Connector and connector system

Abstract

The invention relates to a connector (300) comprising: - a receiving element (10) for receiving at least a portion of a plug-in element of the first type (100) or a plug-in element of the second type (200); and - a push-pull locking system (20) for establishing a push-pull locking connection between the connector (300) and the plug-in element of the first type (100); wherein the push-pull locking system (20) comprises at least one locking element (13) which is arranged at least a portion of a recess (14) of the receiving element (10) provided for the at least one locking element (13), and wherein the receiving element (10) comprises at least one locking means (12) which is provided and designed to engage with at least one complementary locking means (230) of the plug-in element of the second type (200).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a connector and a plugging system comprising a connector and a complementary plugging element.

[0002] The invention lies in the field of connector technology, particularly in the field of circular connectors, such as M12, M8, M16, M23, or M25 connectors. Such connectors, especially M12 connectors, are used, for example, for electrical contacting and / or connecting industrial Ethernet. Traditionally, such connectors, standardized or conforming to IEC 61076-2, have a screw thread with which the connection can be screwed and secured, enabling these connectors to withstand mechanical stresses, such as those caused by connected machinery.

[0003] However, connecting or screwing together such plug-in connectors is relatively time-consuming. Furthermore, both the male and female connectors must have complementary screw rings, which makes this type of connector system expensive and inflexible. Therefore, push-pull connectors are preferred for many applications. These feature a push-pull locking mechanism instead of, or in addition to, a screw thread. With this type of locking mechanism, the connector locks automatically when the plug is inserted into the socket. The locked connector cannot be unlocked by pulling on the cable. However, the connector can be released or unlocked by a specific unlocking action, for example, by pulling back a connector housing. No twisting or screwing is required for locking and unlocking with push-pull technology.

[0004] For example, DE 10 2015 015 202 A1 describes a connector that is suitable for being connected to a complementary plug element via both a screw thread and a push-pull locking mechanism.

[0005] Document US 9,136,658 B2 describes a cable connector with a switching structure, comprising a plug with a plug-type rubber core having multiple pin terminals and a rib, and a plug holder with a grip section having ribs, a switching ring arranged around the grip section, and a retaining nut resting against the switching ring. The plug holder is arranged around the plug and is coupled to sockets of various types.

[0006] Document US 10,340,631 B1 describes a coupling structure of a cable connector with a first connection head and a second connection head. The first connection head comprises a first connecting part, several insertion ports, and an external threaded section arranged on the first connecting part. The second connection head comprises a second joint part, several insertion ports, a retaining sleeve, a bushing formed between the retaining sleeve and the second joint part, a positioning ring that receives the retaining sleeve, several lugs between the positioning ring and the retaining sleeve, and a quick-release ring.

[0007] German patent application DE 697 03 477 T2 describes a push-pull connector system for connecting signal transmission conductors. The connector system is characterized by the fact that two identical connector units can be connected by pushing them together and separated again by simply pulling them apart.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide an alternative or improved connector with flexible connection options. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a connector with flexible connection options and an improved locking mechanism. This object is achieved by the subject matter of the dependent claims. Advantageous embodiments are the subject matter of the sub-claims.

[0009] A first independent aspect for solving the problem concerns a connector, in particular a push-pull connector, comprising: a receiving element for receiving at least a portion of a complementary first-type or second-type plug-in element; and a push-pull locking system for creating a push-pull lock between the connector and the first-type plug-in element; wherein the push-pull locking system comprises at least one locking element which is arranged at least partially in a recess of the receiving element provided for the at least one locking element, and wherein the receiving element comprises at least one detent which is provided and designed to engage or detent with at least one complementary detent of the plug-in element of the second type, wherein: a) the locking system comprises a release element for releasing the locking between the connector and the plug-in element of the first type, and wherein the release element comprises at least one guide element which is arranged at least partially in a cam of the at least one locking element and is movable within the cam;and / or b) the connector further comprises a connector housing with at least one contact section, wherein the at least one locking element has a sliding section which rests on the contact section of the connector housing and is movable along the contact section; and / or c) the at least one locking element has a recess in which a spring element is arranged at least partially, wherein the spring element is configured such that, in an unlocked position of the at least one locking element, it exerts a predetermined spring force on the guide element of the unlocking element.

[0010] Within the scope of the present invention, it was recognized that despite existing standards for connectors, various types and variants exist on the market, offered by different manufacturers. Therefore, conventional connectors can usually only be used with corresponding plugs from the same manufacturer, because only these are compatible with each other with regard to the connection and locking mechanism. In contrast, the connector according to the invention is advantageously suitable for use with several types and variants of complementary plugs, particularly those from different manufacturers. Thus, the connector according to the invention is especially suitable for connection and locking with various types of complementary plugs, i.e., with a complementary plug of the first type and / or with a complementary plug of the second type.It is understood that the connector can only be connected to one other connector, i.e., one of the first and second type connectors. The receiving element is therefore designed and / or suitable to accommodate at least one of the complementary first and second type connectors, at least partially.

[0011] A complementary plug-in element or complementary connector is generally understood to be a plug-in element or connector which, with regard to its geometry and its connections, can be connected to the connector according to the invention. The connector according to the invention can be a male or a female connector. In particular, the connector according to the invention can be a socket or a plug-in receptacle. If the connector according to the invention is, for example, a male connector, it can be connected to a complementary female connector. If the connector is, for example, a female connector, it can be connected to a complementary male connector.

