Secondary locking tab for a connector

Abstract

A secondary locking tab (22) is proposed for a connector with a housing (G 22 ), wherein a connection (21) of the locking tab (22) is designed such that the connection (21) is horizontally attached to the housing (G 22 ) of the connector and / or the locking tab (22) has a wave design, preferably a curved shape. The secondary locking tab (22) comprises a locking mechanism (23), wherein a hook (23.1) of the locking mechanism (23) is located at the free end of the secondary locking tab (22) and interacts with a further hook (23.2) of the locking mechanism (23), which is located on the upper region of the housing (G). 22 ) can be attached. The locking mechanism (23) is designed such that the locking mechanism (23) can be attached to a projection (G1) of the housing (G 22) of the connector. This is done with the hook (23.1), which is divided into an upper end (23.1.1) and a lower end (23.1.2), with the upper end (23.1.1) being attached to the housing (G) by the hook (23.2). 22 ) interacts and the lower end (23.1.2) with the projection (G1) in the housing (G 22 ).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a secondary locking tab according to the features of the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Connectors are known that have contact chambers in their housing, into which a contact partner is inserted and locked once it has assumed its correct and intended position in the contact chamber. This so-called primary locking mechanism can, for example, be designed as a spring-loaded tab on the contact partner that interacts with a shoulder, undercut, or similar feature of the contact chamber (more precisely, the connector housing) when the contact partner has been correctly and completely inserted into its contact chamber.

[0003] Secondary locking mechanisms for the contact partners, often implemented as secondary locking tabs, are used in connectors where contact locking within the housing requires two locking mechanisms (so-called primary and secondary locking) (for example, connectors in the automotive industry). This second locking mechanism can be implemented with tabs that are directly injection-molded onto the plastic housing (the so-called secondary locking tabs).

[0004] From DE 10 2006 014 156 A1, a retaining socket for a contactless plug-in system is known and relates to a contact partner for a connector for electrical connections. The contact partner is provided to consist of a first part, which has at least one locking tab, and at least one further part, via which the contact normal force is applied in the connector housing after the contact partner has been joined to the complementary connector element.

[0005] German patent application DE 10 2017 119 643 A1 discloses a connector comprising a contact carrier with at least one contact chamber, wherein a contact partner is arranged in the at least one contact chamber. The contact partner has a primary locking tab that interacts with its contact chamber. A locking element, which is slidable between a pre-locking position and an end-locking position, is arranged on and / or in the contact carrier for the secondary locking of the contact partner, which has a secondary locking tab.

[0006] A method for testing a connector for a plug connection is described in DE 10 2017 125 193 A1. A locking tab has a transverse rib at its end opposite a mounting end, which together with the contact carrier forms a secondary locking mechanism. Another method for testing a connector for a plug connection is described in DE 10 2017 125 195 A1.

[0007] An internally known embodiment of a secondary locking tab (“standard design”) of a connector, which is movably arranged on a housing G of the connector, is described in the Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14, Fig. 15, Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19 to Fig. 20 shown.

[0008] Reference numeral 1 denotes the connection of a secondary locking tab 2 (hereinafter referred to as the tab) of a connector (not shown in detail) to the housing G. The tab 2 has an elongated (straight) shape. Reference numeral 3 denotes a locking mechanism (also referred to as a connection, snap-fit ​​or latch) of the free end of the tab 2 with its associated geometry (hook 3.2) of the housing G of the connector. Fig. 11).

[0009] When activated, tab 2 is pressed shut, arrow 4 ( Fig. 12) In this process, a hook 3.1 of the locking mechanism 3 deflects about a pivot point 5 on the tab 2 and engages or locks. When the tab 2 is pulled by a movement, arrow 6, the hook 3.1 deflects again about the pivot point 5 and the locking mechanism 3 releases.

[0010] Due to the required locking of tab 2 according to Fig. 12, the locking geometry of tab 2 moves downwards ( Fig. 13). This can lead to the locking geometry colliding with a contact 7 of the connector and the tab 2 not being able to be locked.

