LOCKING DEVICE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a locking device for a connector, preferably a socket, with at least one electrical contact element, wherein the locking device has a housing with a housing opening for actuating the locking device by a plug section of a mating connector guided in the plug-in direction, wherein a coupling element is movably mounted in the housing, preferably rotatably and / or translationally, and is coupled to the at least one cover element for actuating the at least one cover element between a closed position and an open position, wherein at least one release element is movably mounted in the housing and is configured to release or lock the coupling element, and wherein at least one actuating element is movably mounted in the housing and is configured to actuate the coupling element after release.to move at least one cover element from the closed position to the open position.

[0002] Connectors in the form of plugs or sockets with electrical contact elements for transmitting electrical energy and / or electrical signals are known in a wide variety of configurations and designs from the prior art. Connectors used, for example, in the field of electromobility at charging stations, often have to transmit very high electrical currents within short charging times to charge electrically powered vehicles (electric vehicles). In these connectors, the electrical contact elements for transmitting electrical energy (so-called load contact elements) must be protected to prevent both the ingress of foreign objects into the connector and accidents, especially electric shocks. For this purpose, so-called "shutter" solutions are used as mechanical contact protection mechanisms or locking devices.These are now mandatory and partly standardized in many countries. For example, the standards DIN EN 62196-1 and DIN EN 62196-2 must be met for certain countries of the European Union.

[0003] German patent application DE 10 2014 114 214 A1 discloses, for example, an electrical charging socket for plug connection with a plug. Load contacts are arranged on the plug-in side of the socket housing, each of which can be covered by a cover device. The cover device comprises a plate-shaped cover element and a locking element. The locking element is equipped with an elastic lever with a support, as well as a latch and a push button. The push button is accessible on the plug-in side and can be actuated with a force. The latch is movable between a locked and unlocked position to actuate the cover element of the cover device translationally, i.e., to move it relative to the load contact in order to make it accessible or to cover it.

[0004] German patent application DE 10 2014 108 728 A1 describes a locking device for electrical contact elements of a plug connector. The locking device has two cover elements, each pivotally mounted about a pivot axis. After a plug is inserted into the plug connector, the cover elements can be moved into a locking position by means of a locking element, in order to hold the cover elements in a locked position.

[0005] European patent no. EP 2 685 568 B1 describes a socket for an electric vehicle designed to receive a plug. The socket is equipped with a pair of U-shaped covers, which are movably arranged outside the socket housing. The covers have protruding tabs that can be inserted into the interior of the socket housing through slots to cover electrical contact elements.

[0006] The known "shutter" solutions as locking devices, for example, only partially cover the mating face of a connector, that is, the electrical contact elements located or arranged in the mating section of the connector. Furthermore, the known "shutter" solutions do not allow for intuitive operation and require, for example, cumbersome twisting of the mating connector and / or increased force.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved locking device, wherein the locking device is preferably characterized by simple operation and all electrical contact elements can be protected, i.e., covered.

[0008] The problem is solved by the features of independent claim 1. Further embodiments and applications of the present invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description with partial reference to the figures.

[0009] The invention is characterized in that the release element is mounted in a translationally movable manner and that the coupling element has at least one guide element for coupling with the at least one cover element in order to actuate the at least one cover element translationally and / or rotationally.

[0010] By actuating at least one release element, the coupling element is first unlocked to allow movement, and then actuated by at least one first actuating element to set it in motion, in order to actuate at least one cover element between a closed and an open position. As the mating connector section passes through the housing opening of the locking device, it passes through both at least one release element and at least one first actuating element. Upon contact with the mating section, these elements release the coupling element and set it in motion, in order to actuate at least one cover element through the coupling element, allowing the mating section to continue through the locking device to the now-released mating section of the connector.

[0011] The present invention thus provides a locking device that is, for example, easy and intuitive to operate, since the mating connector with its plug section only needs to be moved translationally in the insertion direction towards the locking device and through it. For example, no rotational movement of the mating connector is required to actuate the locking device from a closed position to an open position. Due to its mounting in the housing, the plug section of the mating connector can actuate the at least one release element and the at least one actuating element in a direction that is essentially transverse or essentially perpendicular to the insertion direction when inserted or inserted into the locking device.

[0012] The locking device can thus be unlocked and further actuated by the plug section of the mating connector. To increase the security of the locking device, several release elements can be arranged in the locking device, for example preferably in a circumferential direction and / or opposite each other.

