Connector housing, as well as injection molding method and injection molding device for producing a connector housing

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connector housing for a connector, comprising a base body made of a plastic, a locking device for mechanical connection to a corresponding counter-locking device of a mating connector, as well as a first protective element and a second protective element for the locking device, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] The invention also relates to a connector housing for a connector, comprising a base body made of a plastic, a locking device for mechanical connection to a corresponding counter-locking device of a mating connector, and a protective bracket for the locking device, according to the preamble of claim 11.

[0003] The invention further relates to an injection molding method and an injection molding apparatus for producing a connector housing for a connector.

[0004] Various optical and electrical connectors are known from electrical engineering. Connectors are known to transmit power signals and / or data signals to corresponding mating connectors. A connector or mating connector can be a plug, a printed circuit board connector, a panel connector, a socket, a coupling, or an adapter. The terms "connector" and "mating connector" used in the context of the invention represent all variants.

[0005] A plug connection between a connector and its mating connector can generally be held together using various mechanical joining techniques. A typically used joining technique is the locking mechanism between the connector and its mating connector. For this purpose, for example, an elastic locking element can be formed on the outside of the connector housing and a corresponding counter-locking element can be formed on the outside of the mating connector housing.

[0006] Very high demands are sometimes placed on the robustness and safety of connectors. In case of doubt, a connector must withstand high mechanical loads and remain securely closed so that the electrical connection is not accidentally broken. Against this background, it is particularly important to ensure that the connector's locking mechanism is protected against damage, especially during manufacturing, transport, assembly, and / or subsequent use of the connector or connector housing.

[0007] To protect a locking device, mechanical protective elements are known that are arranged next to and / or above the locking device on the connector housing, for example in the form of protective walls or protective brackets, as shown, for example, in US 2012 / 0282791 A1, US 2004 / 0248453 A1, or US 2018 / 0316131 A1. These protective elements can restrict or block access to the locking device in a defined manner, which reduces the likelihood of mechanical damage. At the same time, however, accessibility to the locking device for an installer and for the corresponding counter-locking device must be maintained.

[0008] When manufacturing connectors, it is generally important to ensure that a particularly economical manufacturing process is used to ensure that the connectors can be manufactured cost-effectively in mass production. For this reason, an injection molding process is particularly suitable for the production of plastic components for the connector housing.

[0009] However, if an injection molding process is to be used to manufacture the connector housing, the design freedom of the connector housing is limited because undercuts can occur due to the protective elements arranged to the side and / or above the locking devices, as well as due to the locking device itself. Therefore, an injection molding process cannot always be used for all design variants and combinations of locking devices and protective elements, or can only be implemented using highly complex injection molding tools and demolding processes. Therefore, compromises often have to be made in the design of the locking device and / or the protective elements in order to enable cost-effective production using injection molding.

[0010] In view of the known prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide a connector housing for a connector which has a particularly well-protected and preferably robust locking device and which can preferably nevertheless be produced cost-effectively by means of an injection molding process.

[0011] The present invention is also based on the object of providing an injection molding method and an injection molding device for producing a connector housing which has a particularly well-protected and preferably robust locking device.

[0012] The problem is solved for the connector housing with the features listed in claim 1 or 11. With regard to the injection molding method, the problem is solved by the features of claim 12 and with regard to the injection molding device by claim 15.

[0013] The dependent claims and the features described below relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of the invention.

[0014] A connector housing for a connector is provided, comprising a base body made of a plastic.

[0015] The connector within the scope of the invention can preferably be an electrical connector, but possibly also an optical connector. For simplicity, the invention will be described below essentially based on the use of the connector housing for an electrical connector. However, this is not to be understood as limiting.

[0016] Preferably, the base body is formed in one piece from the plastic, in particular by means of an injection molding process. Thermoplastics, thermosets, and / or elastomers are preferred plastics.

[0017] The base body may have one or more receptacles extending along its longitudinal axis through the base body for further connector components of the connector, for example to accommodate contact elements, shielding components, support sleeves and / or dielectrics.

[0018] The base body can also have one or more fastening sections arranged on the shell side and / or the front side for fastening connector components, for example, to fasten additional housing components of the connector to the base body in order to provide a multi-part connector housing overall. The connector housing can therefore comprise exclusively the base body and the components described below as integral with the base body, but may also comprise additional housing components of the connector (e.g., additional plastic components or even metallic components, such as shielding elements, etc.).

[0019] Preferably, the base body is designed as a predominantly elongated component. However, the base body can also be angled, for example, for use with an angled connector.

[0020] The base body preferably has a plug-side end which is provided for connection to the mating connector and can therefore, for example, have a plug-in interface, in particular a mechanically and / or magnetically coded plug-in interface to ensure that the connection to the mating connector can only be made in a provided orientation, alignment and / or only with a provided mating connector.

[0021] Preferably, the base body also has an outgoing end facing away from the plug-side end, which can be provided for connection to an electrical or optical cable (in this sense, a cable-side end), but optionally also to another electrical or optical supply line, such as an electrical conductor track of a printed circuit board (in this sense, a printed circuit board-side end).

[0022] According to the invention, the connector housing has a locking device for mechanical connection to a corresponding counter-locking device of a mating connector (in particular a corresponding counter-locking device of a mating connector housing of the mating connector). The locking device preferably extends at least partially along the longitudinal axis or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base body. The locking device has a first connecting section, via which the locking device is integrally connected to the base body. A free space is formed between the locking device and the base body, at least partially, and extends along a longitudinal axis on the base body.

[0023] By means of the locking device and the corresponding counter-locking device, a locking connection can be established between the plug connector and the mating connector to secure the closed plug connection. Preferably, the locking connection between the locking device and the counter-locking device is detachable as needed. However, the locking connection can also be designed to be non-detachable, so that once a plug connection has been closed, it can no longer be separated or opened without causing damage.

[0024] Preferably, the locking device and / or the counter-locking device are elastically configured at least in sections to enable locking or snapping. Corresponding locking devices and counter-locking devices are generally known.

[0025] The locking device is preferably a substantially elongated component that is connected to the base body at least via the first connecting portion. The first connecting portion is preferably arranged at one of the two ends of the locking device, for example, at the end of the locking device facing the plug-side end of the connector housing. However, the first connecting portion can also be arranged at the end of the locking device facing the output-side end of the connector, or in a central portion of the locking device, between the two ends of the locking device.

[0026] The first connecting section (and optionally also the second connecting section mentioned below) preferably protrudes from the base body in the manner of a web and is preferably angular (in particular orthogonal) to the remaining, primarily elongated locking device. The locking device is preferably formed on an outer surface of the base body. The locking device extends from the first connecting section and / or from the second connecting section along the longitudinal axis of the free space, preferably parallel to the outer surface of the base body facing the locking device.

[0027] According to the invention, the connector housing further comprises a first protective element and a second protective element. The first protective element is preferably, but not necessarily, arranged on a first side of the base body, and the second protective element is preferably, but not necessarily, arranged on a second side of the base body opposite the first side.

