Plug connector housing assembly and plug connector

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug connector housing assembly (2), in particular for an electrical plug connector (1), comprising: a housing component (5) with at least one receiving chamber (6) for a contact element (3); and a securing element (7) which can be mounted in the housing component (5) in order to secure the contact element (3), in a mounted state within the receiving chamber (6), axially along a longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6). The housing component (5) has at least one cable-side end stop (13) for the securing element (7) in order to limit an axial movement of the securing element (7) along the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6), at least in the case of a tensile load (FZ) acting on the contact element (3). According to the invention, at least one first blocking means (14) is formed on the housing component (5) in order to limit a movement of the securing element (7), at least in the case of the tensile load (FZ), in at least one spatial direction (x, y) extending at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6).

Description

[0001] Connector housing arrangement and connectors

[0002] This application claims priority from European patent application No. 23 193 766.5, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The invention relates to a connector housing arrangement, in particular for an electrical connector, comprising a housing component with at least one receiving chamber for a contact element and at least one securing element mountable in the housing component in order to axially secure the contact element in a mounted state within the receiving chamber along a longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0004] The invention also relates to a connector, in particular an electrical connector, comprising the connector housing arrangement and the contact element.

[0005] Various connectors are known from communications technology. Connectors are known to transmit electrical power, electrical data signals, and / or optical data signals to other connectors or to corresponding mating connectors. A connector or mating connector can be a plug, a printed circuit board connector, a panel connector, a socket, a coupler, a capacitive coupler, or an adapter. The terms "connector" and "mating connector" used within the scope of the invention represent all variants. In particular, a connector or mating connector within the scope of the invention can be an electrical and / or optical connector or mating connector.

[0006] The transmission of electrical power or an electrical / optical data signal between a connector and a corresponding mating connector occurs through contact between a contact element of the connector and a corresponding mating contact element of the mating connector. To achieve reliable electrical or optical contact, the individual contact element must generally be correctly positioned both axially and laterally within the connector housing. The correct positioning and alignment of the contact element is usually mechanically secured by at least one locking element. As a rule, axial movement of the contact element counter to its mounting direction is limited so that the contact element does not emerge from the corresponding receiving chamber of the housing component on the rear or cable side under tensile load or during a mating process.

[0007] Particularly in the automotive industry and in vehicles, high demands are placed on the robustness and safety of connectors. A connector must be able to withstand high loads, such as mechanical stress, and remain securely closed to prevent the electrical connection from being accidentally disconnected, for example, during vehicle operation. Ensuring safety is a top priority, especially in autonomous vehicle operation and for driver assistance systems.

[0008] During connector assembly, the securing element is usually fed axially or laterally to the contact element inserted in a receiving chamber. If a tensile force then acts on the electrical or optical cable connected to the contact element, the securing element limits the axial displacement of the securing element either through a direct mechanical connection with the contact element (also known as “Independent Secondary Lock” (ISL)) or indirectly by blocking a separate primary securing element (also known as “Dependent Secondary Lock” or “Primary Locking Reinforcement” (PLR)). The securing element usually abuts axially against an end stop of the housing component. In the case of particularly high mechanical loads orHowever, due to tensile forces, it may happen that the securing element bends transversely to the tensile force and / or is moved out of its securing position, thereby releasing the contact element.

[0009] For further technical background, reference is also made to the following publications: CN 206 148 708 U relates to a connector housing with contact elements that can be fixed in receiving chambers by means of a securing element. EP 1 113 535 A2 relates to securing elements of a connector for securing contact elements in contact chambers. US 5 772 478 A relates to an electrical connector housing in which a secondary locking mechanism is provided to secure contact elements within a housing body. CN 205 376 850 U relates to a connector with an insulating housing having a locking receptacle into which a securing element for locking a contact element can be inserted.

[0010] In view of the known prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide a connector housing arrangement with a securing element for a contact element, which is capable of reliably securing the contact element even under particularly high mechanical loads, preferably with simple assembly and economical manufacture.

[0011] The present invention is also based on the object of providing a connector whose contact element is reliably secured in the connector housing arrangement even under particularly high mechanical loads, in particular tensile loads, while preferably being easy to assemble and economical to manufacture.

[0012] The problem is solved for the connector housing assembly with the features listed in claim 1. With regard to the connector, the problem is solved by the features of claim 18.

[0013] The dependent claims and the features described below relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of the invention. A connector housing assembly for a connector is proposed. The connector housing assembly according to the invention can be particularly advantageously suited for an electrical connector or an optical connector.

[0014] The connector housing arrangement according to the invention comprises a housing component with at least one receiving chamber for a contact element (in particular for an electrical or optical contact element).

[0015] Preferably, the receiving chamber is designed to enable mounting of the contact element starting from the cable-side end of the housing component in the direction of the plug-side end of the housing component along the longitudinal axis of the housing component. However, mounting of the contact element starting from the plug-side end of the housing component in the direction of the cable-side end is also possible in principle.

[0016] According to the invention, the connector housing assembly further comprises a securing element mountable in the housing component to axially secure the contact element in an assembled state within the receiving chamber along a longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0017] The proposed fuse element is thus capable of securing the contact element in the correct position and / or orientation when it is accommodated in the receiving chamber. Such fuse elements are also known as "secondary fuses."