[0013] The housing of the locking device can preferably be configured for a detachable connection with the connector, preferably by means of a plug connection and / or snap connection and / or screw connection.

[0014] According to a further aspect of the invention, the at least one release element and / or the at least one actuating element can be mounted and / or actuated in a manner that is translationally movable essentially transversely or essentially perpendicular to the insertion direction, preferably by contact with the insertion section. This allows, for example, a compact and space-saving design of the locking device.

[0015] It is possible that the at least one enabling element and / or the at least one actuating element each have a stop for contacting the plug-in section and actuating the at least one enabling element and / or the at least one actuating element by the plug-in section, wherein preferably the respective stop is configured as a plate at least in sections and / or is designed and / or arranged at an angle to the plug-in direction. This allows, for example, the at least one enabling element and / or the at least one actuating element to be operated by the plug-in section like a push button, with the plug-in section sliding over the respective stop in the plug-in direction for actuation.

[0016] According to a further aspect of the invention, the coupling element can be designed in an annular form, at least in sections; and / or the coupling element can be mounted in the housing so as to be movable translationally in a circumferential direction and / or on a circular path, at least in sections, or so as to be movable rotationally. In other words, the coupling element can slide translationally and / or preferably rotationally between corresponding walls and / or wall sections of the housing.

[0017] It is possible that the coupling element is connected to at least one return spring element in order to actuate the at least one cover element from an open position to a closed position after actuation by the at least one actuating element. This preferably occurs when the mating connector has been removed from the plug connector and thus no plug section remains in the locking device. The at least one return spring element can then return the coupling element to a starting position, which represents a closed position of the locking device.

[0018] According to the invention, the coupling element has at least one guide element for coupling with the at least one cover element in order to actuate the at least one cover element translationally and / or rotationally.

[0019] It is possible that the at least one guide element is preferably configured in a bolt-shaped or pin-shaped manner and / or extends substantially in the insertion direction, and / or wherein the at least one guide element is integrally formed in one piece with the coupling element.

[0020] According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one release element and / or the at least one actuating element is connected to a return spring element in order to be able to return the at least one release element and / or the at least one actuating element to a starting position, preferably to a closed position of the at least one cover element and thus of the closing device.

[0021] It is possible that the at least one release element has a projection in order to contact a section of the coupling element, preferably a free end section or a recess of the coupling element, in a closed position of the at least one cover element and to lock the coupling element.

[0022] According to a further aspect of the invention, the at least one cover element may have at least one cylindrical recess, preferably substantially in the insertion direction, for rotatably movable mounting of the at least one cover element in the housing or for receiving at least one guide element of the coupling element in order to actuate the at least one cover element translationally and / or rotationally. The at least one cylindrical recess may, for example, be designed as a through-hole. The at least one cylindrical recess may, as a through-hole, extend substantially straight in at least some sections in one view, or it may extend curved or arched in at least some sections.

[0023] It is possible that the at least one cover element has at least one elongated recess for receiving at least one guide element of the coupling element in order to actuate the at least one cover element at least rotationally. The at least one elongated recess can be designed as an elongated hole, which is preferably arranged and / or designed at a distance from the at least one cylindrical recess.

[0024] According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one cover element has an engagement section or a locking section for engagement, preferably releasable form-fitting engagement, with at least one further engagement section or a locking section of at least one further cover element.

[0025] Preferably, the locking device can comprise four cover elements, which have complementary engagement sections or locking sections. An engagement section or a locking section can, for example, be wedge-shaped and / or hook-shaped.

[0026] According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one cover element, preferably in a view in the insertion direction, is at least partially crescent-shaped. This allows, for example, several cover elements to be optimally arranged relative to each other in a closed position.

[0027] It is possible that the closure device comprises a cover element with a pivotable hinged lid, wherein the cover element is detachably attached to the closure device, preferably by means of a screw connection.

[0028] From a further general point of view, the invention relates to an arrangement comprising a connector, preferably a socket, and a locking device as disclosed herein.