[0028] The two protective elements are preferably formed on a longitudinal surface of the base body on which the locking device is also formed (hereinafter also referred to as the "base surface"). However, it is also conceivable for the two protective elements to be formed on one of the two opposite longitudinal surfaces of the base body, each of which adjoins the longitudinal surface or base surface on which the locking device is formed. A combination, whereby one of the protective elements is formed on the base surface and the other protective element is formed on the longitudinal surface of the base body, is also possible.

[0029] According to the invention, the protective elements each extend in one piece from the base body, so that the locking device is arranged between the protective elements, wherein each of the protective elements covers the free space formed between the locking device and the base body in at least one covering area in a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0030] The concealment area preferably extends along the longitudinal axis of the free space, particularly preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space.

[0031] The transverse direction is preferably aligned orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the free space, but may, if necessary, enclose an angle other than 90° with the longitudinal axis of the free space.

[0032] The protective elements preferably protrude from the base body as elevations, for example, as protective walls, protective webs, and / or protective pins, as described below. The protective elements can, for example, be designed as elongated, rib-shaped elevations or protective walls with a longitudinal extension in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the free space.

[0033] The two protective elements are capable of concealing the locking device arranged between them in the aforementioned transverse direction. The free space and the locking device can be completely concealed by the two protective elements in the axial direction and in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction. For various technical reasons, the locking device is preferably only partially concealed in the axial direction and / or in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0034] The two protective elements preferably extend along the two longitudinal edges or the two longitudinal margins of the longitudinal surface or base surface of the base body, on which the locking device is also formed. The two protective elements can also be arranged on this longitudinal surface of the base body at a distance closer or wider than the lateral extent of the base body.

[0035] To optimize the mobility of the locking device, a gap is preferably provided between the locking device and the two protective elements. It should be noted at this point that the term "cover" in the context of the present invention preferably does not mean covering.

[0036] The protective elements are designed to provide mechanical protection, at least in sections, for the locking device arranged between the protective elements, in particular starting from the respective side on which the protective element is located on the base body, and optionally also from above the locking device, by means of the protective bracket mentioned below. For this purpose, the protective elements preferably cover at least the free space, but preferably also at least partially or completely the locking device itself, and thereby block undesired mechanical accessibility to the locking device, at least in the covered sections. Mechanical influences starting from one of the two sides of the base body, which could lead to damage or even destruction of the locking device, can therefore be excluded or the risk of this can at least be sufficiently reduced.

[0037] The protective elements are preferably arranged parallel or along the longitudinal axis of the free space such that the locking device is mechanically protected at least in particularly vulnerable and / or sensitive areas, for example in the area of ​​a freely swinging end of the locking device and / or in a central area between two connected ends of the locking device.

[0038] According to the invention, it is provided that each of the protective elements also forms at least one access area through which the free space is accessible along the transverse direction, wherein each of the concealing areas is opposite one of the access areas of the respective other protective element along the transverse direction.

[0039] The access area preferably extends along the longitudinal axis of the free space, particularly preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space.

[0040] Preferably, the access area opposite a respective concealment area extends at least along the entire axial extent of the associated concealment area and / or the transverse extent transverse to the axial extent of the concealment area.

[0041] It can be provided that the protective elements are designed and positioned on the base body in such a way that the concealing areas of the free space which are concealed by one of the protective elements are accessible from the opposite side on which the other protective element is positioned.

[0042] It may be provided that areas of the free space that are concealed by one of the protective elements are accessible from the other protective element.

[0043] The protective elements can be formed on the base body in such a way that each concealment area concealed by the first protective element is different from each concealment area concealed by the second protective element.

[0044] According to the invention, it can be ensured that the free space is always accessible from at least one of the two sides of the base body, or from the first side of the base body and / or from the second side of the base body. Sections that are inaccessible from the first side of the base body due to the first protective element are therefore accessible from the second side of the base body, where the second protective element is arranged, and vice versa.

[0045] The free space between the locking device and the base body is therefore preferably not covered equally from both sides in any section along its longitudinal axis, i.e. the covering areas of the protective elements preferably do not overlap along the longitudinal axis of the free space.

[0046] In this way, the production of the connector housing can be significantly simplified, while at the same time the protective elements as a whole provide a high level of protection.

[0047] For example, within the scope of a manufacturing process for the connector housing, it may be possible to create the clearance by removal or subtractive machining only from the sides. However, it may be particularly preferred to produce the connector housing within the scope of an injection molding process using injection molding tools that allow for lateral demolding of the clearance, preferably through the access areas.

[0048] The design flexibility for the connector housing, particularly for advantageous combinations of locking devices and protective elements, can be significantly improved compared to the state of the art.

[0049] At this point, it should be mentioned that, if necessary, several first protective elements and several second protective elements can also be provided, in which case it would be necessary to ensure that the concealment areas of the free space which are concealed by all the first protective elements together are accessible from the opposite side on which the second protective elements are positioned - and vice versa.

[0050] In an advantageous development of the invention, the locking device can be provided with an elastic spring arm extending along the longitudinal axis of the free space, on which a locking element is arranged. The locking device can therefore be designed in the manner of a "locking rocker."

[0051] The locking element is preferably a locking hook. The locking hook can be designed to form a locking connection with a corresponding counter-locking element of the counter-locking device of the mating connector, for example, to engage behind an edge, in a groove, or in a recess of the counter-locking device. However, the locking element can also be, for example, an edge, a groove, or a recess in the spring arm, into which a corresponding locking hook of the counter-locking device of the mating connector can engage. In principle, a locking element of any type can be provided to enable a detachable or non-detachable locking connection with the counter-locking element of the mating connector.

[0052] Preferably, the free space is arranged at least between the locking element of the locking device and the base body in order to enable a deflection of the locking element (counter to the restoring force of the spring arm) in the direction of the base body, starting from a basic state of the spring arm.

[0053] A locking element arranged on a spring arm can result in a locking device that is particularly easy to operate for the installer. Furthermore, the axial extension of the spring arm can provide sufficient elasticity and a sufficient stroke to establish the locking connection, even when the connector housing is comparatively small.

[0054] The invention is particularly advantageously suitable for use with a locking device which has an elastic spring arm with a locking element, since such "locking rockers" can be particularly susceptible to mechanical damage, in particular to mechanical damage originating from the sides of the base body, and since the locking rockers also generally have a comparatively complex structure with additional undercuts.

[0055] The spring arm can have an actuating surface that can be actuated by an installer for a targeted deflection of the locking element in order to deflect the locking element against a restoring force of the spring arm in the direction of the base body in order to establish or separate the locking connection with the mating connector.

[0056] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the spring arm is connected in one piece to the base body at a first end via the first connecting section and also at a second end facing away from the first end via a second connecting section.

[0057] Preferably, the free space extends along the longitudinal axis over the entire length or extension of the spring arm between the two connecting sections.