[0018] The securing element is preferably a component independent of the housing component, which can be inserted at least partially into the housing component during connector assembly to fasten or secure the contact element. For this purpose, the securing element can be introduced, in particular, laterally and / or axially in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the housing component or the receiving chamber.

[0019] The securing element is preferably a rigid or inelastic component. This allows the securing element to reliably secure the contact element even under high mechanical stress.

[0020] According to the invention, the housing component has at least one cable-side end stop for the securing element in order to limit an axial movement of the securing element along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber at least in the case of a tensile load acting on the contact element.

[0021] In the assembled state, the securing element can be connected or mechanically coupled to the contact element, so that the securing element is axially entrained by the contact element when the cable is pulled axially or when a tensile load acts on the contact element. The securing element can thus ultimately abut axially against the housing component or the connector housing, thereby limiting the movement of the contact element.

[0022] According to the invention, it is provided that the housing component has at least one first blocking means in order to limit a movement of the securing element, at least in the case of tensile loading, in at least one spatial direction running at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0023] Because the movement of the securing element is additionally limited in at least one spatial direction running at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber in the event of tensile loading, the securing element cannot leave the locking position in which the contact element is secured against withdrawal, even in the event of excessive tensile loading. The securing element can thus advantageously be secured in at least one additional spatial direction.

[0024] According to a preferred development of the invention, it can be provided that the securing element is designed to mechanically secure the contact element directly axially in the state mounted in the housing component.

[0025] The securing element can, in particular, form a positive connection with the contact element to prevent axial displacement and / or rotation of the contact element within the receiving chamber of the housing component. This development of the invention is particularly suitable for the independent secondary securing device described above.

[0026] For this purpose, it can be provided, in particular, that the securing element has one or more locking elements, e.g., a rib extending partially annularly along an inner circumferential surface, which engages in at least one corresponding locking receptacle of the contact element (e.g., in a groove extending partially annularly or annularly along an outer circumferential surface). The securing element can thus encompass or clasp the contact element at least in sections, or engage in the contact element at least in sections, in order to effect a direct movement coupling.

[0027] A positive connection between the securing element and the contact element for securing the contact element can be created, in particular, by orthogonally inserting the securing element (relative to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber) into the housing component, and thus, for example, by orthogonally inserting a locking element (e.g., a partially annular rib) of the securing element into a groove of the contact element. The opposite side walls of the rib or locking element and the groove for the positive connection preferably have a surface vector that is aligned at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0028] Optionally, in particular (but not exclusively) in the case of the independent securing element for the direct mechanical securing of the contact element, it can also be provided that the securing element can be locked to the contact element in the state mounted in the housing component.

[0029] The securing element can preferably have a locking element, and the contact element a corresponding counter-locking element. However, the shape of the securing element itself and the shape of the contact element can also result in mutual locking, for example if the securing element is clamp-shaped and at least partially elastic, so that the clamp can temporarily expand during assembly on the contact element. The contact element can, for example, have the aforementioned annular groove or another recess in the outer surface, into which the securing element can engage when assembled, such that the securing element is not only axially coupled to the contact element in terms of movement, but also locks to the contact element.In principle, however, any type of fastening of the securing element to the contact element can be provided (positively locking, non-positively locking and / or materially locking), so that the securing element can be moved together with the contact element, particularly in the event of an axial movement, for example a tensile load, and / or is secured against unintentional disassembly opposite to the mounting direction of the securing element.

[0030] According to a further development of the invention, which can be implemented alternatively or in combination with the direct mechanical connection between the securing element and the contact element of the first variant, the securing element can be designed to axially secure the contact element indirectly in the state mounted in the housing component by blocking a separate primary securing element. This further development of the invention is therefore particularly suitable for the dependent secondary securing device described above.

[0031] In particular, it can also be provided to combine a dependent secondary fuse and an independent secondary fuse within the scope of the present invention, so that the fuse element is, on the one hand, directly mechanically connected to the contact element, in particular locked or otherwise axially coupled in movement, and also blocks an additional primary fuse element that is also present.

[0032] The separate primary locking element for the contact element can, in particular, be a primary locking hook. This primary locking hook can be blocked in the locking position of the locking element in such a way that an unlocking movement is prevented.

[0033] The housing component, preferably an inner wall or an outer wall of the housing component, can be shaped, particularly in a region that directly adjoins a feed opening for the securing element in the direction of the cable, in such a way that it forms both an axial stop and a lateral blocking means for the axially deflected securing element. Preferably, the at least one first blocking means is formed integrally or monolithically from the housing component. If necessary, however, a multi-part design consisting of the housing component and the first blocking means can also be provided. For example, it can be provided that the first blocking means is fastened to or in the housing component (by means of a material fit, a force fit, and / or a form fit). However, the monolithic design is preferred.

[0034] The housing component can preferably be made of an electrically insulating material, in particular a plastic. However, the housing component can also be made of an electrically conductive material, in particular a metal.

[0035] The housing component is preferably an insulator element or an insulating inner housing, by which the contact element is electrically insulated from at least one other contact element. However, the housing component can also be an insulating outer housing, for example, especially if the connector is an unshielded connector.

[0036] Preferably, the housing component is a one-piece or monolithic housing component of the connector housing assembly. Optionally, however, the housing component can also be made up of multiple pieces, for example, consisting of two interconnectable half-shells.