[0011] When actuated again (arrow 4), the tab 2 is pressed closed. This causes the hook 3.1 to deflect around pivot point 5 and move downwards. However, locking in the end position is not possible if it collides with contact 7.

[0012] In practice, to disassemble contacts at tabs 2, the latched or locked tab 2 is pushed back using a release tool 8, for example a screwdriver, arrow 6 ( Fig. 14, Fig. 15) This unlocking must be performed with the same force as the holding force of the lock 3, i.e., the holding force of the lock 3 must be overcome. For this purpose, the unlocking tool 8 is usually inserted in an area 10 between the tab 2 and the contact 7 in order to push the tab 2 outwards. However, it cannot be ruled out that the tool 8 may collide with the contact 7 and damage it.

[0013] Another problem is shown Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. The elongation of the tab 2 that occurs when the tab 2 is actuated can only be distributed along the elongated shape of the tab 2 0. To prevent the tab 2 from breaking at the connection point 1 during actuation, a width 11 of the tab 2 in this area 10 must be very thin. This poses the risk that the stress or elongation occurring in the tab 2 at the connection point 1 could cause a white fracture or break the tab 2 at this point (break point 13). Furthermore, only a thin area 11 is available for injection molding during the injection process. The constriction 11 cools the injection molding compound, and the remaining area of ​​the tab 2 is more difficult to fill during the injection process.

[0014] Furthermore, variations in dimensions occur during the manufacturing process, meaning that the height h2 of the tab 2, and therefore the height h3 of the latch 3, can vary. Position 1 defines the minimum hook height h3, and position 2 defines the maximum hook height h3. However, a height variation of the hook 3.1 of the latch 3 can negatively affect the function of the latch 3 ( Fig. 18).

[0015] As in Fig. As shown in 19, when the tab 2 is actuated, if the hook 3.1 reaches the maximum height h 3max has been compressed higher, which leads to a significant increase in the actuating force.

[0016] With a minimum hook height h 3min ( Fig. 20) An undercut 12, i.e., the projection of the hook 3.1 to the locking mechanism 3, is minimized. However, this allows the locking mechanism 3 to release more quickly at a lower tensile stress than at a nominal hook height.

[0017] The invention is based on the objective of improving a known secondary locking tab with regard to its ease of use. In particular, the forces required for its actuation and positioning on the housing are to be reduced, and its attachment to the housing is to be ensured smoothly.

[0018] This problem is solved by the features of claim 1.

[0019] According to the invention, it is provided that the connection of the locking tab of the connector according to the invention to the housing is designed horizontally instead of vertically and / or that the locking tab is implemented in a curved shape instead of an elongated one.

[0020] In particular, the curved geometry or shape of the secondary locking tab allows it to be compressed with less force; that is, due to the changed geometry of the locking tab, operation can now be carried out without much effort.

[0021] In a further development of the invention, a wedge mechanism is provided as a locking device. The holding force of the locking device, through this wedge mechanism, is many times greater than that of known secondary locking tabs. The wedge mechanism consists of a specially shaped hook located at the free end of the secondary locking tab, which interacts with a hook, and in particular a projection, on the housing, such that the shaped hook of the locking device can wedge itself against the secondary locking tab in the housing.

[0022] Although dimensional variations cannot be ruled out in the manufacturing process of the secondary locking tab according to the invention, these no longer have a negative effect on the function of the locking mechanism due to the modified locking geometry.

[0023] In a further development of the invention, the secondary locking tab is unlocked directly during the latching or locking process. Using a release tool, the secondary locking tab can be pulled downwards perpendicular to the locking force. The pulling force does not depend on the holding force of the lock, but rather on the wave design of the secondary locking tab. This wave design allows for lower release forces. Since the release tool no longer needs to be inserted into an area between the secondary locking tab and a contact, the risk of damaging the contact when opening the secondary locking tab is minimized or even eliminated.

[0024] The wave design or curved shape is formed in a preferred version by a stylized "S". Alternative designs or shapes are also conceivable, which in turn achieve compression with less force.