[0058] The locking device can therefore be shaped like a spring arm and connected to the connector housing or the base body at one or both ends. However, a central connection of the locking device or spring arm can also be provided, as already mentioned above.

[0059] A particularly large stroke for the locking connection can generally be achieved by means of a spring arm connected to the base body on one side. However, such a locking connection is also more susceptible to external influences, such as vibrations or other forces. To further increase the robustness and security of the plug connection, a spring arm connected to the base body on both sides can therefore preferably be provided. The locking element, in particular the locking hook, can then be formed in the middle section between the two ends or between the two connecting sections. Although this can increase the required insertion force for connecting the plug connector to the mating connector, the holding force can also be significantly improved. The decision as to whether a one-sided or two-sided connection of the spring arm or locking device is provided can be made by the specialist depending on the application.

[0060] The invention is particularly advantageous for use with a locking device connected on both sides or with a spring arm connected on both sides, as this creates a further undercut and allows access to the free space between the two connecting sections exclusively from the sides, i.e., transversely to the longitudinal axis of the free space (in the transverse direction). One-piece production, particularly within the scope of an injection molding process, is therefore only possible with the proposed arrangement and design of the protective elements, provided that the protective elements are not to be dispensed with or their protective effect reduced.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the base body has an (outer) base surface connecting the first side to the second side.

[0062] It can be provided that the protective elements and / or the connecting sections extend from the base surface and, in particular, rise orthogonally or at least substantially orthogonally from the base surface.

[0063] The protective elements can be directly adjacent to the edge or rim of the base surface on the respective side of the base body, thus forming an extension of the lateral surface of the respective side. However, an offset from the edge or rims on the base surface can also be provided. The connecting sections can be directly adjacent to the edge or rim of the base surface on a plug-side end face of the base body or on an output-side end face of the base body, thus forming an extension of the respective end face of the base body. However, an offset from the edge or rims on the base surface can also be provided.

[0064] It can also be provided that the protective elements are directly connected to a respective side surface of the associated side of the base body and / or that the connecting sections are connected to the respective end surface of the base body.

[0065] Preferably, the free space is located between the locking device and the base surface of the base body. The locking device preferably runs parallel to the base surface with a surface facing the base surface.

[0066] According to a particularly preferred development of the invention, it can be provided that at least one of the concealing areas of one of the protective elements, preferably all concealing areas of all protective elements, in addition to the free space, also conceals the locking device at least partially in the transverse direction, preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space. In this way, particularly good protection for the locking device can be provided. In principle, however, it may already be sufficient to protect or conceal only the lateral access to the free space below the locking device.

[0067] In principle, it can be provided that the protective elements completely cover the locking device laterally and alternately along the longitudinal axis. In a preferred development of the invention, however, it can be provided that the protective elements do not cover the locking device in the transverse direction or at least laterally in a front axial end section extending from a plug-side end and / or do not cover it in the transverse direction or at least laterally in a rear axial end section extending from an output-side end.

[0068] Preferably, the protective elements are not arranged in the region of the plug-side end or the front axial end section or have corresponding access areas in the front axial end section in order to provide optimal accessibility of the plug interface for connection to the mating connector or to increase the design freedom of the plug interface.

[0069] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the protective elements have respective elevations running along the longitudinal axis of the free space (preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space and / or parallel to the opposite elevations of the respective other protective element) in order to form a respective concealment area.

[0070] The first protective element can therefore have one or more elevations (preferably exactly one elevation) along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space and the second protective element can have one or more elevations (preferably exactly one elevation) along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space.

[0071] Preferably, it can also be provided that the protective elements have elevation-free regions (i.e. axial sections without an elevation) running along the longitudinal axis of the free space in order to form a respective access region (in particular elevation-free regions running parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space).

[0072] For example, it can be provided that the elevation (or elevations) of the first protective element is (or are) positioned offset from the elevation (or elevations) of the second protective element along the longitudinal axis of the free space, in particular parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space, in such a way that the concealment areas of the free space concealed by the elevation (or elevations) of one of the protective elements are accessible from the opposite side on which the respective other protective element is positioned (in each case along the transverse direction).

[0073] Thus, for example, a rear end section of the locking device facing the outgoing end (in particular a continuous section) can be laterally protected by the first protective element and a section of the locking device located further forward in the direction of the plug-side end (in particular a continuous section directly adjacent to the rear end section) can be laterally protected by the second protective element - or vice versa.

[0074] As already mentioned, several elevations can also be provided, for example two, three, four, five or even more elevations per protective element, although the protective elements do not have to have the same number of elevations.

[0075] In an advantageous further development of the invention, it can also be provided that at least one of the elevations has at least one recess (in particular a recess extending along the longitudinal axis of the free space) in order to form one of the access areas.

[0076] In principle, recesses formed in elevations to provide access to the open space can provide better protection for the resting facility than a completely elevation-free area, since this preferably allows access to be limited exclusively to the open space. The resting facility can then remain fully protected or concealed. However, it should be emphasized that the recesses can generally be provided as an alternative, or possibly in addition, to the aforementioned elevation-free areas.

[0077] Each elevation may also have several recesses, for example two, three, four or even more recesses.

[0078] The recesses of the opposing protective elements can also overlap along the longitudinal axis of the open space. This allows sections of the open space to be accessed from both sides.

[0079] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that at least one of the elevations is designed as a protective wall or protective web.

[0080] Preferably, protective walls are provided, in particular precisely one protective wall per protective element. However, the use of protective bars can also lead to advantageous lateral protection of the locking device. The protective bars can be distributed on the base body, for example, in the manner of crenellations or teeth along the longitudinal axis of the free space (in particular parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space).

[0081] As an alternative to protective walls or protective webs, protective ribs, protective bars or protective pins can also be provided, which rise laterally from the base body next to the locking device and are distributed accordingly along the longitudinal axis of the free space (in particular parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space), so that the free space is accessible in each section along the longitudinal axis of the free space from at least one side of the base body.

[0082] In a preferred development of the invention, it can be provided that at least one of the recesses is designed as a window, indentation or slot.

[0083] A design of the protective elements with protective walls with windows positioned accordingly to one another to form the concealment area-access area combination can provide a particularly high level of protection for the locking device, while at the same time ensuring good accessibility to the free space and thus enabling cost-effective production of the connector housing, in particular within the framework of an injection molding process.

[0084] In a further development of the invention, the connector housing can have a protective bracket with a first leg and a second leg, wherein the first leg is integrally connected to the first protective element and the second leg is integrally connected to the second protective element. The protective elements can also form the legs of the protective bracket; therefore, a leg of the protective bracket and a protective element can also be the same functional component.

[0085] Preferably, the protective bar bridges the locking device for its mechanical protection. For this purpose, the protective bar can extend, in particular, from the first protective element to the second protective element.

[0086] A protective bar can advantageously prevent mechanical damage to the locking mechanism from above, i.e., toward the base surface of the base body. Such protective bars are also known as "rocker bars." The protective bar preferably bridges the locking mechanism in the area of ​​its highest elevation along the longitudinal axis.

