Test plug system

Abstract

In a test plug system (1) comprising an operating part (2) and a test plug (3), a closure element (22) is arranged captively on the operating part (2) and is movable on the operating part (2) between a first position in which the closure element (22) covers a first plug-in section (21) of the operating part (2), and a second position in which the closure element (22) releases the first plug-in section (21) for plugging into a second plug-in section (31) of the test plug (3).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a test plug system according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Such a test plug system comprises an operating unit that can be connected to a first electrical connection line for connecting a sensor device and to a second electrical connection line for connecting to a protective device. The operating unit has a first plug section, a first connection assembly associated with the first electrical connection line, and a second connection assembly associated with the second electrical connection line. The first connection assembly has an arrangement of first contact elements, and the second connection assembly has an arrangement of second contact elements. In an operating position for electrically connecting the first and second electrical connection lines, the first and second contact elements make electrical contact with each other.

[0003] The test plug system also includes a test plug that has a second plug section which can be connected to the first plug section of the operating unit. In the operating position, the test plug is not connected to the operating unit. In a test position, however, the test plug is connected to the operating unit. The test plug has a third plug section which can be connected to the first plug section and / or a fourth plug section which can be connected to the second plug section for connecting the test plug to at least one test device. The test plug also has a disconnecting device which is designed to electrically disconnect the first contact elements of the first plug section of the operating unit and the second contact elements of the second plug section of the operating unit from each other in the test position.

[0004] Such a test plug system is used, for example, in the energy supply sector, such as on an energy supply network or on other electrical supply lines, for example connected to an energy generator.

[0005] In the energy supply sector, for example, it is planned to use a sensor device to detect currents and voltages on supply lines and to transmit measurement signals to a protective device for monitoring purposes. To test the correct function of the protective device and / or the sensor device, a test plug system is integrated into an arrangement of connecting cables between the sensor device and the protective device. During normal operation, signals are transmitted from the sensor device to the protective device via the test plug system, corresponding to the operating position of the test plug system. In contrast, during testing, corresponding to the test position when the test plug is connected to the operating unit, the connection between the sensor device and the protective device is interrupted. This allows for testing the function of the sensor device and / or the protective device using one or more test instruments connected to the test plug.

[0006] In a test plug system known from EP 3 229 034 B1, a test plug can be connected to an operating unit. When the test plug is plugged into the operating unit, the plug contacts on the test plug make contact with corresponding plug contacts on the operating unit, whereby plugging the test plug into the operating unit causes a separation of contact elements on the operating unit side, thus interrupting an electrical connection between lines connected to the operating unit.

[0007] In the EP 3 229 034 B1 test plug system, a protective cover is connected to the operating unit in one operating position. This protective cover is removed to connect the test plug to the operating unit.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a test plug system that, with a simple design, enables convenient and electrically reliable handling.

[0009] This problem is solved by an object having the features of claim 1.

[0010] Accordingly, the operating unit has a locking element that is captive and is arranged on the operating unit and is movable between a first position in which the locking element covers the first plug section and a second position in which the locking element releases the first plug section for plugging in connection with the second plug section of the test plug.

[0011] The operating unit can be connected to a sensor device via a first electrical connection cable and to a protective device via a second electrical connection cable. In its operational position, the operating unit is arranged in a connection path between the sensor device and the protective device. In this operating position, an electrical connection is established between the first and second connection cables via the first and second connection modules of the operating unit, thus allowing signals from the sensor device to be transmitted to the protective device.

[0012] For this purpose, the first connection assembly and the second connection assembly have contact elements that electrically contact each other in the operating position, so that an electrical connection is established between the connection assemblies and the connecting lines connected to the connection assemblies.

[0013] The operating unit has a first plug-in section through which the test plug can be connected to the operating unit. To establish this connection, a second plug-in section of the test plug is inserted into the first plug-in section of the operating unit, thus creating a plug-in connection. The first plug-in contacts of the operating unit are preferably located in the area of ​​the first plug-in section, and the second plug-in contacts of the test plug are preferably located in the area of ​​the second plug-in section, so that by plugging the test plug into the operating unit, an electrical connection can be established between the terminal assemblies of the test plug and the operating unit.

[0014] The locking element attached to the operating unit covers the first plug section of the operating unit in a first position, protecting it from dirt and external damage. From this first position, the locking element can be moved out and into a second position, in which the first plug section is released, allowing the test plug to be connected.

[0015] The locking element is permanently attached to the operating unit. When the test plug is not connected to the operating unit, the locking element, in its first position, covers and protects the first plug section and any plug contacts located within it. When the test plug is connected to the operating unit, the locking element remains attached and cannot be lost. Therefore, after disconnecting the test plug, the locking element can easily be returned to its first position to cover the first plug section.

[0016] In one embodiment, the operating component has a housing. The locking element is movably connected to the housing. For example, the locking element can be slidably or pivotably connected to the housing. The locking element is thus, for instance, slidably mounted on the housing and can be moved between the first and second positions. Alternatively, the locking element can be pivotally mounted on the housing and can therefore be pivoted relative to the housing to switch between the first and second positions.

[0017] In one embodiment, the locking element is, for example, spring-loaded relative to the housing, preferably in the direction of the first position, so that the locking element is automatically returned to the first position when the test plug is disconnected from the operating part.

[0018] In one embodiment, the locking element can be locked in both positions via detent points, which provide a defined positioning of the locking element in the respective position.

[0019] In one embodiment, the operating unit comprises a first housing part, which has a trough shape bounded by a base and side walls and encloses the first and second connection assemblies. The first housing part thus constitutes a housing for the first and second connection assemblies and accommodates them within its interior. The first and second connection lines can be connected to the first and second connection assemblies, respectively, within the interior of the first housing part, thereby establishing electrical contact between the connection lines and the connection assemblies inside the first housing part.