[0012] Within the scope of the present invention, the terms "plug-in element of the first type" and "plug-in element of the second type" are understood to mean that the plug-in element of the first type and the plug-in element of the second type differ. In other words, the plug-in element of the first type is a plug-in element that differs from the plug-in element of the second type in its design, properties, or components. For example, the plug-in element of the first type may be from a first manufacturer and the plug-in element of the second type from a second manufacturer. The complementary plug-in element of the first type and the complementary plug-in element of the second type differ in particular by the connecting or locking means attached to the plug-in element.For example, the complementary first-type plug-in element may have a protruding ring, while the second-type plug-in element may have several locking devices, e.g., spring elements, distributed and spaced around the circumference of the plug-in element.

[0013] In order for the connector according to the invention to be connected and / or locked with two different types of plug elements, the connector according to the invention has a push-pull locking system, which comprises at least one locking element, and additionally a detent. The push-pull locking system serves to lock the connector with the complementary plug element of the first type, and the additional detent serves to lock the connector with the complementary plug element of the second type.

[0014] The at least one locking element is arranged, at least partially, in a recess of the receiving element specifically provided for the at least one locking element, i.e., a recess belonging to the at least one locking element. The receiving element serves to receive, at least partially, a complementary plug-in element. "At least partially" means, in particular, that only a corresponding receiving area or plug-in area of ​​the complementary plug-in element is received by the receiving element. The receiving area or plug-in area of ​​the complementary plug-in element includes the respective connecting or locking means of the complementary plug-in element. In particular, the receiving element has a geometry and / or dimensions (e.g., diameter) to receive a complementary plug-in element.

[0015] The complementary plug-in element of the first kind and the complementary plug-in element of the second kind are in particular push-pull plug-in elements, i.e. plug-in elements which are designed for a push-pull locking mechanism and / or have means for connection or locking by means of push-pull technology.

[0016] As mentioned above, the term "push-pull" means that the connector locks automatically when the complementary mating element is inserted into the receiving element and / or socket of the connector. The locked connector cannot be unintentionally unlocked by pulling on the cable. Unlocking can only be achieved deliberately using a release mechanism, such as a release ring and / or a connector housing, in particular by displacing the release ring or the connector housing against a spring force. The complementary mating element can, however, be connected, locked, and / or secured to the connector without turning or screwing, but simply by pushing and pulling. In particular, the complementary mating element can be connected, locked, or secured to the connector by applying a predetermined force along a specific insertion direction.Accordingly, the complementary plug-in element can be released from the connector by applying a predetermined force in the opposite direction to the insertion direction; that is, any fixation present between the connector and the complementary plug-in element in the assembled state can be released. A "push-pull locking mechanism" is therefore understood to be, in particular, a (releasable) locking mechanism that is achieved without turning and / or screwing the connecting or locking elements. In the context of this description, the term "connecting" refers specifically to electrical and mechanical connection or joining.

[0017] Preferably, the locking system comprises a plurality of locking elements, i.e., at least two (e.g., two, three, four, five, etc.). Furthermore, the receiving element preferably comprises a corresponding plurality of recesses associated with the locking elements. The receiving element also preferably comprises a plurality, i.e., at least two (e.g., two, three, four, five, etc.), detent devices. Preferably, the number of detent devices on the receiving element corresponds to the number of locking elements and thus to the number of recesses on the receiving element. Particularly preferably, this number is three.

[0018] For the purposes of this description, a locking device is understood to be a means or element that can be engaged or locked with a complementary locking device or locking element. A locking mechanism is understood to be a releasable, but stable, i.e., secure, connection or locking. In particular, a locking mechanism as defined in this description is understood to be a connection or locking mechanism that cannot be released accidentally or unintentionally, but only by actuating a release mechanism. Specifically, elements that can, in principle, be engaged with other elements, but are not specifically designed for a stable and secure connection, are not locking devices within the meaning of the present invention.

[0019] Preferably, at least one locking element, or each of the plurality of locking elements of the receiving element, is designed as an edge, a taper, or a recess of a locking element section or locking element plate of the receiving element. In other words, the receiving element has at least one locking element section or locking element plate, which in turn has a recess or edge that functions as a locking element or forms the locking element. In other words, the recess or edge of the locking element plate forms or is the locking element. Within the scope of this description, the locking element section or locking element plate is also referred to as a guide section or guide plate, since the locking element section or locking element plate can interact with a guide element of the complementary plug-in element. The guide section or guide plate can, in particular, prevent incorrect insertion.To prevent incorrect polarity when connecting the connector to a complementary plug element.

[0020] Unless otherwise specified, the respective arrangements, e.g., of the at least one locking element, refer in particular to the assembled state. For the purposes of the present invention, an assembled state is understood to be a state in which the individual parts or components of the connector are functionally mounted, i.e., assembled or put together. In particular, the assembled state is understood to be a state in which the connector is electrically and mechanically connected to a complementary mating element.

[0021] The at least one locking element of the receiving element is provided and designed to engage with at least one complementary locking element of the second type of connector. This also means, in particular, that the at least one locking element of the receiving element is arranged according to its intended function in order to engage with at least one complementary locking element of the second type of connector. Preferably, the at least one locking element plate or the at least one locking element, particularly when viewed along the circumference of the connector, is arranged between two recesses of the receiving plate and thus between the locking elements arranged at least partially in these recesses.

[0022] Because the connector according to the invention has a (particularly multi-part) locking system and additionally one or more locking means provided for locking with a complementary locking element of a complementary plug-in element, the connector according to the invention offers flexible connection options. Advantageously, the connector according to the invention can be connected or locked either with a plug-in element of the first type or with a plug-in element of the second type.

[0023] Preferably, the connector has a circular connection with which a complementary circular connector (of the first and second type) can be connected to the connector. In particular, the connector is an M12 connector.