[0025] The strain occurring when the secondary locking tab according to the invention is actuated is less than with conventional secondary locking tabs, since the resulting stress can be distributed over a larger area. This reduces the strain and thus the possibility of white fracture or breakage of the secondary locking tab at the connection point due to strain in the secondary locking tab. The secondary locking tab can also be made thicker, thus facilitating the filling of the remaining area of ​​the secondary locking tab. This allows for a wider selection of materials for a component (connector) with the secondary locking tab. For example, the use of glass fiber-reinforced plastics becomes possible.

[0026] The geometry of the secondary locking tab according to the invention ensures that the locking geometry no longer migrates downwards, thus fundamentally preventing a collision with a contact of the connector.

[0027] Furthermore, due to the curved shape of the secondary locking tab according to the invention, the delta in assembly force or holding force is significantly lower in the event of dimensional variations in the height of the secondary locking tab and thus in the height of the detent compared to known secondary locking tabs. The wedging mechanism of the locking device supports these dimensional variations because, at a minimum hook height and low tensile stress, the pivot point is now located at the hook, and the secondary locking tab wedges itself in place.

[0028] The secondary locking tab according to the invention achieves the following: - improved delta between actuation force and holding force (low assembly force, high holding force), - easier operation from the latching to the pre-latching position (unlocking) during contact disassembly, - a reduction in the risk of cracking or white fracture of the secondary locking tab, - an optimization of the filling behavior during the manufacturing of the component with a secondary locking tab (plastic injection molding process), - a reduced impact of the actuating force / holding force of the secondary locking tab in the event of manufacturing-related dimensional variations, - increased operating force (maximum hook height, at position 2), - a reduced holding force (minimal hook height, at position 1) as well as. - no risk of collision of the secondary locking tab with a correctly inserted contact and - No risk of contact damage during contact disassembly.

[0029] A secondary locking tab for a connector with a housing is proposed, wherein the connection of the locking tab is designed according to the invention such that the connection can be attached horizontally to the housing of the connector and / or the locking tab has a wave design, preferably a curved shape. The secondary locking tab comprises a locking mechanism, wherein a hook of the locking mechanism is located at the free end of the secondary locking tab and interacts with a further hook of the locking mechanism, which can be attached to the upper region of the housing. The locking mechanism is designed such that it can also engage a projection of the housing of the connector. This allows a so-called wedge mechanism to be realized.The hook located at the free end of the secondary locking tab has an upper area that functionally interacts with the hook on the housing, and a lower area with which the hook, and thus the locking mechanism, can be supported against the projection of the housing.

[0030] An embodiment of a secondary locking tab and a connector with a secondary locking tab according to the invention, comprising a housing with at least one contact chamber, preferably several contact chambers, wherein a contact partner is inserted and primarily locked in each contact chamber, is shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 to Fig. 10 were posed and described.

[0031] The number “21” refers to the connection of a locking tab (also simply called a tab) to a housing G22 a connector not shown in detail.

[0032] The reference to “22” indicates that the tab according to the invention is designed in a curved shape, in particular in the S-shape shown.

[0033] “23” refers to a locking mechanism (also called snap-fit, connection or latch) of the free end of the tab 12 with its associated geometry of the housing G. 22 of the connector.

[0034] Fig. Figure 1 shows a secondary locking tab 22 (hereinafter referred to as tab) according to the invention for a connector not shown in detail. The tab 22 is mounted horizontally on a housing G. 22the connector. The tab 22 has a curved shape or geometry, which is modeled, for example, on a kind of stylized S. Due to the curved shape of the tab 22, it can be actuated without requiring much force. The holding force of the latch 23, due to the wedge mechanism, is many times greater than that of known latches or locks.

[0035] With 23, a locking mechanism (also referred to as connection, snap or latch) of the free end of the tab 22 with its associated geometry of the housing G is defined. 22 of the connector. A hook 23.1 of the locking mechanism 23 is designed such that the locking mechanism 23 can act as a wedge mechanism. The hook 23.1 of the locking mechanism 23, which has a shaped form, is located at the free end of the tab 22. Another hook 23.2 of the locking mechanism 23 is located on the upper part of the housing G. 22the connector is attached. The locking mechanism 23 preferably engages an existing projection G1 of the housing G for locking purposes. 22 of the connector. The shaped hook 23.1 of the tab 22 engages with its upper end 23.1.1 behind the hook 23.2 of the locking mechanism 23 on the housing G during locking. 22 one. With its lower end 23.1.2, the hook 23.1 can engage the projection G1 of the housing G when locking. 22 support.