[0020] In one embodiment, the operating unit has a second housing part that is connected to the first housing part and forms the first plug-in section. The housing of the operating unit is thus designed in two parts. The second housing part is connected to the first housing part and completes the housing of the operating unit. In particular, the second housing part can close the trough-shaped first housing part towards the test plug and thereby form an interface for connecting the test plug to the operating unit, by arranging the first plug-in section on the second housing part and, for example, by placing plug contacts of the operating unit's connection modules in the area of ​​the second housing part.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first housing part is formed in one piece. This first housing part, which forms a trough shape, is thus manufactured from a single piece, resulting in simple production and assembly. For assembly, the connection modules are placed in the interior enclosed by the trough-shaped first housing part, and the housing is completed by joining the second housing part to the first.

[0022] For example, the first housing part can be made of an (electrically conductive) metal material or a plastic material coated with an (electrically conductive) metal material. An electrically conductive coating can, for example, be applied to an outer surface of the first housing part. Additionally or alternatively, the second housing part can be made of an (electrically conductive) metal material or a plastic material coated with an (electrically conductive) metal material.By providing electrical conductivity on the first housing part and / or the second housing part, electrical shielding can be provided on the housing of the operating unit, whereby electrical components enclosed inside the housing of the operating unit are shielded from electromagnetic fields in the manner of a Faraday cage, and thus the risk of interference with signals on the operating unit is at least reduced.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first housing part is connected to a grounding conductor. For this purpose, the first housing part can, for example, have a screw point to which the grounding conductor can be screwed with an attached cable lug. By attaching the grounding conductor, the housing of the operating unit is integrated into a grounding system and can thus provide electromagnetic shielding for electrical components enclosed within the operating unit, in particular components of the connection assemblies.

[0024] In one embodiment, the operating unit has a first connection, to which the first electrical connection cable can be connected, and a second connection, to which the second electrical connection cable can be connected. In its normal operating position, the first and second connection cables are connected to the operating unit and thus electrically connected to the operating unit's connection modules. The first electrical connection cable, and subsequently the sensor device, is connected via the first connection. The second connection cable, and subsequently the protective device, is connected via the second connection.

[0025] The first connection and the second connection can each be designed using a connector, in particular a multi-contact connector, for example an RJ45 connector.

[0026] In another embodiment, the first and second connections can also be formed, for example, by a cable gland through which the respective connecting cable can be inserted into the operating unit and screwed to the housing of the operating unit for strain relief. When a cable gland is provided, the conductors of the respective connecting cable are, for example, directly connected to the corresponding terminal assembly.

[0027] In one embodiment, the test plug has a third connection assigned to the third connection module for connecting to a first test device and / or a fourth connection assigned to the fourth module for connecting to a second test device. If both a third and a fourth connection module are provided on the test plug, then, in an operational position, for example, a first test device and a second test device are connected to the test plug and, in the test position, are connected to the sensor device via the first connection module and the sensor device via the first connecting cable, or to the protective device via the second connection module and the protective device via the second connecting cable.

[0028] For example, in one embodiment, the third connection can be configured using an arrangement of sockets for single conductors. The fourth connection, on the other hand, can be configured using a multi-contact connector, such as an RJ45 connector.

[0029] In one embodiment, the third connection assembly is configured to electrically contact the first connection assembly when the test plug is inserted into the operating unit, before the disconnecting device electrically separates the first and second contact elements from each other. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth connection assembly can be configured to electrically contact the second connection assembly when the test plug is inserted into the operating unit, before the disconnecting device electrically separates the first and second contact elements from each other. Thus, when the test plug is inserted, a connection between the connection assemblies is established before the test plug's disconnecting device electrically separates the contact elements of the connection assemblies on the operating unit side.This so-called "make-before-break" operating mode allows, for example, a test signal to be injected into the test plug via a connected test device before the connection of the terminal blocks on the operating unit is broken by the disconnecting device. This prevents, for instance, a protective device connected to the operating unit via the second connection line from switching to fault mode when the test plug is connected to the operating unit, because the protective device may no longer be receiving a signal from the sensor device.

[0030] In one embodiment, the operating unit can be connected to a wall, for example of a control cabinet, without tools. Such tool-free assembly enables particularly easy handling of the test plug system, especially since the operating unit can be mounted in or on a control cabinet without tools.

[0031] To enable such tool-free assembly, the operating component can, for example, have an elastically movable locking element designed to lock the operating component against a wall. The locking element can, for example, be arranged on the first housing part of the operating component and elastically pre-tensioned relative to the first housing part by a spring element. The locking element is guided on the first housing part and can be moved along it, so that when the operating component is placed against a corresponding wall, the locking element can elastically deflect and, in an engaged position, snap elastically into a position in which the operating component is secured to the wall by the locking element.

[0032] In one embodiment, the operating component has a housing flange for contact with the wall. The elastically movable locking element is arranged relative to the housing flange in such a way that the wall between the housing flange and the locking element is engaged when the operating component is placed against the wall. In the assembled position, the wall forms an intermediate layer between the locking element and the housing flange, thus securing the operating component to the wall.

[0033] The locking element can, for example, have a ramp formed that is designed in such a way that when the operating part is inserted, for example into a wall opening on the wall, the locking element can run up against the wall and be deflected elastically, in order to then, after the locking element has passed the wall, snap into a locking position and thus fix the operating part relative to the wall.

[0034] The locking element can, for example, be arranged on one side of the first housing part of the operating unit. On a second, opposite side of the first housing part of the operating unit, a fixed undercut section can be formed. In this case, assembly is achieved by inserting the operating unit into a wall opening, positioning the fixed undercut section against the wall, and then engaging the locking element with, for example, a rim surrounding the wall opening.

[0035] The locking mechanism via the locking element can be designed to be self-locking, so that the locking mechanism via the locking element cannot release itself when force is applied to the operating part.

