Built-in connector

Abstract

The present invention relates to various aspects of a built-in connector which is designed to precisely fittingly form a mechanically lockable plug-in connection with a cable connector which is matched as a counter piece with the built-in connector, the closed plug-in connection enabling signal transmission. For example, according to a first aspect, the built-in connector has at least two parts, a first part and a second part, both parts being provided for direct securing to the mounting panel. According to another aspect, considered in isolation or in combination with the two-part design, the built-in connector has a cover, the cover and a flange provided for mounting on the mounting panel are matched with one another in such a way that a labyrinth seal and a contact seal are formed when the cover is closed. The labyrinth seal constitutes a first sealing stage having a throttling effect. The contact seal comprising an elastomeric sealing component constitutes a second sealing stage downstream of the first sealing stage.

Description

Built-in connectors

[0001] The present invention relates to a panel-mount connector for precisely fitting a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector matched to the panel-mount connector as a counterpart (so that the panel-mount connector and the cable connector each form a mating plug connection), wherein signal transmission is enabled by a closed plug connection. In particular, the invention relates to a panel-mount connector for a plug device that may be plugged in under load and voltage.

[0002] Panel mount connectors (also known as chassis sockets) are designed for installation in the housings of electrical devices, in control panels, or similar arrangements to provide signal transmission or electrical connectivity between devices or device components. Signal transmission or connectivity is achieved by inserting a complementary connector into the panel mount connector. For example, the complementary connector is designed as a cable connector for connecting an electrical cable to the panel mount connector, typically featuring a mechanical locking mechanism to prevent unintentional disconnection of the cable and thus the electrical connection. Signal transmission can be electrical (e.g., via a copper cable connection) or optical (e.g., via a fiber optic connection).

[0003] These types of panel-mount connectors are used, for example, in broadcast and measurement technology, such as for audio and video measurement systems used in TV stations or for stage technology. Other areas of application include lighting, networking, PA systems, military equipment, rail transport, and petrochemicals.

[0004] These connectors are designed for applications with high stress or harsh environments. For example, they are... Specifically designed to be resistant to environmental influences in both plugged and unplugged states. Often, the phase, neutral, and protective conductors are protected against accidental contact, and the plugs are locked to prevent accidental disconnection. Furthermore, it is often required that the connection can be plugged in under load and voltage up to a specified current rating.

[0005] The connectors are available in two versions: one for signal input, e.g., the input of mains voltage to a device; and one for signal transmission, e.g., the transmission of mains voltage from one device to another. Unless otherwise specified, the term "panel-mount connector" as used below can refer to both panel-mount connectors for signal input and panel-mount connectors for signal transmission.

[0006] State-of-the-art panel-mount connectors, such as those from the powerCON product family of Neutrik AG (Schaan, Liechtenstein), typically comprise a housing with an insertion opening for the complementary connector. At the insertion-side end of the housing, a projecting connecting flange extends, featuring recesses for mounting fasteners. The insertion-side flange also includes an insertion opening for the complementary connector and mounting holes for connection to a device wall, control panel, or similar surface.

[0007] EP 3 514 892 B1 describes a typical plug connection between a panel-mount connector and a cable connector, wherein the plug connection is locked against accidental disconnection of the cable connector and the panel-mount connector and the cable connector have matching key element counterparts. They have key elements so that the cable connector can be inserted into the panel-mount connector in only one specific rotational orientation.

[0008] The connectors are often subjected to strong mechanical stresses during operation, which can cause, for example, increasing play in the connection of the complementary counterpart in the panel-mount connector or even lead to breakage of connector parts.

[0009] For example, panel-mount connectors typically feature guides that interact with corresponding key elements of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can only be inserted into the panel-mount connector in one specific rotational orientation determined by the key counterparts. Frequent disconnecting and reconnecting of the connectors, e.g., during touring stage performances, causes the guides to wear out, increasing the likelihood of incorrect combinations of panel-mount connectors and cable connectors, as well as the possibility of intermittent connections and leaks due to environmental influences.

[0010] Furthermore, the intense time pressure and the desired flexibility during stage performances often lead to rough handling of equipment by the artists and the setup crew. For example, it is quite common for the setup crew to lean on or pull themselves up on the casings of already plugged-in cable connectors in order to reach higher-lying equipment, such as the upper speaker cabinets of a speaker tower.

[0011] Furthermore, the connectors must withstand dust, water, and corrosive influences. Therefore, state-of-the-art panel-mount connectors employ a wide variety of sealing concepts to protect the connector and the adjacent electronics from external influences, both when plugged in and unplugged. Often, the complexity increases with the desired (higher) sealing class, requiring, for example, increasingly stringent manufacturing tolerances for the individual connector and sealing components. Increased complexity of the sealing arrangement, in turn, leads to problems with the frequent connection and disconnection of panel-mount connectors. and cable connectors leading to wear and tear and failure of the required sealing effect.

[0012] The basic design, especially the external dimensions, of panel-mount connectors is identical worldwide, and panel-mount and cable connectors are so standardized with regard to compatibility between products from different manufacturers that economic pressures practically preclude any deviation from this design. Accordingly, any modification of panel-mount connectors (as well as cable connectors) is subject to strict constraints concerning geometric shape and space requirements. In particular, the tolerances regarding the bore and mounting dimensions of the sockets are severely limited to ensure mechanical compatibility with equipment panels, switchboards, or similar components manufactured according to known specifications. If, for example, the flange is too large or has an unusual shape, it is no longer possible to place a certain number of panel-mount connectors side by side in a given space, as is generally possible.

[0013] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a built-in connector that overcomes disadvantages of the prior art, especially in light of the strict requirements regarding the globally established installation dimensions.

[0014] Another task is to provide a built-in connector that has a reduced failure rate, particularly due to mechanical stresses or environmental influences.

[0015] Another task is to provide a panel-mount connector that reduces the risk of a misconnection between the panel-mount connector and the cable connector.

[0016] These problems are solved by realizing at least some of the characterizing features of the independent patent claims. Features that enable the invention in an alternative or advantageous way. Further information can be found in some of the other features of the independent patent claims and the dependent patent claims.

[0017] The invention relates to various aspects of a panel-mount connector configured for a precisely fitting, mechanically lockable connection with a cable connector that is matched to the panel-mount connector as its counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel-mount connector (so that the panel-mount connector and the cable connector each form a mating connection), wherein the insertion of the connection between the panel-mount connector and the cable connector enables signal transmission. For example, the insertion of the connection enables the routing of a signal to the power supply or the transmission of an audio signal.

[0018] The basic design of the panel-mount connector is such that it is intended to be attached to a mounting plate and, when mounted, securely held in place by the mounting plate. The mounting plate has a recess for the panel-mount connector and / or cable connector, and the panel-mount connector is designed to be positioned against and supported by an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the recess. The mounting plate has a front side facing the direction from which the cable connector can be inserted into the panel-mount connector (when mounted on the mounting plate), and a rear side facing the opposite direction.

[0019] According to a first aspect, in addition to this basic structure, the panel-mount connector has a signal transmission contact element which is designed to make contact with a corresponding signal transmission contact element on the cable connector side when the connector is inserted, thereby enabling signal transmission across the connector. The panel-mount connector also has a support skirt area, configured to provide support when the connector is inserted. The plug connection creates a supporting effect for the (plugged-in) cable connector with respect to load forces acting on the cable connector perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction (such as shear and / or thrust load of the cable connector).

[0020] The panel-mount connector is designed with at least two parts: a first part and a second part, both of which are intended for direct mounting to the mounting plate. For direct mounting, the first part has a flange for contacting the rear of the mounting plate, and the second part has a flange for contacting the front of the mounting plate. The first part also includes the signal transmission contact element. The second part has a support skirt, whereby the supporting forces applied by the support skirt, which counteract the load forces, are at least partially borne by the mounting plate when the second part is mounted there, by means of the direct attachment of the second part to the mounting plate.

[0021] Due to its two-part design and the arrangement of the signal transmission contact element in the first part, load forces acting on the panel connector perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction can be at least partially decoupled from the components of the panel connector responsible for the electrical and mechanical connection with a cable connector. This is achieved by allowing the second part, located on the front of the mounting plate, to bear the main load of these forces. Thus, for example, forces acting on the electrical and mechanical connection components of the panel connector due to transverse loads on the inserted cable connector are reduced. Furthermore, the mechanical strength of the second part, and therefore of the entire panel connector, is increased by the direct attachment of the second part to the mounting plate. Essentially, a direct transfer of the load forces to the mounting plate can be provided.

[0022] The two-part shape and the arrangement of the signal transmission contact element in the first part also allows for improved utilization of the space available due to the fixed bore and installation dimensions.

[0023] In current technology, the bore and mounting dimensions of panel-mount connectors for signal input differ from those for signal transmission (signal output). For example, power supply panel-mount connectors configured for signal output have larger bore and mounting dimensions than power supply panel-mount connectors designed for signal input, the latter having bore and mounting dimensions comparable to those of other widely used types of panel-mount connectors, such as those for audio signals. This difference between power signal output connectors and power signal input connectors (and other types of input and output connectors) is unintentional and solely due to the lack of a solution for a more compact design of the signal output connector.Due to the strict specifications regarding globally established installation dimensions, there is an interest in adapting the power supply output connectors to the size of other panel-mount connectors. A commonly used dimension for panel-mount connectors is the so-called D-dimension, which specifies a flange with edge lengths of 26 mm (flange width) by 31 mm (flange length) and a bore with a diameter between 23.6 and 24 mm.

[0024] Due to the two-part design and the arrangement of the signal transmission contact element in the first part, for example, no load-bearing sheath connection is required between the panel-mount connector components located on the front of the mounting plate and those located on the back of the mounting plate. To achieve the decoupling of electrical and To absorb the lateral forces acting on the mechanical components of the panel-mount connector (perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction) through the second part located on the front of the mounting plate, which includes the support skirt area, it is particularly advantageous if the front and rear components of the panel-mount connector are not structurally connected. This allows the entire width of the bore to be used for the cable connector to pass through. This enables the panel-mount connector to be designed with bore and mounting dimensions similar to those used by other widely used types of panel-mount connectors. For example, a power supply output connector can be designed for mounting with bore and mounting dimensions similar to those of more common power supply input connectors and audio connectors, e.g., in a design according to the so-called D-dimension (26 mm x 31 mm flange edge lengths, 23.6–24 mm bore diameter).

[0025] For example, no sheath element (the outermost boundary element towards the recess in the mounting plate, e.g., the outermost wall) is required, which, when mounted on the mounting plate, lies against the recess's inner wall and projects into or through the recess in order to separate an inner area of ​​the connector (perpendicular to the insertion direction) from the sheath element (towards the insertion axis) against the inner wall of the recess. The cross-section required for the cable connector to engage, i.e., the minimum recess dimensions, can only be limited by the cable connector.

[0026] In one embodiment, the first part has a mechanical retaining element which is provided to prevent an axial movement in the cable connector-side retaining element counterpart from moving within the cable connector extension direction, within a first part of a locking mechanism which can be actuated by rotating the cable connector in a screw-in direction when the cable connector is at least partially inserted into the mounting connector. Furthermore, the second part has a mechanical locking element, which is designed to engage a locking element connected to a bolt of the cable connector, within the framework of a second part of the locking mechanism, which can be actuated by sliding a bolt slide on the cable connector side. This allows the cable connector to be blocked from rotating in the untwisting direction, which is opposite to the entrainment direction.

[0027] For example, the retaining element is arranged and designed in such a way that the retaining element counterpart engages behind the retaining element after the first part of the locking mechanism has been actuated.

[0028] In a further embodiment, the mechanical retention element is designed as a groove arrangement (e.g., an arrangement of rails or recesses). The grooves of the groove arrangement initially extend axially and thus serve, in particular, as key counterparts for key elements of the cable connector. Subsequently, the grooves run perpendicular to the axis or slightly obliquely to the axis and serve as a retention component in this area, wherein the retention element counterpart is designed as a lug arrangement, which is inserted into the groove arrangement by the insertion of the connector and is blocked against axial withdrawal by the groove arrangement area running perpendicular or slightly obliquely to the axis.

[0029] Alternatively, the mechanical retention element is designed as a lug arrangement and the retaining element counterpart as a groove arrangement. The grooves of the groove arrangement extend axially – with respect to their orientation in the inserted state – and thus serve as key elements for the lug arrangement, which in particular serves as key counterparts. Subsequently, the grooves run perpendicular to the axis or slightly obliquely to the axis, whereby, upon engagement of the plug connection, the groove extending perpendicularly or slightly obliquely to the axis The groove arrangement area engages behind the nose arrangement, thereby blocking the cable connector against axial pulling out.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the retaining element is arranged and provided with an inclined profile (viewed obliquely with respect to the plane perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction) such that, when the first part of the locking mechanism is actuated, the retaining element counterpart is moved along the inclined profile until it encounters a rotational stop. This stop is located on the second part of the panel-mount connector and ensures that the cable connector reaches its final insertion position within the panel-mount connector (i.e., in this final insertion position, the cable connector is ultimately blocked with respect to further rotation in the insertion direction and axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction).