[0029] The embodiments and features of the present invention described above can be combined with one another as desired. Further details and advantageous effects of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0030] They show: Fig. 1 shows an arrangement with an example of a locking device according to the present invention, wherein the locking device is still in a locked position; Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the Figure 1The locking device shown with the mating connector, wherein the locking device is in a first state; Fig. 2 Legs Front view (with partial section of the locking device) of the in Figure 2A shown locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 2C an enlarged view of a section (section Y) from Figure 2B ; Fig. 2Your front view of the in Figure 2A The illustrated locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 2E a sectional view (section AA in Figure 2D ) the locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 2 Fine further sectional view (section BB in Figure 2D ) the locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 3A a perspective view of the in Figure 1 The illustrated locking device with the mating connector, wherein the locking device is in a second state; Fig. 3 Legs Front view (with partial section of the locking device) of the in Figure 3A The illustrated locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 3C is an enlarged view of a section (section Z) from Figure 3B ; Fig. 3Your front view of the in Figure 3A The illustrated locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 3E a sectional view (section CC in Figure 3D ) the locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 3 Fine further sectional view (section DD in Figure 3B ) the locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 4A a perspective view of the in Figure 1 The illustrated locking device with the mating connector, wherein the locking device is in a third state; Fig. 4 Legs Front view (with partial section of the locking device) of the in Figure 4A shown locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 4C a front view of the in Figure 4Ashown locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 4 Your sectional view (section EE in Figure 4C ) the locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 4E another sectional view (section FF in Figure 4C ) the locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 5A a perspective view of the in Figure 1 The illustrated locking device with the mating connector, wherein the locking device is in a fourth state; Fig. 5 Legs Front view (with partial section of the locking device) of the in Figure 5A shown locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 5C a front view of the in Figure 5A The illustrated locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 5 Your sectional view (section GG in Figure 5C) the locking device with the mating connector; Fig. 6A a front view of an arrangement of four cover elements shown in a locking position; Fig. 6B a rear view of an arrangement of four cover elements shown in a locking position; Fig. 7A a front view and a rear view of an arrangement of four cover elements shown in a first, i.e., a locking position; Fig. 7B a front view and a rear view of the arrangement of four cover elements shown in a second position; Fig. 7C a front view and a rear view of the arrangement of four cover elements shown in a third position; Fig. 7B a front view and a rear view of the arrangement of four cover elements shown in a fourth position; Fig.Fig. 7A front view and a rear view of the arrangement of four cover elements, which are shown in a fifth position; Fig. 7A front view and a rear view of the arrangement of four cover elements, which are shown in a sixth position; Fig. 7A front view and a rear view of the arrangement of four cover elements, which are shown in a fourth, i.e., in an open position.

[0031] Identical or functionally equivalent components or elements are identified in the figures with the same reference numerals. To avoid repetition, reference is sometimes made to the descriptions of other embodiments and / or figures for their explanation.

[0032] The following detailed description of the embodiments shown in the figures serves to illustrate or clarify the invention in no way limiting its scope.

[0033] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows an arrangement with an example of a locking device 1 according to the present invention. The locking device 1 is detachably attached by its housing 6 to a connector 2, i.e., to a plug section 2A of the connector 2, by means of screw connections SV. The connector 2 can, for example, be a component of a charging station for electric vehicles and may have at least one electrical contact element, preferably several electrical contact elements, in the area of ​​its plug section 2A for the transmission of electrical energy and / or electrical signals (in Figure 1). Figure 1 (not visible). Figure 1For the sake of clarity, only a simplified representation of part of a wallbox wall 5 of a charging station is shown.

[0034] The locking device 1 is detachably connected to the wallbox wall 5 of a charging station for electric vehicles, for example via screw connections (in Figure 1 (not shown). A sealing element can preferably be located between the locking device 1 and the wallbox wall 5 to prevent water and / or dirt from entering the interior of the locking device 1.

[0035] The locking device 1 is connected to or includes an outer cover element 4. The outer cover element 4 comprises a pivotally mounted hinged cover 4D to protect the interior of the locking device 1 and preferably the plug section 2A.

[0036] The locking device 1 is still in a locked position, however, to form a plug connection with the connector 2 via plug section 2A, a mating connector 3 with a plug section 3A of the mating connector 3 complementary to plug section 2A is already attached. The mating connector 3 is in Figure 1The mating connector 3 is shown schematically. It is inserted in the insertion direction X through, or preferably over, the locking device 1 into the plug section 2A to establish an electrically conductive connection between the respective electrical contact elements of the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 for the transmission of electrical energy and / or electrical signals. The locking device 1 transitions from a closed position to an open position to allow the plug section 3A of the mating connector 3 to be inserted into the plug section 2A of the connector 2. Preferably, the connector 2 is designed as a socket and the mating connector 3 as a plug. The configuration, design, and function of the locking device 1 are described in more detail below with reference to the additional figures.