[0087] Preferably, exactly one protective bar is provided. However, several protective bars can also be provided, distributed along the longitudinal axis of the free space, for example, two, three, four, five, or even more protective bars.

[0088] The protective bar can provide a closed connection between the two protective elements, although this is not mandatory. For example, only half bars extending from a respective leg or protective element can be provided, which together form the protective bar but are not connected to each other. A protective bar connected to the base body on only one side can also be provided – one of the legs of the protective bar can therefore also be spaced from the base body, for example, to form the access area.

[0089] The protective bar can extend, in particular, from protective elements designed as side walls or ribs, but also from protective elements designed as webs or pins. The legs of the protective bar can also already form the respective protective element (e.g., a protective web), in which case an additional protective web or protective wall is no longer necessary.

[0090] In an advantageous further development, it can be provided that the legs of the protective bar are positioned offset from one another along the longitudinal axis of the free space, in particular to ensure that the legs do not cover the free space on both sides.

[0091] However, it can also be provided that the legs are not positioned offset from one another along the longitudinal axis of the free space, in particular if the legs extend from protective elements or are placed on protective elements (in particular protective walls) which have recesses (e.g. windows) in order to ensure accessibility to the free space.

[0092] If the sides of the guard bar are offset from each other, the guard bar preferably follows a curved profile (e.g., an S-curve) between the two sides. However, this is not absolutely necessary—a linear or stepped profile can also be provided.

[0093] Within the scope of the inventive overall concept, the invention also relates to a connector housing for a connector, comprising a base body formed from a plastic material; a locking device for mechanical connection to a corresponding counter-locking device of a mating connector, wherein the locking device has a first connecting section via which the locking device is integrally connected to the base body, wherein a free space is formed at least in sections between the locking device and the base body, which free space extends along a longitudinal axis on the base body;and a protective bar having a first leg and a second leg, wherein at least one of the legs extends integrally from the base body, and wherein the locking device is arranged between the legs and bridged by the protective bar for their mechanical protection, and wherein at least the leg which is integrally connected to the base body conceals the free space formed between the locking device and the base body in at least one concealment region in a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. ;

[0094] The concealment area preferably extends along the longitudinal axis of the free space, particularly preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space.

[0095] The above-mentioned connector housing (i.e. the connector housing according to claim 11) is hereinafter referred to as the connector housing for reasons of differentiation from the

[0096] The connector housing of claim 1 is sometimes also referred to as an "alternative connector housing." However, it should be emphasized that the above and following statements in the description, claims, and figures can refer equally to the connector housing of claim 1 and to the "alternative connector housing" of claim 11, unless otherwise stated. This applies in particular (but not exclusively) to features and advantages of the base body, the locking device, the clearance, and the protective bracket.

[0097] Regarding the alternative connector housing, it is intended that a) at least one of the legs forms at least one access area through which the free space is accessible along the transverse direction, wherein each of the concealing areas is opposite one of the access areas of the other leg along the transverse direction; and / or b) the legs are arranged offset from one another, preferably axially offset along the longitudinal axis of the free space, so that the free space concealed by one of the legs in the transverse direction is accessible from the other leg along the transverse direction.

[0098] The access area preferably extends along the longitudinal axis of the free space, particularly preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the free space.

[0099] This alternative connector housing represents an alternative solution for the unified inventive object, which is expediently presented separately here. The two connector housings are related to one another in such a way that it is ensured that the free space between the locking device and the base body, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base body, is always accessible from at least one side along the transverse direction, by the structures provided to protect the locking device forming correspondingly coordinated concealment areas and access areas. The method and device mentioned below can therefore also be used to advantageously produce both connector housings using the aforementioned injection molding process.

[0100] The invention also relates to an injection molding method for producing a connector housing for a connector, comprising at least the following method steps: Providing a multi-part injection molding tool which, in its assembled state, forms a negative mold for one of the connector housings mentioned above and below; moving a first mold of the injection molding tool along the longitudinal axis of the free space relative to the connector housing in order to demold axial regions between the locking device and the protective elements; and moving a second mold and a third mold of the injection molding tool, opposite the second mold, each along the transverse direction relative to the connector housing in order to demold the free space between the locking device and the base body through the access regions.

[0101] Advantageously, the essential demolding of the connector housing, in particular the demolding of the locking device, can take place in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the free space, i.e., in a lateral direction. The demolding tool or the demolding areas of the respective mold can, for example, be guided through the aforementioned window or another recess in the protective wall or be guided past a protective wall.

[0102] In injection molding, the term "demolding" refers to the removal of the at least partially solidified product from the mold or injection mold. For this purpose, the molds can be moved away from the product or the connector housing, and the connector housing can be ejected from the mold, if necessary, using an ejection device. This process can be extremely complex for complex molds.

[0103] The proposed method, however, enables demolding of the connector housing in the transverse direction or from the first side and the second side of the base body in a particularly simple manner, while simultaneously maintaining a high degree of design freedom for the connector housing and, for example, providing a connector housing that has a spring arm connected on both sides while simultaneously providing particularly good lateral and upper mechanical protection. Because demolding can take place in the transverse direction or from the sides, particularly simple casting molds or a particularly simple injection molding tool can be provided.

[0104] By means of the first mold, an area above the locking device and, if applicable, the recess for the connector components optionally formed in the base body can also be demolded.

[0105] Using the second and / or third mold, the plug-side end or the front end section or an outgoing end or the rear end section of the base body can optionally be demolded solely in the transverse direction or from the side, as well as sections of the respective protective element (e.g., its windows, recesses, spaces between individual webs or protective walls, etc.) or a protective web. In particular, a front end section of the locking device can be demolded using the first and / or second mold.

[0106] In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the first casting mold is used (preferably used exclusively) to demold the axial regions between the locking device and the protective elements in a rear axial end section extending from an outgoing end along the longitudinal axis of the free space.

[0107] Demolding the plug-side end or the front end section of the connector in the transverse direction or from the side (as opposed to demolding in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the free space) can be advantageous, since in this case the connector housing can also have further undercuts at its plug-side end, for example, through a locking hook and / or a mechanical coding means. Preferably, the front end section of the base body extending from the plug-side end is thus not demolded from the first mold. This front axial end section is preferably demolded from the side by the second mold and / or the third mold.

[0108] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first mold is used (preferably used exclusively) to demold the axial regions between the locking device and the protective elements in a front axial end section extending from a plug-side end along the longitudinal axis of the clearance. Thus, it can also preferably be provided that the outgoing end or the rear end section of the connector is demolded in the transverse direction or from the side using the second mold and / or the third mold, and not the first mold.

[0109] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the second casting mold and the third casting mold are moved synchronously in order to demold the free space simultaneously through the access areas of all protective elements, i.e. simultaneously from both sides.

[0110] Preferably, the first mold is also moved synchronously with the second mold and the third mold.

[0111] The synchronous movement of multiple molds can reduce process time. Synchronous or simultaneous movement of the molds is particularly possible because the proposed design of the connector housing reduces the demands on the injection mold and thus simplifies the demolding process.

[0112] The invention also relates to an injection molding device for producing a connector housing for a connector, comprising a multi-part injection mold which, in its assembled state, forms a negative mold for one of the connector housings mentioned above and below, wherein a first mold of the injection mold is movable relative to the connector housing along the longitudinal axis of the free space for demolding the connector housing in order to demold axial regions between the locking device and the protective elements, and wherein a second mold and a third mold of the injection mold are each movable relative to the connector housing along the transverse direction for demolding the connector housing and are arranged opposite one another in order to demold the free space between the locking device and the base body through the access regions.

[0113] According to the invention, the injection mold of the proposed injection molding device is particularly efficient and productive because demolding is facilitated. Thus, fewer mold slides are required and the design freedom for manufacturing the connector housing is also greater.

[0114] The second mold and the third mold are preferably configured to engage with each other with respective demolding areas for the clearance between the locking device and the base body when the molds are positioned close to each other or when the injection mold is closed. For example, the second mold can have two demolding areas spaced apart along the longitudinal axis, and the third mold can have one demolding area between the demolding areas of the second mold.

[0115] The second mold and the third mold can also be designed to demold areas outside the free space, for example the legs of the protective bar and / or the protective bar laterally.

[0116] In principle, in addition to the first, second, and third molds, additional molds can also be provided, for example, a fourth mold for demolding a recess for connector components that extends longitudinally through the base body, or for demolding additional sections or regions of the base body. Preferably, however, a three-part injection mold is provided, as described above.

[0117] To realize the movement of the casting molds, corresponding tool slides can be provided which are coupled to a respective actuator device, for example an electrically, pneumatically and / or hydraulically driven linear actuator.

[0118] The movement between the respective mold and the connector housing can occur through a movement of the mold and / or through a movement of the connector housing. In principle, only a relative movement between the respective mold and the connector housing is relevant. Preferably, however, the respective mold is moved, and if necessary, one or more ejection devices ensure that the connector housing is actually ejected from the injection mold by removing the molds.

[0119] The invention also relates to a connector, in particular an electrical connector, comprising one of the connector housings according to the above and following embodiments.

[0120] Furthermore, the invention relates to a plug connection comprising the above-mentioned plug connector and the mating plug connector.

[0121] The connector or plug connection can be used particularly advantageously within a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle. Possible areas of application include autonomous driving, driver assistance systems, navigation systems, infotainment systems, rear-seat entertainment systems, internet connections, and wireless gigabit (IEEE 802.11ad standard). Possible applications include high-resolution cameras, for example 4K and 8K cameras, sensors, onboard computers, high-resolution screens, high-resolution dashboards, 3D navigation devices, and mobile communications devices. The term "vehicle" describes any means of transportation, in particular vehicles on land, water, or in the air, including spacecraft. However, the connector according to the invention is fundamentally suitable for any application within the entire field of electrical engineering and is not limited to use in automotive technology.

[0122] The connector is not limited to a specific connector type; the invention is particularly suitable for connectors and plug-in connections for high-frequency technology. These can be, in particular, connectors and plug-in connections of the PL, BNC, TNC, SMBA (FAKRA), SMA, SMB, SMS, SMC, SMP, BMS, HFM (FAKRA-Mini), H-MTD, BMK, Mini-Coax, or MATE-AX types.

[0123] Features described in connection with one of the subject matters of the invention, specifically one of the connector housings according to the invention, the connector, the plug connection, the injection molding method, and the injection molding device, can also be advantageously implemented for the other subject matters of the invention. Likewise, advantages mentioned in connection with one of the subject matters of the invention can also be understood to relate to the other subject matters of the invention.

[0124] It should also be noted that terms such as "comprising," "having," or "with" do not exclude other features or steps. Furthermore, terms such as "a" or "the," which indicate a singular number of steps or features, do not exclude a plurality of features or steps—and vice versa.

[0125] In a purist embodiment of the invention, however, it may also be provided that the features introduced in the invention with the terms "comprising," "having," or "with" are listed exhaustively. Accordingly, one or more lists of features may be considered exhaustive within the scope of the invention, for example, for each claim. The invention may, for example, consist exclusively of the features mentioned in claim 1.

[0126] It should be noted that terms such as "first" or "second" etc. are used primarily for reasons of distinguishing between respective device or process features and are not necessarily intended to indicate that features are mutually dependent or related to one another.

[0127] Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the values ​​and parameters described herein include deviations or fluctuations of ±10% or less, preferably ±5% or less, more preferably ±1% or less, and most preferably ±0.1% or less of the respective specified value or parameter, provided that these deviations are not excluded in the practical implementation of the invention. The specification of ranges by initial and final values ​​also includes all those values ​​and fractions enclosed by the respective specified range, in particular the initial and final values ​​and a respective mean value.

[0128] In the following, embodiments of the invention are described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0129] The figures each show preferred embodiments in which individual features of the present invention are illustrated in combination with one another. Features of one embodiment can also be implemented independently of the other features of the same embodiment and can therefore be readily combined with features of other embodiments by a person skilled in the art to form further useful combinations and subcombinations.

[0130] In the figures, functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0131] They show schematically: Figure 1 shows a connector housing according to a first embodiment of the invention with protective walls, in a perspective view; Figure 2 shows the connector housing of the Figure 1in a further perspective view; Figure 3 shows a connector housing according to a second embodiment of the invention with protective webs, in a perspective view; Figure 4 shows a connector housing according to a third embodiment of the invention, with two exemplary protective brackets, in a perspective view; Figure 5 shows a connector housing according to a preferred, fourth embodiment of the invention, with protective walls and a protective bracket, in a perspective view; Figure 6 shows the connector housing of the Figure 5in a further perspective view; Figure 7 shows the alternative connector housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, with a protective bracket attached on one side, in a perspective view; Figure 8 shows an injection molding device according to the invention with a multi-part injection mold in a closed state for producing a connector housing in a perspective view; and Figure 9 shows the injection molding device of the Figure 8 with the injection mold opened for demolding the connector housing, in a perspective view.

[0132] The Figures 1 and 2 show a connector housing 1 for a connector according to a first embodiment of the invention. Within the scope of the invention, a connector can be an electrical connector, but possibly also an optical connector.

[0133] In the exemplary embodiments, one-piece connector housings 1 are shown, which may, however, also have further components, such as metallic shields or additional plastic components.

[0134] The connector housing 1 has a base body 2 made of plastic, which extends along a longitudinal axis L. In the exemplary embodiments, the base body 2 is designed as a primarily elongated component. In principle, however, an angled base body 2 or an angled connector can also be provided.

[0135] The base body 2 has a plug-side end 3, from which a front end section 4 of the connector housing 1 extends along the longitudinal axis L. This front end section 4 is primarily intended for contacting the mating connector housing of the mating connector (not shown), thus forming the plug-in interface. An output-side end 5 of the base body 2 or a rear end section 6 is provided in this case for connection to an optical or electrical cable (not shown). Alternatively, a connection to, for example, a conductor track or other lines of an electrical circuit can also be provided (also not shown).