[0024] The connector or a plugging area of ​​the connector can, for example, have plug-element-side contact elements that can be connected or joined together with complementary contact elements of the complementary plug-element in such a way that an electrical contact exists between the respective contact elements and the associated complementary contact elements.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the locking system comprises three, in particular exactly three, locking elements, each of which is arranged in a corresponding recess of the receiving element. Consequently, the receiving element also has three, in particular exactly three, recesses for the locking elements. Alternatively or additionally, the receiving element has three, in particular exactly three, detent sections. It has been shown within the scope of the invention that this arrangement achieves particularly good connection stability.

[0026] According to the first aspect, the locking system can include a release element or release ring for unlocking or releasing the lock between the connector and the plug-in element of the first type, i.e., for unlocking the connector and plug-in element of the first type. The release element has at least one guide element which (particularly in the assembled state) is arranged at least partially in a recess of the at least one locking element and is movable or displaceable within the recess, and thus relative to the locking element. The recess is, in particular, a guide groove for the guide element. The guide element is, in particular, fixedly connected to the release element or formed integrally with it. Preferably, the guide element is a rod or a bolt. The guide element can be guided and displaced within the recess.In particular, the guide element can move or be repositioned within the limits of the guide. The release element preferably has a knurled surface, which improves grip when sliding the release element (against a spring force) to unlock the connector and thus facilitates the intended unlocking.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment, the guide channel has a slope or curvature such that when the at least one guide element is displaced within the guide channel, the at least one locking element is displaced along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector. In other words, the guide channel or guide groove, and in particular a cross-section thereof, is not straight but curved. The guide channel or guide groove, and in particular a cross-section thereof, therefore has a curved section. In particular, the guide channel or guide groove has a changing (especially increasing in magnitude) slope along a longitudinal axis of the locking element. In particular, the guide channel has several sections with different slopes. In other words, the guide channel has a curved shape.

[0028] The direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector is also referred to as the vertical direction in the following. This vertical direction is also perpendicular to an insertion direction that points along the longitudinal axis of the connector.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment, the locking system comprises a (first) spring element which is arranged between a stop element of the release element and a stop element of a connector housing of the connector and which presses the release element towards a home position with a predetermined spring force (hereinafter referred to as the first spring force). The home position or standard position of the release element is understood to be the position in which the release element is normally located without external force. The (first) spring element of the locking system is, in particular, a coil spring. The stop element of the release element or release ring is formed inside or on an inner surface of the release element or release ring.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment, the at least one locking element has a retaining or blocking section which is designed or shaped to prevent or block any displacement of a projection or protruding ring of the first-type connector, and thus any displacement of the first-type connector itself, in a locked position. The retaining section is particularly designed as a projection or protruding section of the at least one locking element. The locking position is understood to be the position in which the locking element is located when the connector is locked to the complementary first-type connector. In this locking position, the retaining or blocking section of the locking element blocks or prevents any displacement or shifting of the complementary first-type connector.In other words, in this locking position, the complementary plug-in element (of the first type) cannot be detached from the connector. The retaining section preferably has a chamfered edge, i.e., an edge with an inclination or a predetermined angle of inclination. The chamfered edge of the retaining section of the locking element is specifically designed or has such an angle of inclination (particularly with respect to a longitudinal axis of the locking element) that, in the locked state (i.e., particularly in a state in which a lock is established between the complementary plug-in element of the first type and the connector), unintentional detachment of the complementary plug-in element of the first type from the connector (or unintentional withdrawal of the complementary plug-in element of the first type from the connector) is prevented.The chamfered edge advantageously ensures that the locking element tilts or jams when attempting to pull the complementary plug element out of the connector, thus preventing unintentional removal of the plug element from the connector in the locked state or locking position.

[0031] According to the first aspect, the connector can have a connector housing with at least one contact section, wherein the at least one locking element has a sliding section which rests on the contact section of the connector housing and is movable or displaceable along the contact section of the connector housing. Preferably, the sliding section of the at least one locking element is semi-wedge-shaped. More preferably, the sliding section of the at least one locking element has a rounded end section. This rounded end section advantageously provides improved sliding properties.

[0032] According to the first aspect, the at least one locking element can have a recess in which, particularly in the assembled state, a second spring element is arranged, at least partially. The second spring element is designed or shaped such that, in an unlocked position of the at least one locking element, it exerts a predetermined spring force (hereinafter referred to as the second spring force) on the guide element or on the bolt of the unlocking element. In this way, after unlocking by releasing the unlocking element, the at least one locking element is returned to its initial position. The initial position of the locking element is understood to be a position in which the locking element must be located so that a complementary plug-in element (of the first type) can be connected to and / or locked with the connector.The unlocked position (of the at least one locking element) is understood to be the position in which the locking element is located when the connector is unlocked, i.e., not locked to the complementary mating element (of the first type). The second spring force is preferably selected such that it is greater than the sum of frictional forces that prevent movement or displacement of the at least one locking element. Furthermore, the second spring force is preferably selected such that, when the complementary mating element (of the first type) is inserted into the connector to lock the connector to the complementary mating element (of the first type), it is overcome by a predetermined compressive force that can be easily applied by a user with their hand or fingers.

[0033] In a further preferred embodiment, the connector also includes a terminal element for receiving electrical contact elements, which can be electrically connected to complementary electrical contact elements of the first type of connector or to complementary electrical contact elements of the second type of connector. For example, the terminal element can be configured with 5 poles, i.e., it can receive five electrical contact elements. However, it is understood that, depending on the application, the terminal element can also be configured to receive any other number of contact elements. In particular, the terminal element, and thus the connector, can be configured with 3, 4, 5, or 8 poles.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, the connector may have a sealing ring which is arranged on the connection element, particularly when assembled.

[0035] Another independent aspect for solving the task concerns a comprehensive plug-in system. the connector according to the invention; and the plug element of the first type and / or the plug element of the second type.