[0037] Figure 2A shows a perspective view of the in Figure 1The illustrated locking device 1 with the mating connector 3, wherein the locking device 1 is in a first state which represents the locking state or the locking position.

[0038] The locking device 1 comprises a housing 6. The housing 6 is preferably multi-part. The housing 6 extends substantially in the insertion direction X and has a cylindrical outer contour. The housing 6 is made of an insulating material, for example a plastic, by at least one injection molding process and / or by at least one casting process. The housing 6 has a housing opening 60, which extends continuously through the locking device 1 in the insertion direction X. The housing opening 60 serves to actuate the locking device 1 by a plug section 3A of a mating connector 3 guided in the insertion direction X, which will be described in more detail below.

[0039] The locking device 1 has four movably mounted cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 in the form of louvers inside the housing 6. The cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 are flat and / or plate-shaped. The cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 are arranged relative to each other and are connected via engagement sections L1A, L2A, L3A, L4A (see the figure). Figures 6A and 6B ) connected to each other, so that the locking device 1 is in a locked position.

[0040] Figure 2B shows a front view (with partial section of the locking device 1) of the in Figure 2A shown locking device 1 with the mating connector 3.

[0041] In this partial sectional view, the housing 6 has a substantially circular outer contour. Inside the housing 6 is the mechanism for actuating the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 to cover at least one electrical contact element of the connector 2 in the insertion direction X (see [reference]). Figure 1 ). In Figure 2B The plug-in face of the mating connector 3 is recognizable at the housing opening 6Ö of the housing 6 of the locking device 1, wherein an electrical contact element 7 is characterized by way of example, which is located in or arranged in the plug-in section 3A of the mating connector 3.

[0042] A coupling element 10K is movably mounted in the housing 6, that is, on corresponding walls and / or wall sections of the housing 6, i.e., mounted so as to be rotatably movable, preferably about an axis of rotation which runs in the insertion direction X and / or is substantially parallel to the insertion direction X. The coupling element 10K extends in the insertion direction X and is essentially ring-shaped. The coupling element 10K is preferably made of a plastic.

[0043] The coupling element 10K is coupled to the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 for actuating the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 between a closed position and an open position of the locking device 1. The coupling is preferably effected via bolt-shaped or pin-shaped guide elements of the coupling element 10K, of which in Figure 1The guide elements 10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4 are shown. The guide elements 10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4 are arranged around the circumference of the coupling element 10K, extend essentially in the insertion direction X and can be integrally formed in one piece with the coupling element 10K.

[0044] The cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 each have cylindrical recesses L1D, L2D, L3D, L4D in the form of through holes for the rotatable mounting of the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 in the housing 6. The housing 6 has corresponding (stationary) complementary cylindrical bearing bolts (not visible in the figures) around which the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 can perform a rotational movement, i.e., a turning movement.

[0045] Furthermore, the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 have elongated recesses L1L, L2L, L3L, L4L in the form of slotted holes for receiving the bolt-shaped or pin-shaped guide elements 10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4 of the coupling element 10K (see the Figures 6A and 6B ) to actuate the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 at least partially, at least rotationally, that is, to rotate them, preferably from a closed position to an open position and back. The respective cylindrical recesses L1D, L2D, L3D, L4D are arranged and / or formed on the respective cover element L1, L2, L3, L4 at a corresponding distance from the respective elongated recesses L1L, L2L, L3L, L4L, which is particularly evident from the Figures 6A and 6B emerges.

[0046] In other words, a combination of translational and, above all, rotational movement of the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 occurs through a kinematic forced coupling between the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 and the coupling element 10K and the housing 6, so that the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 can be actuated from a closed position to an open position, i.e., can be moved.

[0047] The operation of the coupling element 10K is described in more detail below, with reference also made to the illustrations in the following sections. Figures 2C to 2E is referred.

[0048] Figure 2C shows an enlarged view of a section (section Y) from Figure 2B . Figure 2D shows a front view of the in Figure 2A shown locking device 1 with the mating connector 3. Figure 2E shows a sectional view (section AA in Figure 2D) the locking device 1 with the mating connector 3 and Figure 2F shows another sectional view (section BB in Figure 2D ) the locking device 1 with the mating connector 3.

