CONNECTORS

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connector for connecting a connecting cable to a mating connector of an electrical device in the form of a vacuum cleaner or, in particular, a mobile machine tool.

[0002] From EP 2 989 686 A1 a connector is known which comprises a male plug part and a female coupling part, wherein the male plug part is provided with a locking cam on the circumferential surface and a locking groove for producing a bayonet connection is provided on the female coupling part, wherein a sealing ring is provided either on the circumference of the male plug part, in front of the locking cam or on the inner circumference of the female coupling part, set back from the locking cam, which, when the plug connection is closed, bears in a sealing position between the circumference of the male plug part and the inner circumference of the female coupling part.

[0003] Such a connector serves to supply power to the applicant's electrical devices. The connecting cables and connectors in hand-held power tools or other, especially semi-stationary, machine tools are subject to particular mechanical stresses, for example, from vibrations during operation. Accordingly, a reliable connection between the connector, the connecting cable, and the mating connector on the electrical device is necessary. The twist-lock mechanism enables a tensile-resistant connection between the connector and mating connector. However, in practice, it is difficult to maintain a permanent, reliable electrical connection between the connector and mating connector in various environments, i.e., to reliably maintain the contact position between the two components.

[0004] Other connectors with twist-lock contours are known from US 2,447,789, US 1,304,075 and US 3,287,031. Connectors with cable glands are described in DE 20 2008 013 795 U1 and DE 1 747 477 U.

[0005] A connector with spring-loaded contacts is known from US 2,833,997. Further connectors are described in US 7,435,112 B1 and US 2017 / 0264049 A1.

[0006] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a connector suitable for a reliable connection with a mating connector.

[0007] To solve the problem, a connector according to the technical teaching of claim 1 is provided.

[0008] A fundamental concept of the invention is that a spring element is provided, either independently or in addition to the cable gland, which biases the contact carrier into the contact position. This additional spring element is not formed by the cable gland but is a separate component. This allows the spring element's properties to be optimally selected and / or adjusted to provide consistently reliable spring action of the contact carrier relative to the connector housing. For example, the spring element can be pre-tensioned so that it operates within a favorable range of its spring characteristic. Thus, a spring element with a comparatively soft spring characteristic can be provided. The spring element, for instance, has a significantly softer or more consistent spring action than the cable gland or its section engaging with the connector housing.Over the lifetime of the spring element, the preload force or spring force does not change or only changes insignificantly.

[0009] In the applicant's existing design, the section of the cable grommet that engages with the connector housing essentially acts as a spring element, which springs the contact carrier into the contact position. However, the cable grommet is a plastic component, or possibly a rubber component, which is subject to aging, i.e., it can become brittle. Furthermore, the spring properties of a cable grommet are highly temperature-dependent. Accordingly, the innovation provides a significantly more reliable connection between the plug connector and the mating connector, i.e., between the connecting cable and the electrical device.

[0010] It should be mentioned at this point that the connector may have a plug longitudinal axis that is coaxial with and / or parallel to the plug axis or is formed by it.

[0011] The longitudinal axis of the plug can therefore be the plug axis or correspond to the plug axis.

[0012] Furthermore, the plug axis can represent or form a displacement axis along which the plug housing and the contact carrier are axially displaceable relative to each other.

[0013] Furthermore, the plug axis or plug longitudinal axis can represent a rotational axis about which the plug housing is rotatably mounted relative to the plug. The plug housing is rotatably mounted relative to the contact carrier about a rotational axis, and / or the contact carrier is slidably mounted relative to the plug housing about a sliding axis. The rotational axis and the sliding axis can be coaxial. The rotational axis and the sliding axis can be the plug axis, be formed by the plug axis, or be parallel to the plug axis.

[0014] The machine tool is preferably a hand-held machine tool. The hand-held machine tool may include a connector according to the invention.

[0015] The machine tool can also be a so-called semi-stationary machine tool, for example, a machine tool that can be taken to a place of use. A semi-stationary handheld machine tool is, for example, a mobile sawing machine, in particular a miter saw, a table saw, or the like.

[0016] The electrical device in question is, for example, a sawing machine, in particular a portable or semi-stationary circular saw, a plunge saw, a jigsaw, or the like. The electrical device or hand-held power tool could also be a router, a drill, a power drill, or the like.

[0017] Furthermore, a connecting cable with a connector according to the invention is included within the scope of the invention.

[0018] The connector may also include a connecting cable or the connecting cable may be integrally integrated.

[0019] The invention further relates to a system comprising an electrical device in the form of a vacuum cleaner or a mobile machine tool, in particular a hand-held machine tool, and at least one connector according to the invention, in particular a connecting cable with a connector according to the invention.

[0020] According to the invention, the spring element is supported on the connector housing by means of a support body, which in turn is supported on the connector housing. For example, the connector housing has a support projection or a support receptacle on which the support body is supported. The support body can, for example, have a support surface that extends radially inwards, in the direction of the plug axis or the longitudinal axis of the plug.

[0021] The spring element is expediently supported completely or substantially completely by the connector housing. Thus, the spring force with respect to the plug axis is transferred completely or substantially into the connector housing.

[0022] However, it is also possible that the cable grommet or a resilient section of the cable grommet provides additional spring action. For example, one design might involve the spring element bearing against a resilient section of the cable grommet, which in turn is supported by the connector housing. A section of the cable grommet that is either inserted into or protrudes from the connector housing could be made of an elastic or resilient plastic, rubber, or similar material. The spring element then bears against this resilient section. For instance, the spring element and the resilient section are, in effect, connected in series with respect to the spring action. This allows for the adjustment of, for example, a longer spring travel, a more favorable spring action, or similar characteristics.

[0023] However, it is advantageous if the spring element is not supported, or only minimally supported, by the cable grommet, but rather by the connector housing. Of course, the cable grommet can also provide support. This is particularly advantageous if the cable grommet has a support section that is essentially rigid and is itself supported by the connector housing with respect to the mating axis. For example, a section of the cable grommet that engages with or is contained within the connector housing can have sufficient flexural rigidity or load-bearing capacity to support the spring element.

[0024] However, it is advantageous if, for example, the aforementioned support body completely or substantially prevents a spring force of the spring element from affecting the cable gland.

[0025] However, this measure does not preclude the support body from resting against the cable gland. In fact, an advantageous measure provides that the support body rests against the cable gland, at least partially.