[0036] The complementary plug-in element of the first type preferably has a stop section and an additional circumferential projection. The stop section is preferably designed as an edge (particularly a chamfered one), and the additional circumferential projection is preferably designed as a projecting ring. Furthermore, the complementary plug-in element of the first type can also have a thread. The stop section can be designed as an edge of the thread (particularly a chamfered one). This edge can serve as a so-called control edge for locking the plug-in connector with the complementary plug-in element of the first type. The term "control edge" is understood to mean that this edge allows the at least one locking element to be moved (or engaged) in such a way as to...(when the complementary plug element of the first type is inserted into the connector, it is displaced in such a way that at least one locking element assumes a locking position and thus effects a locking action.

[0037] The complementary plug-in element of the second type can have a locking element body or a spring element body in which the at least one complementary locking element is formed. The at least one complementary locking element preferably has a spring element. In particular, the at least one complementary locking element is a spring element. The spring element preferably has elastically restoring properties. Further preferably, the complementary plug-in element of the second type has at least one guide element, which is designed and / or dimensioned such that it can be inserted into the receiving element, in particular along the at least one guide section of the receiving element of the connector.The complementary plug-in element of the second type particularly preferably has three guide elements which are designed and / or dimensioned such that they can be inserted into the receiving element of the connector, in particular each along an associated guide section of the receiving element. In other words, in the assembled state, the guide elements of the complementary plug-in element of the second type preferably extend through the guide sections of the receiving element of the connector. In particular, the number of guide elements of the complementary plug-in element of the second type corresponds to the number of guide sections of the receiving element of the connector. Each guide element of the complementary plug-in element of the second type preferably extends through an associated guide section of the receiving element of the connector.

[0038] In a further preferred embodiment, the plug system is designed as an M12 plug system. In other words, the connector according to the invention is preferably an M12 connector and the complementary plug element (of the first and second type) is preferably an M12 plug element.

[0039] Optionally, the connector and / or the complementary plug element may include additional components. For example, a shielding housing that at least partially electrically shields the connector or the complementary plug element. Besides the shielding housing(s), the plug system may include further optional modules, such as a seal and / or one or two locking rings that prevent and / or reduce unintentional disconnection.

[0040] The preceding and following descriptions of the embodiments of the first aspect also apply to the aforementioned further independent aspect and, in particular, to preferred embodiments thereof. In particular, the preceding and following descriptions of the embodiments of the other independent aspect also apply to an independent aspect of the present invention and to preferred embodiments thereof. Brief description of the drawing g en

[0041] Figure 1a shows a perspective view of a connector according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 1b shows a front view of the connector. Figure 1a Figure 2 shows an exploded view of a plug system according to a preferred embodiment, comprising a complementary plug element and the connector of Figure 1Figure 3a shows a perspective view of a complementary plug-in element of the first type according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 3b shows a perspective view of a complementary plug-in element of the second type according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 3c shows a perspective view of a locking element or spring element body of the complementary plug-in element of the second type. Figure 3b according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 4a shows a perspective view of a receiving element of the connector according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 4b shows a perspective view of the receiving element of Figure 4a together with locking elements arranged in recesses of the receiving element according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 5a shows a side view of a locking element of the connector according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 5b shows a side view of the locking element of Figure 5a, in which the compared to Figure 5a opposite side is visible; Figure 6a shows a perspective view of a release element of the connector according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 6b shows a perspective view of the release element of Figure 6a together with locking elements arranged on the release element according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 6c shows a front view of the release element of Figure 6aFigure 7 shows a perspective view of a connector housing of the connector together with locking elements arranged on the connector housing according to a preferred embodiment; Figure 8a shows a schematic sketch of a connector with a complementary first-type mating element according to a first insertion position; Figure 8b shows a section through the connector and the complementary first-type mating element according to the first insertion position; Figure 9a shows a schematic sketch of the connector with the complementary first-type mating element according to a second insertion position; Figure 9b shows a section through the connector and the complementary first-type mating element according to the second insertion position; Figure 10a shows a schematic sketch of the connector with the complementary first-type mating element according to a third insertion position;Figure 10b shows a section through the connector and the complementary first-type mating element according to the third insertion position; Figure 11a shows a schematic sketch of the connector with the complementary first-type mating element according to a fourth insertion position; Figure 11b shows a section through the connector and the complementary first-type mating element according to the fourth insertion position; Figure 12a shows a schematic sketch of the connector with the complementary first-type mating element according to a fifth insertion position; Figure 12b shows a section through the connector and the complementary first-type mating element according to the fifth insertion position; Figure 13a shows a schematic sketch of the connector with the complementary first-type mating element according to a sixth insertion position; Figure 13b shows a section through the connector and the complementary first-type mating element according to the sixth insertion position;Figure 14 shows a section through the connector and the complementary first-type mating element according to a snapshot of the locking process shortly before the locking position is reached; Figure 15 shows a section through the connector and the complementary first-type mating element according to a further snapshot of the locking process, in which the locking position has been reached. Detailed description of the drawings

[0042] The positional designations used in this description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refer to the figure described and illustrated and should be applied analogously to any change in position. In the figures, an insertion direction E and / or a longitudinal axis L of the connector are indicated by arrows or a corresponding symbol. The insertion direction E is the direction in which a complementary plug element must be moved to connect or lock into the connector.