[0049] A first release element 8F1 and a second release element 8F2 are arranged in the housing 6 of the locking device 1 and are mounted in the housing 6 so as to be translationally movable. The first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 are mounted and / or actuated translationally movable substantially transversely or substantially perpendicularly to the insertion direction X. The first release element 8F1 is spaced apart from the second release element 8F2 in the housing 6 and arranged opposite each other. The first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 are configured to release or lock the coupling element 10K, that is, primarily to enable or prevent a rotational movement of the coupling element 10K. For this purpose, both the first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 each have a projection 8V1, 8V2, to contact a section of the coupling element 10K.The respective section of the coupling element 10K is designed as a recess. Alternatively, the respective section of the coupling element 10K can also be designed as a projection.

[0050] The first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 are actuated via the plug section 3A of the mating connector 3, which is to be inserted, or can be inserted, into the locking device 1 through the housing opening 6Ö in the X direction. Both the first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 are necessarily located in the X direction in front of the arrangement of the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4. For contact with the plug section 3A and actuation by the plug section 3A, the first release element 8F1 has the stop 8A1, which is further located in the Figure 2C and 2Eas shown. Likewise, the second release element 8F2 for contacting the plug section 3A and actuating it by the plug section 3A has the stop 8A2 (see also the Figure 2C and 2E The stops 8A1, 8A2 are configured at least partially as flat and / or plate-shaped and are arranged at an angle to the insertion direction X, which is due, for example, to Figure 2E This is evident. In other words, stops 8A1 and 8A2 are configured for contact and actuation by the plug section 3A. The respective direction of movement of the first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 in housing 6 is indicated by arrows, for example, in Figure 2E depicted.

[0051] With the insertion of the plug-in section 3A into the locking device 1 in the insertion direction X, the first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 are gradually pressed towards the outer wall of the housing 6 via their stops 8A1, 8A2, i.e., moved translationally in the opposite direction and essentially transversely or essentially perpendicularly to the insertion direction X (see in particular the dashed arrow in the enlarged view of section Y from Figure 2B ). Moving the mating connector 3 and thus the plug section 3A in the plugging direction X causes the first and second release elements 8F1, 8F2 to move beyond their respective stops 8A1, 8A2. For this to occur, a certain force F must be applied to the mating connector 3 (see Figure 2E) are applied in the insertion direction X. Both the first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 are each connected to a return spring element 12F1, 12F2 in order to return the first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 to an initial position, preferably in a closed position of the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4.

[0052] A first actuating element 9S1 and a second actuating element 9S2 are arranged in the housing 6 of the locking device 1 and are mounted in the housing 6 so as to be translationally movable. The first actuating element 9S1 and the second actuating element 9S2 are each mounted and / or actuated translationally movable either substantially transversely or substantially perpendicularly to the insertion direction X. The first actuating element 9S1 is spaced apart from the second actuating element 9S2 in the housing 6 and arranged opposite each other.

[0053] The first actuating element 9S1 and the second actuating element 9S2 are configured to actuate the coupling element 10K after release by the first release element 8F1 and by the second release element 8F2, in order to actuate the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 from the closed position to an open position. For this purpose, the first actuating element 9S1 and the second actuating element 9S2 each contact a complementary contact section of the coupling element 10K, wherein the respective contact section is configured such that, by a translational movement of the respective actuating element 9S1, 9S2, the coupling element 10K together with its bearing in the housing 6 is set into a rotational movement, so that the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 can be actuated from the closed position to the open position via the guide elements 10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4 as well as the cylindrical recesses L1D, L2D, L3D, L4D and the elongated recesses L1L, L2L, L3L, L4L.

[0054] The actuation of the first actuating element 9S1 and the second actuating element 9S2 is effected – analogous to the first release element 8F1 and the second release element 8F2 – via the plug-in section 3A of the mating connector 3, which is to be inserted or can be guided in the plug-in direction X into the locking device 1 via the housing opening 6Ö. The first actuating element 9S1 has the stop 9A1 for contact with the plug-in section 3A and actuation by the plug-in section 3A, which is located in the Figure 2B and 2F as shown. Likewise, the second actuating element 9S2, for contact with the plug section 3A and actuation by the plug section 3A, has the stop 9A2 (see the Figure 2B , 2E and 2F The stops 9A1, 9A2 are configured at least partially as flat and / or plate-shaped and are arranged at an angle to the insertion direction X, which is due, for example, to Figure 2FThis is evident. Preferably, the stops 9A1, 9A2 can also be curved or arched, at least in sections.