[0026] According to the invention, the support body is plate-shaped or disc-shaped.

[0027] According to the invention, the support body has a passage opening for the connecting cable.

[0028] It is entirely possible for the connector to contain not just one, but several spring elements. At least one of the spring elements is preferably made of metal or is formed by a metallic spring. However, it is also possible for the spring element to be, for example, an elastic plastic body, rubber body, or similar material. A combination of a metallic spring element and a spring element made of a plastic material or rubber is also readily possible. This allows the spring properties to be optimally adjusted.

[0029] The spring element is advantageously mounted with a preload between the contact carrier and the connector housing. Therefore, the spring element is not relaxed, even when the contact carrier is moved from the contact position to a position far from a free end area of ​​the connector housing.

[0030] When the contact carrier is axially adjusted relative to the connector housing along the mating axis, the spring force of the spring element changes by a maximum of 20%, particularly by a maximum of 15% or 10%. Preferably, the spring force changes by a maximum of 25% within the range of the adjustment path between the contact carrier and the connector housing, and more preferably within a range of 5% to 15%. The spring element is operated or used within the range of its soft characteristic curve or a characteristic curve with a substantially constant spring force. The spring element acts on the contact carrier within the range of its soft characteristic curve or a characteristic curve with a substantially constant spring force.

[0031] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the spring element is pre-tensioned by at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, of its length, starting from its fully relaxed position. It is also possible for the spring element to be pre-tensioned by approximately 25% to 35% of its fully relaxed position, i.e., when removed from the connector, when it is housed in the connector. However, it is also advantageous if the spring element is not excessively pre-tensioned, i.e., if its pre-tension is a maximum of 45% of its fully relaxed length when it is housed in the connector housing.

[0032] All of the aforementioned measures contribute to ensuring that the spring element can optimally exert its spring action and thus achieve optimal preload of the contact carrier towards the mating connector under support from the connector housing.

[0033] For example, several spring elements may be provided, such as two spring elements or three spring elements, which define an interior space in which, for example, the contact carrier and / or the connecting cable are arranged or can be arranged.

[0034] It is preferred if the spring element is or comprises a coil spring.

[0035] One preferred concept involves the contact carrier being housed within an interior of the spring element. For example, the coil spring may have a through-hole into which the contact carrier engages or which the contact carrier penetrates.

[0036] It is also advantageous if the spring element is supported on a radial outer circumference of the contact carrier. The support can be provided directly on a circumferential surface of the contact carrier, or on a bearing element which in turn is supported on the contact carrier.

[0037] It is also possible that the contact carrier protrudes in front of the spring element at the cable gland. In this way, for example, the contact carrier can encase the connecting cable and provide radial outer protection for the connecting cable with respect to the spring element.

[0038] Advantageously, at least one bearing element is arranged between the spring element and the connector housing and / or between the spring element and the contact carrier. The bearing element is rotatably mounted about the plug axis relative to the connector housing or the contact carrier, or both. Alternatively or additionally, the spring element can also be rotatably mounted on the at least one bearing element relative to the plug axis. The at least one bearing element preferably forms part of a thrust bearing with respect to the plug axis.

[0039] Preferably, two such bearing bodies are provided, namely one between the contact carrier and the spring element, and one bearing body between the spring element and the connector housing. This allows, for example, the sliding properties or bearing properties between the spring element and the contact carrier and / or the spring element and the connector housing to be optimally adjusted using the at least one contact carrier.

[0040] The bearing body is, for example, a metallic bearing body or a bearing body made of plastic.

[0041] A thermoplastic material with favorable wear and sliding properties is suitable for the bearing bodies. Polyoxymethylene (POM), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or similar materials are preferred.

[0042] The bearing body expediently comprises a tube section or a sleeve section into which the contact carrier engages and / or in which the contact carrier is rotatably mounted. The tube section can also be designed to engage with the spring element or to be arranged between the contact carrier and the spring element. It is particularly advantageous if the tube section or sleeve section is arranged radially, in a sandwich-like manner, between the contact carrier and the spring element, which is preferably designed as a helical spring. Thus, the spring element does not bear directly against the outer circumference of the contact carrier, but rather against the bearing body or its tube section.

[0043] It is advantageous if the bearing body also has a support section projecting radially forward of the pipe section, particularly at its longitudinal end, to support the spring element in the direction of the stub axis. The support section is designed, for example, as a collar or flange projection.

[0044] The support section projecting radially in front of the tube section is advantageously supported on a support contour, for example a step, of the contact carrier or the connector housing, which runs transversely to the plug axis. The support section and the support contour of the contact carrier preferably lie flat against each other, but are slidably movable relative to each other.

[0045] The bearing body can form the aforementioned or a support body supported on the connector housing, by which the spring element is supported on the connector housing with respect to the plug axis.

[0046] The bearing body expediently comprises a sliding sleeve, a sliding disc, or the like. The sliding sleeve may, for example, have a collar section or a radially projecting section designed or provided to support the spring element. The connector housing may be a single piece.

[0047] A preferred embodiment provides that the connector housing comprises a front housing section and a rear housing section connected or connectable to the front housing section by means of connecting elements. The two housing sections, front housing section and rear housing section, are arranged one behind the other with respect to the mating axis. The front housing section and the rear housing section may have interlocking sections, for example, tube sections or sleeve sections. Preferably, anti-rotation contours are defined on the front housing section and the rear housing section to prevent rotation of the front housing section to the rear housing section with respect to the mating axis or the axis of rotation about which the connector housing is rotatable relative to the contact carrier.

[0048] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the connecting elements have detent contours, such as detent hooks, detent projections, or the like, with which the front and rear housing parts can be locked together. Alternatively or additionally, the front and rear housing parts can also be screwed and / or glued and / or clamped together or otherwise connected to each other.

[0049] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the front and rear housing parts are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner with respect to the stub axis by means of the connecting elements. The connecting elements or anti-rotation contours can, for example, have longitudinal projections and longitudinal recesses that run parallel to the stub axis.

[0050] The two-part or multi-part connector housing makes it easy to mount the aforementioned components, such as the spring element and the contact carrier.

[0051] The connector housing, for example the front part of the housing, preferably has a plug-in opening in which the contact carrier is received for plugging into the mating connector.

[0052] It is preferred if the rear of the housing is designed to accommodate the spring element, i.e., if it has a receptacle for the spring element.

[0053] It should be noted, however, that the spring element is not, and need not be, in direct contact with the connector housing. It is particularly preferred that the spring element maintains a distance from the connector housing. The connector housing preferably has a spring chamber in which the spring element is arranged at a radial distance from the inner circumference of the spring chamber.

[0054] The connector housing is expediently provided with grip contours, such as recesses, grooves, ridges, rubber coatings, or the like, for manual operation. It is preferred if such grip contours are arranged on the front part of the housing.

[0055] The cable grommet is preferably designed as a strain relief. The cable grommet encases the connecting cable, or is designed to do so, preventing it from kinking where it exits the connector housing.

[0056] The connector housing, in particular the rear of the housing, expediently has a holder or a receptacle for the cable gland.

[0057] Preferably, the cable gland is held immovably or substantially immovably on the connector housing, transversely and / or longitudinally to the insertion axis. For example, a radially inwardly projecting projection or collar of the connector housing can engage with the cable gland. Advantageously, a retaining contour, such as a retaining recess or a retaining projection, is provided on the cable gland, radial to its longitudinal axis, for positive engagement with a corresponding retaining contour of the connector housing, which also extends radially to the longitudinal axis of the cable gland.

[0058] Nevertheless, it is advantageous if the cable gland and the connector housing can be rotated relative to each other. This allows the operator to rotate the connector housing relative to the cable gland, which in turn does not need to be rotated relative to the connecting cable, nor can it be rotated.

[0059] It is preferred that the cable gland be rotatable relative to the connecting cable. For example, the cable gland's opening for the connecting cable has a cross-section that allows the connecting cable some play. Thus, when twisted relative to the contact carrier, the cable gland can rotate around the connecting cable, which is preferably non-rotatable with respect to the contact carrier.

[0060] It is advantageous if the plug contacts are designed as sockets mounted in the contact carrier, which have sections movable transversely to the plug-in axis relative to the contact carrier, or, in particular, are movable as a whole transversely to the plug-in axis. Thus, the sockets are mounted wholly or partially in a floating or movable manner transversely to or within the contact carrier.

[0061] The following measure, which is advantageous in conjunction with the invention, represents an independent invention in itself. However, all of the features already described can be readily implemented individually or in combination in this independent invention.

[0062] In conjunction with the preamble features of claim 1, or also in combination with the features already explained, it is advantageously provided that the contact carrier comprises a contact carrier body in which the plug contacts are received or which carries the plug contacts, and a cable retaining body integrally molded onto the contact carrier body, for example, by injection molding or by casting, by which the connecting cable is held or retained in a fixed position with respect to the plug contacts. Preferably, the connecting cable is overmolded with the material of the cable retaining body, or the material of the cable retaining body is cast onto the connecting cable. This results in a structure that holds the connecting cable in a fixed position with respect to the plug contacts and is largely or completely insensitive to mechanical stresses. In particular, the contact carrier, preferably the cable retaining body, can optimally support forces exerted by the spring element.The plug contacts are held in the contact carrier body with some play, for example, perpendicular to the plug axis and / or parallel to the plug axis. This improves contact with the mating plug contacts.

[0063] Of course, in this embodiment it is also advantageous if the spring element is provided separately from the cable gland.

[0064] The cable holder advantageously has retaining contours for holding the sheath of the connecting cable, as well as conductor ends, particularly stranded wire ends, of the connecting cable that project beyond the sheath towards the plug contacts. It is therefore advantageous if both the sheath and the conductor or stranded wire ends of the connecting cable are accommodated in the cable holder. The retaining contours hold the sheath of the connecting cable and / or the conductor or stranded wire ends of the connecting cable in a fixed position relative to the plug contacts, parallel and / or perpendicular to the plug axis. The retaining contours are formed, for example, during the casting or injection molding of the cable holder onto the contact carrier body.

[0065] The cable retaining body advantageously has a modulus of elasticity between 500 N / mm² and 13,500 N / mm². It is particularly preferred if the modulus of elasticity is between 1,300 N / mm² and 6,000 N / mm². Thus, the cable retaining body is essentially rigid and can withstand mechanical stresses on the connecting cable or its terminal section, which is housed in the connector casing.

[0066] For the contact carrier body and / or the cable holder body, it is advantageous if it consists of a thermoplastic material, which can be designed without or with fiber reinforcement. For example, the thermoplastic material can be glass fiber reinforced. Preferably, the plastic material for the contact carrier body and / or the cable holder body is polyamide (PA), polypropylene (PP), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycarbonate (PC), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The plastic of the contact carrier body is preferably provided with a flame retardant. Polyamide 6, for example, is particularly preferred as a material for the contact carrier body. In principle, it is possible for the contact carrier and the connector housing not to be in direct contact with each other or at least to be supported by a bearing that is separate from the other components.

[0067] A preferred embodiment, however, is one in which the contact carrier has a bearing section or centering section on which the connector housing is rotatably and / or slidably mounted. Thus, it is advantageous if the connector housing is mounted directly on the contact carrier. It is not necessary for the connector housing to be in full circumferential contact with the bearing section.

[0068] Rather, lateral play with respect to the insertion axis is advantageous. The connector housing is advantageously mounted on the bearing section with a clearance that allows the contact carrier to center itself relative to the mating connector. Therefore, it is advantageous if the connector housing has some play relative to the contact carrier perpendicular to the insertion axis.

[0069] It is spatially advantageous if the spring element and the bearing section are arranged next to each other or one behind the other in relation to the stub axle.

[0070] The spring element is expediently located between the bearing section or centering section and the cable gland in the connector housing.

[0071] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the spring element has a radial distance perpendicular to the plug axis from the connector housing. Thus, the spring element is preferably not in direct contact with the connector housing.

[0072] The connecting cable preferably serves for electrical connection to an electrical power supply network, in particular to an AC power supply network. The connecting cable comprises, for example, two or three conductors. For example, one of the conductors is a phase, the other a neutral conductor, although their roles can also be reversed. A third conductor is, for example, a protective conductor. For each conductor, the connector preferably has at least one plug contact that is insulated from other plug contacts. The connector according to the invention is arranged at one longitudinal end of the connecting cable, while at the other longitudinal end, there is also a connector according to the invention or a plug for connection to an electrical power supply network or another power source.