[0136] For example, the base body 2 has a recess 7 for receiving connector components not shown, such as contact elements or dielectrics.

[0137] Preferably, the connector housing 1, in particular the base body 2 and the components integrally connected to the base body 2, described below, are manufactured by means of the injection molding process described below.

[0138] For mechanical locking with a mating connector, the connector housing 1 has a locking device 8 that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the base body 2 and has a first connecting section 9, via which it is integrally connected to the base body 2. A free space 10 that extends along a longitudinal axis LF is formed between the locking device 8 and the base body 2.

[0139] In the exemplary embodiments, the locking device 8 is designed as an elastic spring arm 11 running parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the base body 2 or parallel to the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10, on which a locking element designed as a locking hook 12 is arranged. The free space 10 between the locking hook 12 and the base body 2 provides the possibility of deflecting the locking element or the locking hook 12, starting from a basic state of the spring arm 11, in the direction of the base body 2 in order to enable locking and unlocking with the mating connector. A generally grooved actuating surface 13 is provided for actuation of the locking device 8 or the spring arm 11 by a fitter.

[0140] In the in the Figures 1, 2 , 5 and 6In the exemplary embodiments of the connector housing 1 shown, the spring arm 11 has, in addition to the first connecting section 9, a second connecting section 14 in order to also connect the spring arm 11 to the base body 2 at the second end facing away from its first end. The free space 10 extends along the longitudinal axis LF over the entire length between the two connecting sections 9, 14. In this way, a locking device 8 connected on both sides or a spring arm 11 connected on both sides is provided, which can increase the robustness of the locking connection. However, a spring arm 11 connected only on one side can also be provided, as in the Figures 3, 4 and 7 shown.

[0141] For mechanical protection of the locking device 8, the connector housing 1 has a first protective element 16 arranged on a first side 15 of the base body 2 and a second protective element 18 arranged on a second side 17 of the base body 2, wherein the protective elements 16, 18 each extend in one piece from the base body 2. The locking device 8 or the spring arm 11 is arranged between the protective elements 16, 18 such that each of the protective elements 16, 18 covers the free space 10 formed between the locking device 8 and the base body 2, starting from the respective side 15, 17 or in a transverse direction Q transverse to the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 2, into at least one concealment area V (cf. hatching in the Figures 1 and 2 ) is hidden.

[0142] The protective elements 16, 18 extend in the present case from a base surface 19 of the base body 2, which connects the first side 15 to the second side 17 and to which the connecting sections 9, 14 are also connected. The free space 10 is located between the locking device 8 and the base surface 19. The protective elements 16, 18 rise primarily orthogonally from the base surface 19 and run along the edge of the base body 2 or the base surface 19 in such a way that they represent an extension of the side surface of the respective side 15, 17. However, it can also be provided that the protective elements 16, 18 and / or the connecting sections 9, 14 are spaced from the respective edge of the base body 2, as can be seen from the protective elements 16, 18 of the Figure 3 is illustrated purely by example.

[0143] In order to protect the locking device 8 as comprehensively as possible, the covering areas V of the protective elements 16, 18 are designed, in addition to covering the free space 10, to also cover the locking device 8 in the transverse direction Q at least in some areas.

[0144] It can be provided that the protective elements 16, 18 do not laterally cover the locking device 8 in the front end section 4 extending from the plug-side end 3 along the longitudinal axis L of the base body 2 or the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10, as shown in all exemplary embodiments. This can improve the accessibility of the connector housing 1 for the mating connector housing.

[0145] Within the scope of the invention, it is provided that the protective elements 16, 18 each also form at least one access area Z through which the free space 10 is accessible along the transverse direction Q. In order to ensure that the free space 10 is accessible along the longitudinal axis LF at least from one side 15, 17 or from one of the protective elements 16, 18, the protective elements 16, 18 are arranged and designed on the base body 2 such that each concealment area V is opposite one of the access areas Z of the other protective element 18, 16 in the transverse direction Q. The free space 10 is thus always fully accessible from the first side 15 and / or the second side 17 along the longitudinal axis LF. If accessibility from one side 15, 17 is blocked, at least accessibility from the other side 17, 15 is still guaranteed. To make this possible, the protective elements 16, 18 can be designed in different ways.Some possibilities are explained in the context of the present exemplary embodiments - sometimes also in combination - but are not intended to limit the invention to them.

[0146] In the in the Figures 1, 2 , 5 and 6In the exemplary embodiments shown, the protective elements 16, 18 have respective protective walls 20. The protective wall 20 of the second protective element 18 is positioned shortened or offset along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10 relative to the protective wall 20 of the first protective element 16 in such a way that a concealed area V of the free space 10 concealed by the protective wall 20 of the first protective element 16 is accessible from the second side 17 on which the second protective element 18 is positioned. The second protective element 18 thus has, in its front axial section facing the plug-side end 3 of the base body 2, a region free of elevations or protective wall extending along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10 in order to form one of the access areas Z.

[0147] In addition, the protective walls 20 each have recesses designed as windows 21 to form a further access area Z in order to make the free space 10 between the locking device 8 and the base body 2 accessible along the transverse direction Q. The window 21 of the first protective element 16 is positioned offset from the window 21 of the second protective element 18 along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10 in such a way that the concealed areas V of the free space 10 again remain selectively accessible from at least one of the two sides 15, 17.

[0148] An alternative or a supplement to protective elements 16, 18, which have protective walls 20, is shown in Figure 3shown. It is provided that the protective elements 16, 18 have respective protective webs 22, which are preferably distributed in a crenellated manner on the base body 2, wherein the protective webs 22 of the first protective element 16 are positioned offset from the protective webs 22 of the second protective element 18 along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space in such a way that the concealed areas V of the free space 10 concealed by the protective webs 22 of one of the protective elements 16, 18 are accessible from the opposite side 17, 15 on which the respective other protective element 18, 16 is positioned. The respective access areas Z are thus realized by the respective elevation-free areas between the protective webs 22. In this way, too, good protection for the locking device 8 can be provided.

[0149] A supplementary or alternative possibility for protecting the locking device 8 is the use of a protective bracket 23, as shown in the Figures 4 to 7shown. In Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of a connector housing 1 with two protective brackets 23 is shown, which are designed differently to illustrate the design freedom. The use of only a single protective bracket 23 (cf. Figure 7 ) or more than two protective bars 23 in identical or different designs can be provided.

[0150] A protective bar 23 preferably has a first leg 24 and a second leg 25, wherein the first leg 24 is integrally connected to the first protective element 16 and the second leg 25 is integrally connected to the second protective element 18. The protective elements 16, 18 can therefore also directly form the legs 23, 24.