[0036] To further secure the assembly, the locking element can be secured in a locking position, for example by means of a fastening element, such as a screw element, so that the operating part cannot be easily removed from the wall after assembly, at least not without loosening the fastening element.

[0037] In one embodiment, the first connection assembly has a first arrangement of terminals for connecting the first electrical conductors to the first connecting cable. The second connection assembly also has a second arrangement of terminals for connecting the second electrical conductors to the second connecting cable. Thus, during assembly of the operating unit, an electrical connection between the first connection assembly and its associated first connecting cable, and between the second connection assembly and its associated second connecting cable, can be established via terminals. The conductors connect the terminals to an associated terminal, for example, a connector.Alternatively, conductors of the first connecting line or conductors of the second connecting line can be connected directly to the connection assemblies via the terminal blocks.

[0038] Such a terminal block can be designed, for example, by a spring-loaded connection, a screw connection, a pusher connection, a bolt connection or another terminal device with which a conductor can be connected and electrically contacted, for example, with a current bar.

[0039] In one embodiment, the terminals of the first terminal assembly each have a first current bar and a first spring element for electrically contacting a first conductor with the first current bar. Furthermore, the terminals of the second terminal assembly each have a second current bar and a second spring element for electrically contacting a second conductor with the second current bar. The respective spring element can be elastically deflected to connect a conductor and, in the connected position, clamps the conductor to the associated current bar, thus electrically contacting the conductor and mechanically locking it to the terminal. An actuating element can optionally move the spring element from a clamping position to a release position, thereby disconnecting a connected conductor from the respective terminal.

[0040] The use of such terminal blocks results in a simple connection process for connecting electrical conductors for the purpose of assembling and configuring the operating unit.

[0041] In one embodiment, a first contact element is connected to each first current bar, and a second contact element is connected to each second current bar. The contact elements of the first and second connection assemblies are in contact with each other in the operating position, thus electrically connecting the current bars of the terminals of the first and second connection assemblies, allowing electrical signals to be transmitted between them. When the test plug is connected, the contact elements are separated, thus breaking the electrical connection between the connection assemblies at the operating point and disconnecting the current bars of the terminals of the first and second connection assemblies.

[0042] In one embodiment, the terminals of the first and second connection modules have plug-in contacts for connecting to second plug-in contacts of the third and / or fourth connection modules when the test plug is connected to the operating unit. The first plug-in contacts are, for example, integrally formed on the current bars of the first and second connection modules and can be designed, for example, as contact sockets or contact pins.When the test plug is connected to the operating unit, the assigned second plug contacts of the test plug engage with the first plug contacts of the connection modules of the operating unit and thus make electrical contact with the first plug contacts, so that an electrical connection is established between the connection modules of the test plug and the connection modules of the operating unit and thus a first test device is connected to the first connecting cable and via that to the sensor device and a second test device is connected to the second connecting cable and via that to the protective device.

[0043] In one embodiment, the operating unit comprises a plurality of first disk modules arranged in a row along a single direction. Each first disk module has one terminal of the first connection assembly and one terminal of the second connection assembly. Because the connection assemblies are modularly designed with disk modules, the operating unit's connection assemblies can be scaled modularly. If more or fewer terminals are required on the operating unit, the number of disk modules with their attached terminals can be adjusted accordingly. This results in a simple, modular, scalable arrangement of connection assemblies on the operating unit with variable adjustability of the number of poles.

[0044] In one embodiment, the third connection assembly has a third arrangement of terminals for connecting third electrical conductors to electrically connect the third connection assembly to a first test device. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth connection assembly has a fourth arrangement of terminals for connecting fourth electrical conductors to electrically connect the fourth connection assembly to a second test device. An electrical connection between the third connection assembly and the first test device and / or between the fourth connection assembly and the second test device can thus be established via terminals during the assembly of the operating unit. The conductors connect the respective connection assembly, for example, to an associated terminal, such as a multi-contact connector (e.g., an RJ45 connector) or an arrangement of sockets.

[0045] On the side of the test plug, the respective terminal can also be designed, for example, by a spring-loaded terminal, a screw terminal, a pusher terminal, a bolt terminal or another terminal device with which a conductor can be connected and electrically contacted, for example, with a current bar.

[0046] The terminals of the operating unit and the test plug can be of the same type or of different types.

[0047] In one embodiment, the terminals of the third connection assembly each have a third current bar and a third spring element for electrically contacting a third conductor with the third current bar. Additionally or alternatively, the terminals of the fourth connection assembly each have a fourth current bar and a fourth spring element for electrically contacting a fourth conductor with the fourth current bar. The respective spring element can be elastically deflected to connect a conductor and, in the connected position, clamps the conductor to the associated current bar, thus electrically contacting the conductor and mechanically locking it to the terminal. An actuating element can optionally move the spring element from a clamping position to a release position, thereby disconnecting a connected conductor from the respective terminal.

[0048] Using such terminal blocks results in a simple connection process for connecting electrical conductors for the purpose of mounting and configuring the test plug.

[0049] In one embodiment, the test plug comprises a plurality of second disk modules arranged in a linear direction, with each second disk module having a terminal of the third terminal assembly and / or a terminal of the fourth terminal assembly. If more or fewer terminals are required on the test plug, the number of disk modules with their terminals can be adjusted accordingly. This results in a simple, modular, scalable arrangement of terminal assemblies on the test plug with variable adjustability of the number of poles.

[0050] In one embodiment, the terminals of the third and / or fourth connection modules have a second plug-in contact for connecting to the first plug-in contacts of the first and / or second connection modules when the test plug is connected to the operating unit. The second plug-in contacts are, for example, integrally formed on the current bars of the third and fourth connection modules and can be designed, for example, as contact sockets or contact pins.When the test plug is connected to the operating unit, the second plug contacts of the test plug engage with the first plug contacts of the connection modules of the operating unit and thus make electrical contact with the first plug contacts, so that an electrical connection is established between the associated connection modules of the test plug and the connection modules of the operating unit and thus a first test device is connected to the first connecting cable and via that to the sensor device and a second test device is connected to the second connecting cable and via that to the protective device.