[0073] The plug contacts can include sockets, plug pins, plug protrusions, or the like.

[0074] The connector expediently has at least one mechanical coding feature that corresponds to its electrical properties and / or the electrical properties of the connecting cable. The mechanical coding can include, for example, protrusions, recesses, mechanical contours, positive locking contours, or the like. The electrical properties include, for example, a maximum current that can be carried through the connecting cable or the connector, a connection voltage, or the like. Preferably, the coding is located in the area of ​​the contact carrier or on the contact carrier, close to the plug contacts. However, coding in the area of, for example, the rotary locking contours or at another location on the connector housing would also be readily possible.

[0075] The mating connector has matching codings so that only a connector whose electrical properties and / or where the electrical properties of the connecting cable connected to the connector are suitable for the electrical device having the mating connector can be plugged into a mating connector.

[0076] The connecting cable is expediently equipped with a mains plug for connection to an electrical power supply network, in particular an AC power network.

[0077] An embodiment of the invention is explained below with reference to the drawing. The drawing shows: Figure 1 is a perspective oblique view of a connector and a mating connector in the unconnected state; Figure 2 is a perspective oblique view of the aforementioned components, but in the connected state; Figure 3 is a rear view of a hand-held power tool with a mating connector for a connector according to the invention in the form of a grinding machine; Figure 4 is a perspective oblique view of a hand-held power tool in the form of a saw with a mating connector for a connector according to the invention; Figure 5 is a perspective oblique view of the hand-held power tool in Figure 4 with attached connector according to the invention, Figure 6 a side view of the arrangement according to Figure 5 in a partially cut state of the connector, Figure 7 shows a longitudinal section through the configuration according to Figure 1Figure 8 shows a longitudinal section through the plug-in connectors and mating connectors connected together. Figure 2 Figure 9 is an exploded view from a front oblique angle and Figure 10 is an exploded view of the connector according to the preceding figures from a rear oblique angle.

[0078] An electrical connection system 5 according to the drawing comprises a connector 10 arranged at one end of a connecting cable 15, at the other end of which a plug 18, for example a so-called mains plug for 110 V, 230 V or the like, is arranged. The connecting cable 15 comprises two conductors, in particular stranded wires, 11, 12, which are assigned to different potentials. However, the plug 18 can be connected to a power supply network EV in different orientations, so that in one orientation one conductor 11, and in another orientation the other conductor 12, for example, is connected to the phase, while the other conductor 12, 11, is in electrical connection to the neutral conductor of the power supply network EV or to a connection contact therefor. A third conductor could readily be provided in the connecting cable 15 as a protective conductor.

[0079] The connector 10 has plug contacts 13, for example sockets, which are electrically connected to the electrical conductors 11, 12 of the connecting cable 15, which are designed as stranded wires, on the one hand, and to plug contacts 19 of the connector 18 or mains plug on the other. The electrical conductors 11, 12 are electrically insulated within a sheath 16 of the connecting cable 15. Each electrical conductor 11, 12 is further provided with an insulating sheath or insulation 17.

[0080] The electrical conductors 11, 12 are mechanically and electrically connected to the plug contacts 13 by means of, for example, a crimp connection 14.

[0081] The connector 10 and the connecting cable 15 are used to supply electrical power to electrical devices, such as a hand-held power tool 200, in particular a grinder, or a hand-held power tool 300, such as a hand-held circular saw. The connecting cable 15 with the connector 10 can also be used to supply electrical power to a vacuum cleaner or similar electrical device. The hand-held power tools 200 and 300 have drive motors 201 and 301, respectively, which drive a working tool 202 and 302, such as a disc tool, grinding tool, saw blade, or the like. The drive motors 201 and 301 are, for example, AC motors. The hand-held power tools 200 and 300 can be supplied with electrical power from the power supply network (EV) via the connecting cable 15 and the connector 10.The connector 10 can be optionally attached to any hand-held power tool 200 or 300, making it highly versatile. In particular, a longer or shorter connection cable can easily be used with the respective hand-held power tool 200 or 300 as needed, ensuring a reliable and electrically secure connection during operation. Such a mechanically and electrically robust connection is readily achievable with the connector 10, which can be detachably connected to a mating connector 110 of the hand-held power tool 200 or 300.

[0082] Connecting leads 111, 112 lead from the mating connector 110 to an electrical power supply for the hand-held power tool 200, 300, for example, control electronics for the drive motors 201, 301, or the like. The mating connector 110 has mating contacts 113 that correspond to the plug contacts 13, for example, plug-in protrusions that can be inserted into the plug contacts 13, which are designed as sockets, namely along a plug-in axis S. The plug-in operation corresponds to the direction of an arrow P in Figure 1 The mating contacts 113 are connected to the connecting lines 111,112 by means of connection sections 114.

[0083] The mating contacts 113 are arranged on a contact carrier 120, which is connected to or forms an integral part of the respective housing 203, 303 of the hand-held power tool 200, 300. For example, the contact carrier 120 is attached to the respective housing 203, 303 of the hand-held power tool 200, 300 by means of a fastening section 121. Fastening contours 122, such as screw holes, undercuts, or the like, may be provided on the fastening section 121 for fastening to the hand-held power tool 200, 300. A flange section 123, for example, is supported by the housing 203, 303 of the hand-held power tool 200, 300.

[0084] A plug-in projection 124 for insertion into the connector 10 projects in front of the flange section 123 of the contact carrier 120. The plug-in projection 124 has mating rotary-lock contours 125 into which rotary-lock contours 55 of the connector 50 can engage. The mating rotary-lock contours 125 and the rotary-lock contours 55 form, for example, screw contours, bayonet contours, or the like. In the exemplary embodiment, the rotary-lock contours 55 are, for example, L-shaped and can be plugged onto the plug-in projection 124 in the area of ​​insertion areas 127 and engaged by a rotational movement R ( Figure 1 ) are brought into positive engagement with the counter-rotational form-lock contours 125, so that they engage in a rear grip with retaining projections 126 of the counter-rotational form-lock contours 125.

[0085] The mating contacts 113 are held in a receptacle 130, on the inner circumference of which a coding 131 is provided. The coding 131 matches a coding 31 of the connector 10 if the connector is suitable for supplying electrical power to the hand-held power tool 200 or 300. In particular, the codings 131 and 31 ensure that, for example, only a connection cable 15 suitable for the power supply network EV is plugged in, e.g., a connection cable 15 suitable for a 110 V or 240 V AC network, or that the maximum current that can be carried through the connection cable 15 is sufficient to supply power to the hand-held power tool 200 or 300 without the connection cable 15 overheating. The codings 131 and 31 are, for example, projections, coding contours, or the like that extend radially inwards or outwards with respect to the plug-in axis S.

[0086] The mating connectors 110 are therefore firmly integrated into the housing structure or the housing 203, 303 of the hand-held machine tool 200, 300. The mating plug contacts 113 are immovable and fixed in position relative to the contact carriers 120, so that a reliable hold of the connector 10 on the respective mating connector 110 can be achieved by means of movable and adjustable components of the connector 10.

[0087] The connector 10 has a contact carrier 20 on which the plug contacts 13, i.e., the sockets, are held. It should be noted here that instead of sockets, a fixed plug contact or plug protrusion can also be provided in a connector according to the invention, for example, in the form of the mating plug contacts 113. The operating principle explained below also works in this situation. Combinations of socket and plug protrusion are also readily possible in a connector according to the invention.

[0088] The contact carrier 20 has a support section 21, in front of which a plug-in projection for insertion into the plug receptacle 130 of the mating connector 110 projects. The plug contacts 13 are arranged in the plug-in projection 30. The connector housing 50 is mounted longitudinally displaceable on the contact carrier 20 with respect to the plug-in axis S, or with respect to the contact carrier 22, or conversely, the contact carrier 20 is mounted longitudinally displaceable in the connector housing 50 along the plug-in axis S. Thus, the sleeve-like connector housing 50 can be moved back and forth on the contact carrier 20 along the plug-in axis S, whereby in the Figure 8 In the position shown, where the plug housing 50 is moved away from the plug projection 30 (to the right in the drawing), the rotary locking contours 55 are in engagement with the counter-rotational locking contours 125.

[0089] The support section 21 is arranged with respect to the insertion axis S between the insertion projection 30 and a bearing section 22, which can also be referred to as a centering section. The connector housing 50 is supported or centered on the bearing section or centering section 22 in any longitudinal position with respect to the insertion axis S. The connector housing 50 does not need to be supported on the entire circumference of the bearing section or centering section 22, but only on a partial circumference. Thus, the connector housing 50 has some play transversely to the insertion axis S with respect to the contact carrier 20, so that the mating contacts 113 can engage and yet the connector housing 50 is not only rotatable about the insertion axis S, but also movable transversely to the insertion axis S to such an extent that a receptacle 52 of the connector housing 50, provided at the front, free end region of the connector 10, can be plugged onto the contact carrier 120.so that the plug projection 125 of the mating connector 110 can be inserted into the plug receptacle 52 in order to bring the plug contacts 13 into contact with the mating plug contacts 113, i.e. to establish a contact position K.

[0090] In this contact position K it is possible to bring the rotary-form locking contours 55 into positive engagement with the opposing rotary-form locking contours 125.

[0091] In addition to the bearing section 22, the contact carrier has a spring section 23 on which a spring element 90 is arranged. The spring element 90 applies a contact force AK to the contact carrier 20. Figure 8The contact position K shown is in the direction of the mating connector 110, wherein the spring element 90 is supported on the connector housing 50, which is held in a displacement-resistant position with respect to the plugging axis S on the mating connector 110 by means of the form-locking contours 55 and the counter-rotational form-locking contours 125, so that the plug contacts 13 (the sockets) are or are held in electrical contact with the mating plug contacts 113 (the plugs or plug projections) of the mating connector 110.

[0092] At a longitudinal end 24 of the contact carrier 20 facing away from the plug projection 30, the connecting cable 15 including its sheath 16 is led out of the contact carrier 20 at an exit opening 26.

[0093] There is a step between the spring section 23 and the support section 21.

[0094] The spring section 23 has a smaller diameter with respect to the stub axis S or the axis of rotation than the support section 21, resulting in the step or a bearing support surface 25 extending transversely to the stub axis S. The spring element 90 is supported on the bearing support surface 25. For example, the spring element 90 could rest directly against the bearing support surface 25. However, in this case, a bearing body 95 is provided, which is arranged, so to speak, in a sandwich-like manner between the contact carrier 20 and the spring element 90.

[0095] The bearing body 95 has a tube section 96 into which the spring section 23 engages and in front of which the spring section 23 even protrudes towards a cable grommet 75 which is held on the connector housing 50.

[0096] A support section 97, for example in the form of a collar or flange, projects radially outwards from the pipe section 96 and bears against the bearing support surface 25. The support section 97 is arranged between a longitudinal end 93 of the spring element 90 and the bearing support surface 25.

[0097] An inner circumference of a passage opening 98 of the bearing body 95 corresponds approximately to an outer circumference of the spring section 23, which is, for example, approximately cylindrical, so that the bearing body 95 and the contact carrier 20 are rotatably mounted to one another with respect to the stub axis S.

[0098] The plug-in projection 30 protrudes in front of a stop surface 29 of the contact carrier 20 or of the cable holding body 32, which can, for example, abut the mating connector 110 frontally.

[0099] Between the support section 21 and the bearing section 22, there is a further step, which is formed by the smaller outer circumference of the support section 21 compared to the bearing section 22. A bearing support surface 28, i.e., a support surface or bearing surface extending transversely to the plug axis S, is formed on this step, against which the plug housing 50 is supported by a longitudinal stop 58 in its (in Figure 8 The spring element 90 (as shown) can strike the contact surface 29 in its maximum compressive longitudinal position. A further bearing body 99, for example a ring, an annular disc, an O-ring-shaped body, or the like, is provided on the stop surface 29. The bearing body 99 fulfills the function of an axial bearing ring or axial bearing body. The bearing body 99 is penetrated by the contact carrier 20 or rests against its outer circumference, in particular on the support section 21 next to the stop bearing support surface 28.

[0100] Based on the bearing bodies 95, 99, there are therefore two axial bearing bodies with respect to the plug axis S or plug longitudinal axis of the plug 10.