[0151] The legs 24, 25 can, for example, start from one of the protective walls 20 shown above (cf. Figures 5 and 6 ) or starting from protective bridges 22, as in Figure 4indicated by dashed lines. The protective bar 23 extends from the first protective element 16 or from the first leg 24 to the second protective element 18 or to the second leg 25 and bridges the locking device 8 for its mechanical protection. As can be seen from the front protective bar 23 according to Figure 4 , it is not necessary for the protective bar 23 to have a closed profile. The protective bar 23 can also be formed by two half-bars 26, which extend towards each other from the respective legs 24, 25. A protective bar 23 connected to the base body 2 on only one side, as in Figure 7 shown, may be provided.

[0152] If necessary, the legs 24, 25 of the protective bar 23 can be positioned offset from one another along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10, as shown in the Figures 4 to 6shown. However, if the protective bar 23 is only placed on one of the protective walls 20 or on one of the protective webs 22, a non-offset arrangement of the legs 24, 25 can also be provided, in particular if the respective protective wall 20 and / or the respective protective web 22 has a window 21 or another recess in order to ensure accessibility to the free space 10.

[0153] Insofar as the two legs 24, 25 of the protective bar 23 are offset from one another along the longitudinal axis LF, a curved course of the protective bar 23 can preferably be provided between the two legs 24, 25, as in the preferred embodiment of the Figures 5 and 6 In principle, however, alternative courses can also be provided, such as a linear course (cf. front protective bar 23 in Figure 4 ) or a stepped course (see rear protective bar 23 of the Figure 4 ).

[0154] The Figures 5 and 6 show a connector housing 1 according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention. The connector housing 1 has a spring arm 11 connected on both sides, which is laterally protected by respective protective walls 20, wherein the second protective element 18, for forming one of the access areas Z, in turn has a front, elevation-free area, i.e., is shortened compared to the first protective element 16 along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10 and is offset in the direction of the outgoing end 5 of the base body 2. Furthermore, the protective elements 16, 18 have respective recesses in the form of windows 20 to provide further access areas Z, which correspond to respective opposite concealment areas V. Furthermore, the Figures 5 and 6 The locking device 8 shown is also protected from above by the protective bracket 23 placed on the protective walls 20. A locking device as shown in Figures 5 and 6The connector housing 1 shown is capable of providing particularly advantageous protection for the locking device 8 and, at the same time, can be produced cost-effectively in mass production by means of an injection molding process.

[0155] To clarify that within the scope of the inventive overall concept, an alternative connector housing 1 can also be provided, with only one or more

[0156] Protective bars 23, is in Figure 7 In addition, such an alternative connector housing 1 is shown as an example. It should be emphasized that the further features and advantages of the respective connector housing 1 shown in the exemplary embodiments and figures can in principle also be transferred to the alternative connector housing 1 - and vice versa.

[0157] Also in Figure 7The connector housing 1 shown has a base body 2 made of plastic, as well as a locking device 8 for mechanical connection to a corresponding counter-locking device of a mating connector, which can be designed as already explained. The alternative connector housing 1 also has a protective bracket 23, which can also be designed as already explained. The protective bracket 23 can in particular have a first leg 24 and a second leg 24, wherein at least one of the legs 24, 25 (but preferably both legs 24, 25, as described in the above exemplary embodiments) extends in one piece from the base body 2, and wherein the locking device 8 is arranged between the legs 24, 25 and is bridged by the protective bracket 23 for their mechanical protection. Figure 7 the second leg 25 is, for example, not connected to the base body 2.

[0158] At least the leg 24, which is integrally connected to the base body 2, is designed to cover the free space 10 formed between the locking device 8 and the base body 2 in at least one covering area V in a transverse direction Q transverse to the longitudinal axis LF. Furthermore, at least one of the legs 24, 25 forms at least one access area Z (in the embodiment of the Figure 7 the second leg 25), through which the free space 10 is accessible along the transverse direction Q. In this way, it can be ensured that the concealment area V of the first leg 24 is opposite one of the access areas Z of the second leg 25 along the transverse direction Q. For this purpose, the second leg 25 is, for example, spaced sufficiently far from the base body 2 that the free space 10 is accessible in the transverse direction.

[0159] At this point it should be mentioned that the legs 24, 25 in Figure 7are arranged axially offset from one another along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10. However, such an axial offset is not absolutely necessary, especially if one of the legs 24, 25 is already spaced apart from the base body 2, as is the case in Figure 7 is the case. The legs 24, 25 of a protective bar 23 therefore do not necessarily have to be axially offset from one another, but can also be arranged at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10.

[0160] In particular, a plurality of protective bars 23 connected on one side can also be provided, which are offset along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10 and in which the first leg 24 and the second leg 25 are alternately connected to the base body 2 along the longitudinal axis LF.

[0161] An example is the Figures 8 and 9an injection molding device 27 for producing the connector housing 1 is shown. The connector housing 1 is, for example, the connector housing 1 of the embodiment of the Figures 5 and 6 .

[0162] The injection molding device 27 has a multi-part injection molding tool 28, which in its assembled state (cf. Figure 8 ) forms a negative mold for the connector housing 1, so that after the solidification of the injected, liquid plastic, for example, the Figures 5 and 6 Connector housing 1 shown or the one shown in Figure 7 shown alternative connector housing 1. In Figure 9 the multi-part injection mold 28 is shown in an open state and the connector housing 1 is thus demolded.

[0163] At this point it should be noted that the recess 7 formed in the base body 2 for the further connector components can in principle be produced in any way, for example by means of a Figures 8 and 9 not shown, further casting mold or by post-processing, for example the insertion of a hole in the base body 2.

[0164] In principle, a first mold 29 of the injection mold 28 can be movable relative to the connector housing 1 along the longitudinal axis L of the base body 2 or along the longitudinal axis LF of the free space 10 in order to demold axial regions between the locking device 8 and the protective elements 16, 18. This demolding can preferably be limited to the axial regions between the locking device 8 and the protective elements 16, 18 in the rear end section 6 along the longitudinal axis L of the base body 2, since in the region of the interface or the front end section 4 of the connector housing 1, further undercuts can be formed by the locking hook 12 and any mechanical coding means (not shown), which require demolding from the sides 15, 17.

[0165] The injection mold 28 also has a second mold 30 and a third mold 31, which are each movable in the transverse direction Q relative to the connector housing 1 and arranged opposite one another for demolding the connector housing 1. Starting from the respective side 15, 17, the second mold 30 and the third mold 31 are capable of demolding the sections of the free space 10 between the locking device 8 and the base body 2 that are not covered by the protective element 16, 18 through the respective access areas Z. Preferably, the second mold 30 and the third mold 31 are moved synchronously, and particularly preferably, the first mold 29 is also moved synchronously.

[0166] The second mold 30 and the third mold 31 can have demolding areas 32 for the free space 10 below the locking device 8, which engage with each other when the injection mold 28 is connected.

[0167] At this point, it should be mentioned that the illustrated injection molding device 27 can, of course, also comprise further conventional components, for example, means for injecting the liquid plastic and means for ejecting the connector housing 1, tool slides, and actuator devices. Since injection molding devices 27 are generally known, these components are described in the Figures 8 and 9 not shown for simplification.