[0043] The Figure 1a Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a connector 300 in the assembled or mounted state according to a preferred embodiment. As can be seen in this illustration, the connector 300 has a receiving element 10 for receiving a complementary plugging element (in the Figure 1(not shown). Furthermore, the connector 300 has a terminal element 60 with openings for receiving electrical contact elements of the complementary plug element. The terminal element 60 is made of an electrically insulating material, e.g., a plastic, and serves to electrically insulate the contact elements. In the embodiment shown, the terminal element 60 has five such openings and is therefore 5-pole. The connector 300 also has a release element or release ring 40 and a housing element 70. By pulling back or pulling the release ring 40 along the insertion direction E and thus over or along the connector housing 70, a lock can be released and a plug connection can be unlocked. Further details on the locking and unlocking mechanism are given below, in particular in connection with the Figures 8a to 15 , described. As in the Figure 1aAs shown, the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the connector 300 and the insertion direction E coincide.

[0044] The Figure 1b shows the 300 connector from Figure 1a in a front view. The longitudinal axis L of the connector 300 and the insertion direction E point into the plane of the drawing in this representation. In addition to the connection element 60, three locking elements 13 of a locking system are also clearly visible.

[0045] The Figure 2 Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a plug-in system according to a preferred embodiment. The plug-in system comprises a complementary plug-in element of the first type 100 and the connector 300 made of [material not specified]. Figure 1 . Instead of or in addition to the plug-in element of the first type 100, the plug-in system can also use a plug-in element of the second type 200 (see the Figures 3b and 3c ) include.

[0046] As in Figure 2As can be seen, the connector 300 has a receiving element 10 with guide sections 11. The guide sections 11 serve to insert guide elements 220 of a second type of plug element 200 (see the Figures 3b and 3c Because of their further function, namely the locking of complementary locking means of the plug-in element of the second type 200, the guide elements 220 are also referred to as locking element plates. In particular, each locking element plate 220 has a locking means on its inner side, i.e. inside the receiving element 10 (in the Figure 2 (not visible).

[0047] Furthermore, the connector 300 has a locking system 20. The locking system 20, which serves to lock the plug element of the first type 100, comprises three locking elements 13, a spring element 30 in the form of a coil spring, and the already described in Figure 1The unlocking ring 40 shown. The unlocking ring 40 has a knurling 41 on its surface for better grip for intended unlocking.

[0048] Furthermore, the connector 300 has a sealing ring 50, which is already included in Figure 1 shown connection element 60 and the one also in Figure 1 The housing 70 shown comprises a stop element or stop ring 75 and three bearing sections 78. In the assembled state, the spring element 30 is located between a stop element 45 of the release ring 40 (see the Figures 6a to 6c ) and the stop element 75 of the connector housing 70. The spring element 30 moves the release ring 40 towards a starting position (in) with a predetermined spring force. Figure 2to the left). To unlock, the release ring 40 must be moved or pulled against the spring force from its initial position to an unlocked position of the spring element 40 (in the Figure 2 to the right). If the release ring 40 is in the unlocked position, a locking effected by the locking system 20 or by the locking elements 13 is released, in particular by a displacement of the locking elements 13. The plug-in element of the second type 200 can then be removed by simply pulling it against the insertion direction E (in the Figure 2 (i.e., to the left) from connector 300.

[0049] The one in Figure 2The plug-in element of the first type 100 shown has a thread 110, a stop section or edge 120, and a circumferential projection or protruding ring 130. The stop section 120 and the protruding ring 130 are used for locking the plug-in element of the first type 100 to the connector 300 by means of the locking system 20. Since locking requires only the plug-in element of the first type 100 to be inserted or pressed into the connector 300 along the insertion direction E, and since unlocking allows the plug-in element of the first type 100 to be simply pulled out of the connector 300 in the opposite direction E, the locking system 20 is a so-called push-pull locking system. The locking system 20 thus serves to establish a push-pull locking connection between the connector 300 and the plug-in element of the first type 100.No twisting or screwing is required to connect the plug element to the connector, thus significantly simplifying handling during connection.

[0050] The plug-in element of the first type 100 with the thread 110, the stop section 120 and the projecting ring 130 is shown again in a perspective view in the Figure 3a shown.

[0051] The Figure 3b shows a perspective view of the complementary plug element of the second type 200, which can also be connected and / or locked to the connector 300 via a simple push-pull mechanism, i.e. by simply pushing or pulling (without turning or screwing).

[0052] The second-type plug-in element 200 has a plug-in area 350 with three guide elements 220 and three complementary locking means or spring elements 230. The second-type plug-in element 200 also includes a stop or release ring 240. To connect or lock the second-type plug-in element 200 with the connector 300, the complementary locking means or spring elements 230 of the complementary plug-in element 200 can be engaged or locked by inserting the complementary plug-in element 200 into a plug-in area or into the receiving element 10 of the connector 300 with the corresponding locking means 12 of the receiving element 10 of the connector 300. Figure 3aOnly two of the three complementary locking elements or spring elements 230 are visible. By pulling on the ring 240 against the insertion direction E, a locking mechanism, which exists due to the engagement of the locking elements 12 with the complementary locking elements 230, can be released without destroying the locking mechanism. In particular, pulling with sufficient force on the ring 240 against the insertion direction E causes a relative movement between the connector 300 and the complementary plug element of the second type 200, and thus also between the locking elements 12 and the complementary locking elements 230. This consequently leads to the unlocking of the engaged locking elements 12 and 230. In other words, the engagement of the locking elements 12 with the complementary locking elements 230 can be released or disengaged non-destructively by pulling with sufficient force on the plug element 200 and especially on the ring 240.

[0053] Furthermore, the complementary plug-in element of the second type has 200 guide elements 220, which are designed and / or dimensioned such that they each extend along the guide sections 11 (see e.g. the Figures 4a and 4b ) of the receiving element 10 of the connector 300. The number of guide elements 220 corresponds to the number of complementary locking means or spring elements 230. In particular, each spring element 230 is guided through an opening of a corresponding guide element 220. Furthermore, the complementary plug-in element of the second type 200 has an insulating sleeve 210, which can enclose a cable (not shown here).