[0037] Optionally, the connector housing assembly can include one or more sealing elements. For example, a sealing element can be attached as a separate component in the at least one housing component or can be molded into at least one housing component.

[0038] The contact element, which is preferably not part of the proposed connector housing arrangement, can be an inner conductor contact element or an outer conductor contact element.

[0039] The contact element is preferably at least substantially rotationally symmetrical. However, this is not absolutely necessary. In principle, the invention can be suitable for any contact element geometry. In particular, the invention is suitable for primarily elongated contact elements. However, an angled contact element can also be provided.

[0040] The receiving chamber may preferably extend completely through the housing component (starting from a cable-side end to a plug-side end).

[0041] The receiving chamber can be a completely enclosed chamber all the way around, but can also be laterally accessible if necessary. The cable-side end stop of the housing component can in particular be formed by a stop surface within a feed opening for the securing element. In principle, however, the cable-side end stop can be formed in any way in the housing component or by the housing component, for example, even outside a corresponding feed opening. The cable-side end stop can also be formed by a separate component that is connected to the housing component. Preferably, however, the cable-side end stop is formed integrally or monolithically with the housing component.

[0042] A plug-side end stop can also be provided to limit axial movement of the securing element along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber toward the plug-side end of the securing element. The plug-side end stop can also be, for example, a stop surface within the aforementioned feed opening or another stop surface or another stop.

[0043] In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the housing component has a feed opening for the securing element which runs at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0044] Preferably, the feed opening opens into the receiving chamber.

[0045] The feed opening can, in principle, extend at any angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber, for example, at an angle of 0° to 90°, in particular 45° to 90°, for example, approximately 90°. Particularly preferably, the feed opening extends orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0046] Thus, during connector assembly, the securing element can be advanced at an angle, preferably orthogonally, in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber to the contact element mounted in the receiving chamber and can be guided through the feed opening during the advance.

[0047] The feed opening can be designed, in particular, as a slot in the housing component. However, it can also be a window-shaped opening in the housing component or another opening.

[0048] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the securing element has at least one securing leg for securing the contact element.

[0049] To secure the contact element, the at least one securing leg can interact with a protrusion or depression on the outer surface of the contact element, for example, by laterally engaging an annular recess in the contact element. The securing element can consist exclusively of the at least one securing leg.

[0050] In principle, the securing element can be of any design, for example, pin- or bolt-shaped, plate-shaped, or sleeve-shaped. However, it is preferably provided that the securing element has two securing legs connected to each other in a clamp-like manner via a connecting bracket.

[0051] In this way, a clamp-like fastening of the contact element can be provided to secure it. In particular, the contact element can be held securely on both sides, for example, by each securing leg engaging in a corresponding recess of the contact element, in particular in a common, annular recess.

[0052] The present invention is particularly advantageously suitable for use with a clamp-shaped secondary securing device, since the solution according to the invention can prevent, on the one hand, escape against the mounting direction and, on the other hand, optionally also prevent lateral spreading of the clamp.

[0053] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that at least one second blocking means is formed on the securing element, which mechanically contacts the first blocking means of the housing component in order to limit the movement of the securing element in the at least one spatial direction running at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0054] The second blocking means is preferably formed integrally or monolithically with the securing element, for example as a raised portion or recess on a side or end surface of the securing element. For example, each of the aforementioned securing legs can have a corresponding second blocking means.

[0055] The second blocking means, in particular a second blocking surface of the second blocking means, can preferably be formed on an outer edge of the securing element or on an inner edge of the securing element. An "outer edge" is understood to mean an edge of an outer circumferential surface (in particular on an outer side surface or end face) of the securing element, whereas an "inner edge" is understood to mean an edge of an inner circumferential surface (e.g., a recess extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber and / or a recess extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber).

[0056] However, it can also be provided that the second blocking means is designed as a separate component and is connected to the securing element accordingly, for example, to each of the securing legs. However, the one-piece variant is preferred. The blocking of the contact element can advantageously be achieved through the interaction of the first blocking means and the second blocking means. For this purpose, it can be particularly advantageous if the second blocking means has a complementary profile to the first blocking means. However, this is not absolutely necessary.

[0057] According to the invention, the securing element is axially displaceable between a release position and a securing position in the housing component and / or rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. The securing element secures the contact element in the release position and in the securing position and is movable from the release position to the securing position due to the tensile load.

[0058] The release position can preferably be a mechanically unloaded, preferably force-free, mounting position of the securing element in the housing component. Conversely, the securing position can preferably be a mechanically loaded position (particularly due to tensile stress) of the securing element in the housing component, which differs from the release position.

[0059] Preferably, a transverse extension of the feed opening can be greater than a transverse extension of the securing element. In particular, such mechanical play can enable the movement of the securing element between the release position and the securing position.

[0060] A "release position" of the securing element is understood to mean a position in which the securing element can be removed from the housing component non-destructively, preferably without tools, in particular in the opposite direction to that in which it was installed. The release position is preferably a pre-locking position in which the securing element can generally initially still be moved toward the cable-side end of the connector housing assembly.

[0061] The securing element can be inserted into the housing component, in particular by a translational movement, into the position mounted in the housing component, in particular the said "release position." Preferably, an exclusively translational movement can be provided for this purpose, particularly preferably an exclusively translational movement orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

[0062] Preferably, only when the securing element axially abuts the cable-side end stop of the housing component ("securing position") is the at least one movement of the securing element running at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber limited. The movement of the securing element by the at least one first blocking means in the at least one spatial direction running at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber is therefore preferably limited only in the securing position.

[0063] In principle, however, it can also be provided that the securing element is mounted in the receiving chamber in such a way that the securing element is already in the securing position immediately after installation, in which the at least one first blocking means limits the movement of the securing element in at least one spatial direction extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. This can be achieved, for example, by designing the supply opening and the securing element to be of the same width or at least substantially the same width.

[0064] According to the invention, the first blocking means is a first blocking surface. This can be formed in the housing component on a recess or on a projection. It is provided that the surface vector of the first blocking surface has a component in the direction of the plug-side end of the housing component.

[0065] It can also optionally be provided that the surface vector of the first blocking surface has a component in the plugging direction or in the mounting direction of the securing element into the release position.

[0066] The second blocking means can also be designed as a blocking surface. The second blocking surface of the second blocking means can be formed on a recess or a projection of the securing element.

[0067] It can be provided that the surface vector of the second blocking surface has a component in the direction of the cable-side end of the housing component. Additionally or alternatively, it can also be provided that the surface vector of the second blocking surface has a component opposite to the insertion direction or opposite to the mounting direction of the securing element into the release position (i.e., a component in the "disassembly direction" of the securing element). For example, the second blocking surface can have a surface vector that is opposite to the surface vector of the first blocking surface.

[0068] For the sake of simplicity, the first blocking surface and the second blocking surface are sometimes referred to jointly as “blocking surfaces” below.

[0069] The first blocking surface can preferably be formed within the supply opening of the housing component. The second blocking surface can preferably be formed on an outer surface of the securing element, in particular on an outer surface of the at least one securing leg. However, the first blocking means, in particular the first blocking surface, can in principle also be formed on an outer side of the housing component or on an inner side of the housing component. The first blocking surface does not necessarily have to be arranged within the supply opening.

[0070] In particular, it can be provided that the blocking surfaces have a first directional component or a first extension direction along the tensile load or along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. In addition, the blocking surfaces also have at least one of the following directional components or extension directions: a) a second directional component in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber; and / or b) a third directional component along the mounting direction for the securing element.

[0071] If the blocking surfaces exclusively comprise the first and second directional components, the movement of the securing element counter to the mounting direction can be advantageously limited. If, however, the blocking surfaces exclusively comprise the first and third directional components, the movement of the securing element in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber (i.e., the expansion of the securing element) can be blocked.

[0072] In an advantageous further development, it can be provided that the first blocking surface is angularly aligned to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber and / or to a mounting direction for the securing element (for example along the feed opening).

[0073] The first blocking surface can be oriented orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber and / or to the mounting direction for the securing element, for example. Preferably, however, an angle other than 90° is provided. In the case of an oblique orientation of the blocking surfaces at an angle other than 90°, the blocking surfaces have all three of the aforementioned directional components.

[0074] Due to the angular alignment, which differs from 90°, it is possible to center and align the secondary fuse in the deflected state in the housing component or in the feed opening.

[0075] A further advantage of an angular orientation other than 90° can be that the force securing the locking element in the locking position increases as the tensile load on the contact element increases. Due to the slope or angular orientation of the first blocking surfaces, the locking element is preferably pressed closer to the contact element as the tensile load increases. As the cable tension increases, the locking element becomes increasingly wedged.

[0076] Particularly preferably, the first blocking means and the second blocking means are each formed in a complementary, oblique manner. The blocking surfaces can preferably be flat or at least substantially flat or planar. However, the blocking surfaces can also optionally have a curved or bent profile, in particular a mutually complementary convex / concave profile. A stepped or multi-step profile of the blocking surfaces can also be provided.

[0077] In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the first blocking means limits the movement of the securing element in two mutually orthogonal spatial directions, which each run at an angle, preferably orthogonally, to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0078] This can result in three variants for limiting the securing element: a) The securing element is blocked along or against the mounting direction so that it cannot escape from the feed opening in the event of a tensile load acting on the contact element. The first blocking surface is therefore preferably aligned at an angle to the mounting direction for the securing element, in particular orthogonal to it. b) The securing element is blocked transversely to its mounting direction in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber so that the securing element cannot spread laterally in the event of a tensile load acting on the contact element. c) A combination of blocking in or against the mounting direction, as well as transversely to the mounting direction (i.e. a combination of the two variants above).

[0079] In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the housing component and the securing element form a mutual thread-like connection.

[0080] The thread-like connection preferably extends along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber in such a way that the securing element rotates relative to the housing component during an axial displacement along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0081] For example, an inner wall of the housing component and an outer surface of the securing element can be shaped to complement each other, at least in sections, to form the thread-like connection. Thus, when the cable is pulled longitudinally, the securing element can be set into rotation relative to the longitudinal axis of the connector or the receiving chamber.