[0036] Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows an example of an actuation sequence. During actuation, the tab 22 is pressed closed (arrow 4). Since the hook 23.1 does not move downwards in the front area itself (arrow 24), a collision with a contact 27 of the connector, which is located inside the housing G, is prevented. 22The position is not given. However, a locking mechanism (23) is enabled. When the tab 22 is pulled (6), a pivot point 25 is located at the hook 23.1 and the tab 22 wedges itself in place, so that the latch 23 does not release.

[0037] When unlocking the tab 22, particularly for contact disassembly, the tab 22 is pressed downwards at its rear section 22.1. A recess 20 is preferably located between the rear section 22.1 and the hook 23.1 to assist in the unlocking action. Due to the curved shape of the tab 22, it is compressed with minimal force, thus releasing the latch or locking mechanism.

[0038] The release of the tab 22 can be carried out directly at or near the locking mechanism 23. Here, for example, using a release tool 8, which preferably fits into the recess 20, the tab 22 can be pulled downwards (arrow 26) perpendicular to the locking force. The pulling force does not depend on the holding force of the locking mechanism, but rather on the wave design of the tab 22. This allows for lower release forces. During release, the tab 22 is pressed downwards at its rear section 22.1 (or at its free end). Due to the curved shape of the tab 22, it is compressed with minimal force, and the locking mechanism 23 is released. Fig. 4).

[0039] In Fig. Figure 5 shows one method of contact disassembly using the release tool 8. Because the release of the tab 22 is performed directly at or on the locking mechanism 23, the release tool 8 no longer needs to be inserted into an area between the tab 22 and the contact 27. Instead, the tool 8 can be integrated into area 20 of the tab 22. Therefore, there is no longer a risk of damaging the contacts 27 when opening the tab 22.

[0040] The strains occurring in the tab 22 during actuation are reduced due to the curved shape of the tab 22, as the resulting stress is distributed over a larger area 29 ( Fig. 6), i.e., the strain occurring during actuation is realized at the connection 21 of the tab 22 by a larger area 29. Therefore, the strain in this area is significantly lower.

[0041] Due to the lower elongation, the tab 22 can be made thicker, thus facilitating the filling of the remaining area of ​​the tab 22 ( Fig. 7) Specifically, the tab 22 can have a greater width 30 than known tabs 2, since the elongation during actuation occurs over a larger area 29. This also results in improved filling behavior during the injection molding process.

[0042] The housing G 22 It is known that it can be manufactured in an injection molding process. The vertical connection 21 with or to the housing G 22 This does not pose any further problem.

[0043] Dimensional variations typically occur during the manufacturing process. The height of the tab (2) 22 can also be subject to variations. These variations in the height of the tab (2) 22 generally affect the height of the detent or locking mechanism. Because the curved shape (wave design) of the tab 22 allows it to be compressed with less force, the effect of dimensional variations on its function is barely noticeable; that is, the difference in assembly force or holding force is significantly lower in the case of dimensional variations. Fig. Figure 8 shows manufacturing-related dimensional deviations that can lead to different heights. Item 2 shows a maximum hook height, and item 1 a minimum hook height (see also...). Fig. 18).

[0044] When actuated, the tab 22 must be compressed further when the hook 23.1 is at its maximum height. Due to the curved shape of the tab 22, less force is required for the compression, arrow 32; the actuating force increases only slightly or marginally. Fig. 9).

[0045] At minimum hook height, the undercut 31, the overhang of hook 23.1 to the locking element 23, is minimized. However, since the pivot point 25 is located at hook 23.1 and the tab 22 wedges itself ( Fig. 20), the latching mechanism between locking device 23 does not open under lower tensile stress. Thus, the holding force remains the same as at a nominal hook height.