[0055] Through the coupling and actuation of the respective elements to each other as described above, it is possible to effect a rotational movement of the coupling element 10K, that is, to actuate the coupling element 10K rotationally and, through this movement or actuation, to actuate the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 translationally and / or rotationally from a closed position to an open position via their bearing in the housing 6 and guidance by the coupling element 10K.

[0056] The actuation of the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 from an open position back to the closed position occurs after disconnection, i.e., removal of the plug section 3A of the mating connector 3 from the plug section 2A of the connector 2 and thus after removal of the plug section 3A from the locking device 1, by means of return spring elements that actuate, i.e., move, both the coupling element 10K and the first and second actuating elements 9S1, 9S2 as well as the first and second spring elements 8F1, 8F2 back to their initial position. To define specific movements of the respective elements, they contact at least one stop on the housing 6 (not visible or not shown in the figures). Due to the lack of contact with plug section 3A, the actuating elements 9S1, 9S2 are actuated, i.e., pressed, into an initial position by the return spring elements 12F3 and 12F4 (see Figure 2FHere, the stops 9A1, 9A2 of the first and second actuating elements 9S1, 9S2 project sufficiently far into the through-opening 6Ö of the locking device 1 in order to be actuated again by a plug-in section 3A. This results in the coupling element 10K returning to its initial position, after the coupling element 10K is also connected to return spring elements 11, which were pre-tensioned during the actuation of the coupling element 10K by the first and second actuating elements 9S1, 9S2 (see Figure 2B ). Due to the lack of contact with the plug section 3A, the release elements 8F1 and 8F2 are actuated into a starting position, i.e., pressed, by the return spring elements 12F1 and 12F2 (see Figure 2EHere too, the stops 8A1, 8A2 of the first and second release elements 8F1, 8F2 project sufficiently far into the through-opening 6Ö of the locking device 1 in order to be actuated again by a plug-in section 3A. The release elements 8F1, 8F2 assume a position in which they lock the coupling element 10K, thus preventing its movement (see [reference]). Figure 3C and 2C ).

[0057] The further Figures 3A to 3F , 4A to 4E and 5A to 5D The diagram clearly shows the sequence of actions of the locking device 1 by the plug section 3A of the mating connector 3 from a closed position to an open position by means of successive states.

[0058] To avoid repetition, only individual figures will be explained in more detail below.

[0059] Figure 3A shows a perspective view of the in Figure 1The illustrated locking device 1 with the mating connector 3, wherein the locking device 1 is in a second state. In this state, the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 are still arranged in a locked position (see also Figure 3D ).

[0060] The plug section 3A is inserted further into the interior of the locking device 1 in the insertion direction X due to the applied force F and has already actuated the release elements 8F1, 8F2 in such a way, i.e. translationally moved, that the release elements 8F1, 8F2 are in a position in which the coupling element 10K is released, i.e. can perform a translational and / or, above all, rotational movement (see Figure 3B and 3F and especially Figure 3C ). Out of Figure 3BIt also follows that the first actuating element 9S1 and the second actuating element 9S2 already at least contact the released coupling element 10K, but do not yet actuate it, i.e. move it.

[0061] Figure 4A shows a perspective view of the in Figure 1 The depicted locking device 1 with the mating connector 3, wherein the locking device 1 is in a third state, which represents an open position. In other words, the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 have now been actuated into an open position by the coupling element 10K.