[0082] The rotation of the securing element can also limit its movement in at least one spatial direction extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. Three advantageous variants in particular arise for this: a) The rotation of the securing element results in a direct fixation of the securing element to the contact element in that the securing element, rotated from its initial position, engages behind the contact element at least in sections, for example, by rotating the opening of the clamp-like securing element relative to the mounting direction of the securing element;and / or b) The rotation of the securing element causes a direct fixation of the securing element to the housing component in that the securing element, rotated from its initial position, engages behind the housing component at least in sections, for example in that the securing element is displaced at least in sections radially and / or axially under a projection of the housing component during the rotation or is moved at least in sections radially and / or axially into a receptacle of the housing component; and / or c) The rotation of the securing element causes a direct fixation of the securing element to the housing component in that the securing element, rotated from its initial position, is at least partially engaged behind by the housing component.

[0083] According to a further development, it can be provided that the thread-like connection forms less than two complete threads, preferably only one complete thread or less, preferably only half a thread or less, particularly preferably only a quarter of a thread or even less.

[0084] Thus, even a slight axial displacement can cause a twist, so that the locking element is sufficiently limited in movement or secured.

[0085] In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the housing component has a plurality of receiving chambers running parallel to one another for respective contact elements.

[0086] For example, it can be provided that the housing component has exactly two parallel receiving chambers for a respective contact element, three parallel receiving chambers for respective contact elements, four parallel receiving chambers for respective contact elements or even more parallel receiving chambers for respective contact elements.

[0087] The securing element can be designed to secure at least two of the contact elements together (in particular at least two contact elements accommodated in immediately adjacent receiving chambers).

[0088] The invention also relates to a connector, in particular an electrical connector or an optical connector, comprising a connector housing assembly according to the above and following embodiments, as well as the contact element. The contact element can be accommodated in the receiving chamber, and the securing element can be mounted in the housing component for axially securing the contact element.

[0089] A connector with increased contact retention force can be advantageously provided by preventing the securing element from moving out of its securing position, for example, by springing out. In this way, the retention force of the contact element coupled to the securing element within the connector housing or a housing component of the connector can be increased. Complex geometries of the connector housing for surrounding or overlaying the securing element can be dispensed with, thereby minimizing the installation space for the connector despite high mechanical stability and retention force.

[0090] The contact element can be connected, for example, by pressing or crimping, to an electrical or optical conductor of an electrical or optical cable. However, as already mentioned above, the connector can be any connector. It does not necessarily have to be a cable connector.

[0091] Within the scope of the invention, the contact element can be connected to any conductor, for example, it can be soldered or solderable to an electrical conductor of a printed circuit board.

[0092] The invention also relates to a method for producing a plug connector, in particular an electrical plug connector, comprising at least the following method steps: a) providing a housing component with at least one receiving chamber for a contact element, in particular for an electrical contact element; b) inserting the contact element into the receiving chamber along a longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber, in particular in the direction of a plug-side end of the housing component; c) providing and mounting a securing element (preferably a securing element described above and below) in order to axially secure the contact element within the receiving chamber along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber, in particular to secure it against tensile loading.

[0093] The invention also relates to a securing element for a connector housing arrangement of a connector, in particular an electrical connector, wherein the securing element can be mounted in a housing component of the connector housing arrangement in order to axially secure a contact element received in the housing component in its mounted state.

[0094] Features described in connection with one of the subject matters of the invention, namely the connector housing assembly according to the invention, the connector according to the invention, the securing element according to the invention, and the method for producing the connector, can also be advantageously implemented for the other subject matters of the invention. Likewise, advantages mentioned in connection with one of the subject matters of the invention can also be understood to apply to the other subject matters of the invention.

[0095] It should also be noted that terms such as "comprising," "having," or "with" do not exclude other features or steps. Furthermore, terms such as "a" or "the," which indicate a singular number of steps or features, do not exclude a plurality of features or steps—and vice versa.

[0096] In a purist embodiment of the invention, however, it may also be provided that the features introduced in the invention with the terms "comprising," "having," or "with" are listed exhaustively. Accordingly, one or more lists of features may be considered complete within the scope of the invention, for example, for each claim. The invention may, for example, consist exclusively of the features mentioned in claim 1.

[0097] It should be noted that terms such as "first" or "second" etc. are used primarily for reasons of distinguishing between respective device or process features and are not necessarily intended to indicate that features are mutually dependent or related to one another.

[0098] Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the values ​​and parameters described herein include deviations or fluctuations of ±10% or less, preferably ±5% or less, more preferably ±1% or less, and most preferably ±0.1% or less of the respective specified value or parameter, provided that these deviations are not excluded in the practical implementation of the invention. The specification of ranges by initial and final values ​​also includes all those values ​​and fractions enclosed by the respective specified range, in particular the initial and final values ​​and a respective mean value.

[0099] In the following, embodiments of the invention are described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0100] The figures each show preferred embodiments in which individual features of the present invention are illustrated in combination with one another. Features of one embodiment can also be implemented independently of the other features of the same embodiment and can therefore be readily combined by a person skilled in the art with features of other embodiments to form further useful combinations and subcombinations.