[0051] In one embodiment, the disconnecting device is formed by a plurality of disconnecting pins. The disconnecting pins protrude, for example, from the second plug section of the test plug and, when the test plug is connected to the operating unit, engage with corresponding engagement openings on the first plug section of the operating unit, thereby acting on the first and second contact elements of the first and second connection assemblies on the operating unit to separate them.

[0052] Each pair of a first contact element and a second contact element can, for example, be assigned a separating mandrel.

[0053] In one embodiment, the operating unit features a sealing device for securing the locking element in the first position. For example, a first sealing element can be formed on the locking element and a second sealing element on the second housing part of the operating unit. Each sealing element has an opening through which, for example, a sealing wire can be inserted, allowing the locking element to be sealed to the housing of the operating unit. Opening the locking element thus requires releasing the sealing wire and is therefore detectable and traceable.

[0054] In one embodiment, the test plug has at least one locking element for latching to the operating part in the test position. For example, two locking elements can be arranged on the test plug, by means of which the test plug can latch to the operating part in the test position, so that the test plug is locked to the operating part in the test position and cannot be easily removed from the operating part, at least not without releasing the latch.

[0055] In one embodiment, at least one locking element is elastically deflectable relative to a housing part of the test plug. For example, at least one locking element can be integrally formed with at least one locking element. When the test plug is connected to the operating unit, the locking element engages with an associated locking section on the operating unit, thus creating a latching connection between the plug and the operating unit. The latch can be released, for example, by manually deflecting at least one locking element, in order to detach the test plug from the operating unit.

[0056] The underlying concept of the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. The figures show: Fig. 1 showing a view of a test plug system, an operating unit and a test plug to be connected to the operating unit; Fig. 2 a view of the operating area; Fig. 3 another view of the operating section with the test plug attached to it; Fig. 4 A view of the test plug system with the test plug connected to the operating unit; Fig. 5 a sectional view along line II according to Fig. 1; Fig. 6 a sectional view along line II-II according to Fig. 4; Fig. 7 an enlarged view of a section of the view according to Fig. 6; Fig. 8 a view of a first housing part of the operating section; Fig. 9 a sectional view through the first housing part; Fig. 10 the sectional view according to Fig. 9 in a perspective view; Fig. 11 the operating part in a mounted position on a wall; Fig. 12 a different view of the order according to Fig. 11; Fig. 13 a sectional view along line BB according to Fig. 12; Fig. 14 a sectional view along line CC according to Fig. 12; Fig. 15 a perspective representation of the section view according to Fig. 14; Fig. 16 a sectional view along line DD according to Fig. 12; Fig. 17 an enlarged representation in section C1 according to Fig. 16; Fig. 18 an enlarged representation in section C2 according to Fig. 16; Fig. 19 a view of another embodiment of an operating part of a test plug system; Fig. 20 a view of yet another embodiment of an operating part of a test plug system; Fig. 21 a view of the operational area according to Fig. 20, with a locking element in an open, second position; Fig. 22 a view of an embodiment of an operating part, with a sealing device for sealing a closure element; Fig. 23 an enlarged view in section C3 according to Fig. 22; Fig. 24 a view of an exemplary embodiment of a part of the operation; Fig. 25 a view of an embodiment of an operating part, with an earthing conductor connected to a first housing part; Fig. 26 a view of an arrangement of disk modules joined together to create connection assemblies of the operating unit and the test plug; Fig. 27 a view of an embodiment of a test plug on an operating part; Fig. 28 a sectional view along line EE according to Fig. 27; Fig. 29 a view of an embodiment of a test plug on an operating unit; Fig. 30 a sectional view along line FF according to Fig. 29; Fig. 31 a view of an embodiment of a test plug system comprising a test plug and an operating unit; Fig. 32 a top view of the arrangement according to Fig. 31; Fig. 33 a sectional view along line GG according to Fig. 32; Fig. 34 the sectional view according to Fig. 33, in the case of locking elements actuated for unlocking; and Fig. 35 A schematic view of a test plug system arranged in a connection path between a sensor device and a protection device.

[0057] Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a test plug system 1, which has an operating unit 2 and a test plug 3 that can be plugged into the operating unit 2 along a plugging direction X.

[0058] As shown schematically in Fig. As shown in Figure 35, the test plug system 1 is designed to enable testing of the functionality of the sensor 5 and the protective device 6 in a connection path between the sensor 5 and the protective device 6. The sensor 5 serves, for example, to detect current and voltage on an arrangement of electrical conductors 4, such as electrical supply lines in a power supply system. The sensor 5 is connected to the operating section 2 of the test plug system 1 via a first connecting line 50. A protective device 6 is also connected to the operating section 2 via a second connecting line 60.In an operating position where the test plug 3 is not connected to the operating unit 2, signals from the sensor device 5 on the operating unit 2 are transmitted to the protective device 6, enabling monitoring and, if necessary, control by the protective device 6. In a test position where the test plug 3 is connected to the operating unit 2, the connection path on the operating unit 2 is electrically interrupted, allowing the functionality of the sensor device 5 and / or the protective device 6 to be tested via test devices 90 and 91 connected to the test plug 3.

[0059] As this is shown Fig. As can be seen in Figures 1 to 4, the operating unit 2 has a first, lower housing part 20 and a second, upper housing part 23. The housing parts 20 and 23 are connected to each other to create a housing and enclose, as shown in the sectional views according to Fig. 5 to 7, inside their connection assemblies 26, 27, to which the connecting lines 50, 60 are electrically connected.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, a locking element 22 is arranged to be displaceable on the housing part 23 along an actuation direction B on a sliding track 201.