[0046] A secondary locking tab 22 is provided for a connector, wherein a connection 21 of the locking tab 22 is designed such that the connection 21 is horizontally attached to a housing G 22of the connector. The connection 21 is no longer vertical and the locking tab 22 is no longer elongated. Additionally, the secondary locking tab 22 can have a curved shape. The combination of both features is preferred, but not necessary for the function of the secondary locking tab 22.

[0047] Furthermore, a locking mechanism 23 is provided, wherein a hook 23.1 of the locking mechanism 23 is located at the free end of the secondary locking tab 22 and is connected to a further hook 23.2 of the locking mechanism 23, which is located on the upper part of the housing G 22 The locking mechanism 23 is designed such that it can engage a projection G1 of the housing G of the connector via the hook 23.1.

[0048] The hook 23.1 has an upper end 23.1 and a lower end 23.1.2, which allows the hook 23.1 of the locking device 23 to engage, among other things, the projection G1 in the form of a wedge mechanism.

[0049] A recess is provided between the hook 23.1 and the upper area 22.1 of the secondary locking tab 22, which can assist or simplify the unlocking of the secondary locking tab 22, especially during contact disassembly. Reference symbol list 1 connection 2 Secondary locking tab, tab 3 Locking, snapping, connection, latching hook 3.2 Hook 3.1 4 Arrow 5 pivot point 6 Arrow 7 Contact 8. Release tool, e.g. screwdriver area 10 11 Width 12 Undercut 13 Fracture point G Housing 21 Connection 22 Secondary locking tab, tab 22.1 rear area 23 Locking, snapping, connection or latching 23.1 Hook, 23.1.1 upper end, 23.1.2 lower end 23.2 hooks 24 Arrow 25 Pivot point 26 Arrow 27 Contact 29 area 30 width 31 Undercut 32 Arrow G 22 Housing G1 lead 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] DE 10 2006 014 156 A1

[0004] DE 10 2017 119 643 A1

[0005] DE 10 2017 125 193 A1

[0006] DE 10 2017 125 195 A1

[0006]

Claims

[1] Secondary locking tab (22) for a connector with a housing (G 22 ), characterized by , that a connection (21) of the locking tab (22) is designed such that the connection (21) is horizontally attached to the housing (G 22 ) of the connector can be connected and / or the locking tab (22) has a wave design, preferably a curved shape. [2] Secondary locking tab (22) according to claim 1, characterized by , that a locking mechanism (23) is provided, wherein a hook (23.1) of the locking mechanism (23) is located at the free end of the secondary locking tab (22) and is connected to a further hook (23.2) of the locking mechanism (23), which is located at the upper part of the housing (G 22 ) can be attached, works together. [3] Secondary locking tab (22) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the locking mechanism (23) is designed such that the locking mechanism (23) engages a projection (G1) of the housing (G 22) of the connector. [4] Secondary locking tab (22) according to claim 3, characterized by , that the hook (23.1) has an upper end (23.1.1) and a lower end (23.1.2), which can form a wedging mechanism that engages with parts of the housing (G 22 ) can work together. [5] Secondary locking tab (22) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized by , that the unlocking of the secondary locking tab (22) is designed in such a way that the unlocking can be carried out directly at or on the locking mechanism (23). [6] Secondary locking tab (22) according to claim 5, characterized by , that the unlocking mechanism is designed such that the unlocking can be carried out by pressing on the hook (23.1) on the secondary locking tab (22). [7] Secondary locking tab (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by, that the secondary locking tab (22) is designed such that the secondary locking tab (2) can be made thicker (30) in an area (29) and that filling of the remaining area of ​​the secondary locking tab (22) is made possible. [8] Secondary locking tab (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by , that a recess (20) is provided between the hook (23.1) of the locking mechanism (23) and an upper area (22.1) of the secondary locking tab (22), which can assist and / or simplify the unlocking of the secondary locking tab (22). [9] Connectors comprising a housing (G 22 ) with at least one contact chamber, preferably several contact chambers, wherein a contact partner is inserted and primarily locked in each contact chamber, with a secondary locking tab (22) according to one of claims 1 to 8.

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