[0054] The Figure 3cFigure 1 shows a perspective side view of a locking element body or spring element body 270 according to a preferred embodiment. Three locking elements or spring elements 230 are formed on the locking element body 270. In the assembled state, the locking elements 230 are guided by corresponding openings in the guide elements 220 (see Figure 2). Figure 3b ) guided. In other words, in the assembled state, the locking means 230 extend through the openings of the guide elements 220.

[0055] The Figure 4aFigure 1 shows a perspective view of a receiving element 10 of the connector 300 according to a preferred embodiment. The receiving element 10 has guide sections 11 and recesses 14, wherein the guide sections 11 are each arranged between two recesses 14 (relative to the circumference of the receiving element 10). In other words, each guide section 11 is spaced apart from an adjacent guide section 11 by a recess 14. The guide sections 11 are designed to accommodate guide elements 220 of the complementary plug element of the second type 200 (see Figure 1). Figure 3b ) to accommodate or guide. As mentioned above, each guide element 11 has a locking element 12, the locking elements 12 being designed as a recess or edge. Complementary locking elements 230 of a complementary plug-in element of the second type 200 (see the Figures 3b and 3c) intervene. The guide elements 11 are therefore also referred to as locking plates. The spaces or recesses 14 of the receiving element 10 are provided to accommodate the locking elements 13 (see Figure 4b ).

[0056] The Figure 4b shows a perspective view of the receiving element 10 together with locking elements 13 arranged in the recesses 14 of the receiving element 10.

[0057] In an assembled state, i.e., when the plugging area 250 of the complementary plugging element of the second type 200 is inserted along the insertion direction E into the plugging area or into the receiving element 10 of the connector 300, the spring elements 230 of the complementary plugging element 200 engage in the associated recesses or locking means 12 of the receiving element 10 of the connector 300 and serve to fix or to provide a stable hold between the connector 300 and the complementary plugging element 200.

[0058] When the insertion area 250 of the complementary second-type insertion element 200 is inserted into the insertion area or receiving element 10 of the connector 300, the spring elements 230 are initially deformed elastically, i.e., resiliently, by contact with the guide section 11 of the connector 300 until they finally relax again at the respective recesses or locking means 12 of the receiving element 10 of the connector 300 and thus engage in the respective recesses or locking means 12. Only when the complementary insertion element 200 is pulled against the insertion direction E with a predetermined force are the spring elements 230 compressed again, thereby releasing the engagement of the spring elements 230 with the recesses 12, i.e., the locking mechanism, and thus allowing the complementary insertion element 200 to be disconnected or removed from the connector 300.

[0059] The plug-in system is therefore a "push-pull" plug-in system, in which the connection can be made by simply pushing the complementary plug-in element 100 or 200 in the insertion direction E and released by pulling it in the opposite direction to the insertion direction E.

[0060] The Figure 5a Figure 1 shows a side view of a locking element 13 of the connector 300 according to a preferred embodiment. The locking element 13 has two cams 13a (in Figure 5a (only one of the two backdrops is visible, the other is on the opposite side), a holding or blocking section 13b, a sliding section 13c with a rounded end section 13d and a recess 13e for receiving a second spring element 15.

[0061] The cams 13a represent recesses or openings of the locking element 13 in the form of guide grooves into which guide elements or bolts 49 of the unlocking ring 40 (see the Figures 6a to 6c) can be received and moved within the limits of the cams 13a. This ensures that, when the bolt 49 is displaced or moved within a cam 13a, the entire locking element 13, and in particular the retaining section 13b, moves in or against a vertical direction V (in the Figure 5a downwards), which runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the connector 300 and perpendicular to the insertion direction E, the cam 13a has a slope or a curvature. As in the Figure 5aAs can be seen, the mounting surface can, for example, have three sections with different gradients. By shifting the locking element 13 or the retaining section 13b within the connector 300 or relative to the inserted complementary plug-in element of the first type 100, the connector 300 can be locked to the plug-in element of the first type 100. Locking occurs, in particular, when the projecting retaining section or the projection 13b is aligned along the vertical direction V (i.e., in the Figure 5a downwards). When unlocking, pulling on the release ring 40 along the insertion direction E moves the locking element 13 and thus also the retaining section 13b back against the vertical direction V (in the Figure 5a(i.e., upwards) the locking element 13 or the retaining section 13b has an edge K with a predetermined angle of inclination (in particular with respect to a longitudinal axis of the locking element 13, which is located in Figure 5a (runs horizontally or from left to right) on.

[0062] The sliding section 13c of the locking element 13 is designed to rest on a bearing section 78 of the housing 70 (see Figure 7 ) to rest on and be moved or slid on it. For improved sliding on the support section 78 of the housing 70, the sliding section 13c of the locking element 13 has a rounded end section 13d. This end section 13d is designed as a curved cylindrical element. The sliding section 13c has a wedge-shaped surface or a half-wedge-shaped geometry or form.

[0063] A second spring element 15 is arranged, at least partially, in the recess or groove 13e of the locking element 13. This second spring element 15 is designed or shaped such that, in an unlocked position of the locking element 13, it exerts a predetermined spring force (second spring force) on the bolt 49 of the release ring 40. In this way, after unlocking by releasing the release ring 40, the locking element 13 is returned to its initial position.

[0064] The Figure 5b Figure 1 shows the locking element 13 from the opposite side. In this view, the second of the two cams 13a can now be seen. Furthermore, it is evident that the second spring element 15 extends from the recess 15 into the second cam 13a of the locking element 13. The spring element 15 is therefore curved accordingly.