[0061] The locking element 22 covers in a first position, as shown in Fig. 1, a plug section 21 on the housing part 23 to the outside, so that the ingress of dirt and damage to the plug section 21 is prevented.

[0062] To connect the test plug 3 to the operating unit 2, the locking element 22 can be moved from the first position to a position that is Fig. 2 shown, second position is transferred and moved on the housing part 23 so that the plug section 21 is released and the test plug 3 can be connected to the operating part 20 by plugging in a plug section 31 formed on a housing part 30 along the plug direction X.

[0063] As this is shown Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, plug-in openings 210, 211 are formed on the plug-in section 21 of the operating unit 20, which are assigned to plug-in contacts of the connection modules 26, 27. Between each pair of plug-in openings 210, 211, an engagement opening 212 is formed, through which separating pins of a disconnecting device 310 of the test plug 3 can be inserted to effect electrical isolation of the connection modules 26, 27 on the side of the operating unit 2.

[0064] As this is shown Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, in the illustrated embodiment, two connections 24 and 25 in the form of connectors, namely multi-contact connectors in the form of RJ45 plugs, are arranged on the side of the operating unit. The first line 50 can be connected to the sensor device 5 via connection 24. The second line 60, on the other hand, can be connected to the protective device 6 via connection 25.

[0065] As this is shown Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the test plug has three terminals 32 and 33 for connecting to the test devices 90 and 91. Terminal 32 is configured with sockets for connection to the test device 90, so that the test device 90 can be connected to the sensor unit 5 via the sockets 32 when the test plug 3 is plugged into the operating unit 2. In contrast, terminal 33 in the illustrated embodiment is configured with a multi-contact connector, namely an RJ45 connector.

[0066] Fig. Figure 5 shows the operating section 2 along a sectional view along line II according to Fig. 1. The position of the cutting plane corresponds to line II according to Fig. 2. Fig. Figure 7, in contrast, shows a sectional view along line II-II according to Fig. 4 with test plug 3 connected to the operating unit 2.

[0067] Operating section 2 has a first connection assembly 26 with a plurality of terminals in the form of spring-loaded connections, which are connected via electrical conductors 240 to the first terminal 24 and, in the operating position, to the first connecting line 50 and thus to the sensor device 5. Operating section 2 also has a second connection assembly 27 with a plurality of terminals, which are connected via conductors 250 to the second terminal 25 and, in the operating position, to the second connecting line 60 and thus to the protective device 6. The conductors 240 and 250 are each connected to terminal arrangements 280 on a printed circuit board 28 and, via the printed circuit board 28 and conductor tracks arranged thereon, to the associated terminals 24 and 25.

[0068] Each terminal block has a current bar 260, 270, a spring element 261, 271 and an actuating element 262, 272. The conductors 240, 250 are connected to the respective terminal block 26, 27 via the terminal blocks, so that the terminals 24, 25 are electrically connected to the terminal blocks 26, 27.

[0069] The terminals of the first terminal assembly 26 each have a contact element 263 formed on the current bar 260 of the respective terminal. The terminals of the second terminal assembly 27 each have a contact element 273 formed on the current bar 270 of the respective terminal. In an operating position, with the test plug 3 not connected, the contact elements 263 and 273 contact each other in pairs via system sections 264 and 274, such that one terminal of terminal assembly 26 and one terminal of terminal assembly 27, and above them a pair of associated conductors 240 and 250, are contacted via the contact elements 263 and 273, thus connecting one pole of terminal 24 and one pole of terminal 25.

[0070] If the test plug 3 is plugged into the operating unit 2 along the plugging direction X, as shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6, a separating mandrel of a separating device 310 is pushed between each pair of contact elements 263, 273, so that the contact elements 263, 273 are electrically separated from each other, as shown in Figure 6. Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 can be seen. When plugged in, the separating pin runs onto the convexly shaped contact sections 264, 274 and thus enters an intermediate position between the contact sections 264, 274, so that the electrical contact between the contact elements 263, 273 is broken, as can be seen from Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 is evident.

[0071] Each terminal block of the connection assembly 26 and the connection assembly 27 also has a plug contact 265, 275 in the form of a contact socket, as can be seen, for example, from the sectional views according to Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 can be seen. Each plug contact 265, 275 is arranged in alignment with a respective associated plug opening 210, 211 on the plug section 21 of the housing part 23.

[0072] As this is shown Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6, the test plug 3, enclosed in a housing part 30, has connection modules 36, 37 which – analogous to the connection modules 26, 27 – each have a current bar 360, 370, a spring element 361, 371 and an actuating element 362, 372. The sockets 32 are connected to the connection modules 36 via conductor 320. In contrast, the poles of the connector 33 in the form of an RJ45 plug are connected to the connection module 37 via conductor 330.

[0073] On the current bar 360, 370 of each terminal block of the connection assemblies 36, 37, a plug contact 363, 373 is formed in the form of a contact pin, as can be seen from the sectional views according to Fig. 18, Fig. 28 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 30. When the test plug 3 is connected to the operating unit 2 in the direction of insertion X, the plug contacts 363, 373 of the terminals of the connection modules 36, 37 of the test plug 3 engage with the plug contacts 265, 275 of the connection modules 26, 27 of the operating unit 2 and thus make contact with the connection modules 26, 27, so that the first test device 90 is connected at the first terminal 32 to the sensor device 5 at terminal 24 and the second test device 91 is connected at terminal 33 to the protective device 6 at terminal 25.

[0074] Because the connection modules 26, 27 are electrically decoupled from each other by separating the contact elements 263, 273, and because the connection modules 36, 37 electrically contact the associated connection modules 26, 27 when the test plug 3 is inserted, the terminal 32 is electrically connected to the terminal 24 and the terminal 33 is electrically connected to the terminal 25 with the correct polarity.