[0101] To reduce material usage, avoid air inclusions, or the like, it is advantageous if recesses, ribs, or the like are provided on the contact carrier 20. For example, the support section 21 and the bearing section 22 have a rib structure 27, i.e., an arrangement of one or more recesses, so that an injection molding or casting process is particularly easy to implement when manufacturing the contact carrier 20.

[0102] The contact carrier 20 is designed as a multi-component component, comprising a contact carrier body 32 and a cable retaining body 32, which are firmly connected to each other. The material of the contact carrier body 32, which carries the plug contacts 13, is overmolded or cast with the material of the cable retaining body 32, resulting in a solid, mechanically robust structure that simultaneously provides optimal support for the end section of the connecting cable 15, which is firmly held in the contact carrier 20.

[0103] Furthermore, the cable retaining body 32 provides the support section 21, the bearing section 22, and the spring section 23, and thus also the bearing support surface 25. This means it can optimally support the force of the spring element 90 without, for example, mechanically stressing the end region of the connecting cable 15. No deformation occurs in the area of ​​the end of the connecting cable 15 that could, for example, lead to damage to the crimp connections 14, the ends of the conductors 11, 12, or the like during operation of the hand-held power tool 200, 300 and the associated vibrations. Electrical operational safety, as well as mechanical strength and contact reliability, are always guaranteed.

[0104] The cable retaining body 32 expediently forms the radially outer region and / or the longitudinal end region of the plug projection 30, so that a solid body with respect to compressive strength and tensile strength with respect to the plug axis S is given over the entire length of the contact carrier 20 with respect to the plug axis S.

[0105] The plug contacts 13 are movably mounted in the contact carrier body 32. For example, the plug contacts 13 are sockets made of springy material, such as copper sheet or the like, which have a certain amount of play within the contact carrier body 40, at least in sections, and remain movable there even when the contact carrier body 40 is enclosed by the material of the cable holding body 32.

[0106] The contact carrier body 40 has receptacles 41 for the plug contacts 13, for example, tube-like receptacles. For example, sections 13A of the plug contacts 13 or the plug contacts 13 as a whole can move transversely to the plug axis S in the contact carrier body 40, in particular in the receptacles 41.

[0107] A ribbed structure 42 is provided on the outer circumference of the contact carrier body 40, allowing the material of the cable holder body 32 to interlock or form a positive connection with the contact carrier body 40. A longitudinal recess 43 extends between the plug contact sections 44, on which the receptacles 41 are provided. The material of the cable holder body 32 can also penetrate this recess to ensure a secure hold of the contact carrier body 40 on the cable holder body 32. Furthermore, the contact carrier body 40 itself is surrounded by the material of the cable holder body 32 in the area of ​​the openings of the receptacles 41 and adjacent to them, except for the free front surfaces 45 that extend around the receptacles 41. Thus, the contact carrier body 40 is, so to speak, completely embedded in the cable holder body 32.

[0108] The connecting cable 15 is also embedded in the cable holder 32. It has, for example, the retaining contours 33 for the contact carrier body 40, as well as retaining contours 34 for the ends of the conductors 11, 12, and a retaining contour 35 for the sheath 16. The cable 16 branches, so to speak, inside or within the material of the cable holder 32 into the two receptacles 41 of the contact carrier body 40.

[0109] A preferred measure provides that the retaining contour 35 for the sheath 16 extends at least approximately over half the length of the contact carrier 20 with respect to the plug-in axis S, so that the connecting cable 15 is embedded in the contact carrier 20 with its sheath 16 over a long section. For example, the retaining contour 15 extends approximately over the length of the spring section 23 with respect to the plug-in axis S.

[0110] The holding contour 34 for the ladder ends of ladders 11, 12 is provided approximately in the area of ​​the support section 21 and the storage section 22.

[0111] Lateral wall sections 37 of the cable holder body 32 extend past the contact carrier body 40 to a front wall 36, which extends next to the free front surface 45 of the contact carrier body 40.

[0112] The contact carrier 20 is essentially completely enclosed in the connector housing 50, except for a section projecting in front of the connector housing 50, namely the plug-in projection 30. The connector housing 40 has a receptacle 51 for the contact carrier 50.

[0113] An actuating section 53, which could also be called a gripping section, is provided on the outer circumference of the connector housing 50. This section is suitable for gripping the connector housing 50 and for rotary actuation R. The actuating section 53 may, for example, have grip contours 55, in particular knurling, grip recesses or the like, which enable a user to grip it easily.

[0114] The connector housing 50 is sleeve-shaped and its front end face 56, which extends around the plug projection 30 of the contact carrier 20, can abut, for example, the flange section 123 of the mating connector 110. The rotary-fit contours 55 are provided next to the front end face 56, i.e., on the inner circumference of the front section of the connector housing 50.

[0115] With regard to the plug axis S next to the rotary form-lock contours 55, a bearing section or centering section 57 of the plug housing 50 is provided, which can be supported on the bearing section or centering section 22 of the contact carrier 20 or can be mounted on it.

[0116] The bearing section or centering section 57 is located between the longitudinal stop 58 and a spring section 59 of the connector housing 50, which encloses the spring element 90. However, the spring element 90 does not rest radially against the outer surface of the inner circumference of the connector housing 50, but has a radial distance 74. Thus, the spring element 90 can exert its effect, which will become even more apparent later, directed solely in the direction of the insertion axis S.

[0117] The spring element 90 rests against a longitudinal stop 60, which is provided next to a passage opening 61 for the cable grommet for the connecting cable 15 or the cable grommet 75. The longitudinal stop 60 is, for example, a step between, on the one hand, the passage opening 61 or a receptacle 62 for the cable grommet 75 and, on the other hand, the spring section 59. It would be possible for the longitudinal stop 60 to be provided, for example, on a projection extending radially inward toward the passage opening 61, such as a step, a collar, or a flange projection, so that the spring element 90 could bear directly against the longitudinal stop 60. In this case, however, a support body 85 is provided to support the spring element 90. This support body is, for example, plate-like or disc-like and bears against the longitudinal stop 60, the step.

[0118] The support body 85 absorbs all or at least substantially the force of the spring element 90 acting in the direction of the plug axis S, so that a section 78 of the cable gland 75 engaging in the receptacle 62 of the connector housing 50 is substantially or entirely free from the force exerted by the spring element 90. The support body 85, so to speak, directs the force of the spring element 90 radially outwards into the connector housing 50.