Claims

1. Plug connector housing (1) for a plug connector, having - a main body (2) made from a plastics material; - a latching installation (8) for mechanically connecting to a corresponding mating latching installation of a mating plug connector, wherein the latching installation (8) has a first connection portion (9) by way of which the latching installation (8) is integrally connected to the main body (2), wherein a void (10), which extends along a longitudinal axis (LF) on the main body (2), is at least in portions formed between the latching installation (8) and the main body (2); - a first protective element (16) and a second protective element (18) which, proceeding from the main body (2), extend integrally in each case in such a manner that the latching installation (8) is disposed between the protective elements (16, 18), wherein each one of the protective elements (16, 18) in at least one covered region (V) covers the void (10) configured between the latching installation (8) and the main body (2) in a transverse direction (Q), the latter being transverse to the longitudinal axis (LF), wherein each one of the protective elements (16, 18) moreover configures at least one access region (Z) by way of which the void (10) is accessible along the transverse direction (Q), characterized in that each one of the covered regions (V) faces a respective access region (Z) of the respective other protective element (16, 18) along the transverse direction.

2. Plug connector housing (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the latching installation (8) has an elastic spring arm (11) which runs along the longitudinal axis (LF) and on which a latching element (12), preferably a latching hook, is disposed, wherein the void (10) is situated at least between the latching element (12) and the main body (2) so as to, proceeding from a basic state of the spring arm (11), enable a deflection of the latching element (12) in the direction towards the main body (2), and wherein the spring arm (11) on a first end, by way of the first connection portion (9), is integrally connected to the main body (2) and moreover on a second end, facing away from the first end, by way of a second connection portion (14), is integrally connected to the main body (2), wherein the void (10) along the longitudinal axis (LF) extends across the entire length between the two connection portions (9, 14).

3. Plug connector housing (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one of the covered regions (V) of one of the protective elements (16, 18), preferably all covered regions (V) of each of the protective elements (16, 18), in addition to the void (10) also at least in regions cover(s) the latching installation (8) in the transverse direction (Q).

4. Plug connector housing (1) according to Claim 3, characterized in that the protective elements (16, 18), in a front axial end portion (4) that proceeds from a plug-proximal end (3), do not cover the latching installation (8) in the transverse direction (Q).

5. Plug connector housing (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the protective elements (16, 18) have respective elevations (20, 22) which for configuring a respective covered region (V) run along the longitudinal axis (LF), and have elevation-free regions which for configuring a respective access region (Z) run along the longitudinal axis (LF).

6. Plug connector housing (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the protective elements (16, 18) have respective elevations (20, 22) which for configuring a respective covered region (V) run along the longitudinal axis (LF), wherein at least one of the elevations (20, 22) has at least one clearance (21) so as to configure one of the access regions (Z).

7. Plug connector housing (1) according to Claim 5 or 6, characterized in that at least one of the elevations is configured as a protective wall (20) or protective web (22).

8. Plug connector housing (1) according to Claim 6 or 7, characterized in that at least one of the clearances is configured as a window (21), concavity or slot.

9. Plug connector housing (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized by a protective bracket (23) which has a first leg (24) and a second leg (25), wherein the first leg (24) is integrally connected to the first protective element (16), and the second leg (25) is integrally connected to the second protective element (18), and wherein the protective bracket (23) extends from the first protective element (16) to the second protective element (18) and bridges the latching installation (8) in order for said latching installation (8) to be mechanically protected.

10. Plug connector housing (1) according to Claim 9, characterized in that the legs (24, 25) of the protective bracket (23) are positioned so as to be mutually offset along the longitudinal axis (LF), wherein the protective bracket (23) between the two legs (24, 25) preferably follows a curved profile.

11. Plug connector housing (1) for a plug connector, having - a main body (2) made from a plastics material; - a latching installation (8) for mechanically connecting to a corresponding mating latching installation of a mating plug connector, wherein the latching installation (8) has a first connection portion (9) by way of which the latching installation (8) is integrally connected to the main body (2), wherein a void (10), which extends along a longitudinal axis (LF) on the main body, is at least in portions formed between the latching installation (8) and the main body (2); and - a protective bracket (23) which has a first leg (24) and a second leg (25), wherein at least one of the legs (24, 25) extends integrally so as to proceed from the main body (2), and wherein the latching installation (8) is disposed between the legs (24, 25) and is bridged by the protective bracket (23) in order for said latching installation (8) to be mechanically protected, and wherein at least that leg (24, 25) that is integrally connected to the main body (2) in at least one covered region (V) covers the void (10), which is configured between the latching installation (8) and the main body (2), in a transverse direction (Q) transverse to the longitudinal axis (LF), characterized in that the legs (24, 25) are disposed so as to be mutually axially offset along the longitudinal axis (LF) of the void (10) such that the void (10), which in the transverse direction (Q) is covered by one of the legs (24, 25), proceeding from the other leg (24, 25) is accessible along the transverse direction (Q).

12. Injection-moulding method for producing a plug connector housing (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 11, comprising at least the following method steps: - providing a multiple-part injection-moulding tool (28) which in the assembled state thereof configures a female mould for the plug connector housing (1); - moving a first casting mould (29) of the injection-moulding tool (28) along the longitudinal axis (LF) relative to the plug connector housing (1) so as to demould axial regions between the latching installation (8) and the protective elements (16, 18); and - moving a second casting mould (30) and a third casting mould (31), which lies opposite the second casting mould (30), of the injection-moulding tool (28) in each case along the transverse direction (Q) relative to the plug connector housing (1) so as to demould the void (10) between the latching installation (8) and the main body (2) by going through the access regions (Z).

13. Injection-moulding method according to Claim 12, characterized in that the first casting mould (29) is used exclusively for demoulding the axial regions between the latching installation (8) and the protective elements (16, 18) along the longitudinal axis (LF) in a rear axial end portion (6) that proceeds from an output-proximal end (5).

14. Injection-moulding method according to Claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the second casting mould (30) and the third casting mould (31) are moved in a temporally synchronous manner so as to demould the void (10) simultaneously by going through the access regions (Z) of all protective elements (16, 18).

15. Injection-moulding device (27) for producing a plug connector housing (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 11, having a multiple-part injection-moulding tool (28) which in the assembled state thereof configures a female mould for the plug connector housing (1), wherein a first casting mould (29) of the injection-moulding tool (28) for demoulding the plug connector housing (1) is movable along the longitudinal axis (LF) relative to the plug connector housing (1) so as to demould axial regions between the latching installation (8) and the protective elements (16, 18), and wherein a second casting mould (30) and a third casting mould (31) of the injection-moulding tool (28) for demoulding the plug connector housing (1) are in each case movable along the transvers direction (Q) relative to the plug connector housing (1) and are disposed so as to be mutually opposite in order for the void (10) between the latching installation (8) and the main body (2) to be demoulded by going through the access regions (Z).