[0075] As this is shown Fig. As can be seen in Figures 8 to 10, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing part 20 of the operating unit 2 is formed in one piece and has a trough shape bounded by a base 200A and side walls 200B. The connections 24, 25 are arranged on the base 200A. The connection assemblies 26, 27 and the circuit board 28 are accommodated in an interior space 200 enclosed by the housing part 20.

[0076] For example, the housing part 20 can be made of a metal material.

[0077] If electromagnetic shielding is to be provided for the operating unit 2, the housing part 20 can, for example, be made of a metal material or of a plastic material coated with a metal material in order to provide electrical shielding for the assemblies in the interior 200 of the housing part 20 due to its electrical conductivity. To complete the electromagnetic shielding, the housing part 23 and / or the closure element 24 are advantageously also made of a metal material or of a metal-coated plastic material, so that an enclosure for electrical components inside the operating unit 2 and thus electromagnetic shielding is provided by providing a closed Faraday cage.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the operating part 2 can be mounted on a wall 7 without tools. For this purpose, fixed undercut sections 202 are formed on one side of the housing part 20. On another, opposite side of the housing part 20, a locking element 204 is arranged, which is received in a guide opening 203 on the housing part 20, as can be seen from the sectional views according to the figure. Fig. As can be seen from 14 to 17. The locking element 204 is elastically pre-tensioned relative to the housing part 20 via a spring element 206.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the locking element 204 has a ramp. When the operating part 2 is inserted into a wall opening of a wall 7 to mount the operating part 2 to the wall 7, the undercut sections 202 are first brought into engagement with an edge bounding the wall opening, and then the locking element 204 is snapped onto the wall 7. If, for this purpose, the locking element 204 is positioned against an edge section bounding the wall opening, the locking element 204 runs onto the edge section and is pushed aside until, after passing the edge section, the locking element 204 snaps into engagement with it, as shown in the illustration. Fig. As can be seen from Figures 14 to 17. Due to the elastic preload of the spring element 206, the locking element 204 enters a locking position in which the wall 7 assumes an intermediate position between the locking element 204 and the housing flange 205, and the operating part 2 is thus fixed to the wall 7.

[0080] As an additional measure, the locking element 204 can be locked in the locking position by a fastening element 207, for example in the form of a screw, in order to prevent the operating part 2 from unintentionally detaching from the wall 7.

[0081] As can be seen from the sectional view according to Fig. As can be seen in Figure 18, each terminal of the connection assembly 36 of the test plug 3 has a plug contact 363, and each terminal of the connection assembly 37 has a plug contact 373. When the test plug 3 is plugged into the operating unit 2, plug contacts 363 and 373 connect to the corresponding plug contacts 265 and 275 of the connection assemblies 26 and 27, respectively, so that the terminals of connection assembly 36 are connected to the terminals of connection assembly 26, and the terminals of connection assembly 37 are connected to the terminals of connection assembly 27.

[0082] As this is shown Fig. As can be seen in Figure 18, the contact elements 263, 273 are arranged on the operating unit 2, set back relative to the plug contacts 265, 275 in the insertion direction X. This ensures that when the test plug 3 is inserted, electrical contact is first established via the plug contacts 265, 363; 275, 373 before the contact elements 263, 273 are separated from each other. This allows electrical contact with the connection assemblies 36, 37 to be established before the contact elements 263, 273 are electrically separated and thus before the connection assemblies 26, 27 of the operating unit 2 are decoupled. Therefore, a test signal from a test device 90, 91 may be present at the connection assemblies 26, 27 before the connection path between the sensor device 5 and the protective device 6 is disconnected. In this way, for example, a malfunction of the protective device 6 due to a signal interruption can be avoided.

[0083] In the embodiment described above, the terminals 24, 25 of the operating unit 2 are designed as multi-contact connectors, namely RJ45 connectors. In another embodiment, in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 19, connections 24', 25' are formed by cable glands through which connecting lines 50, 60 can be inserted into the interior of the operating part 2 in order to connect conductors of the connecting lines 50, 60 directly to the connection assemblies 26, 27 inside the operating part 2.

[0084] Such a configuration can be used, for example, when signals with high voltages are transmitted via the connecting lines 50, 60, in which case, for example, shield cables of lines 50, 60 are also connected to a shield of the housing of the operating unit 2, for example to the electrically conductive housing part 20, via the cable glands 24', 25'.

[0085] At a Fig. 20 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 21, the locking element 22 is not slidably arranged on the housing part 23 of the operating part 2, but is pivotable about a pivot axis S relative to the housing part 23. Again, in a first position ( Fig. 20) extends the plug section 21 of the operating part 2 outwards and releases the plug section 21 in an open, second position for plugging in connection with the test plug 3 ( Fig. 21).

[0086] At a Fig. 22 to 24 illustrated embodiment, in which the locking element 22 is as in the one based on Fig. In the embodiment described in sections 1 to 4, where the sealing element 22 is slidably arranged on the housing part 23 of the operating part 2, the operating part 2 has a sealing device. To implement this device, sealing elements 220 and 231, each with an opening formed therein, are provided on the sealing element 22 and on a housing section 230 of the housing part 23. A sealing wire, for example, can be passed through the sealing elements 22 and 231 to seal the sealing element 22 in the first position. If the sealing element 22 is opened, this can only be done by destroying the seal, so that the opening of the sealing element 22 can be traced.

[0087] If the housing of the operating unit 2, in particular at housing parts 20, 23, is electrically conductive in order to provide electrical shielding for components enclosed in housing parts 20, 23, an earthing conductor 8 can, for example, be connected to housing part 20 in order to include the housing in the earthing system of, for example, a control cabinet, as shown in Fig. 25. For this purpose, a screw point for attaching a fastening element in the form of a screw 208 can be provided on the housing part 20, so that an earthing conductor 8 can be electrically connected to the housing part 20 via a cable lug arranged on it.

