) can be displaced when the detent spring 410 is in the out-of-engage position AL. As can be seen in particular from Fig. As can be seen from 5a, the movement of the detent spring 410 in the engagement position EL in the insertion direction z (in the Fig. 4a, Fig. 5a and Fig. 6a downwards) is blocked because the push stop 411 rests on the locking device 200, more precisely its push / pull strut 240.

[0074] Furthermore, the detent spring 410 also has a pull stop 412, which can also be engaged or coupled with the detent device 200 or its push / pull arm 240 when the contact position lock 400 or CPA is in the unlocked position P1, as also shown from Fig. 5a emerges (where in Fig. 5a (no coupling yet exists). There, moving the contact position lock 400 or CPA against the insertion direction z (e.g., when disconnecting connector 1 and mating connector 2) leads to contact between the pull stop 412 and the push / pull strut 240 (this is thereby pressed against its in Fig. 5a lower end mechanically contacted). This allows a force (tensile force) acting on the contact position locking device 400 or CPA and thus on the detent spring 410 against the insertion direction z to be transmitted to the connector housing 100. The pull stop 412 is designed here as a surface or projection that extends perpendicularly from or projects away from the detent spring 410 in order to engage with the push / pull arm 240. The surface of the pull stop 412 faces away from the mating connector 2 (it points in Fig. 5a upwards).

[0075] Especially in the sectional views of the Fig. From 5a to 5c it becomes clear that the pull stop 412 (especially viewed from the connection area 430) is located closer to the end area 440a of the detent spring 410 than the push stop 411.

[0076] The detent spring 410 has a first deflection element 413 which, when force is applied by the counter-detent element 310 opposite to the insertion direction z, deflects the detent spring 410 into the disengaged position AL (i.e., perpendicular to the insertion direction z, here: parallel to the x-direction). In the example shown, the Fig. 4a and Fig. 5a, i.e., in the unlocked position P1 of the contact position locking device 400 or CPA, the first deflection element 413 is arranged behind the locking element 210 in the insertion direction z (looking from the connection area 430 along the insertion direction, the locking element 210 is thus arranged downstream of the first deflection element 413). In other words, when the contact position locking device 400 or CPA is in the unlocked position P1, the locking element 210 is the first to be inserted, followed by the first deflection element 413, which then comes into mechanical contact with the counter-locking element 310.

[0077] Furthermore, the detent spring 410 has a second deflection element 414 which, when force is applied by the detent means 200 or its push / pull strut 240 along the insertion direction z, deflects the detent spring 410 into the out-of-engage position AL (i.e., perpendicular to the insertion direction z, here: parallel to the x-direction).

[0078] An insertion process begins in a state as it is in the Fig. 1, Fig. 4a, Fig. 5a, Fig. 6a is shown.

[0079] By applying pressure to the lever 405 of the contact position locking device 400 or CPA, a force is transmitted via the detent spring 410 and the pressure stop 411 to the push / pull arm 240, which in turn is transmitted via the locking element 200 to the connector housing 100. The entire connector 1 is thereby inserted into the mating connector 2. For example, it is sufficient here to apply a force along only a single direction (the axial direction); thus, it can preferably be a linear force, in particular without a rotational component or curved force trajectories.

[0080] The lower ramps of the locking elements 210 are subjected to a force from the upper side of the mating locking element 310 (or from the housing strut 21) in the opposite direction to the insertion direction z, and are thereby deflected inwards (parallel to the x-direction) towards the connector housing 100. The initial distance d1 is thereby reduced, e.g., until the locking strut 230 rests against the connector housing 100. This clears the path and the connector 1 can be inserted further into the mating connector 2 until the Fig. The state shown in Figure 2 is reached. The locking elements 210 are pivoted back and locked with the counter-locking element 210. The insertion position or end insertion position is reached. In this state, however, the locking device 200 can easily be moved into the first gap 50, so that the locking mechanism is fundamentally releasable.

[0081] Further pressure on the lever 405 of the contact position locking device 400 or CPA results in an interaction between a ramp at the bottom of the first deflection element 413 and the top of the counter-locking element 310. This exerts a force on the first deflection element 413 opposite to the insertion direction z, causing the locking spring 410 to deflect towards the connector housing 100 (parallel to the x-direction). The distance d2 is reduced until both the push stop 411 is released from the push / pull arm 240 and the first deflection element 413 can slide past the counter-locking element 310.

[0082] Further pressure on the lever 405 causes the contact position locking device 400 or CPA to be displaced downwards relative to the connector housing 100 until the first deflection element 413 also pivots out below the undercut of the counter-locking element 310 or below the housing strut 21. This process is described in the Fig. 5b and Fig. 5c shown.

[0083] Simultaneously with the detent spring 410, the locking spring 420 is pushed downwards, whereby the end section 440b of the locking spring 440 dips into the first gap 50 between the locking strut 230 and the connector housing 100. This secures the detent connection, as the locking strut 230 and thus the detent element 200 can no longer be pivoted towards the connector housing 100.

[0084] During an unplugging operation, the lever 405 of the contact position locking device 400 or CPA is pulled against the insertion direction z, whereby a ramp at the top of the second deflection element 414 runs against the push / pull arm 240 and is deflected inwards towards the connector housing 100. This allows the first deflection element 413 to engage the counter-locking element 310 and the second deflection element 414 to engage the push / pull arm 240 (in the Fig. 1 to 6c: upwards) are guided past each other (contrary to the insertion direction z). Once the aforementioned elements have passed each other, the detent spring 410 pivots back into the engagement position EL, as shown in particular in Fig. 4a, Fig. 5a, and Fig. 6a shown.