[0101] In the figures, functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0102] They show schematically: Figure 1 a connector according to an embodiment of the invention with a contact element and a connector housing arrangement which has a housing component and a securing element, in a pre-assembled state in a perspective view;

[0103] Figure 2 shows the connector of Figure 1 in an assembled state during a tensile load acting on the contact element;

[0104] Figure 3 is a sectional longitudinal sectional view through the assembled connector according to Figure 2 in an unloaded state of the contact element, in which the securing element is in a release position;

[0105] Figure 4 is a sectional longitudinal sectional view through the assembled connector according to Figure 2 in the tensile state of the contact element, in which the securing element is in a securing position;

[0106] Figure 5 is a sectional longitudinal sectional view through an assembled connector according to a further embodiment of the invention, in which the contact element is secured by the securing element indirectly by securing a primary securing element;

[0107] Figure 6 shows a connector according to a further embodiment of the invention, in a pre-assembled state in a perspective view;

[0108] Figure 7 shows the connector of Figure 6 in an assembled state, during a tensile load acting on the contact element;

[0109] Figure 8 is a sectional longitudinal sectional view through the assembled connector according to Figure 7 in an unloaded state of the contact element, in which the securing element is in a release position;

[0110] Figure 9 is a sectional longitudinal sectional view through the assembled connector according to Figure 7 in the tensile state of the contact element, in which the securing element is in a securing position;

[0111] Figure 10 shows a connector according to a further embodiment of the invention, in a pre-assembled state in a perspective view;

[0112] Figure 11 shows the connector of Figure 10 in an assembled state during a tensile load acting on the contact element; Figure 12 shows a connector according to a further embodiment of the invention, in a pre-assembled state in a perspective view;

[0113] Figure 13 shows the connector of Figure 12 in an assembled state in which the contact element is in an unloaded state;

[0114] Figure 14 shows the connector of Figure 12 in an assembled state in which the contact element is under tensile stress;

[0115] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled connector according to Figure 13 in the unloaded state of the contact element;

[0116] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled connector according to Figure 14 in the state of the contact element under tensile stress; and

[0117] Figure 17 Two exemplary variants for a mutual engagement of the securing element and the housing component in the state of the securing element rotated from the initial position.

[0118] Figures 1 to 4 show a connector 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an unassembled state, and Figures 2 to 4 each show an assembled state. The connector 1 is, by way of example, an electrical connector 1.

[0119] The connector 1 comprises a connector housing assembly 2 and a contact element 3. The contact element 3 can be connected (e.g., crimped or soldered / welded) to an electrical conductor of an electrical cable 4, as illustrated by way of example in the exemplary embodiments. In each of the exemplary embodiments, a coaxial or rotationally symmetrical, primarily elongated contact element 3 is shown, although this should not be understood as limiting.

[0120] The connector housing assembly 2 comprises a housing component 5 with at least one receiving chamber 6 (see in particular Figure 1) for the contact element 3. The contact element 3 can thus be mounted in the receiving chamber 6, as shown in Figure 2. For reasons of clarity, the housing component 5 is shown only in dashed lines in Figure 2.

[0121] To axially secure the contact element 3 in the housing component 5 or in the receiving chamber 6, the connector housing assembly 2 also has a securing element 7, which can also be mounted in the housing component 5. An assembled state of the contact element 3 and the securing element 7 is shown in Figure 2. In principle, the securing element 7 can be designed as desired. In the exemplary embodiments, a clamp-like securing element 7 is provided, which has two securing legs 8 that are connected to one another via a common connecting bracket 9. The securing element 7 can thus grip the contact element 3 in a clamp-like manner.

[0122] It can be provided that at least one locking element 10b of the securing element 7 directly engages with at least one corresponding locking receptacle 10a of the contact element 3, so that a movement coupling is created between the contact element 3 and the securing element 7. For this purpose, the securing element 7 in the exemplary embodiments has an annular circumferential rib 10b on the inner casing side between the securing legs 8, which engages with an annular circumferential recess or groove 10a of the contact element 3 on the outer casing side. The securing element 7 can optionally also be latchable or otherwise lockable with the contact element 3 when mounted in the housing component 5 (not shown in the exemplary embodiments).

[0123] The securing element 7 of Figures 1 to 4 (and also of the subsequent Figures 6 to 17) is thus designed to mechanically and axially secure the contact element 3 directly when mounted in the housing component 5. As already mentioned above, such a securing element 7 is also known as an "independent securing element."

[0124] In principle, however, indirect securing of the contact element 3 by a "dependent securing element" can also be provided, as indicated in Figure 5. As can be seen from Figure 5, the securing element 7 can also axially secure the contact element 3 for this purpose, for example, by blocking a separate primary securing element 11, for example by preventing a primary locking hook from rebounding, as is done in Figure 5 by the connecting bracket 9 of the securing element 7. In this case, the securing element 7 can optionally also be mechanically connected directly to the contact element 3 and / or the housing component.

[0125] In the exemplary embodiments, the housing component 5 has a supply opening 12, which extends at an angle, in particular orthogonally, to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6 and is in the form of a slot for the securing element 7. The supply opening 12 or the slot opens into the receiving chamber 6.

[0126] Although the exemplary embodiments depict a connector 1 or a connector housing arrangement 2 with only a single contact element 3 or with only a single receiving chamber 6, it can in principle be provided that the housing component 5 has a plurality of receiving chambers 6 running parallel to one another for respective contact elements 3. It is also possible for a plurality of housing components 5 to be provided in a common connector housing arrangement 2, each with at least one receiving chamber 6. The securing element 7 can then be designed to axially secure at least two of the contact elements 3 together, in particular at least two directly adjacent contact elements 3. In the case of a plurality of receiving chambers 6 or a plurality of contact elements 3, it can of course also be provided that these are secured by a respective securing element 7.The invention is therefore not to be understood as being limited to use with a connector 1 having only a single contact element 3.