[0088] The connection modules 26, 27 of the operating unit 2 and the connection modules 36, 37 of the test plug 3 can be provided modularly using disk modules 29, 39. Each disk module 29 on the operating unit 2 side has one terminal of connection module 26 and one terminal of connection module 27. Conversely, each disk module 39 on the test plug 3 side has one terminal of connection module 36 and one terminal of connection module 37. The disk modules 29, 39 are arranged along a direction A on both the operating unit 2 and test plug 3 sides, with matching arrangements of disk modules 29, 39 being used on both sides.

[0089] By means of such a modular design using disc modules 29, 39, the number of poles on the operating part 2 and on the test plug 3 can be scaled in a fundamentally arbitrary way, thus enabling the advantageous manufacturability of plug systems with different numbers of poles.

[0090] This allows, as from Fig. 27 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 28, the connection assemblies 26, 27, 36, 37, for example, are each designed with eight poles. Accordingly, eight disk modules 29, 39 are arranged in a row along the alignment direction A on both the operating unit 2 and the test plug 3.

[0091] In a Fig. 29 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 30, the connection assemblies 26, 27, 36, 37 are each designed with four poles. Accordingly, four disk modules 29, 39 are arranged one after the other along the alignment direction A on both the operating unit 2 and the test plug 3.

[0092] At a Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figures 31 to 34, locking elements 34 are arranged on the test plug 3, which are formed integrally with the housing part 30 of the test plug 3 and can be deflected elastically relative to the housing part 30 via film hinges.

[0093] When the test plug 3 is connected to the operating unit 2 along the insertion direction X, locking sections 340 of the locking elements 34 engage with associated counter-locking sections 209 on the side of the operating unit 2, so that in an interconnected position, as shown in Fig. 31, the test plug 3 is locked to the operating part 2, as can be seen from Fig.33 can be seen. By pressing on actuating sections 341 of the locking elements 34 and thus adjusting the locking elements 34 on both sides of the test plug 3 relative to the housing part 30, the locking can be released and the test plug 3 can thus be pulled off the operating part 2.

[0094] The underlying idea of ​​the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but can also be realized in other ways.

[0095] The locking element is movably arranged on the operating part, and can be displaceable, for example, linearly along a straight line of movement or along a curved line of movement. In other embodiments, the locking element can be pivoted relative to the operating part. In each case, however, the locking element is securely held on the operating part.

[0096] Because the first housing part of the operating unit is designed in a trough shape, components can be enclosed and held inside the housing part, resulting in simpler manufacturing and assembly. Furthermore, the metallic construction of the housing part provides reliable electromagnetic shielding. Reference symbol list 1 test plug system 2 Operating Unit 20 Housing part 200 interior 200A Ground 200B side walls 201 Shift track 202 Undercut section 203 Guide opening 204 Locking element 205 Housing flange 206 Spring element 207 Fastening element 208 Fastening element 209 Rest section 21 Plug section 210, 211 Plug opening 212 Access opening 22 Locking element 220 Sealing element 23 Housing part 230 Housing section 231 Sealing element 24, 24', 25, 25' connection 240, 250 Electrical conductor 26, 27 Connection assembly 260, 270 power bars 261, 271 Spring element 262, 272 Actuating element 263, 273 Contact element 264, 274 Plant section 265, 275 Plug connector (contact socket) 28 circuit boards 280 terminal arrangement 29 disc module 3 test plugs 30 Housing part 31 Plug section 310 Separating device 32 connection contacts (for input side) 320 Electrical conductor 33 connectors (for test peripherals) 330 Electrical conductor 34 Locking element 340 Rest area 341 Actuating section 36, 37 Connection assembly 360, 370 power bars 361, 371 Spring element 362, 372 Actuating element 363, 273 Plug contact (contact pin) 39 disc module 4 Electrical lines 5 Sensor setup 50 Electrical connecting cable 6 protective device 60 Electrical connecting cable 7 wall 8 Earthing conductor 90, 91 Testing device A direction of queuing B Direction of action S swivel axis X Plug direction QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 3 229 034 B1 [0006, 0007]