[0085] Pulling the lever 405 further moves the contact position locking device 400 or CPA further upwards until the pull stop 412 abuts the push / pull arm 240 at the bottom. A further pulling force on the lever 405 is transmitted via the pull stop 412 and the push / pull arm 240 to the locking element 200 and the connector housing 100 (not shown here). The locking element 200 can now be disengaged. For this to occur, the upper ramp of the locking element 210 runs onto the counter-locking element 310 and is thereby pivoted inwards (parallel to the x-direction). The pivoting path in the first gap 50 is now open, as the locking spring 420, together with the detent spring 410, has been moved upwards. Thus, with further pulling, the connector 1 is pulled out of the mating connector 2.

[0086] The invention provides a secure yet easy-to-use plug connection with protection via a CPA.

Claims

[1] Connector (1) for mating with a mating connector (2) along an insertion direction (z), the connector (1) having - one connector housing (100), - a locking device (200) with a locking element (210) for coupling with a counter-locking element (310) of the mating connector (2), - a contact layer protection (400), wherein the locking element (200) is elastically reversible to be displaced perpendicular to the insertion direction (z) onto the connector housing (100), wherein the contact position locking element (400) has a locking spring (410) and a locking spring (420) and is displaceable parallel to the insertion direction (z) between -- an unlocking position (P1) in which the locking spring (420) allows the locking element (200) to be displaced onto the connector housing (100), and -- a locking position (P2) in which the locking spring (420) prevents the locking element (200) from being displaced onto the connector housing (100), wherein the locking spring (410) can be elastically reversibly displaced from an engagement position (EL) perpendicular to the insertion direction (z) onto the connector housing (100) into an out-of-engage position (AL), wherein the detent spring (410) can be brought into engagement with the detent means (200) in the engagement position (EL), and in the out-of-engage position (AL) cannot be engaged with the locking device (200), wherein the contact position locking device (400) can only be moved from the unlocking position (P1) to the locking position (P2) when the detent spring (410) is in the out-of-engage position (AL). [2] Connectors according to claim 1, wherein the locking means (200) has at least one spar (220) and a locking strut (230) projecting from the at least one spar (220), in particular transversely and / or parallel to the connector housing (100), wherein the locking spring (420) is located between the locking strut (230) and the connector housing (100) when the contact position locking (400) is in the locking position (P2), and wherein the locking spring (420) is not located between the locking strut (230) and the connector housing (100) when the contact position lock (400) is in the unlocked position (P1). [3] Connectors according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the detent spring (410) and the locking spring (420) each extend from a connection area (430) in which they are connected to each other to an end area (440a, 440b) in which they are not connected to each other. [4] Connector according to claim 3, wherein the end region (440a) of the detent spring (410) and the end region (440b) of the locking spring (420) are elastically reversible relative to each other perpendicular to the insertion direction (z). [5] Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the detent spring (410) has a push stop (411) which can be engaged with the detent means (200) when the contact position lock (400) is in the unlocked position (P1), and which cannot be engaged with the detent means (200) when the detent spring (410) is in the out-of-engage position (AL). [6] Connector according to claim 5, wherein a force acting on the detent spring (410) in the insertion direction (z) acts on the connector housing (100) when the push stop (411) is engaged with the detent means (200). [7] Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the detent spring (410) has a pull stop (412) which can be engaged with the detent means (200) when the contact position lock (400) is in the unlocked position (P1). [8] Connector according to claim 7, wherein a force acting on the detent spring (410) against the insertion direction (z) acts on the connector housing (100) when the pull stop (412) is engaged with the detent means (200). [9] Connectors according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the locking means (200) has a push / pull strut (240) projecting from at least one spar (220), in particular transversely and / or parallel to the connector housing (100), wherein the push stop (411) or the pull stop (412) is engaged with the push / pull strut (240) when the push stop (411) or the pull stop (412) is engaged with the locking device (200). [10] Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking spring (410) has a first deflection element (413) which, when force is applied against the insertion direction (z), deflects the locking spring (410) into the out-of-engage position (AL). [11] Connector according to claim 10, wherein the first deflection element (413) is arranged behind the locking element (210) in the insertion direction (z) when the contact position lock (400) is in the unlocked position (P1). [12] Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking spring (410) has a second deflection element (414) which, when force is applied along the insertion direction (z), deflects the locking spring (410) into the out-of-engage position (AL). [13] Connector according to a combination of claim 12 with one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the first deflection element (413) is arranged in the insertion direction (z) in front of the second deflection element (414). [14] Connector arrangement (500) comprising a connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims and a mating connector (2), the mating connector (2) having a locking element (310) which is in particular configured for coupling with the locking element (210). [15] Method for producing a plug connection with a plug connector arrangement (500) according to claim 14, comprising the steps: -- Attaching the connector (1) to the mating connector (2), -- Applying a force in the insertion direction (z) to the connector housing (100) and / or the contact position locking mechanism (400), thereby displacing the connector (1) in the insertion direction (z) until it reaches an insertion position, -- Applying a force in the insertion direction (z) to the contact position locking device (400), thereby moving the contact position locking device (400) into the locking position (P2).

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