[0031] In a further embodiment, the second part has mechanical key counterparts which are designed to interact with matching key elements of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can be inserted into the mounting connector in only one specific rotational orientation determined by the key counterparts.

[0032] In another embodiment, the built-in connector has a cover for the opening that is fixedly arranged on the second part flange, wherein the cover can be opened and closed with a pivot joint and has a sealing component such that it seals the opening when the cover is closed.

[0033] According to another aspect, either on its own or in combination with one of the other aspects, the built-in connector, in addition to the basic structure described above, has a mechanical retention element which is designed to be used as part of a first part of a locking mechanism, which is engaged by turning in a direction. The system is designed so that the cable connector can be rotated while at least partially inserted into the panel-mount connector, and a corresponding retaining element on the cable connector side can be used to block axial movement in the cable connector's withdrawal direction. For example, the panel-mount connector is designed such that the mechanical retaining element forms part of a bayonet locking mechanism between the cable connector and the panel-mount connector.Furthermore, the panel-mount connector has a mechanical locking element designed to engage a locking bolt of the cable connector, connected to the locking bolt, within a second part of the locking mechanism. This engagement is actuated by sliding a locking bolt on the cable connector side, thus preventing the cable connector from rotating in the opposite direction to its insertion direction. The mechanical locking element is designed, for example, as a recess / lock socket to receive the locking bolt of the cable connector, so that when the locking bolt is in a latching position, any rotation of the bayonet locking mechanism of the cable connector with the panel-mount connector is blocked. The locking mechanism is designed, for example, as described in EP 3 514 892 B1.

[0034] The panel-mount connector is designed in at least two parts, consisting of a first and a second part, both of which are intended for direct mounting to the mounting plate. For direct mounting to the mounting plate, the first part has a flange for contacting the rear of the mounting plate, and the second part has a flange for contacting the front of the mounting plate. The first part also includes the mechanical retention element, and the second part includes the mechanical locking element.

[0035] According to this aspect, a further advantage of the two-part form lies in the flexibly adjustable installation depth of the plug connector. the back of the mounting plate. As mentioned earlier, there is an interest in ensuring that further developments of panel-mount connectors are compatible with conventional cable connectors. Conventional cable connectors have actuated latches which, when the cable connector reaches a predetermined insertion depth, engage in a recess / latch socket on the panel-mount connector.

[0036] The two-part design allows the installation depth—that is, the perpendicular dimension of the connector on the back of the mounting plate—to be reduced compared to the prior art without requiring any adjustments to the cable connector itself. This depth can be kept constant, for example, regardless of the mounting plate's thickness. For instance, the connector can be configured as described earlier so that the cross-section required for the cable connector to engage is limited solely by the recess in the mounting plate (e.g., also thanks to a support skirt area as described earlier). This allows the desired installation depth to be selected by adjusting the thickness (the perpendicular dimension) of the second part on the front of the mounting plate.Since the cable connector essentially fits freely through the opening provided by the recess in the mounting plate (and is, for example, sufficiently supported by a support skirt area as described above), the penetration depth can be freely chosen, with the thickness of the second part being selected such that actuated latches of conventional cable connectors are arranged at the correct distance to the recess / latch socket of the second part and can thus engage in the recess / latch socket.

[0037] The two-part design thus allows for increased flexibility in adapting to different thicknesses of the mounting plate, especially when there is a gap between the mounting plate and another device element on the back. Space is limited on the mounting plate. This is the case, for example, when the mounting connectors are to be directly connected (e.g., soldered) to a circuit board on the back of the mounting plate.

[0038] In one embodiment, the first part has a signal transmission contact element which is designed to come into contact with a cable connector-side signal transmission contact element counterpart by entering the plug connection and thereby provide a signal transmission across the plug connection.

[0039] In a further embodiment, the second part has a support skirt area configured to provide support for the cable connector in the state created by the insertion of the plug connection with respect to load forces acting on the cable connector perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction, wherein support forces applied by the support skirt area and counteracting the load forces are at least partially borne by the mounting plate in the state of the second part being mounted on the mounting plate by means of the provided direct attachment of the second part to the mounting plate.

[0040] In a further embodiment, the second part has mechanical key counterparts which are designed to interact with matching key elements of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can be inserted into the mounting connector in only one specific rotational orientation determined by the key counterparts.

[0041] In another embodiment, the built-in connector has a cover for the opening that is fixedly arranged on the second part flange, wherein the cover can be opened and closed with a pivot joint and has a sealing component such that it seals the opening when the cover is closed.

[0042] According to another aspect, either on its own or in combination with one of the other aspects, the panel-mount connector, in addition to the basic structure described above, has a signal transmission contact element. This contact element is designed to make contact with a corresponding signal transmission contact element on the cable connector when the connector is inserted, thereby enabling signal transmission across the connector. The panel-mount connector also has mechanical key counterparts designed to interact with corresponding key elements of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can only be inserted into the panel-mount connector in a specific rotational orientation determined by the key counterparts.

[0043] The key counterparts are designed, for example, as recesses or lugs which, through a rotationally asymmetrical arrangement and / or individually differing geometries (e.g., differing shapes or dimensions), require a specific, preferred insertion orientation of the cable connector. The key counterparts are designed, for example, as key recesses that, when the cable connector's lugs are matched in shape and orientation, allow the cable connector to be inserted into the opening. Alternatively, the key counterparts are designed as lugs that, when the cable connector's key recesses are matched in shape and orientation, allow the cable connector to be inserted into the opening.

[0044] For example, the key counterparts are designed as lugs of different widths, with the cable connector-side key elements then being designed as guide recesses, Z-rails, or Z-grooves of different widths. Alternatively, the key counterparts are designed, for example, as guide recesses, Z-rails, or Z-grooves of different widths, with the cable connector-side key elements then being designed as lugs of different widths.

[0045] The panel-mount connector is designed in at least two parts, a first part and a second part, both of which are intended for direct mounting to the mounting plate. For direct mounting to the mounting plate, the first part has a flange for contacting the rear of the mounting plate, and the second part has a flange for contacting the front of the mounting plate. The first part also includes the signal transmission contact element, and the second part includes the key counterparts.

[0046] The two-part design and the arrangement of the key counterparts in the second part, which is intended for mounting on the front of the mounting plate, allow for a reduction in the manufacturing tolerance of the key counterparts. This prevents the key counterparts from becoming loose due to frequent disconnecting and reconnecting of the panel connector and cable connector.

[0047] In the current state of the art, panel-mount connectors are manufactured, for example, using injection molding. To optimize the release of the molded part from the injection molding material, the part has a so-called draft angle, e.g., of 0.5° to 1°. This prevents, for example, sticking during the removal of the molded part and thus damage or warping of the injection mold. With conventional panel-mount connectors, the injection molding process typically forces the molded part to be pulled away in the direction from which the cable connector can be inserted (the pull-away direction, when installed, corresponds to a direction pointing away from the mounting plate on the front side).This pull-off direction of the molded part means that, when the plug is mounted on the mounting plate, the key counterparts, solely due to the manufacturing process, extend outwards (away from the mounting plate), i.e., at the point of initial contact with the corresponding key elements of the cable connector. To ensure continuous insertion of the cable connector, the key... The mating parts are therefore larger than necessary in the insertion area to accommodate the key elements of the cable connector. This promotes wear on the keying elements of the panel-mount connector when the cable connector is frequently plugged and unplugged.

[0048] Thanks to the two-part design, the first and second parts can be manufactured in separate injection molding processes. The second part (which contains the key counterparts and is intended for mounting on the front of the mounting plate) can now be manufactured in such a way that the injection-molded part can be removed in a direction that, when installed, corresponds to the direction facing the mounting plate from the front. This allows the key counterparts of the mounting connector (the second part of the mounting connector) to have their smallest dimension at the point of initial contact with the corresponding key elements of the cable connector, ensuring a precise fit to the dimensions of these key elements.This precise fit reduces the risk of the key counterparts becoming loose due to frequent disconnecting and reconnecting of panel-mount connectors and cable connectors.

[0049] In one embodiment, the built-in connector has a cover for the opening that is fixedly arranged on the second part flange, wherein the cover can be opened and closed with a pivot joint and has a sealing component such that it seals the opening when the cover is closed.

[0050] In a further embodiment, a sheath element of the panel-mount connector has a thickness of less than 0.35 mm perpendicular to the insertion direction. The sheath element (outermost wall of the panel-mount connector abutting the inside of the panel recess) is designed to project into or through the panel recess (affecting the inner wall of the panel) when the first and second parts are mounted to the panel, thereby forming an inner area. to separate the plug (perpendicular to the insertion direction) from the sheath element (towards the insertion axis) against the inner wall of the mounting plate recess.

[0051] In particular, when attached to the mounting plate, the panel connector is free of a sheathing element surrounding the cable connector at the level of the mounting plate recess, so that the panel connector is configured such that the minimum mounting plate recess dimension is limited only by the cable connector.

[0052] In a further embodiment, the first-part flange has blind holes provided for mounting on the mounting plate, each of the blind holes being designed to receive a fastening element, e.g. a screw or a pin, coming from the mounting plate for fastening the first-part flange to the mounting plate.

[0053] In another embodiment, the first part flange and / or the second part flange has a sealing element surrounding the opening, configured to create a sealing effect by pressing against the mounting plate when the mounting connector is placed on the mounting plate.

[0054] For example, the sealing element is formed in one piece with the first part flange or the second part flange, e.g. by manufacturing the sealing element using 2K or multi-component injection molding.

[0055] According to another aspect, either on its own or in combination with one of the other aspects, the panel-mount connector, in addition to the basic structure described above, has a signal transmission contact element. This contact element is designed to make contact with a corresponding signal transmission contact element on the cable connector side when the connector is inserted, thereby enabling signal transmission across the connector. The panel-mount connector also features a mechanical locking mechanism. Elements are provided which, within the framework of a locking mechanism, by actuating a locking slide on the cable connector side, bring about a locking interaction of the locking mechanism elements with locking mechanism counterpart elements on the cable connector side, such that the cable connector, when inserted in the locked state in the panel connector, is blocked with respect to rotation and axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction. For example, the locking mechanism elements form a bayonet lock for locking the cable connector in the panel connector, wherein the panel connector has a locking socket for receiving a locking bolt of the cable connector, so that when the locking bolt is received / engaged in a latching position, an outward rotation movement of the bayonet lock of the cable connector with the panel connector is blocked.

[0056] The plug-in connector is furthermore provided, at least partially or entirely, for direct attachment to the mounting plate, wherein the partial component or the plug-in connector as a whole has a flange for being placed against the front of the mounting plate. The plug-in connector has a cover for the opening that is fixedly arranged on the flange, the cover being openable and closeable by means of a pivot hinge and having a sealing component such that, when the cover is closed, it seals the opening.

[0057] For example, the cover is designed as a spring-loaded sealing flap which closes automatically after the cable plug is unplugged, thus ensuring immediate protection against dust and water, e.g. according to protection class IP65.

[0058] Covers known in the prior art are typically attached to the plug-in connector as an additional component. The pivot joint is spring-loaded so that the cover automatically returns to a closed position, for which a spring pivots around a pivot axis. The spring is coiled at the swivel joint. Since the additional parts were not designed together with the flange, there is often little space available for the spring. As a result, the spring, which has relatively few coils, exerts a torque that a user might find too high when the lid is fully open, making it difficult to comfortably hold the lid open (for example, to plug in or unplug a cable connector). The torque must have a minimum value to ensure a tight seal when the lid is closed, but then increases sharply when the lid is opened due to the spring's properties.

[0059] By attaching the cover directly to the flange, the likelihood of improper installation and the associated reduced sealing effect can be decreased. Furthermore, the cover and flange can be manufactured to be precisely matched, for example, by increasing the space required for a spring intended for closing the cover. This allows for a higher pressing torque when closed, while simultaneously achieving a more even or less pronounced increase in the rebounding torque when opening the cover.

[0060] In one embodiment, the sealing component is arranged and designed such that, in the closed state of the lid, in addition to the opening, fastening holes and any fastening elements inserted therein are also sealed, in particular so that the opening, together with the fastening holes and any fastening elements inserted therein, are arranged in a common sealing chamber formed by the sealing component.

[0061] In another embodiment, the pivot joint is spring-loaded, so that the cover automatically strives for a closed position, for which purpose a spring is wound around a pivot axis of the pivot joint and extends over two-thirds, in particular three-quarters, of the extent of the second-part flange in the direction of the pivot axis.