Claims

[1] Test plug system (1), with an operating part (2) that can be connected to a first electrical connecting line (50) for connecting to a sensor device (5) and to a second electrical connecting line (60) for connecting to a protective device (6), wherein the operating part (2) has a first plug-in section (21), a first connection assembly (26) associated with the first electrical connecting line (50) and a second connection assembly (27) associated with the second electrical connecting line (60), wherein the first connection assembly (26) has an arrangement of first contact elements (263) and the second connection assembly (27) has an arrangement of second contact elements (273), wherein the first contact elements (263) and the second contact elements (273) electrically contact each other in an operating position for electrically connecting the first electrical connecting line (50) and the second electrical connecting line (60), and a test plug (3) having a second plug section (31) that can be plugged into the first plug section (21) of the operating part (2), wherein the test plug (3) is not connected to the operating part (2) in the operating position and is connected to the operating part (2) in a test position, wherein the test plug (3) has a third plug section (36) that can be plugged into the first connection assembly (26) and / or a fourth plug section (37) that can be plugged into the second connection assembly (27) for connecting the test plug (3) to at least one test device (90, 91), wherein the test plug (3) has a disconnecting device (310) which is configured to electrically disconnect the first contact elements (263) of the first connection assembly (26) of the operating part (2) and the second contact elements (273) of the second connection assembly (27) of the operating part (2) from each other in the test position, characterized by, that the operating part (2) has a locking element (22) which is captive and is arranged on the operating part (2) and is movable between a first position in which the locking element (22) covers the first plug section (21) and a second position in which the locking element (22) releases the first plug section (21) for plugging connection with the second plug section (31) of the test plug (3). [2] Test plug system (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the operating part (2) has a housing, wherein the locking element (22) is movably connected to the housing. [3] Test plug system (1) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the locking element (22) is slidably or pivotably connected to the housing. [4] Test plug system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by, that the operating part (2) has a first housing part (20) which has a tub shape bounded by a bottom (200A) and side walls (200B) and encloses the first connection assembly (26) and the second connection assembly (27). [5] Test plug system (1) according to claim 4, characterized by , that the operating part (2) has a second housing part (23) which is connected to the first housing part (20) and which forms the first plug section (21). [6] Test plug system (1) according to claim 5, characterized by , that the locking element (22) is movably connected to the second housing part (23). [7] Test plug system (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized by , that the first housing part (20) is formed in one piece. [8] Test plug system (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized by , that the first housing part (20) is formed from a metal material or a plastic material coated with a metal material. [9] Test plug system (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, characterized by , that the first housing part (20) is connected to an earthing conductor (8). [10] Test plug system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the operating unit (2) has a first connection (24, 24') via which the first electrical connecting line (50) can be connected to the operating unit (2) and a second connection (25, 25') via which the second electrical connecting line (60) can be connected to the operating unit (2). [11] Test plug system (1) according to claim 10, characterized by , that the first connection (24, 24') and the second connection (25, 25') are each formed by a connector or by a cable gland. [12] Test plug system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the test plug (3) has a third connection (32) assigned to the third connection assembly (36) for connecting to a first test device (90) and / or a fourth connection (33) assigned to the fourth connection assembly (37) for connecting to a second test device (91). [13] Test plug system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the third connection assembly (36) is configured to electrically contact the first connection assembly (26) when the test plug (3) is connected to the operating part (2) before the disconnecting device (310) electrically disconnects the first contact elements (263) and the second contact elements (273) from each other, and / or that the fourth connection assembly (37) is configured to electrically contact the second connection assembly (27) when the test plug (3) is connected to the operating part (2) before the disconnecting device (310) electrically disconnects the first contact elements (263) and the second contact elements (273) from each other. [14] Test plug system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the operating part (2) can be connected to a wall (7) without tools. [15] Test plug system (1) according to one of the preceding, characterized by, that the operating part (6) has an elastically movable locking element (204) which is designed to lock the operating part (2) to a wall (7). [16] Test plug system (1) according to claim 15, characterized by , that the operating part (2) has a housing flange (205) for contact with the wall (7), wherein the elastically movable locking element (204) is arranged relative to the housing flange (205) in such a way that the wall (7) can be accommodated between the housing flange (205) and the locking element (204). [17] Test plug system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the first connection assembly (26) has a first arrangement of terminals for connecting first electrical conductors (240) for electrically connecting the first connection assembly (26) to the first connecting line (50) and the second connection assembly (27) has a second arrangement of terminals for connecting second electrical conductors (250) for electrically connecting the second connection assembly (27) to the second connecting line (60). [18] Test plug system (1) according to claim 17, characterized by, that the terminals of the first terminal assembly (26) each have a first current bar (260) and a first spring element (261) for electrically contacting a first conductor (240) with the first current bar (260) and the terminals of the second terminal assembly (27) each have a second current bar (270) and a second spring element (271) for electrically contacting a second conductor (250) with the second current bar (270). [19] Test plug system (1) according to claim 18, characterized by , that a first contact element (263) is connected to each first current bar (260) and a second contact element (273) is connected to each second current bar (270). [20] Test plug system (1) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, characterized by, that the terminals of the first terminal assembly (26) and the second terminal assembly (27) have first plug contacts (265, 275) for plugging in contact with second plug contacts (363, 373) of the third terminal assembly (36) and / or the fourth terminal assembly (37) when plugging in the test plug (3) to the operating part (2). [21] Test plug system (1) according to any one of claims 17 to 20, characterized by , that the operating part (2) has a plurality of first disk modules (29) arranged along a sequencing direction (A), wherein a terminal of the first connection assembly (26) and a terminal of the second connection assembly (27) are arranged on each first disk module (29). [22] Test plug system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the third connection assembly (36) has a third arrangement of terminals for connecting third electrical conductors (320) for electrically connecting the third connection assembly (36) to a first test device (90) and / or the fourth connection assembly (37) has a fourth arrangement of terminals for connecting fourth electrical conductors (330) for electrically connecting the fourth connection assembly (37) to a second test device (91). [23] Test plug system (1) according to claim 22, characterized by, that the terminals of the third terminal assembly (36) each have a third current bar (360) and a third spring element (361) for electrically contacting a third conductor (320) with the third current bar (360) and / or the terminals of the fourth terminal assembly (37) each have a fourth current bar (370) and a fourth spring element (371) for electrically contacting a fourth conductor (330) with the fourth current bar (370). [24] Test plug system (1) according to claim 22 or 23, characterized by , that the test plug (3) has a plurality of second disk modules (39) arranged along a direction of assembly (A), wherein a terminal of the third connection assembly (36) and / or a terminal of the fourth connection assembly (37) is arranged on each second disk module (39). [25] Test plug system (1) according to any one of claims 22 to 24, characterized by, that the terminals of the third terminal assembly (36) and / or the fourth terminal assembly (37) have second plug contacts (363, 373) for plugging in contact with first plug contacts (265, 275) of the first terminal assembly (26) and / or the second terminal assembly (27) when plugging in the test plug (3) to the operating part (2). [26] Test plug system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the separating device (310) is formed by a plurality of separating mandrels. [27] Test plug system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the operating part (2) has a sealing device for securing the locking element (22) in the first position. [28] Test plug system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the test plug (3) has at least one locking element (34) for locking to the operating part (2) in the test position. [29] Test plug system (1) according to claim 28, characterized by , that at least one locking element (34) is elastically deflectable relative to a housing part (30) of the test plug (3). [30] Test plug system (1) according to claim 28 or 29, characterized by , that at least one locking element (34) is integrally connected to the housing part (30) of the test plug (3).

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