[0065] The Figure 6aFigure 1 shows a perspective view of a release element 40 of the connector 300 according to a preferred embodiment. The release element 40 is designed as a ring and has a grooved structure 41 on its outer surface. The release element 40 has a stop section 45 against which the first spring element or coil spring 30 of the locking system 20 of the connector 300 can abut, or does abut in the assembled state. Furthermore, the release element 40 has six guide elements or bolts 49. In the assembled state, two of these bolts 49 are received by cams 13a of a locking element 13 and are then movable or displaceable within the respective cam 13a. For each locking element 13, the release ring 40 has two bolts 49, which are each arranged at least partially in the two cams 13a of the locking element 13.

[0066] The Figure 6b shows a perspective view of the unlocking element 40 of Figure 6a together with locking elements 13 arranged on the unlocking element 40. Each of the three locking elements 13 is arranged between two bolts 49 of the unlocking ring 40, which each engage in the cams 13a of a locking element 13.

[0067] The Figure 6c Figure 1 shows the release ring 40 in a front view. In this view, the longitudinal axis L of the connector 300 and the insertion direction E point into the plane of the drawing. The bolts 49 are each arranged or formed at an end section of a stop section 45. The release ring 40 thus preferably has three stop sections 45 and six bolts 49.

[0068] The Figure 7Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a connector housing 70 of the connector 300 together with locking elements 13 arranged on the connector housing 70. The connector housing 70 has three contact sections 78, where in the illustration the Figure 7 Only one of them is visible. On each of the support sections 78, the sliding section 13c and, in particular, the sliding element 13d can move in or against the insertion direction E or along the longitudinal axis L. Thus, each locking element 13 is displaceable or relocatable in or against the insertion direction E or along the longitudinal axis L relative to the housing 70 or relative to an inserted plug-in element 100.

[0069] Based on the Figures 8a to 13b The locking and unlocking mechanism of the locking system 20 of connector 300 will be explained in more detail below. The following are Figures 8a to 13bEach schematic sketch or section through the complementary plug-in element of the first type 100 and the connector 300 shows different insertion positions of the complementary plug-in element 100 relative to the connector 300. Based on the Figures 8a, 9a , 10a, 11a , 12a and 13a It is evident in each case how far the complementary connector of the first type 100 is inserted into the connector 300. They thus represent different insertion positions of the complementary connector of the first type 100. The following illustrates each of these insertion positions. Figures 8b, 9b , 10b, 11b , 12b and 13b each corresponding situation inside connector 300.

[0070] According to the Figures 8a and 8bThe plug-in element 100 is still outside the connector 300. Accordingly, the locking element 13 is in a starting position. The bolt 49 of the release ring 40 is located at the right-hand edge of the cam 13a of the locking element 13, adjacent to the spring element 30.

[0071] According to the Figures 9a and 9b A plug-in area of ​​the plug-in element 100 was inserted into the connector 300. By moving the plug-in element 100 along the insertion direction E, the protruding ring 130 moved along the insertion direction E past or below the plug-in element 100. In the Figures 9a and 9bIn the depicted insertion position, however, the edge 120 of the plug-in element 100 abuts the retaining section 13b of the locking element 13, and the movement of the plug-in element 100 along the insertion direction E also displaces the locking element 13 along the insertion direction E. As a result of this displacement of the locking element 13, the bolt 49 is no longer located at the right edge of the cam 13a, but slightly to the left of it. Although the second spring element 15 abuts the bolt 49 during the displacement of the locking element 13 and thus the cam 13a relative to the bolt 49, the force applied when inserting the plug-in element 100 outweighs the relatively small spring force of the second spring element 15, so that the locking element 13 or the cam 13a can be displaced relative to the bolt 49 in the insertion direction E despite the presence of the spring element 15.

[0072] According to the Figures 10a and 10bThe plug-in element 100 has penetrated a further section into the connector 300, and consequently, the locking element 13, or rather the cam 13a, has also shifted a further section in the insertion direction E relative to the stationary bolt 49. Due to the curved shape or inclination of the cam 13a, the locking element 13, and thus also the retaining section 13b of the locking element 13, shifts downwards along the vertical direction V and thus in the direction of the plug-in element 100.

[0073] According to the Figures 10a and 10bThe plug-in element 100 has now penetrated the connector 300 to such an extent that a locking position has been reached. In this locking position, the bolt 49 is located at the left edge of the locking element 13, or the receiving element 10-side, or the cam 13a. Furthermore, the sliding section or sliding element 13d of the locking element 13 has reached an edge of the bearing section 78 of the housing element 70. The locking element 13 has thus shifted so far in the vertical direction V, or in the direction of the plug-in element 100, that the retaining section 13b of the locking element 13 now prevents or blocks any movement of the plug-in element 100, particularly against the insertion direction E. This is because, in this locking position, the protruding ring 130 can no longer move past the retaining section 13b. Rather, stopping section 13b prevents such passing.The plug element 100 is locked to the connector 300.

[0074] To unlock, the release ring 40 must be displaced relative to the locking element 13 along the insertion direction E. This is achieved by applying a force in the insertion direction E that is greater than the spring force of the first spring element 30. Displacing the release ring 40 along the insertion direction E also displaces the bolt 49 of the release ring 40. This situation is described in the Figures 12a and 12b depicted. As shown in Figure 12bAs can be seen, bolt 49 is now located again at the right edge of the cam 13a of the locking element 13. Due to the displacement of bolt 49 within the cam 13a, the locking element has moved upwards, i.e., away from the plug-in element 100. Thus, the projecting ring 130 of the plug-in element 100 can now be moved past or below the retaining section 13b of the locking element 13, in the opposite direction to the insertion direction E. The connector 300 is therefore unlocked, and the plug-in element 100 can be pulled out of the plug-in element 300.

[0075] With the help of the spring element 15, after unlocking and releasing the release ring 40, the locking element 13 returns to its starting position.

[0076] The spring force of the spring element 15 acting on the bolt 49 is sufficient to displace the locking element 13, to which the spring element 15 is attached, together with the release ring 40 and thus the bolt 49, against the insertion direction E. This occurs, for example, simply by releasing the release ring 40, since the release ring 40 is moved back to its initial position as a result of the spring force of the first spring element 30.

[0077] According to the Figures 13a and 13b After unlocking, the plug element 100 was almost completely pulled out of the connector 300. The locking element 13 is back in its initial position, as shown in the Figures 8a and 8b .

[0078] The Figure 14Figure 1 shows a further enlarged section through the connector 300 and the complementary plug-in element 100 of the first type, as seen in a snapshot taken during insertion of the plug-in element 100 into the connector 300 before the final locking position is reached. The plug-in element 100 of the first type has a stop section 120, which is specifically designed as a chamfered edge of a thread. Due to its function, namely to displace the locking element 13 and thus to control the locking mechanism, the stop section or chamfered edge 120 is also referred to as a control edge in this description.

[0079] The final locking position is ultimately in the Figure 15As shown. In this locking position, the retaining section 13b is completely lowered into a recess of the plug-in element 100. Due to the edge 120 and the projecting ring 130, this prevents the plug-in element 100 from shifting. If, in this locking position, the plug-in element 100 is pulled to the left, i.e., against the insertion direction E, the locking element 13 is pushed slightly upwards due to the inclined edge K of the retaining section 13b. This force causes the locking element 13 to tilt or jam with the bolt 49 and prevents it from being moved further against the insertion direction E. The beveled edge K of the retaining section 13b of the locking element 13 is designed in such a way, or has such an angle of inclination (especially with respect to a longitudinal axis of the locking element 13), that unintentional release of the lock is prevented in the locked state.Unintentional removal of the plug-in element 100 from the connector 300 is prevented. With the aid of the beveled or inclined edge K of the retaining section 13b of the locking element 13, unintentional removal of the complementary plug-in element of the first type 100 from the connector 300 can thus be prevented in the locked state. Reference symbol list

[0080] 10 Receiving element (receiving socket) 11 Guide section (locking center plate) 12 Locking element (locking element) 13 Locking element 13a Slide (guide groove) 13b Retaining section (blocking section) 13c Sliding section 13d End section (sliding element) 13e Recess (recess) 14 Recess of the receiving element 15 Second spring element 20 Locking system 30 First spring element (coil spring) 40 Release element (outer ring) 41 Serration 45 Stop element 49 Guide element (bolt) 50 Sealing ring 60 Connection element 70 Connector housing 78 Contact section 75 Stop element (stop ring) 100 Plug-in element of the first type 110 Thread 120 Stop section (edge) 130 Projection (projecting ring) 200 Second type plug-in element 210 Insulating sleeve 220 Guide element 230 Complementary locking device orLocking element (spring element) 240 Stop ring (release ring) 250 Plugging area 270 Locking element body (spring element body) 300 Connector E Insertion direction KK Edge LL Longitudinal axis of the connector V Vertical direction (displacement direction).

Claims

1. Connector (300), comprising: - a receiving element (10) for at least partially receiving a plug element of the first type (100) or a plug element of the second type (200); and - a push-pull locking system (20) for establishing a push-pull lock between the connector (300) and the plug element of the first type (100); wherein the push-pull locking system (20) comprises at least one locking element (13), which is arranged at least partially in a recess (14) of the receiving element (10) provided for the at least one locking element (13), and wherein the receiving element (10) comprises at least one latching means (12), which is provided and designed to be brought into engagement with at least one complementary latching means (230) of the plug element of the second type (200), characterized in that: a) the locking system (20) comprises an unlocking element (40) for unlocking the lock between the connector (300) and the plug element of the first type (100), and wherein the unlocking element (40) comprises at least one guide element (49), which is arranged at least partially in a guide track (13a) of the at least one locking element (13) and is movable within the guide track (13a); and / or b) the connector (300) further comprises a connector housing (70) having at least one support section (78), wherein the at least one locking element (13) comprises a sliding section (13c), which bears against the support section (78) of the connector housing (70) and is movable along the support section (78); and / or c) the at least one locking element (13) comprises a recess (13e), in which a spring element (15) is arranged at least partially, wherein the spring element (15) is designed such that, in an unlocking position of the at least one locking element (13), it exerts a predetermined spring force on the guide element (49) of the unlocking element (40).

2. Connector (300) according to claim 1, wherein the locking system (20) comprises three locking elements (13), wherein each of the locking elements (13) is arranged in an associated recess of the receiving element (10), and / or wherein the receiving element (10) comprises three latching sections (11).

3. Connector (300) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the guide track (13a) comprises an inclined portion, such that, upon displacement of the at least one guide element (42) within the guide track (13a), the at least one locking element (13) is displaced along a direction (V) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L) of the connector (300).

4. Connector (300) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking system (20) comprises a further spring element (30), which is arranged between a stop element (45) of the unlocking element (40) and a stop element (75) of a connector housing (70) of the connector (300) and presses the unlocking element (40) with a predetermined spring force in the direction of an initial position.

5. Connector (300) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one locking element (13) comprises a retaining section (13b), which is designed to prevent displacement of the complementary plug element of the first type (100) in a locking position, and wherein the retaining section (13b) preferably comprises a beveled edge (K).

6. Connector (300) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a connection element (60) for receiving electrical contact elements, which can be electrically connected to complementary electrical contact elements of the plug element of the first type (100) or to complementary electrical contact elements of the plug element of the second type (200), and preferably a sealing ring (50), which is arranged on the connection element (60).

7. Plug system, comprising: a connector (300) according to one of the preceding claims; and the plug element of the first type (100) and / or the plug element of the second type (200).

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