[0127] The axial securing of the contact element 3 in the receiving chamber 6 by the securing element 7 is particularly clearly visible in Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 shows a force-free, unloaded state, and Figure 4 shows a state of the contact element 3 and the securing element 7 deflected by tensile load Fz (see, for example, the force arrow in Figures 2 and 3).

[0128] The housing component 5 has a cable-side end stop 13 for each of the securing legs 8 in order to limit axial movement of the securing element 7 along the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6, at least in the case of the tensile load Fz acting on the contact element 3. The securing element 7 can thus, for example, strike the inside of the feed opening 12 and, due to the direct or indirect connection with the contact element 3, also limit the movement of the contact element 3.

[0129] In order to prevent, according to the invention, the securing element 7 from no longer being able to maintain its securing position within the receiving chamber 6 when the tensile load Fz is further increased, for example by the securing element 7 being partially lifted out of the feed opening 12 again against its mounting direction M (cf. Figure 1) or spreading out laterally to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6, it is proposed to form at least one first blocking means 14 on the housing component 5 in order to limit a movement of the securing element 7 at least in the case of the tensile load Fz in at least one spatial direction x, y running at an angle to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6 (cf. in particular the coordinate system shown in Figure 1).

[0130] In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 4, it is provided that the movement of the securing element 7 in the case of tensile loading Fz is limited against the mounting direction M of the securing element orthogonally to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6 in a first spatial direction y (see Figures 2 and 4).

[0131] The securing element 7 has a respective second blocking means 15 on each of the securing legs 8, which is designed to mechanically contact the first blocking means 14 of the housing component 5 in order to correspondingly limit the movement of the securing element 7. Preferably, the second blocking means 15 and the first blocking means 14 each have a complementary profile. In particular, the first blocking means 14 can be a first blocking surface 16, which is formed in the housing component 5 on a recess or a projection, in particular in the feed opening 12 for the securing element 7. Accordingly, the second blocking means 15 can be a complementary, second blocking surface 17. In the exemplary embodiment of Figures 1 to 4, the blocking surfaces 16, 17 are aligned at an angle to the mounting direction M of the securing element 7 or to the profile of the feed opening 12.In particular, an angle a different from 90° has proven to be suitable (see Figure 3) in order to ensure centering of the securing element 7 in the case of tensile load and also to continuously increase the retaining force for the securing element 7 with a continuously increasing tensile load Fz.

[0132] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, an undesired slipping of the securing element 7 out of the feed opening 12 is thus prevented, even under very strong tensile loads Fz. However, lateral or radial expansion of the securing element 7 cannot be ruled out with this variant. To prevent expansion of the securing element 7, a further embodiment of the invention is illustrated with reference to Figures 6 to 9.

[0133] In the embodiment of Figures 6 to 9, the blocking surfaces 16, 17 of the first blocking means 14 and the second blocking means 15 are arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6, preferably at an angle ß other than 90° (see Figure 8). As can be seen particularly clearly from the sectional plan view shown in Figures 8 and 9, in the case of tensile loading Fz (see Figure 9), the inclined blocking surfaces 16, 17 prevent the clamp-like securing element 7 from spreading out of its securing position in a second spatial direction x.

[0134] Nevertheless, in the embodiment of Figures 6 to 9, it is not excluded that the securing element 7 emerges from the feed opening 12 counter to the mounting direction M when the contact element 3 is subjected to particularly high tensile loads Fz. Therefore, in a further embodiment of the invention, a combination of the two variants is shown with reference to Figures 10 and 11 in order to limit the movement of the securing element 7 in two mutually orthogonal spatial directions x, y, which each also run orthogonally to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6.

[0135] Accordingly, the housing component 5 has, for each securing leg 8, a first blocking means 14 with a first blocking surface 16 extending at an angle to the receiving chamber 6, and an additional first blocking means 14 with a further first blocking surface 16 oriented at an angle to the mounting direction M of the securing element 7. Consequently, two first blocking surfaces 16 are provided in the housing component 5 for each securing leg 8. The securing element 7 has complementary second blocking surfaces 17. In this way, the securing element 7 can be prevented from spreading and slipping out of the feed opening 12.

[0136] A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figures 12 to 16. As an alternative to the above variants, the housing component 5 and the securing element 7 can form a mutual, thread-like connection 18 that extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6 such that the securing element 7 rotates relative to the housing component 5 during an axial displacement along the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6. The rotated state in the tensile load case is illustrated in Figures 14 and 16.

[0137] Thus, by rotating the securing element 7, a direct fixation of the securing element 7 to the contact element 3 (and / or to the housing component 5, as further illustrated below with reference to Figure 17) can be achieved. The rotation can cause the opening of the securing element 7 to be rotated with respect to its mounting direction M, so that the securing element 7 engages behind the contact element 3, which can lead to a movement limitation according to the invention (see Figures 15 and 16).

[0138] Figure 17 also illustrates sections of two variants for a securing element 7 that is twisted in the loaded state, which can be implemented independently of one another or in combination (the contact element 3 is hidden in each case). In each case, the securing element 7 is directly fixed or secured to the housing component 5 by the securing element 7 and the housing component 5 engaging behind each other axially and / or radially at least in sections due to the twisting. For example, the securing element 7 can be moved under a first blocking surface 16 of a first blocking means 14, as can also be clearly seen when comparing Figures 13 and 14.Respective securing edges 19 of securing element 7 and / or housing component 5 can also be used accordingly to limit the movement of securing element 7 in at least one spatial direction x, y extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis L of receiving chamber 6 when securing element 7 is rotated from its initial position. Particularly (but not exclusively) in the variant shown on the right in Figure 17, locking can be achieved by utilizing the simultaneous axial and radial displacement of the thread.

[0139] It has been shown that a particularly advantageous securing of the securing element 7 can be achieved if the thread-like connection 18 forms only one complete thread turn or less, preferably only a quarter of a thread turn.

[0140] The variants described and illustrated above are merely exemplary and not to be understood as limiting. In principle, the securing element 7 can also be limited by at least one first blocking means 14 of the housing component 5 in many other ways within the scope of the invention.

Claims

P a t e n t a n s p r ü c h e 1. A connector housing arrangement (2), in particular for an electrical connector (1), comprising a housing component (5) with at least one receiving chamber (6) for a contact element (3) and a securing element (7) mountable in the housing component (5) to axially secure the contact element (3) in an assembled state within the receiving chamber (6) along a longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6), wherein the housing component (5) has at least one cable-side end stop (13) for the securing element (7) to limit an axial movement of the securing element (7) along the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6) at least in the event of a tensile load (Fz) acting on the contact element (3), wherein at least one first blocking means (14) is formed on the housing component (5),to limit movement of the securing element (7), at least in the case of tensile loading (Fz), in at least one spatial direction (x, y) extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6), characterized in that the securing element (7) is axially displaceable between a release position and a securing position in the housing component (5) and / or rotatable about the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6), wherein the securing element (7) secures the contact element (3) in the release position and in the securing position, wherein the securing element (7) is movable from the release position into the securing position as a result of the tensile loading (Fz), and wherein the first blocking means (14) is a first blocking surface (16), the surface vector of which has a component in the direction of a plug-in end of the housing component (6).

2. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing component (5) has a feed opening (12) for the securing element (7) which runs at an angle, preferably orthogonally, to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6) and opens into the receiving chamber (6).

3. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that a transverse extent of the feed opening (12) is greater than a transverse extent of the securing element (7).

4. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the securing element (7) is designed to mechanically secure the contact element (3) in the state mounted in the housing component (5) directly axially, in particular by at least one locking element (10b) of the securing element (7) which engages in at least one corresponding locking receptacle (10a) of the contact element (3).

5. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the securing element (7) is designed to axially secure the contact element (3) in the state mounted in the housing component (5) indirectly by blocking a separate primary securing element (11) for the contact element (3), in particular a primary locking hook.

6. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the securing element (7) for securing the contact element (3) has at least one securing leg (8), preferably two securing legs (8) connected to one another in a clamp-like manner via a connecting bracket (9).

7. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least one second blocking means (15) is formed on the securing element (7), which mechanically contacts the first blocking means (14) of the housing component (5) in order to limit the movement of the securing element (7) in the at least one spatial direction (x, y) running at an angle to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6), wherein the second blocking means (15) preferably has a course complementary to the first blocking means (14).

8. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the movement of the securing element (7) by the at least one first blocking means (14) in the at least one spatial direction (x, y) extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6) is limited only in the securing position.

9. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the first blocking means (14) is a first blocking surface (16) which is formed in the housing component (5) on a recess or on a projection, wherein the first blocking surface (16) has a first directional component along the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6), and / or a) a second directional component in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6); and / or b) a third directional component along a mounting direction (M) for the securing element (7).

10. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that the first blocking surface (16) is aligned with the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6) at an angle (α, β) different from 90.

11. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the first blocking means (14) limits the movement of the securing element (7) in two mutually orthogonal spatial directions (x, y), which each run at an angle, preferably orthogonally, to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6).

12. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to claim 8, characterized in that the housing component (5) and the securing element (7) form a mutual thread-like connection (18) which extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6) in such a way that the securing element (7) rotates relative to the housing component (5) in the course of an axial displacement along the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6).

13. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to claim 12, characterized in that the rotation of the securing element (7) has the effect that, in a state of the securing element (7) rotated from an initial position, a) the securing element (7) engages the contact element (3); and / or b) the securing element engages the housing component (5); and / or c) the housing component (5) engages behind the securing element at least in sections, in order to thereby limit the movement of the securing element (7) in at least one spatial direction (x, y) running at an angle to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6).

14. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the thread-like connection (18) forms only one complete thread turn or less, preferably only half a thread turn or less, particularly preferably only a quarter of a thread turn or even less.

15. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the housing component (5) has a plurality of receiving chambers (6) running parallel to one another for respective contact elements (3), wherein the securing element (7) is designed to axially secure at least two of the contact elements (3) together.

16. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the securing element (7) is a rigid component.

17. Connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the securing element (7) can be inserted into the housing component (5) into the release position by a translational movement, preferably by an exclusively translational movement, particularly preferably by an exclusively translational movement orthogonal to the longitudinal axis (L).

18. Connector (1), in particular electrical connector (1), comprising a connector housing arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 17 and the contact element (3), wherein the contact element (3) is received in the receiving chamber (6) and the securing element (7) for axially securing the contact element (3) is mounted in the housing component (5).

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