[0062] In a further embodiment, the opening can be sealed by means of a sealing arrangement comprising a sealing skirt and a sealing skirt counterpart, which enters a sealing state upon closing the cover. For example, the sealing skirt counterpart is arranged around the opening on the flange and the sealing skirt on the cover. Alternatively, the sealing skirt is arranged around the opening on the flange and the sealing skirt counterpart on the cover. Furthermore, the shape and dimensions of the sealing skirt are matched to the sealing skirt counterpart such that, by placing the sealing skirt over the sealing skirt counterpart, radial tension is created across its entire circumference by elastic deformation of the sealing skirt, wherein both the sealing skirt and the sealing skirt counterpart have a curved (or bent) profile and are convexly shaped over their entire circumference.

[0063] In a further embodiment, the flange and cover are designed to be matched such that, when the cover is closed, a labyrinth seal is formed, providing a first sealing stage with a throttling effect. Furthermore, a contact seal with an elastomeric sealing component provides a second sealing stage downstream of the first, e.g., where the contact seal is provided by the sealing skirt and the sealing skirt counterpart described above.

[0064] According to another aspect, either on its own or in combination with one of the other aspects, the panel-mount connector, in addition to the basic structure described above, has a signal transmission contact element. This contact element is designed to make contact with a corresponding signal transmission contact element on the cable connector side when the connector is inserted, thereby enabling signal transmission across the connector. The panel-mount connector also has mechanical locking mechanism elements, which are designed to be locked by actuating a locking mechanism on the cable connector side. The sliding mechanism is designed to create a locking interaction between the locking mechanism elements and the corresponding locking mechanism elements on the cable connector side, such that the cable connector, when locked in the mounting connector, is blocked from rotation and axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction. The mounting connector has a flange for mounting against the mounting plate and mounting holes for direct attachment of the mounting connector to the mounting plate (using fasteners inserted into the mounting holes).

[0065] The plug-in connector also has a cover for the opening, which can be opened and closed by means of a pivot hinge. The opening and the fastener holes, as well as any fasteners inserted therein, can be sealed by means of a sealing arrangement comprising a sealing skirt and a sealing skirt counterpart, which enters a sealed state when the cover is closed. Furthermore, the sealing skirt is matched to the sealing skirt counterpart in its shape and dimensions such that, when the sealing skirt is placed over the sealing skirt counterpart, radial tension is created over its entire circumference by elastic deformation of the sealing skirt, with both the sealing skirt and the sealing skirt counterpart having a curved (or bent) profile and being convexly shaped over their entire circumference.

[0066] In one embodiment, the sealing skirt counterpart is arranged around the opening on the flange and the sealing skirt on the cover. Alternatively, the sealing skirt is arranged around the opening on the flange and the sealing skirt counterpart is arranged on the cover.

[0067] In a further embodiment, the locking mechanism elements have a mechanical retaining element which is provided to prevent, within a first part of the locking mechanism, rotation in a turning direction of the The locking mechanism is designed to prevent axial movement of a cable connector's counterpart in the cable connector's extraction direction, provided that the cable connector is at least partially inserted into the mounting connector. Furthermore, the locking mechanism elements include a mechanical closing element designed to engage a locking bolt connected to the cable connector's locking slide within a second part of the locking mechanism, which is actuated by sliding a locking slide on the cable connector's side. This engagement prevents the cable connector from rotating in the opposite direction to its insertion direction.

[0068] In another embodiment, the sealing apron counterpart or the sealing apron itself encloses bores provided for mounting on the mounting plate by means of penetrating fasteners (e.g., screws or pins). The bores are thus arranged within the circumference of the sealing apron counterpart or the sealing apron.

[0069] In a further embodiment, the flange and cover are designed to be matched such that, when the cover is closed, a labyrinth seal is formed, providing a first sealing stage with a throttling effect. Furthermore, by placing the sealing skirt over its counterpart, a second sealing stage downstream of the first is provided.

[0070] According to another aspect, either on its own or in combination with one of the other aspects, the panel-mount connector, in addition to the basic structure described above, has a signal transmission contact element. This contact element is designed to make contact with a corresponding signal transmission contact element on the cable connector side when the connector is inserted, thereby enabling signal transmission across the connector. The panel-mount connector also features a mechanical locking mechanism. Elements are provided which, within the framework of a locking mechanism, by actuating a locking slide on the cable connector side, bring about a locking interaction of the locking mechanism elements with locking mechanism counterpart elements on the cable connector side, such that the cable connector, when inserted in the locked position in the mounting connector, is blocked with respect to rotation and axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction. The mounting connector is designed for direct mounting on the mounting plate and has a flange for this purpose.

[0071] The plug-in connector has a cover for the opening, which can be opened and closed by means of a pivot hinge. The opening can be sealed by means of a sealing arrangement that enters a sealing state when the cover is closed. For this purpose, the flange and cover are designed to form a labyrinth seal, which provides a first sealing stage with a throttling effect. Furthermore, a contact seal is provided with an elastomeric sealing skirt and a sealing skirt counterpart. The shape and dimensions of the sealing skirt are matched to the sealing skirt counterpart such that when the sealing skirt is placed over the sealing skirt counterpart, tension is created on the sealing skirt counterpart through elastic deformation of the sealing skirt.

[0072] In one embodiment, the cover and the flange are aligned such that, when the cover is closed, a cover element arranged around the opening, e.g., an edge element of the cover, rests on a cover element support surface of the flange. The flange has a projection on the inside of the cover element support surface (towards the opening), which extends axially in the extension direction of the cable connector, so that when the cover element rests on the cover element support surface, the projection projects into the cover, thus providing part of the labyrinth seal.

[0073] For example, the flange has several stepped protrusions rising towards the opening, and the cover has corresponding cover elements designed to be placed on these stepped protrusions. When the cover is closed, these cover elements extend axially in steps of varying lengths (less towards the axis). When the cover is closed, these differently extending cover elements rest precisely on the stepped protrusions, thus providing several labyrinth elements for the labyrinth seal.

[0074] In another embodiment, the sealing apron counterpart is designed as a further axially extending (in the extension direction of the cable connector) raised section arranged inside the protrusion, which is intended to be slipped over the sealing apron when the lid is closed.

[0075] In a further embodiment, the cover is designed such that – when the cover is open and the cable connector is inserted via the plug connection – an element of the cover, which is rigid compared to the sealing skirt (not made of an elastomer), abuts the cable connector. For example, this element of the cover is a cover element intended for providing the labyrinth seal (e.g., an edge element of the cover), specifically that the cover then abuts the cable connector at a point on a cover-side component of the labyrinth seal.

[0076] In an exemplary specific embodiment of a power supply panel-mount connector, the invention relates to a panel-mount connector for precisely engaging a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector that is matched to the panel-mount connector as a counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel-mount connector. By engaging the plug connection between the panel-mount connector and the cable connector, a power supply signal can be transmitted from the panel-mount connector to the cable connector. The panel-mount connector is designed to to be attached to a mounting plate and, when mounted on the mounting plate, to be held securely in place by the mounting plate.

[0077] The mounting plate has a recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, and the mounting connector is designed to be inserted and supported against an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the recess. The mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be inserted to the mounting connector (when mounted on the mounting plate), and a rear side facing the opposite direction.

[0078] The panel-mount connector features a signal line contact element designed to engage with a corresponding signal line contact element on the cable connector when the connector is inserted, thereby enabling power supply signal transmission across the connector. Furthermore, the panel-mount connector includes a support skirt configured to provide support for the cable connector in the inserted state, resisting load forces acting perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction.Furthermore, a mechanical locking element designed as a bolt lock is provided to effect, within the framework of a locking mechanism which - in the axially inserted state of the cable connector into the mounting connector - can be actuated by sliding a bolt slide on the cable connector side, an engagement of a bolt of the cable connector connected to the bolt slide into the locking element (and thus to block the cable connector with regard to rotation in the outward direction, which is directed opposite to the inward direction).

[0079] The panel-mount connector is designed with at least two parts: a first part and a second part, both of which are intended for direct mounting to the mounting plate. The first part has a first-part design for this purpose. The first part has a flange for mounting on the rear of the mounting plate, and the second part has a flange for mounting on the front of the mounting plate. The first part also has the signal transmission contact element, and the second part has the support skirt area. The support forces applied by the support skirt area, which counteract the load forces, are at least partially borne by the mounting plate when the second part is mounted on the mounting plate, by means of the direct attachment of the second part to the mounting plate. The second part also has the mechanical locking element.

[0080] When attached to the mounting plate, the mounting connector is free of a sheathing element surrounding the cable connector at the level of the mounting plate recess, so that the mounting connector is configured such that the minimum mounting plate recess dimension is limited only by the cable connector.

[0081] In one embodiment, the first-part flange has blind holes provided for mounting on the mounting plate, each of the blind holes being designed to receive a fastening element, e.g. a screw or a pin, coming from the mounting plate for fastening the first-part flange to the mounting plate.

[0082] In another embodiment, the first part flange and / or the second part flange has a sealing element surrounding the opening, configured to create a sealing effect by pressing against the mounting plate when the mounting connector is placed on the mounting plate.

[0083] For example, the sealing element is manufactured using 2K or multi-component injection molding and is formed in one piece with the first part flange or the second part flange.

[0084] With regard to the embodiments based on the aspect described above, namely that the panel-mount connector is designed in at least two parts and has a first and a second part, which are intended for direct attachment to the mounting plate, the second part, which is intended for mounting on the front of the mounting plate, can, for example, be made of metal. The first part, which is intended for mounting on the back of the mounting plate, preferably has insulating material or is specifically made of insulating material.

[0085] The use of metal for the second part offers the advantage of less rapid wear (e.g., compared to softer, especially electrically insulating, materials like plastic), making it suitable for particularly demanding environments. For example, such metal second parts could be used with equipment that is loaned out and therefore frequently assembled and disassembled (and potentially handled with less care). Furthermore, the use of metal reduces wear on the key components of the second part (or, more generally, on those areas / elements of the connector that form the insertion opening for the cable connector) caused by frequent disconnection and reconnection of the panel-mount connector and cable connector.

[0086] Furthermore, the invention relates to built-in connectors of the embodiments described above, where, however, all aspects relating to the two-part form are implemented in further embodiments such that the second part constitutes an integral component of the mounting plate. Here, too, the second part is made of metal in one embodiment, for example to reduce wear.

[0087] The aspects described at the beginning relating to the lid and the labyrinth and contact seals (provided by lid elements) can be implemented independently of the two-part form of the built-in connector.

[0088] The inventive built-in connector is described in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments shown schematically in the figures. Identical elements are marked with the same reference numerals in the figures. The described The embodiments are generally not shown to scale and should not be understood as a limitation. Specifically, they show...

[0089] Fig. 1A-1 D: various views of an exemplary embodiment of a current signal output panel-mount connector according to the invention mounted on a mounting plate;

[0090] Fig. 2A-2C: different views of the first and second part of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D;

[0091] Fig. 3A-3D: various views of an exemplary embodiment of a power signal input panel-mount connector according to the invention, mounted on a mounting plate;

[0092] Fig. 4A-4C: different views of the first and second part of the current signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D;

[0093] Fig. 5A-5B: Perspective views into the openings of the current signal output panel connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D and the current signal input panel connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D;

[0094] Figs. 6A-6C: different views of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D and the current signal input connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D Panel-mount connectors, which are mounted side by side on a mounting plate;

[0095] Fig. 7A-7B: different views of the first and second parts of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D and the current signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D, which are intended for mounting on a panel;

[0096] Fig. 8: another view of the first and second parts of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D and the current signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D, which are intended for mounting on a panel;

[0097] Fig. 9: a sectional view of the one shown in Fig. 1A-1D Power signal output panel connector and the power signal input panel connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D, which are mounted side by side on a mounting plate;

[0098] Fig. 10: another sectional view of the power signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D, mounted on a mounting plate;

[0099] Fig. 11 A-11 D: various views of a further exemplary embodiment of a current signal output panel-mount connector according to the invention mounted on a mounting plate;

[0100] Figs. 12A-12D: various views of a further exemplary embodiment of an invention according to a Mounting plate-mounted power signal input connector;

[0101] Fig. 13A-13C: different views of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 11A-11D and the current signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 12A-12D, which are mounted side by side on a mounting plate;

[0102] Fig. 14A-14B: different views of the first and second parts of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 11A-11D and the current signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 12A-12D, which are intended for mounting on a panel;

[0103] Fig. 15: another view of the first and second parts of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 11A-11D and the current signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 12A-12D, which are intended for mounting on a panel;

[0104] Fig. 16: a sectional view of the one shown in Fig. 11 A-11 D Power signal output panel-mount connector and the power signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 12A-12D, which are mounted side by side on a mounting plate;

[0105] Fig. 17: another sectional view of the current signal output panel connector shown in Fig. 11 A-11 D and the current signal input connector shown in Fig. 12 A-12 D. Panel-mount connectors, which are mounted side by side on a mounting plate;

[0106] Fig. 18A-18B: different views of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D (with plugged-in cable connector counterpart) and the current signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D (without cable connector counterpart) in comparison with the prior art;

[0107] Figs. 19A-19B: different views of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D (with plugged-in cable connector counterpart) and the current signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D (without cable connector counterpart) in comparison with the prior art, wherein, in comparison to Fig. 18A-18B, a further prior art current signal output panel-mount connector (to be attached from the back of the mounting plate) is shown;

[0108] Figs. 20A-20B: further views of the panel-mount connector and cable connector arrangement shown in Figs. 19A-19B;

[0109] Fig. 21: Perspective view of the object shown in Fig. 11 A-11 D Power signal output panel-mount connector (with plugged-in cable connector counterpart) and the power signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 12A-12D (without cable connector counterpart) in comparison with the prior art;

[0110] Fig. 22A-21 E: different views of a prior art current signal input cable connector;

[0111] Fig. 23: Perspective view of the current signal input- Cable connector from Fig. 21A-21E;

[0112] Fig. 24A-24C: different views of the power signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D with the cable connector counterpart inserted;

[0113] Fig. 25A-25C: different views of a latch slider of a power signal input cable connector from the prior art;

[0114] Figs. 26A-26E: different views of a prior art current signal output cable connector;

[0115] Fig. 27: Perspective view of the current signal output- Cable connector from Fig. 26A-26E;

[0116] Fig. 28A-28B: different views of a plug connection between a panel-mount connector according to Fig. 11A-11D and a cable connector, with the cover pressing against the cable connector;

[0117] Fig. 29A-29D: various views of an exemplary embodiment of a second-part flange according to the invention, which has a cover for the opening fixed to the second-part flange;

[0118] Fig. 30: a sectional view of the device shown in Figs. 29A-29D Two-part flange, with the lid closed;

[0119] Fig. 31 : a perspective view of the second-part flange shown in Fig. 29A-29D, with the cover not fully closed.

[0120] The inventive aspects are illustrated by way of two different embodiments of a power supply-provided power signal output panel-mount connector (Figs. 1A-1D, 11A-11D) and a power supply-provided power signal input panel-mount connector (Figs. SA-SD, 12A-12D). In particular, compared to known power supply connectors, the inventive panel-mount connector has the advantage that the power output panel-mount connector can be designed for bore and mounting dimensions such as those used by other widely used types of panel-mount connectors. For example, the panel-mount connector is designed according to the so-called D-dimension (see Figs. 18A-18B, 21).

[0121] Due to the large number of cable connectors and panel-mount connectors in circulation worldwide, there is a significant economic interest in ensuring that further developments of panel-mount connectors are compatible with their corresponding conventional cable connectors (see Figs. 22A-22E and Figs. 26A-26E). In addition to electrical or optical signal transmission compatibility, there are clearly defined mechanical constraints that must be met.

[0122] Conventional panel-mount connectors are configured for bayonet locking mechanisms, for example. They feature guides that interact with corresponding key elements and guide counterparts of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can only be inserted into the panel-mount connector in a specific rotational orientation determined by the key elements and can be inserted axially deeper into the opening by means of a rotational movement around the insertion axis (see, for example, Figures 5A-5B, which show inventive panel-mount connectors with grooves or lugs designed as key counterparts). At a predetermined insertion depth, a locking position is reached, whereby a retaining element counterpart on the cable connector engages behind a retaining element of the panel-mount connector, so that the cable connector is held in place axially. Movement in the cable connector's extraction direction is blocked. Furthermore, the cable connector is prevented from rotating backwards by a locking mechanism that engages in a locking socket of the panel-mount connector. The dimensions and positions of the key elements, guide counterparts, retaining element counterparts, and locking mechanisms of the cable connectors must remain compatible with further developed panel-mount connectors.

[0123] Panel-mount connectors according to the present invention can be configured for various applications, for example, for transmitting a power supply signal or an audio signal. Depending on the application, matching cable connectors (e.g., from the prior art) are used as counterparts to precisely engage a mechanically lockable connection with the inventive panel-mount connector, by inserting the respective cable connector into the precisely fitting opening of the panel-mount connector. Upon engagement of the connection, a signal transmission contact element of the panel-mount connector comes into contact with a corresponding signal transmission contact element on the cable connector, thereby enabling signal transmission across the connection.

[0124] The mounting plate has a recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, wherein the mounting connector is designed to be inserted and supports are located on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the recess. Hereinafter, the area facing from where (when the mounting connector is installed) the cable connector can be brought into contact with the mounting connector is referred to as the front of the mounting plate. The opposite side of the mounting plate is referred to as the back of the mounting plate.

[0125] The “mounting plate” as defined in the present invention can have various shapes. For example, the mounting plate is a flat surface. A mounting plate is a two-dimensional plate or a flat component of a device designed for the installation of a panel-mount connector (e.g., a loudspeaker). For example, the mounting plate can also be formed by part of a device housing. Particularly when the mounting plate is provided by a device component (e.g., a spotlight or loudspeaker), in special designs the mounting plate can also have a curved (non-flat) shape. Accordingly, the panel-mount connector can then have holes or mounting points that are adapted to the shape of the mounting plate.

[0126] According to one aspect of the invention, the panel-mount connector is designed in two parts and comprises a first and a second part, which are intended for direct attachment to the mounting plate. For attachment, the first part has a first-part flange for contacting the rear of the mounting plate, and the second part has a second-part flange for contacting the front of the mounting plate (see Figs. 2A-2C and 4A-4C). For example, the first-part flange and the second-part flange have blind holes for mounting on the mounting plate, each blind hole being designed to receive a fastening element, e.g., a screw or a pin, protruding from the mounting plate.

[0127] The two-part design and the direct mounting of the second part to the mounting plate has the advantage, for example, that the second part can assume a significant support component (or transfer it directly to the mounting plate) by means of a support skirt area in order to protect the mounting connector from load forces acting perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction when the cable connector is plugged in (or at least partially inserted).

[0128] Furthermore, the two-part design allows for improved utilization of the available space for the opening, which is limited by the fixed drilling and installation dimensions on the mounting plate as determined by the prior art. For example, the recess in the mounting plate can be used for a different purpose. The penetrating sheath wall is omitted, so that the cross-section to be provided for the insertion of the plug connection for the cable connector is limited exclusively by the recess of the mounting plate (and not by elements of the mounting connector).

[0129] In prior art, one-piece, integrated connectors, such a outer wall – i.e., an outermost wall which, when mounted on the mounting plate, protrudes into the recess of the mounting plate while resting against the inner wall of the mounting plate – is typically used, for example, to provide support against load forces transverse to the insertion direction or to provide a locking socket on the front of the mounting plate for blocking the bayonet locking mechanism. According to the invention, these functions can now be performed by the second part, with the support skirt area described above resulting in a reinforced support effect.

[0130] This allows power output connectors designed for electrical supply to be provided with mounting dimensions and dimensions similar to the more common power supply input connectors and audio connectors. Previously, power supply connectors configured for signal output had larger mounting dimensions and dimensions than those designed for signal input (see, for example, Figs. 18A-18B, Figs. 19A-19B). Thanks to the inventive two-part design, the power supply output connectors can be adapted to the size of other panel-mount connectors, thus meeting the strict requirements regarding globally established mounting dimensions for other connectors, which are often manufactured in the so-called D-size.

[0131] Another advantage of the two-part design is increased flexibility regarding the installation depth of the connector, i.e., the perpendicular extension of the connector on the back of the mounting plate (see Figs. 20A-20B). For example, the cross-section required for the cable connector connection Since the insertion depth is limited exclusively by the recess in the mounting plate and the support provided by the support skirt area increases the possible range for selecting the insertion depth. By appropriately selecting the thickness (in the insertion direction) of the second part and positioning a locking socket accordingly, it can be ensured that actuated locking bolts of conventional cable connectors are positioned at the correct distance from the recess / locking socket and can thus engage in the recess / locking socket.

[0132] The insertion depth plays a role in the prior art, for example, when the panel-mount connector is to be directly connected to a printed circuit board (PCB). In this case, a connection between the panel-mount connector and the PCB is first established, often not without causing damage, e.g., by soldering. Subsequently, the panel-mount connector can only be mounted to the PCB from the rear. Due to the rear mounting, the insertion depth of one-piece panel-mount connectors from the prior art is further increased because the position of the flange is fixed (see Figures 20A-20B for a comparison of the insertion depth of front- and rear-mounted power-signal output connectors from the prior art). This means, for example, that power-signal output connectors known from the prior art cannot be mounted to a PCB.Thanks to the reduced or adjustable installation depth provided by the inventive panel-mount connector, the power signal output connector can now be brought to the same installation depth as all other chassis connectors that meet this standard.

[0133] Another advantage – especially for the application of panel-mount connectors on printed circuit boards – is the improved replaceability, for example, if a panel-mount connector breaks. With current technology, for instance, the entire housing of a device in which the panel-mount connector is installed often has to be opened to detach the entire connector from the circuit board (since conventional panel-mount connectors (are formed in one piece). This is often very complex and cannot be done non-destructively. Furthermore, often only the plug-in end of the panel-mount connector is damaged, as this is directly exposed to external influences and is crucial for the insertion and removal function. The frequent insertion and removal process (i.e., from cable connector into the panel-mount connector and from it) causes wear and tear on the panel-mount connector, which then manifests itself on and around the insertion opening of the panel-mount connector.Thanks to the inventive two-part design of the built-in connector, unlike in the SdT, only the second part of the connector (which is subject to stress and wear) can be replaced individually / separately without much effort (and, for example, without opening the device in which the built-in connector is installed), whereas the unworn first part can continue to be used.

[0134] Furthermore, the two-part design allows, for example, the use of a cover, as described earlier, to seal the opening even when the panel-mount connector is attached to the underside of a circuit board. This would not be possible with conventional (one-piece) panel-mount connectors, as these connectors, when attached / soldered to the circuit board (which must be done before mounting on the panel), must be mounted to the back of the panel (a flange, and certainly not a flange with a cover, simply cannot fit through the mounting plate's opening due to its design).

[0135] As is evident throughout the entire context of this disclosure and the technical teaching presented here, the two-part design of the inventive connector with first and second parts refers to the two parts (i.e., the two-part nature) in the ready-to-install state of the connector. The two parts of the inventive connector (as well as, analogously, the one-part version from the SdT) are of course "internally" composed of several elements (individual components or parts) that are connected and assembled during a manufacturing process. However, the two parts of the inventive panel-mount connector, in the state intended for mounting on the mounting plate (i.e., in the state intended for installation in a corresponding device, e.g., an audio / video device such as a large-format active loudspeaker system / an active floorstanding loudspeaker (for professional use in theaters or concert halls)), form two physically separate units (i.e., two physical, separate pieces that are not connected to each other before mounting on the mounting plate).The two physical units A / erbunde of the inventive built-in connector (i.e. the two parts) are only connected to each other after installation in the final device, and there in particular only by means of detachable fastening means (screw connection), ultimately (by means of the mounting plate).

[0136] Furthermore, the two-part design allows for a lower manufacturing tolerance for the key element counterparts arranged on the second part, thus reducing the risk of the key element counterparts becoming loose due to frequent disconnecting and reconnecting of panel-mount connectors and cable connectors.

[0137] Manufacturing the second part, intended for attachment to the front, in a separate injection molding process allows for the removal of a molded part used to produce the key element counterparts in a direction that, in the assembled state of the panel-mount connector, corresponds to a direction pointing towards the mounting plate. This ensures that the key element counterparts have their smallest dimension at the point of initial contact with the corresponding key elements of the cable connector and can be precisely matched to the dimensions of the cable connector's key elements. This prevents the key element counterparts from becoming loose due to frequent disconnection and reconnection of the panel-mount connector. Cable connectors are reduced. The tendency to loosen or wear can be further reduced, for example, if the second part is made of metal (-> entirely of metal or at least those areas / elements of the second part of the panel-mount connector made of metal that form the insertion opening for the cable connector).

[0138] According to a further aspect of the invention, the panel-mount connector is provided, at least partially or entirely, by means of a flange for attachment to the front of the mounting plate, wherein a fixed cover for the opening is arranged on the flange (see, for example, Figs. 11A-11D and Figs. 12A-12D). The cover is spring-loaded by means of a pivot joint such that it automatically tends to a closed position, and the cover has a sealing component such that, when the cover is closed, it seals the opening. For example, the sealing component is designed for a seal according to IP65 or IP67. In particular, the sealing component is designed by means of a labyrinth seal (see aspects described below) and a combination of a sealing skirt to form a sealing skirt counterpart (see aspects described below).

[0139] The cover, for example, features a spring wound around a pivot axis of the hinge joint. The cover and flange are designed such that the spring extends over at least two-thirds of the flange's length in the direction of the pivot axis. By increasing the spring's length, the number of coils can be increased. This allows for a higher pressing torque when closed, while simultaneously achieving a more gradual and less pronounced increase in the rebounding torque when opening the cover.

[0140] According to another aspect of the invention, the built-in connector also has a cover for the opening, for example of the type described above, wherein the cover has a sealing arrangement with a sealing skirt and a sealing skirt counterpart (see e.g. (Figs. 11A-11D, 12A-12D, and 30). The sealing skirt counterpart is arranged, for example, around the opening on the flange, and the sealing skirt on the lid. Alternatively, the sealing skirt is arranged around the opening on the flange, and the sealing skirt counterpart is arranged on the lid. When the lid is closed, the sealing skirt is pulled over the sealing skirt counterpart in such a way that radial tension is created across the entire circumference of the sealing skirt by elastic deformation. This creates a tight seal. To ensure that the tension is maintained across the entire circumference of the sealing skirt, thus preventing unwanted leakage, both the sealing skirt and the sealing skirt counterpart have a curved profile and are convexly shaped over their entire circumference. For example, they are also free of straight sections.

[0141] According to another aspect of the invention, the built-in connector also has a cover for the opening, for example of the type described above, wherein the flange and cover are matched to each other in such a way that a labyrinth seal, which provides a first sealing stage with a throttling effect, is formed (see e.g. Fig. 11A-11D, Fig. 12A-12D and Fig. 31). Furthermore, the built-in connector has a contact seal with an elastomeric sealing apron and a sealing apron counterpart, wherein the sealing apron is matched in its shape and dimensions to the sealing apron counterpart in such a way that by placing the sealing apron over the sealing apron counterpart, tension of the sealing apron on the sealing apron counterpart is created by elastic deformation of the sealing apron (see e.g. Fig. 11 A-11 D, Fig. 12A-12D and Fig. 30).

[0142] The labyrinth seal, for example, prevents splashing water from directly hitting the elastomeric sealing skirt when the lid is closed. While the labyrinth itself may not be watertight, it reduces the energy of the water impacting the sealing skirt, preventing it from being lifted by splashing water.

[0143] For example, the cover is designed such that when the cable connector is inserted (and thus the cover is open), a rigid element of the cover (not made of elastomer) rests against the cable connector (see Figs. 28A-28B). This rigid element of the cover is, for example, a part of the labyrinth seal on the cover side. Therefore, the elastomeric sealing apron does not rest directly on the cable connector (and is not pressed against and deformed by the spring action). This prevents damage to the elastomeric sealing apron.

[0144] Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a current signal output plug connector according to the invention mounted on a mounting plate 1, in a perspective view from the back of the mounting plate (Fig. 1A), in a perspective view from the front of the mounting plate (Fig. 1B), in a side view (Fig. 1C), and in a top view of the front of the mounting plate (Fig. 1D).

[0145] The panel-mount connector is designed in two parts. A first part 2 has a first-part flange 3 for mounting against the rear of the mounting plate 1, and a second part 4 has a second-part flange 5 for mounting against the front of the mounting plate 1. The part flanges 3 and 5 have mounting holes for attaching them to the mounting plate, and in the illustrated embodiment, the part flanges are screwed together by means of screws 6. The first-part flange 3 has blind holes 7 to accommodate the screws 6 protruding from the mounting plate.

[0146] The second part 4 further comprises a support skirt area 8, which provides support for the cable connector inserted into the mounting connector with respect to load forces acting on the cable connector perpendicular to the axial direction (perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction). The support skirt area 8 is achieved by directly attaching the second part 4 to the mounting plate 1. The applied supporting forces, which counteract the load forces, are at least partially borne by the mounting plate 1.

[0147] The first part 2 has retaining elements 9 designed as lugs, which, in the case of a locking mechanism, are engaged by grooves on the cable connector side when inserted, thus blocking the cable connector against axial withdrawal. The retaining elements 9, designed as lugs, also serve as key counterparts 10, which interact with corresponding key elements of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can only be inserted into the mounting connector in one specific rotational orientation determined by the key counterparts 10.

[0148] The second part 4 further includes a locking socket 11, which is intended for engagement by a locking bolt of the cable connector as part of the locking mechanism, in order to block the cable connector from rotation in the unscrewing direction.

[0149] Figure 2 shows two different perspective views (Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B) and a side view (Fig. 2C) of the separate individual parts of the power signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D. In this separated view, the opening 12 of the panel-mount connector for the cable connector is also visible. Furthermore, it is evident that the cross-section required for the insertion of the cable connector, i.e., the minimum dimensions of the panel-mount recess, is limited in the illustrated embodiment of the panel-mount connector only by the cable connector. This is because the panel-mount connector is free of a sheath element that, when mounted on the panel, would protrude into or through the panel recess, resting against the inner wall of the panel, in order to separate an inner area of ​​the connector from the sheath element and the inner wall of the panel recess.In other words, the recess in the mounting plate for the installation of the plug connector corresponds to the... Essentially, the largest cross-section of the cable connector that must pass through the recess for the plug connection to be made.

[0150] Furthermore, in the separated view, a sealing element 13 of the first-part flange 3, which surrounds the opening 12, is now visible. When the mounting connector is placed against the mounting plate, this sealing element creates a sealing effect by pressing against the mounting plate. For example, this sealing element 13 is formed as a single piece with the first-part flange 3, with the combination of the sealing element 13 and the first-part flange 3 being manufactured by means of two-component injection molding.

[0151] Figure 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of a current signal input panel connector according to the invention mounted on a mounting plate 1, in a perspective view from the back of the mounting plate (Fig. 3A), in a perspective view from the front of the mounting plate (Fig. 3B), in a side view (Fig. 3C), and in a top view of the front of the mounting plate (Fig. 3D).

[0152] The panel-mount connector is designed in two parts and comprises a first part 2' with a first-part flange 3' for mounting against the rear of the mounting plate 1, and a second part 4' with a second-part flange 5' for mounting against the front of the mounting plate 1. The partial flanges 3' and 5' have mounting holes for attachment to the mounting plate, and the partial flanges are screwed together by means of screws 6'. The first-part flange 3' has blind holes 7' to accommodate the screws 6' from the mounting plate. The second part 4' also has a support skirt area 8' surrounding the opening 12' for the cable connector, which provides support as described above for the panel-mount connector in Fig. 1.

[0153] The first part 2' has key counterparts 10' formed as grooves, the grooves extending first axially, thereby defining a rotational orientation for inserting the cable connector into the panel-mount connector, and then normal to the axis (normal to the (Insertion direction of the cable connector into the mounting connector) or slightly inclined to the axis and serve as a retaining component 9' in this area. Here, the retaining element counterpart or the key elements on the side of the cable connector are designed as a lug arrangement which, with correct rotational alignment of the cable connector, can be inserted into the grooves, whereby in an end position, the lugs in the groove area running normally or slightly inclined to the axis block the cable connector against axial withdrawal.

[0154] The second part 4' further comprises a locking socket 1 T which - as described at the outset for the cable connector from Fig. 1 - is provided for an engagement by a locking mechanism of the cable connector.

[0155] Figure 4 shows two different perspective views (Fig. 4A, Fig. 4B) and a side view (Fig. 4C) of the separate individual parts of the power signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D. Here too, the panel-mount connector has a sealing element 13' of the first part flange 3' surrounding the opening 12', which creates a sealing effect by pressing against the mounting plate when the panel-mount connector is placed against it.

[0156] Figure 5 shows a perspective view (Fig. 5A) into the opening 12 of the current signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1A-1D and a perspective view (Fig. 5B) into the opening of the current signal input panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 3A-3D.

[0157] With regard to the current signal output plug connector shown in Fig. 1 A-1 D, four key counterparts 10 or retention components 9 designed as noses can be seen in particular.

[0158] With regard to the current signal input shown in Fig. 3A-3D- There are four built-in connectors here, each with a 10" key counterpart. The grooves serving as retaining component 9' are identifiable. In a first section 14, intended for use as key counterparts 10', the grooves extend axially and then transition in a second section 15, intended for use as retaining component 9', into a course normal or slightly oblique to the axis. One of the grooves simultaneously serves as a locking bushing 11', which is designed for the engagement of a locking bolt of the cable connector as part of a locking mechanism.

[0159] Furthermore, signal transmission contact elements 16 are visible in the view, which are configured to come into contact with a signal transmission contact element counterpart on the cable connector side by entering the plug connection.

[0160] Figure 6 shows a current signal output panel-mount connector according to Fig. 1A-1D, which is mounted next to a current signal input panel-mount connector according to Fig. 3A-3D on a mounting plate 1 in a perspective view from the front of the mounting plate 1 (Fig. 6A), in a perspective view from the back of the mounting plate (Fig. 6B), and in a side view (Fig. 6C).

[0161] Both connectors are designed according to the so-called D-dimension, i.e. the respective first part flanges 3, 3' and second part flanges 5, 5' have edge lengths of 26 mm (flange width) to 31 mm (flange length) and the mounting plate bore hole (the mounting plate recess) has a diameter between 23.6 and 24 mm.

[0162] Figure 7 shows the installation plug arrangement of Fig. 6, as it is provided for mounting on the mounting plate, in a perspective view from the rear of the mounting plate 1 (Fig. 7A) and in a perspective view from the front of the mounting plate (Fig. 7B).

[0163] For both panel-mount connectors, the respective two-part shape and the division into respective first parts 2, 2' and second parts 4, 4' are evident. In particular, thanks to the two-part design, both panel-mount connectors, including the power output connector, can now be manufactured in D-size, thus allowing a uniform panel bore to be used for both connector types.

[0164] Figure 8 shows the installation plug arrangement of Fig. 6, as it is intended for mounting on the mounting plate, in a side view.

[0165] Figure 9 shows a section through both of the mounting connectors shown in Figure 6, which are mounted on the mounting plate 1. The figure shows, among other things, the compression seals 13, 13' of the respective first-part flanges 3, 3' on the mounting plate 1. Furthermore, with regard to the power output mounting connector, it is clearly visible that the first-part flange 3 and the second-part flange 5 are free of a sheathing element that projects into the recess in the mounting plate, and that the extent of the opening of the first-part flange 3 and the second-part flange 5 in the section direction essentially corresponds to the extent of the recess in the mounting plate. In other words, the recess in the mounting plate for mounting the mounting connector essentially corresponds to the largest cross-section of the cable connector that can be passed through the recess for the connection to be inserted.

[0166] Figure 10 shows a section through the power signal output connector mounted on the mounting plate 1 shown in Fig. 6, with the section line rotated by ninety degrees to the section shown in Fig. 9.

[0167] Figure 11 shows another exemplary embodiment of a current signal output plug connector according to the invention mounted on a mounting plate 1, in a perspective view from the back of the mounting plate (Fig. 11A), in a perspective view from the front of the mounting plate (Fig. 11B), in a side view (Fig. 11C), and in a top view of the front of the mounting plate (Fig. 11D).

[0168] In its basic design, the panel-mount connector is configured like the panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1 A-1 D, i.e., it is two-part with a first part 2", which has a first-part flange 3" for mounting against the rear of the mounting plate 1, and a second part 4", which has a second-part flange 5" for mounting against the front of the mounting plate 1. The part flanges 3", 5" have bores for mounting to the mounting plate, and in the illustrated embodiment, the part flanges are screwed together by means of screws 6". The first-part flange 3" has blind holes 7" to accommodate the screws 6" coming from the mounting plate.

[0169] The second part 4" further features a support skirt section 8" which provides support for the cable connector inserted into the mounting connector with respect to load forces acting on the cable connector perpendicular to the axial direction (perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction). By directly attaching the second part 4" to the mounting plate 1, the support forces applied by the support skirt section 8" and counteracting the load forces are at least partially borne by the mounting plate 1.

[0170] The first part 2" has retaining elements 9" designed as lugs, which, in the case of a locking mechanism, are engaged by grooves on the cable connector side when inserted, thus blocking the cable connector against axial withdrawal. The retaining elements 9" designed as lugs also serve as key counterparts 10", which interact with corresponding key elements of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can only be inserted into the mounting connector in one specific rotational orientation determined by the key counterparts 10".

[0171] The second part 4" further features a locking socket 11" which is intended for engagement by a latch of the cable connector as part of the locking mechanism, in order to thereby To block cable connectors with respect to rotation in the untwisting direction.

[0172] In this embodiment, the second part 4" also has a cover 17 for the opening, which is fixedly arranged on the second part flange 5". The cover is spring-loaded by means of a pivot joint 18 such that it automatically tends to a closed position.

[0173] The cover 17 is designed for a seal according to IP65 and for this purpose has a labyrinth seal which provides a first sealing stage with throttling effect, as well as a contact seal with an elastomeric sealing component which provides a sealing stage downstream of the first sealing stage.

[0174] To create the labyrinth seal, the cover 17 and the second-part flange 5" are aligned such that, when the cover 17 is closed, an edge element 19 of the cover, arranged around the opening 12", rests on a cover edge support surface 20 of the second-part flange 5". The second-part flange 5" also has a projection 21 on the inside of the cover edge support surface 20, so that when the cover edge element 19 rests on the cover edge support surface 20, the projection 21 extends into the cover 17, thus providing a labyrinth seal effect.

[0175] For the second sealing stage, the cover 17 has an elastomeric sealing skirt 22 and a sealing skirt counterpart 23 arranged on the elevation 21 (which, for example, simultaneously forms part of the support skirt area 8"), wherein the sealing skirt 22 is matched to the sealing skirt counterpart 23 in its shape and dimensions such that by placing the sealing skirt 22 over the sealing skirt counterpart 23, tension of the sealing skirt 22 on the sealing skirt counterpart 23 is created by elastic deformation of the sealing skirt 22.

[0176] In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing skirt counterpart 23 or the sealing skirt 22 encloses the bores provided for mounting the second-part flange 5" on the mounting plate 1. The bores of the second-part flange, which lead into the blind bores 7" of the first-part flange, are thus located within the circumference of the sealing skirt counterpart 23 or the sealing skirt 22 and are therefore sealed, as is the opening 12".

[0177] Figure 12 shows another exemplary embodiment of a current signal input panel connector according to the invention mounted on a mounting plate 1, in a perspective view from the back of the mounting plate (Fig. 12A), in a perspective view from the front of the mounting plate (Fig. 12B), in a side view (Fig. 12C), and in a top view of the front of the mounting plate (Fig. 12D).

[0178] The panel-mount connector is designed in two parts and comprises a first part 2"' with a first-part flange 3"' for mounting against the rear of the mounting plate 1, and a second part 4"' with a second-part flange 5"' for mounting against the front of the mounting plate 1. The partial flanges 3"' and 5"' have mounting holes for attachment to the mounting plate, and the partial flanges are screwed together by means of screws 6"'. The first-part flange 3"' has blind holes 7"' to accommodate the screws 6"' from the mounting plate. The second part 4"' also has a support skirt area 8"' surrounding the opening 12"' for the cable connector, which provides support as described above for the panel-mount connector in Fig. 1.

[0179] The first part 2"' has key counterparts 10"' formed as grooves, the grooves initially extending axially, thus defining a rotational orientation for inserting the cable connector into the panel-mount connector, and then running perpendicular to the axis (perpendicular to the insertion direction of the cable connector into the panel-mount connector) or slightly obliquely to the axis and serving as a retaining component 9'" in this area. Here, the retaining element counterpart is The key elements of the cable connector are thus designed as a nose arrangement which, with correct rotational alignment of the cable connector, can be inserted into the grooves, whereby in an end position the noses in the groove area running normally or slightly obliquely to the axis cause the cable connector to be blocked against axial withdrawal.

[0180] The second part 4"' further features a locking socket 1 T" which - as described above for the cable connector from Fig. 1 - is provided for engagement by a locking mechanism of the cable connector.

[0181] Furthermore, the second part 4"' has a cover 17' for the opening, which is fixedly arranged on the second part flange 5"'. The cover is spring-loaded by means of a pivot joint 18' such that it automatically tends to a closed position.

[0182] The cover 17' has a labyrinth seal as described at the beginning of the cable connector shown in Fig. 11, which provides a first sealing stage with a throttling effect, as well as a contact seal with an elastomeric sealing component, which provides a sealing stage downstream of the first sealing stage. For this purpose, the cover 17' has an edge element 19' arranged around the opening 12'", which is designed to rest on a cover edge bearing surface 20' of the second-part flange 5'". The second-part flange 5'" also has a projection 2T on the inside of the cover edge bearing surface 20', so that when the cover edge element 19' rests on the cover edge bearing surface 20', the projection 2T projects into the cover 17', thus providing a labyrinth seal effect.

[0183] For the second sealing stage, the cover 17' has an elastomeric sealing skirt 22' and a sealing skirt counterpart 23' arranged on the elevation 2T (which, for example, simultaneously forms part of the support skirt area 8'"), wherein the sealing skirt 22' is shaped and its The dimensions are such that they are matched to the sealing apron counterpart 23' in such a way that by placing the sealing apron 22' over the sealing apron counterpart 23', tension of the sealing apron 22' on the sealing apron counterpart 23' is created by elastic deformation of the sealing apron 22'.

[0184] Figure 13 shows a power signal output panel-mount connector according to Fig. 11 A-11 D, which is mounted on a mounting plate 1 next to a power signal input panel-mount connector according to Fig. 12A-12D, in a perspective view from the front of the mounting plate 1 (Fig. 13A), in a perspective view from the back of the mounting plate (Fig. 13B), and in a side view (Fig. 13C).

[0185] Both connectors are designed according to the so-called D-dimension.

[0186] Figure 14 shows the installation plug arrangement of Fig. 13, as provided for mounting on the installation plate, in a perspective view from the front of the installation plate 1 (Fig. 14A) and in a perspective view from the back of the installation plate (Fig. 14B).

[0187] The two-part design of both panel-mount connectors and their division into first parts (2", 2'") and second parts (4", 4'") are clearly visible. Thanks to this two-part design, both panel-mount connectors, including the power output connector with its 17, 17' cover, can now be manufactured in the D dimension, allowing for the use of a single, standardized mounting plate bore for both connector types.

[0188] Figure 15 shows the installation plug arrangement of Fig. 13, as it is provided for mounting on the installation plate, in a side view.

[0189] Figure 16 shows a section through both of the mounting connectors shown in Figure 13, which are mounted on the mounting plate 1. The figure shows, among other things, the compression seals 13", 13'" of the respective first-part flanges 3", 3'" against the mounting plate 1. In this embodiment, the respective second-part flanges 5", 5"' (formed in one piece with the flanges) press seals 24, 24', which is again specifically highlighted in Fig. 17.

[0190] Figure 17 shows again the section from Fig. 16, but here a cable connector is inserted in the power output plug and the compression seals 13", 24 which are formed in one piece with the flanges of the power output plug are highlighted.

[0191] Figure 18 shows an arrangement consisting of a prior art power signal input connector 25, the prior art power signal input connector shown in Figures 3A-3D, the prior art power signal output connector shown in Figures 1A-1D, and a prior art power signal output connector 26. Each of the two prior art power signal output connectors also has a prior art cable connector 27 inserted into it. The arrangement is shown in a perspective view (Figure 18A) from the front of the mounting plate 1 and in a side view (Figure 18B).

[0192] The prior art power signal input connector 25 and the two connectors according to the present invention each meet the requirements for the so-called D-dimension. However, the prior art power signal output connector 26 has larger dimensions. In the prior art, the connectors 25 and 26 are formed as a single piece.

[0193] Figure 19 again shows the arrangement of connectors shown in Fig. 18 in two different perspective views, the arrangement being supplemented by a further power signal output panel-mount connector 26' from the prior art. The further power signal output panel-mount connector 26' from the prior art is identical to the other power signal output panel-mount connector 26 from the prior art, but is mounted to the mounting plate 1 from the rear side.

[0194] Rear mounting is required, for example, if the panel-mount connectors are to be soldered to a printed circuit board 28. Typically, the connectors are first soldered to the printed circuit board 28 and can then only be accessed from the rear and attached to the panel (the panel-mount connectors 25, 26 from the prior art are formed in one piece). Rear mounting increases the installation depth (see Fig. 20).

[0195] Again, all power signal output connectors have state-of-the-art cable connectors 27 plugged into them.

[0196] Figure 20 shows two side views of the panel-mount connector and cable connector arrangement shown in Figure 19. The distance between the circuit board 28 and the mounting plate 1 used in practice is often standardized and corresponds approximately to the distance shown in the figure. However, this distance is too small for the trouble-free installation of the conventional power signal output panel-mount connector 26, 26'. If the panel-mount connector 26' is mounted to the rear of the mounting plate 1 and the commonly used distance between the circuit board 28 and the mounting plate 1 is used, the distance becomes too small. Since the mounting plate is to be retained, the connector housing is already resting on (or even penetrating) circuit board 28. This is a known problem for power signal output panel-mount connectors in the prior art.

[0197] The two-part design of the current signal output panel connector according to the invention allows the installation depth (extension of the panel connector extending from the back of the mounting plate) to be reduced, so that the extension of the connector housing (here of the first part 2 arranged on the back of the mounting plate 1) is less than the required distance and thus sufficient space is still available for soldering the contacts 29 on the panel connector side.

[0198] Figure 21 shows a perspective view from the front of the mounting plate 1 of a further arrangement of panel-mount connectors and cable connectors, in which a power signal input panel-mount connector 25 from the prior art, the power signal input panel-mount connector shown in Figures 12A-12D, the power signal output panel-mount connector shown in Figures 11A-11D, and a power signal output panel-mount connector 26 from the prior art are arranged side by side. A cable connector 27 from the prior art is also inserted into each of the two power signal output panel-mount connectors.

[0199] Again, the conventional power signal input panel connector 25 and the two panel connectors according to the present invention each meet the requirements for the so-called D-dimension.

[0200] Figure 22 shows three different side views of a power signal input cable connector from the prior art 27 (Fig. 22A, Fig. 22B, Fig. 22C), a top view from the view of the mounting plate when the plug is inserted into the mounting connector (Fig. 22D) and a top view towards the mounting plate when the plug is inserted into the mounting connector (Fig. 22E).

[0201] The cable connector has a locking slide 30 with a locking bar 31 designed for snapping into a locking socket 11, 11" of the power signal output panel connector. Furthermore, four key elements 32 are visible, here designed as grooves, which are designed to interact with key counterparts 10, 10" of the panel connector, designed as lugs.

[0202] Figure 23 shows a perspective view of the power signal input cable connector from Figures 21A-21E, with the side intended for insertion into the panel-mount connector highlighted. In the highlighted area, a section 33, perpendicular to or slightly oblique to the axis, is just visible for one of the slots. which in a locking position engages a key counterpart 10, 10" designed as a nose of the built-in connector, thereby blocking accidental axial pulling out of the cable connector.

[0203] Figure 24 shows the power signal output panel-mount connector shown in Fig. 1 A-1 D with the mating cable connector 27 inserted in two perspective views from the front of the mounting plate 1 (Fig. 24A, Fig. 24B), and in a side view (Fig. 24C). Here, the locking slide 30 or the locking bar 31 of the cable connector 27 is in the latching position, so that rotation back (against the direction of insertion) of the cable connector is blocked.

[0204] Figure 25 shows two perspective views of the cable connector 27 shown in Figures 22A-22E, with the locking slide 30 or the latch 31 of the cable connector 27 in one view (Figure 25A) in the open (not engaged) position and in the other view (Figure 25C) in the engaged position. The figure also shows a side view (Figure 25B) of the locking slide 30 with latch 31.

[0205] Figure 26 shows three different side views of a power signal output cable connector 34 from the prior art (Fig. 26A, Fig. 26B, Fig. 26C), a top view from the view of the mounting plate when the plug is inserted into the mounting connector (Fig. 26D) and a top view towards the mounting plate when the plug is inserted into the mounting connector (Fig. 26E).

[0206] The cable connector has a locking slide 30' with a locking bolt 3T designed for engagement in a locking socket 11', 1 T" of the power signal input panel-mount connector. Furthermore, four key elements 32' are visible, here designed as lugs, which are designed to engage with key counterparts 10', 10'" of the panel-mount connector, designed as grooves.

[0207] Figure 27 shows a perspective view of the current signal output cable connector 34 from Figures 26A-26E, with the side intended for insertion into the panel-mount connector highlighted. The lugs serve as key elements 32' and also prevent axial withdrawal of the cable connector when fully screwed in, provided the lugs are located in grooves of the panel-mount connector that run perpendicular or slightly oblique to the axis.

[0208] Figure 28 shows the power signal output panel-mount connector shown in Figures 11A-11D with a cable connector 27 inserted, in a side view (Figure 28A) and in a perspective view (Figure 28B), highlighting the position of the cover 17 pressing against the cable connector 27. The cover is spring-loaded by means of a pivot joint 18 such that it automatically tends to a closed position and therefore presses against the cable connector 27 when the cable connector is inserted.

[0209] According to one aspect of the invention, a hard lid edge 19 (compared to the elastomeric sealing skirt 22) rests on the cable connector, wherein the lid edge 19 resting on the cable connector is, for example, intended to contribute to a labyrinth seal in the closed state of the lid in order to dampen splashing water before it hits the sealing skirt 22.

[0210] Figure 29 shows the second part flange 5 used in the built-in connector according to Fig. 11 A-11 D, with the cover 17 fixedly arranged on the second part flange, in a perspective view with the cover open from above (Fig. 29A) and from below (Fig. 29B), in a perspective view with the cover closed from above (Fig. 29C), and in a side view of the closed cover position (Fig. 29D).

[0211] In the view from below, one can see, for example, the sealing element 24 – produced, for instance, by means of 2K injection molding – which is pressed onto the mounting plate 1 when the flange is attached. Furthermore, it is evident that the The sealing element 24 also seals the boreholes 35 (leading into the blind holes of the first part flange) provided for mounting the flange to the mounting plate. The boreholes 35 are further enclosed by the sealing skirt 22 and the sealing skirt counterpart 23, respectively.

[0212] Figure 30 shows the second-part flange 5" with lid 17 shown in Figure 29 in a top view, with the lid in the closed state, as well as in two sections differing by ninety degrees.

[0213] Figure 31 shows the second-part flange 5" with cover 17 shown in Figure 29 in a perspective view, with the cover not fully closed and a view around one of the bore holes 35 provided for mounting on the mounting plate 1 highlighted.

[0214] In particular, the highlighted view shows that the sealing skirt counterpart 23 encloses (and thus seals) the borehole 35. Furthermore, the cover edge bearing surface 20 and the protrusion 21 are visible in the view, which, in conjunction with the cover edge 19, provide a labyrinth sealing effect.

[0215] It is understood that these figures only schematically represent possible embodiments. The various approaches can also be combined with each other and with prior art methods.

Claims

Panel mount connector for precisely forming a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector that is matched to the panel mount connector as a counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel mount connector, wherein a signal transmission is enabled by forming the plug connection between the panel mount connector and the cable connector, in particular a power supply signal or an audio signal, wherein the panel mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate and, in the mounted state, to be fixedly supported by the mounting plate and • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a signal transmission contact element which is designed to come into contact with a cable connector-side signal transmission contact element counterpart by entering the plug connection and thereby provide signal transmission across the plug connection, and • a support skirt area, configured to provide a support effect for the cable connector in the state created by the insertion of the plug connection with respect to load forces acting on the cable connector perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction, characterized in that • the panel-mount connector is designed with a first and a second part, at least in two parts, both parts being designed for direct attachment to the mounting plate, the first part having a first-part flange for being placed against the back of the mounting plate and the second part having a second-part flange for being placed against the front of the mounting plate, • the first part has the signal transmission contact element, and • the second part comprises the support skirt area, wherein the support forces applied by the support skirt area and counteracting the load forces are, in the state of the second part being mounted on the mounting plate, at least partially borne by the mounting plate by means of the provided direct attachment of the second part to the mounting plate. Mounting connector according to claim 1, wherein • the first part has a mechanical retaining element which is designed to block a cable connector-side retaining element counterpart with respect to axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction within a first part of a locking mechanism which can be actuated by rotation of the cable connector in a screw-in direction in a state of at least partial insertion of the cable connector into the mounting connector, and • the second part has a mechanical locking element which is designed to cause, within the framework of a second part of the locking mechanism, which can be actuated by moving a locking slide on the cable connector side, an engagement of a locking bolt of the cable connector connected to the locking slide into the locking element and thus to block the cable connector with respect to a rotation in the outward direction, which is directed opposite to the inward direction. A panel-mount connector according to claim 2, wherein the retaining element is arranged and configured such that, after actuation of the first part of the locking mechanism, the retaining element counterpart engages behind the retaining element. A panel-mount connector according to claim 2 or 3, wherein • the mechanical retention element is designed as a groove arrangement, wherein the grooves of the groove arrangement first extend axially, and thereby serve in particular as key counterparts for key elements of the cable connector, and then extend perpendicular to the axis or slightly oblique to the axis and serve as a retention component in this area, wherein the retention element counterpart is designed as a lug arrangement, which is inserted into the groove arrangement by the insertion of the plug connection and is blocked against axial withdrawal by the groove arrangement area extending perpendicular or slightly oblique to the axis, or • The mechanical retention element is designed as a lug arrangement and the retaining element counterpart as a groove arrangement, wherein the grooves of the groove arrangement – ​​in the inserted state – first extend axially, thereby serving as key elements for the lug arrangement, which in particular serves as key counterparts, and then extend perpendicular to the axis or slightly obliquely to the axis, wherein, upon insertion of the plug connection, the groove arrangement area extending perpendicularly or slightly obliquely to the axis engages behind the lug arrangement and thereby blocks the cable connector against axial withdrawal. A panel-mount connector according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the retention element is arranged and provided with an oblique course such that, upon actuation of the first part of the locking mechanism, the retaining element counterpart extends along the inclined path is moved until the retaining element counterpart encounters a rotational stop, which is further provided on the second part of the panel-mount connector, thus reaching an end insertion position of the cable connector in the panel-mount connector. Panel-mount connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second part has mechanical key counterparts which are provided to interact with corresponding key elements of the cable connector such that the cable connector can be inserted into the panel-mount connector in only one specific rotational orientation determined by the key counterparts.Panel mount connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel mount connector has a cover for the opening fixedly arranged on the second-part flange, the cover being openable and closeable by means of a pivot hinge and having a sealing component such that, in the closed state of the cover, it seals the opening. Panel mount connector for precisely engaging a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector that is matched to the panel mount connector as a counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel mount connector, wherein, by engaging the plug connection between the panel mount connector and the cable connector, signal transmission, in particular of a power supply signal or an audio signal, is enabled, wherein the panel mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate and, in the mounted state, to be fixedly supported by the mounting plate. • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a mechanical retaining element, which is provided to block a cable connector-side retaining element counterpart with respect to axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction within a first part of a locking mechanism, which can be actuated by rotation of the cable connector in a screw-in direction in a state of at least partial insertion of the cable connector into the mounting connector, and • a mechanical locking element, which is provided to effect, within the framework of a second part of the locking mechanism, which can be actuated by sliding a locking slide on the cable connector side, an engagement of a locking bolt of the cable connector connected to the locking slide into the locking element and thus to block the cable connector with respect to rotation in the outward direction, which is directed opposite to the inward direction, characterized in that • the panel-mount connector is designed with a first and a second part, at least in two parts, both parts being designed for direct attachment to the mounting plate, the first part having a first-part flange for being placed against the back of the mounting plate and the second part having a second-part flange for being placed against the front of the mounting plate, • the first part has the mechanical retaining element, and the second part has the mechanical locking element.

9. Panel-mount connector according to claim 8, wherein the first part has a signal transmission contact element which is provided to come into contact with a cable connector-side signal transmission contact element counterpart by entering the plug connection and thereby provide a signal transmission across the plug connection.

10. A panel-mount connector according to one of claims 8 to 9, wherein the second part has a support skirt area configured to provide support for the cable connector in the state created by the insertion of the plug connection with respect to load forces acting on the cable connector perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction, wherein support forces applied by the support skirt area and counteracting the load forces are at least partially borne by the mounting plate in the state of the second part being mounted on the mounting plate by means of the provided direct attachment of the second part to the mounting plate.

11. Panel-mount connector according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the second part has mechanical key counterparts which are provided to cooperate with matching key elements of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can be inserted into the panel-mount connector in only one specific rotational orientation specified by the key counterparts.

12. Panel mount connector according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the panel mount connector has a cover for the opening fixed on the second part flange, wherein the cover can be opened and closed by means of a pivot joint and has a sealing component such that, in the closed state of the cover, it seals the opening. Panel-mount connector according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the A panel-mount connector comprising features of any one of claims 1 to 7. A panel-mount connector for precisely engaging a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector that is matched to the panel-mount connector as a counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel-mount connector, wherein the engagement of the plug connection between the panel-mount connector and the cable connector enables signal transmission, in particular of a power supply signal or an audio signal, wherein the panel-mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate and, in the mounted state, to be fixedly supported by the mounting plate and • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a signal transmission contact element which is designed to come into contact with a cable connector-side signal transmission contact element counterpart by entering the plug connection and thereby provide signal transmission across the plug connection, and • Mechanical key counterparts designed to interact with matching key elements of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can be opened in just one is capable of being inserted into the built-in connector in a specific rotational orientation determined by the key counterparts, characterized in that • the panel-mount connector is designed with a first and a second part, at least in two parts, both parts being designed for direct attachment to the mounting plate, the first part having a first-part flange for being placed against the back of the mounting plate and the second part having a second-part flange for being placed against the front of the mounting plate, • the first part has the signal transmission contact element, and • at least the second part has the key counterparts. Built-in connector according to claim 14, wherein • the key counterparts are designed as key recesses which, when the cable connector's noses are matched in shape and orientation, allow the cable connector to be inserted into the opening, or • the key counterparts are designed as lugs which, in conjunction with key recesses of the cable connector that are appropriately matched in shape and orientation, allow the cable connector to be inserted into the opening. Panel mount connector according to one of claims 14 to 15, wherein the panel mount connector has a cover for the opening that is fixedly arranged on the second-part flange, wherein the cover can be opened and closed by means of a pivot joint and has a sealing component such that, in the closed state of the cover, it seals the opening. Panel mount connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a sheath element of the panel mount connector, which is provided to project into or through the recess of the mounting plate in the state assembled with the first and second parts, thereby separating an inner area of ​​the connector from the sheath element against the inner wall of the mounting plate to delineate the recess, which has a thickness of less than 0.35 mm perpendicular to the insertion direction, in particular wherein - in the state attached to the mounting plate - the mounting connector is free at the level of the mounting plate recess from a sheathing element surrounding the cable connector, so that the mounting connector is configured such that the minimum mounting plate recess dimension is limited only by the cable connector.

18. Panel mount connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first part flange has blind holes provided for mounting on the mounting plate, each of the blind holes being provided to receive a fastening means, in particular a screw or a pin, coming from the mounting plate for fastening the first part flange to the mounting plate.

19. Panel mount connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first part flange and / or the second part flange has a sealing element surrounding the opening, configured to create a sealing effect when the panel mount connector is placed on the mounting plate by pressing against the mounting plate.

20. Built-in connector according to claim 19, wherein the sealing element is formed in one piece with the first part flange or the second part flange.

21. Panel-mount connector according to one of claims 14 to 20, wherein the panel-mount connector has features of one of claims 1 to 13.

22. Panel mount connector, for precisely fitting a mechanically lockable plug connection with a surface mount connector a cable connector that is matched as a counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel-mount connector, wherein a signal transmission, in particular a power supply signal or an audio signal, is enabled by the insertion of the plug connection between the panel-mount connector and the cable connector, wherein the panel-mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate and, in the mounted state on the mounting plate, to be fixedly supported by the mounting plate and • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a signal transmission contact element which is designed to come into contact with a cable connector-side signal transmission contact element counterpart by entering the plug connection and thereby provide signal transmission across the plug connection, and • Mechanical locking mechanism elements designed to bring about a locking interaction of the locking mechanism elements with corresponding locking mechanism elements on the cable connector side by actuating a locking slider on the cable connector side, such that the cable connector, which is in a locked position when inserted into the mounting connector, is blocked with respect to rotation and axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction. wherein the plug-in connector is provided, at least partially or entirely, for direct attachment to the mounting plate, wherein the partial connector or the plug-in connector as a whole has a flange for being placed against the front of the mounting plate, characterized in that the plug-in connector has a cover for the opening that is fixedly arranged on the flange, wherein the cover can be opened and closed by means of a pivot joint and has a sealing component such that, in the closed state of the cover, it seals the opening. Plug-in connector according to claim 22, wherein the sealing component is arranged and designed such that, in the closed state of the cover, in addition to the opening, fastening holes and any fastening elements inserted therein are also sealed, in particular so that the opening, together with the fastening holes and any fastening elements inserted therein, is then sealed.The fastening means used therein are arranged in a common sealing chamber formed by the sealing component. A built-in connector according to one of claims 22 to 23, wherein the pivot joint is spring-loaded so that the cover automatically tends towards a closed position, for which purpose a spring is wound around a pivot axis of the pivot joint and extends over two-thirds, in particular three-quarters, of the extent of the second-part flange in the direction of the pivot axis. A built-in connector according to one of claims 22 to 24, wherein. • the opening can be sealed by means of a sealing arrangement comprising a sealing skirt and a sealing skirt counterpart, which enters a sealing state by closing the cover, in particular wherein o the sealing skirt counterpart is arranged around the opening on the flange and the sealing skirt on the cover, or o the sealing skirt is arranged around the opening on the flange and the sealing skirt counterpart is arranged on the cover, • and the sealing apron is matched in its shape and dimensions to the sealing apron counterpart in such a way that by placing the sealing apron over the sealing apron counterpart, radial tension is created over the entire circumference of the sealing apron through elastic deformation of the sealing apron, wherein the sealing apron and the sealing apron counterpart each have a curved shape and are convex over their entire circumference.

26. Built-in connector according to one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the flange and cover are designed to be compatible with each other such that in the closed state of the cover • a labyrinth seal is formed, which provides a first sealing stage with a throttling effect, and • a contact seal with an elastomeric sealing component provides a second sealing stage downstream of the first sealing stage, in particular wherein the contact seal is provided by the sealing skirt and the sealing skirt counterpart.

27. Panel-mount connector according to one of claims 22 to 26, wherein the panel-mount connector has features of one of claims 1 to 21.

28. Panel mount connector for precisely fitting a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector matched to the panel mount connector as a counterpart and insertable into an opening of the panel mount connector, wherein the insertion of the plug connection between the panel mount connector and the cable connector enables signal transmission, in particular of a power supply signal or an audio signal, wherein the panel mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate. and, when mounted on the mounting plate, to be securely supported by the mounting plate and • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a signal transmission contact element which is designed to come into contact with a cable connector-side signal transmission contact element counterpart by entering the plug connection and thereby provide signal transmission across the plug connection, and • Mechanical locking mechanism elements designed to bring about a locking interaction of the locking mechanism elements with corresponding locking mechanism elements on the cable connector side by actuating a locking slide on the cable connector side, such that the cable connector, which is in a locked position when inserted into the mounting connector, is blocked with respect to rotation and axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction, wherein the mounting connector has a flange for being placed against the mounting plate and fastening holes for directly fastening the mounting connector to the mounting plate, characterized in that • the built-in connector has a cover for the opening, the cover being openable and closeable via a pivot joint, • the opening and the fastening holes, as well as any fastening elements inserted therein, can be sealed by means of a sealing arrangement comprising a sealing skirt and a sealing skirt counterpart, which enters a sealing state by closing the cover, and • the sealing apron is such that its shape and dimensions are adapted to the sealing apron counterpart such that, when the sealing apron is placed over the sealing apron counterpart, radial tension is created over its entire circumference by elastic deformation of the sealing apron, wherein the sealing apron and the sealing apron counterpart each have a curved profile and are convexly shaped over their entire circumference. Insertion connector according to claim 28, wherein • the sealing skirt counterpart is arranged around the opening on the flange and the sealing skirt on the cover, or • the sealing skirt is arranged around the opening on the flange and the sealing skirt counterpart is arranged on the cover. A plug-in connector according to one of claims 28 to 29, comprising locking mechanism elements. • a mechanical retaining element, which is provided to block a cable connector-side retaining element counterpart with respect to axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction within a first part of the locking mechanism, which can be actuated by rotation of the cable connector in a screw-in direction in a state of at least partial insertion of the cable connector into the mounting connector, and • a mechanical locking element, which is intended to be used as part of a second part of the locking mechanism, which is activated by moving a cable connector-side bolt slider is operable, to cause an engagement of a bolt of the cable connector connected to the bolt slider into the locking element and thus to block the cable connector with respect to a rotation in the outward direction, which is directed against the inward direction.

31. A plug-in connector according to one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the sealing apron counterpart or the sealing apron encloses bores provided for mounting on the mounting plate by means of penetrating fastening means.

32. Built-in connector according to one of claims 28 to 31, wherein the flange and cover are designed to be compatible with each other such that • when the lid is closed, a labyrinth seal is formed, which provides a first sealing stage with a throttling effect, and • by placing the sealing apron over the sealing apron counterpart, a second sealing stage is provided downstream of the first sealing stage.

33. Panel mount connector according to one of claims 28 to 32, wherein the panel mount connector has features of one of claims 1 to 27.

34. Panel mount connector for precisely engaging a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector that is matched to the panel mount connector as a counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel mount connector, wherein the engagement of the plug connection between the panel mount connector and the cable connector enables signal transmission, in particular of a power supply signal or an audio signal, wherein the panel mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate. and, when mounted on the mounting plate, to be securely supported by the mounting plate and • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a signal transmission contact element which is designed to come into contact with a cable connector-side signal transmission contact element counterpart by entering the plug connection and thereby provide signal transmission across the plug connection, and • Mechanical locking mechanism elements designed to bring about a locking interaction of the locking mechanism elements with corresponding locking mechanism elements on the cable connector side by actuating a locking slide on the cable connector side, such that the cable connector, which is in a locked state when inserted into the mounting connector, is blocked with respect to rotation and axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction, wherein the mounting connector is designed for direct attachment to the mounting plate and has a flange for being placed against the mounting plate, characterized in that • the built-in connector has a cover for the opening, the cover being openable and closeable via a pivot joint, • the opening can be sealed by means of a sealing arrangement that enters a sealing state upon closing the cover, for which the flange and cover are designed to be matched to each other such that: o a labyrinth seal, which provides a first sealing stage with a throttling effect, is formed, and o a contact seal with an elastomeric sealing skirt and a sealing skirt counterpart is provided, wherein the sealing skirt is matched to the sealing skirt counterpart in its shape and dimensions such that by placing the sealing skirt over the sealing skirt counterpart, tension of the sealing skirt on the sealing skirt counterpart is created by elastic deformation of the sealing skirt. Insertion connector according to claim 34, wherein the cover and the flange are matched to each other such that, in the closed state of the cover, a cover element arranged around the opening,In particular, an edge element of the cover rests on a cover element support surface of the flange, wherein the flange has a projection on the inside of the cover element support surface which extends axially in the extension direction of the cable connector, so that when the cover element rests on the cover element support surface, the projection projects into the cover and thus provides part of the labyrinth seal, in particular wherein the flange has several step-like projections rising towards the opening and the cover has cover elements designed to be placed on the step-like projections and extending axially differently in a step-like manner when the cover is closed, so that when the cover is closed, the differently extending cover elements rest appropriately on the step-like projections and thus provide several labyrinth elements of the labyrinth seal.

36. Built-in connector according to claim 35, wherein the sealing skirt counterpart is designed as a further axially extending projection arranged inside the protrusion, which is intended to be slipped over by the sealing skirt when the cover is closed.

37. Panel-mount connector according to one of claims 34 to 36, wherein the cover is designed such that - in the open state of the cover and in the state of the cable connector being inserted by means of the plug connection - an element of the cover which is designed to be hard compared to the sealing skirt, in particular a cover element provided for the provision of the labyrinth seal, abuts the cable connector, in particular that the cover then abuts the cable connector at a point of a cover-side component of the labyrinth seal.

38. Panel mount connector according to one of claims 34 to 37, wherein the panel mount connector has features of one of claims 1 to 33.

39. Panel mount connector for precisely fitting a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector matched to the panel mount connector as a counterpart and insertable into an opening of the panel mount connector, wherein the insertion of the plug connection between the panel mount connector and the cable connector enables signal transmission, in particular of a power supply signal or an audio signal, wherein the panel mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate and, in the mounted state, to be fixedly supported by the mounting plate and • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a signal transmission contact element which is designed to come into contact with a cable connector-side signal transmission contact element counterpart by entering the plug connection and thereby provide signal transmission across the plug connection, and • a support skirt area, configured to provide a support effect for the cable connector in the state created by the insertion of the plug connection with respect to load forces acting on the cable connector perpendicular to the cable connector insertion direction, characterized in that • the panel-mount connector is designed with a first and a second part, comprising at least two parts, wherein the first part is intended for direct attachment to the mounting plate and the second part forms an integral part of the mounting plate, wherein the first part has a first-part flange for being placed against the back of the mounting plate and the second part is formed at least on the front of the mounting plate, • the first part has the signal transmission contact element, and • the second part has the support skirt area, wherein the support forces applied by the support skirt area and counteracting the load forces are at least partially carried by the mounting plate. Panel mount connector according to claim 39, wherein the panel mount connector The connector has features of any one of claims 1 to 38. It is a panel-mount connector for precisely engaging a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector that is matched to the panel-mount connector as a counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel-mount connector, wherein the engagement of the plug connection between the panel-mount connector and the cable connector enables signal transmission, in particular of a power supply signal or an audio signal, wherein the panel-mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate and, in the mounted state, to be fixedly supported by the mounting plate and • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a mechanical retaining element, which is provided to block a cable connector-side retaining element counterpart with respect to axial movement in the cable connector withdrawal direction within a first part of a locking mechanism, which can be actuated by rotation of the cable connector in a screw-in direction in a state of at least partial insertion of the cable connector into the mounting connector, and • a mechanical locking element, which is provided to effect, within the framework of a second part of the locking mechanism, which can be actuated by sliding a locking slide on the cable connector side, an engagement of a locking bolt of the cable connector connected to the locking slide into the locking element and thus to block the cable connector with respect to rotation in the outward direction, which is directed opposite to the inward direction, characterized in that • the panel-mount connector is designed with a first and a second part, comprising at least two parts, wherein the first part is intended for direct attachment to the mounting plate and the second part forms an integral part of the mounting plate, wherein the first part has a first-part flange for being placed against the back of the mounting plate and the second part is formed at least on the front of the mounting plate, • the first part has the mechanical retaining element, and • the second part comprises the mechanical locking element. Panel mount connector according to claim 41, wherein the panel mount connector has features of any one of claims 1 to 40. Panel mount connector for precisely engaging a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector that is matched to the panel mount connector as a counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel mount connector, wherein the engagement of the plug connection between the panel mount connector and the cable connector enables signal transmission, in particular of a power supply signal or an audio signal, wherein the panel mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate and, in the mounted state, to be fixedly supported by the mounting plate and • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a signal transmission contact element which is designed to come into contact with a cable connector-side signal transmission contact element counterpart by entering the plug connection and thereby provide signal transmission across the plug connection, and • Mechanical key counterparts designed to interact with matching key elements of the cable connector in such a way that the cable connector can be inserted into the mounting connector in only one specific rotational orientation determined by the key counterparts, characterized in that • the panel-mount connector is designed with a first and a second part, comprising at least two parts, wherein the first part is intended for direct attachment to the mounting plate and the second part forms an integral part of the mounting plate, wherein the first part has a first-part flange for being placed against the back of the mounting plate and the second part is formed at least on the front of the mounting plate, • the first part has the signal transmission contact element, and • at least the second part has the key counterparts. Panel mount connector according to claim 43, wherein the panel mount connector The connector has features of any one of claims 1 to 42. It is a panel-mount connector for precisely engaging a mechanically lockable plug connection with a cable connector that is matched to the panel-mount connector as a counterpart and can be inserted into an opening of the panel-mount connector, wherein the engagement of the plug connection between the panel-mount connector and the cable connector enables the transmission of a power supply signal from the panel-mount connector to the cable connector, wherein the panel-mount connector is provided to be attached to a mounting plate and, in the mounted state, to be fixedly supported by the mounting plate and • the mounting plate has a mounting plate recess for the mounting connector and / or the cable connector, • the mounting connector is designed to be placed against and supports itself on an area of ​​the mounting plate surrounding the mounting plate recess, and • the mounting plate has a front side facing from where the cable connector can be brought to the mounting connector when mounted on the mounting plate, and a rear side facing the opposite direction, wherein the mounting connector has • a signal line contact element which is designed to come into contact with a signal line contact element counterpart on the cable connector side by entering the plug connection and thereby provide power supply signal transmission across the plug connection, • a support skirt area, configured to provide support for the cable connector in the state created by the insertion of the plug connection with respect to the cable connector- to provide load forces acting on the cable connector in the insertion direction, a • A mechanical locking element designed as a bolt lock, which is provided to effect, within the framework of a locking mechanism that can be actuated – in the axially inserted state of the cable connector into the mounting connector – by sliding a bolt slide on the cable connector side, an engagement of a bolt of the cable connector connected to the bolt slide into the locking element and thus to block the cable connector with respect to rotation in the outward direction, which is directed opposite to the inward direction, characterized in that • the panel-mount connector is designed with a first and a second part, at least in two parts, both parts being designed for direct attachment to the mounting plate, the first part having a first-part flange for being placed against the back of the mounting plate and the second part having a second-part flange for being placed against the front of the mounting plate, • the first part has the signal transmission contact element, • the second part has the support skirt area, wherein the support forces applied by the support skirt area and counteracting the load forces are at least partially borne by the mounting plate in the state of the second part being mounted on the mounting plate by means of the intended direct attachment of the second part to the mounting plate, and • the second part has the mechanical locking element, wherein - in the state attached to the mounting plate - the mounting connector is free at the level of the mounting plate recess from a sheathing element surrounding the cable connector, so that the mounting connector is configured such that the minimum mounting plate recess dimension is limited only by the cable connector. A panel-mount connector according to claim 45, wherein the first-part flange has blind holes for mounting on the mounting plate, each blind hole being designed to receive a fastening element, in particular a screw or a pin, extending from the mounting plate for fastening the first-part flange to the mounting plate. A panel-mount connector according to any one of claims 45 to 46, wherein the first-part flange and / or the second-part flange has a sealing element surrounding the opening, configured to create a sealing effect when the panel-mount connector is placed against the mounting plate by pressing it against the mounting plate. A panel-mount connector according to claim 47, wherein the sealing element is manufactured by means of two-component or multi-component injection molding and is formed integrally with the first-part flange or the second-part flange, respectively.Panel-mount connector according to one of claims 45 to 48, wherein the panel-mount connector has features of one of claims 1 to 44.

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