[0062] From the Figure 4B and 4EIt follows that, through the plug-in section 3A, the first actuating element 9S1 and the second actuating element 9S2 were actuated, i.e., moved translationally, essentially transversely or essentially perpendicular to the plug-in direction X, to such an extent that they also actuated the coupling element 10K. Due to its mounting in the housing 6 and the actuation by the first actuating element 9S1 and the second actuating element 9S2, the coupling element 10K was set into a rotational movement. This pre-tensioned the return spring elements 11. Via the guide elements 10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4 of the coupling element 10K, the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4, coupled to the coupling element 10K, were actuated from the closed position to the open position by the coupling element 10K.The locking device 1 is therefore open, so that the actuating section 3A can be inserted or guided further through the locking device 1 in order to then form a plug connection with the plug section 2A of the connector 2 (see . Figure 1 ). In Figure 4C The mating face of plug section 3A is therefore recognizable. Of the first and second release elements 8F1, 8F2 and the first and second actuating elements 9S1, 9S2, only the stops 8A1, 8A2 and 9A1, 9A2 are still visible, as these have been actuated translationally within the housing 6 in the respective direction, i.e., pressed or moved. The respective return spring elements 12F1, 12F2 and 12F3, 12F4 of the release elements 8F1, 8F2 and the actuating elements 9S1, 9S1 are correspondingly pre-tensioned (see Figures 4D and 4E )

[0063] Figure 5A shows a perspective view of the in Figure 1The depicted locking device 1 with the mating connector 3, wherein the locking device 1 is in a fourth state. The fourth state represents an open position in which the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 are actuated such that insertion of the plug section 3A into the plug section 2A is possible. The release elements 8F1, 8F2 and the actuating elements 9S1, 9S2 for the coupling element 10K were further actuated translationally, i.e., moved, due to the design of the plug section 3A, so that a maximum state with regard to the open position is now reached (see [reference]). Figure 5D ).

[0064] Out of Figure 5A It follows that if a connector 2 is present (not shown for clarity), the plug section 3A would form a plug connection with the plug section 2A of connector 2.

[0065] Figure 6Ashows a front view of an arrangement of four cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4, which are shown in a closed position and Figure 6BFigure 1 shows a rear view of the arrangement of the four cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4, which are depicted in the closed position. As described above, the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 are designed as flat and / or plate-shaped louvers. Each louver L1, L2, L3, L4 has a pair of a cylindrical recess and an elongated recess L1L, L1D; L2L, L2D; L3L, L3D; and L4L, L4D. The cylindrical recesses L1D, L2D, L3D, L4D are spaced apart from their respective elongated recesses L1L, L2L, L3L, L4L in an end region of the respective cover element L1, L2, L3, L4.The corresponding arrangement and configuration of the recesses L1L, L1D; L2L, L2D; L3L, L3D; and L4L, L4D, by means of the guide elements 10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4 of the coupling element 10K and the bearing of the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 in the housing 6, makes it possible to actuate the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 in a translational and preferably rotational movement when the coupling element 10K is moved.

[0066] Each cover element L1, L2, L3, L4 has a corresponding engagement section L1A, L2A, L3A, L4A to form a detachably positive-locking engagement with the respective other cover element L1, L2, L3, L4. Each engagement section L1A, L2A, L3A, L4A can be partially wedge-shaped and / or hook-shaped to preferably detachably interlock in the closed position, which represents a further safety aspect of the locking device 1. Figures 6A and 6BIt also follows that each of the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 is at least partially crescent-shaped, and that the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 are essentially identical to each other.

[0067] The Figures 7A to 7G They clearly show the operation, that is, the sequence of movements of the cover elements L1, L2, L3, L4 of the locking device 1 between a closed position and an open position.

[0068] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. Preferably, the present invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. Reference symbol list

[0069] 1 Locking device 2 Connector 2A Connector section 3 Mating connector 3A Mating connector section 4 Cover element 4D Hinged cover 5 Wallbox wall (for mounting on charging station) 6 Housing of the locking device 6O Housing opening 7 Electrical contact element of the mating connector 8A1 Stop of the first release element 8A2 Stop of the second release element 8F1 First release element 8F2 Second release element 8V1 Projection 8V2 Projection 9A1 Stop of the first actuating element 9A2 Stop of the second actuating element 9S1 First actuating element 9S2 Second actuating element 10K Coupling element 10F1 Guide element 10F2 Guide element 10F3 Guide element 10F4 Guide element 11 Return spring element 12F1 Return spring element 12F2 Return spring element 12F3 Return spring element 12F4 Return spring element F Force L1 Cover element (lamella) L2 Cover element (lamella) L3 Cover element (lamella) L4 Cover element (lamella) L1A...L4A Engagement section L1D...L4D cylindrical recess L1L...L4L elongated recesses SV screw connection XL longitudinal direction.