[0119] However, it would be quite possible for the cable grommet 75 to absorb at least part of the force of the spring element 90 or to exert an additional spring effect, for example with its section 78. The cable grommet 75 is essentially fixed in the connector housing 50 with respect to the insertion axis S and also essentially fixed transversely to the insertion axis S, but rotatable within the connector housing 50 with respect to the insertion axis S. A retaining projection 63 for the cable grommet 75 is provided on the receptacle 62, which engages in an annular groove or retaining recess 77 of the cable grommet 75. Thus, the cable grommet 75 can rotate relative to the connector housing 50 about the insertion axis S.

[0120] The cable grommet 75 is, for example, equipped with a strain relief element 76 extending in the direction of the plug axis S. The strain relief element 76 has a larger diameter and thus slightly more material in the area of ​​the plug housing 50 than in its longitudinal section further away from the plug housing 50, where the cable 15 exits the cable grommet 75. Thus, the strain relief element 76 can provide strain relief for the connecting cable 15 perpendicular to the plug axis S.

[0121] A through-opening 80 of the cable gland 75, extending from the free end region of the strain relief body 76, i.e., its end face 79, to the connector housing 50 or section 78, preferably has an inner diameter that is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the connecting cable 15, so that the cable gland 75 can rotate around the connecting cable 15, for example, when the connector housing 50 is twisted. This prevents the connecting cable 15, which is non-rotatably connected to the contact carrier 20 with respect to the plug axis S, from being subjected to torsional stress, or at least to a negligible degree.

[0122] The support body 85 comprises a plate body 86, which has a passage opening 88 for the connecting cable 15. Thus, the connecting cable 15 passes through the support body or plate body 86. In the area of ​​the cable gland 75, the support body 85 can have a projecting section 87, for example, a type of collar or trough-like recess, which engages in a corresponding recess on section 78 of the cable gland 75. It is advantageous if the support body 85 rests substantially flat against section 78, so that forces of the spring element 90 that may not be transmissible or transmitted to the connector housing 50 can be at least partially transferred to the cable gland 75, which in turn is fixed immovably to the connector housing 50 with respect to the insertion axis S or the deflection axis of the spring element 90.

[0123] The spring element 90 comprises a helical spring 91 having a through-opening 92. The through-opening 92 is penetrated by the bearing body 75 and the contact carrier 20, which projects in front of the spring element 90 towards the support body 85, in particular towards the recess formed by section 87, in the direction of the cable gland 75. The spring element 90 is thus supported on one side by the support body 85, and on the other side by the support section 87 of the bearing body 95 and thus by the bearing support surface 25, whereby the aforementioned components are rotatable relative to each other with respect to the plug axis S. This ensures optimal mobility with respect to the plug axis S, whereas preload perpendicular to the plug axis S, for example due to torsional load or the like, is compromised, in particular also by the radial distance 74 in the interior of the connector housing 50 to the spring element 90.The spring element 90 is therefore optimally movable and can thus exert its spring effect. This allows for optimal adjustment of the contact force P with which the spring element 90 loads the contact carrier 20 towards the mating connector 110 relative to the connector housing 50.

[0124] The spring element 90 is received in the connector housing 50 with a preload. For example, the spring element 90 is already pre-compressed by 10 to 20%, preferably 30 or 40%, so that even an axial adjustment between the contact position K, in which the plug contacts 13, 113 are held in optimal contact with each other, and a release position shown in the figure, in which the spring element 90 is somewhat more relaxed compared to the contact position K, results in a spring force of the spring element 90 differing by only 10 to 20%, maximum 30%. The helical spring 91 is also a metallic spring, i.e., it is essentially insensitive to temperature fluctuations that occur during the normal operation of hand-held power tools of the type 200, 300. In the typical operating temperature ranges, the spring force of the spring element 90 is essentially constant, i.e.,that the functional reliability of connector 10 remains constant in all common temperature ranges.

[0125] For easier assembly of the aforementioned components, it is advantageous if the connector housing 50 is multi-part, for example, two-part. The connector housing 50 has a front housing part 65 and a rear housing part 66. The rear housing part 66 provides the connection for the connecting cable 15, i.e., it has, for example, the receptacle 62 and also the spring section 59. However, the front housing part 65, on which the rotary locking contours 55 and the grip contours or the actuating section 53 are provided, also extends into the spring section 59. For example, a plug receptacle 67 of the front housing part 65 is provided there, into which a plug projection of the rear housing part 66 engages. Of course, plug receptacles and plug projections can also be provided conversely on the front and rear housing parts, i.e.,For example, the front part of the housing, which is not shown in the drawing, has a plug-in projection, while the rear part of the housing has the plug-in receptacle.

[0126] The front housing part 65 and the rear housing part 66 can be connected to each other, for example, by gluing, screwing, or the like, particularly in the area of ​​the plug-in projection 68 and plug-in receptacle 67. However, in this case, a snap-fit ​​connection is provided. Connecting elements 69, which are provided for connecting the front housing part 65 to the rear housing part 66, have, for example, snap contours 70, in particular snap hooks, which can be snapped into snap receptacles 71 on the front housing part 65. Actuating ramps or adjusting ramps extending obliquely to the plug-in axis S can be provided on the snap contours 70, so that the snap contours 70 are deflected when the front housing part 65 and the rear housing part 66 are plugged together in order to snap into the snap receptacles 71 when the plug-in projection 68 and plug-in receptacle 67 are plugged together.

[0127] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the front housing part 65 and the rear housing part 66 are connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner with respect to the insertion axis S or the axis of rotation about which the connector housing 50 can be rotated relative to the contact carrier body 40. For example, anti-rotation projections 72 are provided on the outer circumference of the insertion projection 68, which engage in anti-rotation receptacles 73 in the insertion receptacle 67. The anti-rotation projections 72 and the anti-rotation receptacle 73 run, for example, parallel to the insertion axis S. It should be noted here that the locking contours 70, for example the locking hooks, can already represent or form anti-rotation contours.

[0128] Thus, the connector 70 can be easily assembled by means of a simple snap-fit ​​connection between the front housing part 65 and the rear housing part 66, in which the spring element 90 is also inserted into the spring chamber or spring section together with the contact carrier 20 and subsequently receives its preload by plugging the front housing part 65 onto the rear housing part 66.

Claims

1. Plug connector (10) for connecting an attachment cable (15) to a mating plug connector (110) of an electrical appliance in the form of a vacuum cleaner or an in particular mobile machine tool (200, 300), wherein the plug connector (10) has a contact carrier (20) having plug contacts (13) which are connected or connectable to the attachment cable (15) and which can be brought into an electrical contact position (K) with mating plug contacts (113) of the mating plug connector (110) by a plugging movement along a plug axis (S), wherein the contact carrier (20) is received, in an axially movable manner with respect to the plug axis (S), in a plug housing (50) which is mounted rotatably about the plug axis (S) with respect to the contact carrier (20), wherein rotary form-fit contours (55) are arranged on the plug housing (50) and can be brought into form-fit engagement with mating rotary form-fit contours (125) of the mating plug connector (110) by a rotation movement of the plug housing (50) about the plug axis (S) with respect to the contact carrier (20), such that the plug connector (10) is secured on the mating plug connector (110) in a tension-resistant manner with respect to the plug axis (S), and wherein the plug connector (10) has a cable sleeve (75) for the attachment cable (15), wherein the contact carrier (20), with respect to the plug housing (50), is biased to the contact position (K) in the direction of the plug axis (S) by a spring element (90) separate from the cable sleeve (75), which spring element is supported on the contact carrier (20) and on the plug housing (50), wherein the spring element (90) is supported on the plug housing (50) by means of a supporting body (85) supported on the plug housing (50) with respect to the plug axis (S), and wherein the supporting body (85) is plate-shaped or disc-shaped and has a passage opening for the attachment cable (15).

2. Plug connector (10) according to claim 1, characterised in that the spring element (90) is completely or substantially completely supported on the plug housing (50) and / or not or only insubstantially supported on the cable sleeve (75), or in that the spring element (90) is supported on a spring bending section of the cable sleeve (75) supported on the plug housing (50).

3. Plug connector (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the supporting body (85) lies on the cable sleeve (75) at least in sections.

4. Plug connector (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the spring element (90) is made of metal or comprises a metal spring and / or the spring element (90) is a coil spring (91) and / or in that the spring element (90) is received with a preload between the contact carrier (20) and the plug housing (50).

5. Plug connector (10) according to claim 4, characterised in that during an axial adjustment of the contact carrier (20) with respect to the plug housing (50) along the plug axis (S) from the contact position (K), there is a change in a spring force of the spring element (90) of at most 20%, in particular at most 10%, particularly preferably at most 5-8% or 5% to 15% and / or in that the spring element (90) is preloaded by at least 20% or 30%, in particular by approx. 25% to 30%, and / or by at most 45% of its length starting from its relaxed position.

6. Plug connector (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the contact carrier (20) is received in an interior of the spring element (90) and / or in that the contact carrier (20) protrudes in front of the spring element (90) towards the cable sleeve (75).

7. Plug connector (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least one bearing body (95, 99) is arranged between the spring element (90) and the plug housing (50) and / or the contact carrier (20), which bearing body is rotatably mounted about the plug axis (S) with respect to the plug housing (50) and / or the contact carrier (20) and / or on which the spring element (90) is rotatably mounted with respect to the plug axis (S).

8. Plug connector (10) according to claim 7, characterised in that the at least one bearing body (95, 99) has a pipe section (96) in which the contact carrier (20) engages and / or in which the contact carrier (20) is rotatably received and / or which engages in the spring element (90) and / or which is arranged between the contact carrier (20) and the spring element (90) and / or in that the at least one bearing body (95, 99) forms a supporting body (85) supported on the plug housing (50) via which the spring element (90) is supported on the plug housing (50) with respect to the plug axis (S) and / or in that the at least one bearing body (95, 99) comprises or is formed by a sliding sleeve and / or a sliding disc.

9. Plug connector (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the plug housing (50) has a front housing part (65) and a rear housing part (66) which is connected to the front housing part (65) by means of connecting means (69), wherein it is advantageously provided that the connecting means (69) have latching contours (70) with which the front housing part (65) and the rear housing part (66) are latched together and / or that the connecting means (69) connect the front housing part (65) and the rear housing part (66) to one another in a rotationally fixed manner with respect to the plug axis (S).

10. Plug connector (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the cable sleeve (75) is held on the plug housing (50) transversely and / or longitudinally to the plug axis (S) in a non-displaceable or substantially non-displaceable manner and / or in that the contact housing (50) is rotatable with respect to the cable sleeve (75) and / or in that the plug contacts (13) are designed as plug sockets received in the contact carrier (20), which plug sockets have sections (13A) which are movable with respect to the contact carrier (20) transversely to the plug axis (S) or are moveable transversely to the plug axis (S).

11. Plug connector (10) according to any one of the preceding claims or the preamble of claim 1, characterised in that the contact carrier (20) has a contact carrier body (40) in which the plug contacts (13) are received and a cable holder body (32) which is moulded, in particular injection-moulded, onto the contact carrier body (40) and by means of which the attachment cable (15) is held or can be held stationary with respect to the plug contact (13).

12. Plug connector (10) according to claim 11, characterised in that the cable holder body (32) has holding contours (34, 35) for holding a sheath (16) of the attachment cable (15), as well as conductor ends (11, 12) or stranded wire ends of the attachment cable (15) protruding in front of the sheath (16) to the plug contacts (13) and / or in that the attachment cable (15) is overmoulded with the material of the cable holder body (32) or cast with the material of the cable holder body (32) and / or in that the cable holder body (32) has a Young's modulus between 500 N / mm2 and 13,500 N / mm2, in particular between 1300 N / mm2 and 6000 N / mm2.

13. Plug connector (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the spring element (90) has a radial distance (74) transverse to the plug axis (S) from the connector housing (50) and / or in that the contact carrier (20) has a longitudinal section (57) on which the plug housing (50) is rotatably and / or displaceably and / or slidably mounted, wherein it is advantageously provided that the spring element (90) is received in the plug housing (50) between the longitudinal section (57) and the cable sleeve (75).

14. Attachment cable (15) having a plug connector (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the attachment cable (15) advantageously has an attachment plug (18) to be attached to an electrical power supply network (EV).

15. System comprising an electrical appliance in the form of a vacuum cleaner or a mobile machine tool (200, 300) and at least one plug connector (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13 or an attachment cable (15) according to claim 14.