Claims

1. Closure device (1) with at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) for covering at least one electrical contact element of a plug-in connector (2) in a plug-in direction (X), wherein the closure device (1) has a housing (6) with a housing opening (6Ö) for actuation of the closure device (1) by a plug-in portion (3A), guided in the plug-in direction (X), of a counterpart plug-in connector (3), wherein, in the housing (6), a coupling element (10K) is mounted movably, preferably rotationally and / or translationally movably, and is coupled to the at least one covering element (L1, L2 L3, L4) for actuation of the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) between a closure position and an opening position, wherein, in the housing (6), at least one release element (8F1, 8F2) is mounted movably and is configured to release or lock the coupling element (10K), wherein, in the housing (6), at least one adjustment element (9S1, 9S2) is mounted translationally movably and is configured to actuate the coupling element (10K) after release in order for the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) to be actuated from the closure position into the opening position, characterized in that the release element (8F1, 8F2) is mounted translationally movably, and in that the coupling element (10K) has at least one guide element (10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4) for coupling to the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) in order for the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) to be actuated translationally and / or rotationally.

2. Closure device (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the at least one release element (8F1, 8F2) and / or the at least one adjustment element (9S1, 9S2) are / is mounted so as to be translationally movable, and / or are / is translationally actuatable, preferably actuatable by contact being established with the plug-in portion (3A), transversely to the plug-in direction (X).

3. Closure device (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one release element (8F1, 8F2) and / or the at least one adjustment element (9S1, 9S2) each have / has a stop (8A1, 8A2; 9A1, 9A2) for establishment of contact of the plug-in portion (3A) and actuation of the at least one release element (F1, 8F2) and / or of the at least one adjustment element (9S1, 9S2) by the plug-in portion (3A), wherein preferably the stop (8A1, 8A2; 9A1, 9A2) is configured to be at least sectionally plate-like and / or is formed and / or arranged so as to be situated inclined to the plug-in direction (X).

4. Closure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling element (10K) is of at least sectionally ring-like form; and / or wherein, in the housing (6), the coupling element (10K) is mounted so as to be at least sectionally translationally movable, or is mounted so as to be at least sectionally rotationally movable, in a circumferential direction and / or on a circular path.

5. Closure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling element (10K) is connected to at least one restoring-spring element (11) in order, after an actuation by the at least one adjustment element (9S1, 9S2), to be able to actuate the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) from an opening position into a closure position.

6. Closure device (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one guide element (10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4) is preferably configured to be bolt-like or pin-like and / or extends in the plug-in direction (X), and / or wherein the at least one guide element (10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4) is formed integrally in one piece with the coupling element (10K).

7. Closure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one release element (8F1, 8F2) and / or the at least one adjustment element (9S1, 9S2) are / is connected to in each case one / a restoring-spring element (12F1, 12F2, 12F3, 12F4) in order for the at least one release element (8F1, 8F2) and / or the at least one adjustment element (9S1, 9S2) to be guided back into a starting position, preferably in a closure position of the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4).

8. Closure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one release element (8F1, 8F2) has in each case one projection (8V1, 8V2) in order to establish contact with in each case one portion of the coupling element (10K), preferably in each case one free end portion or in each case one cutout of the coupling element (10K), in a closure position of the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) and lock the coupling element (10K).

9. Closure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) has at least one cylindrical cutout (L1D, L2D, L3D, L4D) for rotationally movable mounting of the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) in the housing (6), or for receiving at least one guide element (10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4) of the coupling element (10K) in order for the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) to be actuated translationally and / or rotationally.

10. Closure device (1) according to Claim 9, wherein the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) has at least one elongate cutout (L1L, L2L, L3L, L4L) for receiving at least one guide element (10F1, 10F2, 10F3, 10F4) of the coupling element (10K) in order for the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) to be actuated at least rotationally.

11. Closure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4) has an engagement portion (L1A, L2A, L3A, L4A) for engagement, preferably releasably form-fitting engagement, with at least one further engagement portion (L1A, L2A, L3A, L4A) of at least one further covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4).

12. Closure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one covering element (L1, L2, L3, L4), preferably in a view in the plug-in direction (X), is of at least sectionally sickle-shaped form.

13. Closure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure device (1) comprises a lid element (4) with a pivotable hinged lid (4D), wherein the lid element (4) is fastened releasably, preferably by means of a screw connection, to the closure device (1).

14. Arrangement having a plug-in connector (2), preferably a socket outlet (2), and having a closure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims.