Connector housing assembly and 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] 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 locking element mountable in the housing component to axially secure the contact element in a mounted state within the receiving chamber along a longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0002] The invention also relates to a connector, in particular an electrical connector, comprising the connector housing arrangement and the contact element.

[0003] Various connectors are known from the field of 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 PCB connector, a panel-mount connector, a socket, a coupler, a capacitive coupler, or an adapter. The terms "connector" and "mating connector," as used in this invention, are representative of all variants. In particular, a connector or mating connector within the scope of this invention can be an electrical and / or optical connector or mating connector.

[0004] 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 a reliable electrical or optical contact, the individual contact element must generally be positioned correctly both axially and laterally within the connector housing. The correct positioning and orientation of the contact element is usually mechanically secured by at least one locking element. This typically limits axial movement of the contact element against its mounting direction, preventing it from protruding from the corresponding receiving chamber of the housing component on the rear or cable side under tensile stress or during a mating operation.

[0005] Particularly in the automotive industry and in vehicles, high demands are placed on the robustness and safety of connectors. A connector must withstand sometimes high stresses, such as mechanical loads, and remain reliably closed so that the electrical connection is not unintentionally interrupted, for example, during vehicle operation. Ensuring safety is paramount, especially for autonomous vehicle operation and driver assistance systems.

[0006] During connector assembly, the locking element is typically guided axially or laterally to the contact element inserted into a receiving chamber. If a tensile force is subsequently applied to the electrical or optical cable connected to the contact element, the locking element limits its axial movement either through a direct mechanical connection with the contact element (also known as an "independent secondary lock" or "ISL") or indirectly by blocking a separate primary locking element (also known as a "dependent secondary lock" or "PLR"). The locking element usually abuts axially against an end stop of the housing component. In the case of particularly high mechanical loads, or...However, under tensile forces it can happen that the locking element bends perpendicular to the tensile force and / or is forced out of its locking position, thereby releasing the contact element.

[0007] For further technical background, reference should also be made to the following publications: CN 206 148 708 U relates to a connector housing with contact elements that can be secured in receiving chambers by means of a locking element. EP 1 113 535 A2 relates to locking 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 and a locking receptacle into which a locking element can be inserted to secure a contact element.

[0008] In view of the prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide a connector housing arrangement with a locking element for a contact element which is able to reliably secure the contact element even under particularly high mechanical loads, preferably with easy assembly and economical manufacturability.

[0009] The present invention also aims to provide a connector whose contact element is reliably secured in the connector housing arrangement even under particularly high mechanical loads, especially tensile loads, with preferably simple assembly and economical manufacturability.

[0010] The problem is solved for the connector housing arrangement by the features listed in claim 1. With regard to the connector, the problem is solved by the features of claim 14.

[0011] The dependent claims and the features described below relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of the invention.

[0012] A connector housing arrangement for a connector is proposed. The connector housing arrangement according to the invention can be particularly advantageous for an electrical connector or for an optical connector.

[0013] 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).

[0014] The receiving chamber is designed to allow the contact element to be mounted from the cable-side end of the housing component towards the plug-side end of the housing component along the longitudinal axis of the housing component. However, mounting the contact element from the plug-side end of the housing component towards the cable-side end is also possible.

[0015] According to the invention, the connector housing arrangement also has a locking element that can be mounted 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.

[0016] The proposed locking element is thus able to secure the contact element in the correct position and / or orientation when it is inserted into the receiving chamber. Such locking elements are also known as "secondary locking devices".

[0017] The locking element is preferably a component independent of the housing component, which, during connector assembly, can be inserted at least partially into the housing component to secure the contact element. For this purpose, the locking element can be inserted, in particular, laterally and / or axially along the longitudinal axis of the housing component or the receiving chamber.

[0018] The locking element is preferably a rigid or inelastic component. This allows the locking element to reliably secure the contact element even under high mechanical stress.

[0019] According to the invention, the housing component has at least one cable-side end stop for the locking element in order to limit axial movement of the locking element along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber, at least in the case of a tensile load acting on the contact element.

[0020] The locking element, when assembled, is connected or mechanically coupled to the contact element, so that in the event of axial cable pull or a tensile load acting on the contact element, the locking element is axially carried along by the contact element. The locking element can then ultimately abut axially against the housing component or the connector housing, thereby limiting the movement of the contact element.

[0021] According to the invention, the housing component has at least one first locking means to limit movement of the locking element, at least in the case of tensile stress, in at least one spatial direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0022] Because the movement of the locking element is additionally limited in at least one spatial direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber in the event of tensile stress, the locking element cannot leave the locking position, in which the contact element is secured against pull-out, even in the case of excessive tensile stress. The locking element can thus advantageously be secured in at least one further spatial direction.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the locking element can be designed to mechanically and axially secure the contact element in the state mounted in the housing component.

[0024] The locking 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 embodiment of the invention is particularly suitable for the independent secondary locking mechanism described above.

[0025] For this purpose, it can be provided, in particular, that the locking element has one or more locking elements, e.g., a rib running partially annularly along an inner surface, which engages in at least one corresponding locking receptacle of the contact element (e.g., in a groove running partially annularly or annularly along an outer surface). The locking element can thus at least partially encompass or clamp the contact element, or engage at least partially with the contact element, in order to effect direct coupling of movement.

[0026] A positive fit between the locking element and the contact element for securing the contact element can be created, in particular, by inserting the locking element orthogonally (with respect to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber) into the housing component, and thus, for example, by inserting a locking element (e.g., a partially annular rib) of the locking element orthogonally into a groove of the contact element. The opposing side walls of the rib or locking element and the groove, which are responsible for the positive fit, preferably have a surface vector that is aligned at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0027] Optionally, particularly (but not exclusively) in the case of the independent locking element for the direct mechanical securing of the contact element, it may also be provided that the locking element can be locked to the contact element in the state mounted in the housing component.

[0028] The locking element preferably has a latching element and the contact element a corresponding counter-latching element. The shape of the locking element itself and the

[0029] The shape of the contact element can, however, result in mutual interlocking, for example, if the locking element is clamp-shaped and at least partially elastic, allowing the clamp to temporarily spread open on the contact element during assembly. The contact element can, for instance, have the aforementioned annular circumferential groove or other recess in its outer surface into which the locking element can engage in the assembled state, such that the locking element is not only axially coupled to the contact element but also interlocks with it.In principle, however, any type of fastening of the locking element to the contact element can be provided (positive locking, force locking and / or material locking), so that the locking element, in particular in the case of an axial movement, for example a tensile load, is movable together with the contact element and / or is secured against unintentional disassembly against the mounting direction of the locking 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 locking element and the contact element of the first variant, the locking element can be configured to axially secure the contact element in the state mounted in the housing component by blocking a separate primary locking element. This further development of the invention is therefore particularly suitable for the dependent secondary locking described above.

[0031] In particular, it may also be provided to combine a dependent secondary safety device and an independent secondary safety device within the scope of the present invention, so that the safety element is directly mechanically connected to the contact element, in particular locked or axially coupled in another way, and also blocks an additional primary safety 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 an area that directly adjoins a feed opening for the locking element in the direction of the cable, in such a way that it forms both an axial stop and a lateral block for the axially deflected locking element.

[0034] Preferably, at least one first locking element is formed in one piece or monolithically from the housing component. However, a multi-part design consisting of the housing component and the first locking element is also possible. For example, the first locking element can be attached to or within the housing component (by material bonding, force bonding, and / or form bonding). However, the monolithic design is preferred.

[0035] 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.

[0036] Preferably, the housing component is an insulator or an insulating inner housing that electrically isolates the contact element from at least one other contact element. However, the housing component can also be, for example, an insulating outer housing, particularly if the connector is an unshielded connector.

[0037] Preferably, the housing component is a single-piece or monolithic housing component of the connector housing assembly. Optionally, however, the housing component can also be multi-piece, for example, formed from two connectable half-shells.

[0038] Optionally, the connector housing assembly can include one or more sealing elements. For example, a sealing element can be attached as a separate component to at least one housing component or injection-molded into at least one housing component.

[0039] 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.

[0040] The contact element is preferably designed to be at least substantially rotationally symmetrical. However, this is not absolutely necessary. In principle, the invention can be suitable for any geometries of contact elements. In particular, the invention is suitable for predominantly elongated contact elements. However, an angled contact element can also be provided.

[0041] The receiving chamber can preferably extend completely through the housing component (from a cable-side end to a plug-side end).

[0042] The receiving chamber can be a completely enclosed chamber, but it can also be accessible laterally if necessary.

[0043] The cable-side end stop of the housing component can be formed, in particular, by a stop surface within a feed opening for the locking element. In principle, however, the cable-side end stop can be formed in or by the housing component in any way, 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.

[0044] A plug-side end stop may also be provided to limit axial movement of the locking element along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber towards the plug-side end of the locking element. This plug-side end stop may, for example, be a stop surface within the aforementioned feed opening or some other type of stop.

[0045] According to the invention, the housing component has a feed opening for the locking element that extends at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0046] The feed opening leads into the intake chamber.

[0047] The feed opening can, in principle, run along 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 runs orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0048] Thus, during connector assembly, the locking element can be positioned at an angle, preferably orthogonally, towards the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber and guided through the feed opening during positioning.

[0049] The feed opening can be designed as a slot in the housing component. However, it can also be a window-shaped opening in the housing component or some other type of opening.

[0050] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the locking element for securing the contact element has at least one locking leg.

[0051] At least one locking leg can interact with a raised or recessed area on the outer surface of the contact element to secure it, for example by engaging laterally in an annular recess in the contact element.

[0052] The locking element can consist exclusively of at least one locking leg.

[0053] In principle, the locking element can be of any shape, for example pin- or bolt-shaped, plate-shaped, or sleeve-shaped. Preferably, however, the locking element has two locking legs connected to each other by a connecting bracket, similar to a clamp.

[0054] In this way, a clamp-like fastening of the contact element can be provided to secure it. In particular, the contact element can be securely held on both sides, for example by each locking arm engaging in a corresponding recess of the contact element, especially in a common, annular recess.

[0055] The present invention is particularly advantageous for use with a clamp-shaped secondary locking device, since the solution according to the invention can prevent, on the one hand, escape against the direction of assembly and, on the other hand, optionally also lateral spreading of the clamp.

[0056] According to the invention, at least a second locking means is formed on the locking element, which mechanically contacts the first locking means of the housing component in the locking position in order to limit the movement of the locking element in the at least one spatial direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0057] The second locking element is preferably formed integrally or monolithically with the locking element, for example as a protrusion or recess on a side or end face of the locking element. For example, each of the aforementioned locking arms can have a corresponding second locking element.

[0058] The second locking means, in particular a second locking surface of the second locking means, can preferably be formed on an outer edge of the locking element or on an inner edge of the locking element. An "outer edge" is understood to be an edge of an outer surface (in particular on an outer side or end face) of the locking element, whereas an "inner edge" is understood to be an edge of an inner surface (e.g., a recess extending towards the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber and / or a recess extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber).

[0059] However, it is also possible for the second locking element to be designed as a separate component and connected to the locking element accordingly, for example to each of the locking arms. The one-piece version, however, is preferred.

[0060] The blocking of the contact element can advantageously be achieved through the interaction of the first and second blocking agents. It can be particularly advantageous if the second blocking agent has a profile complementary to that of the first. However, this is not strictly necessary.

[0061] According to the invention, the locking element is axially displaceable and / or rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber between a release position and a locking position within the housing component. The locking element secures the contact element in both the release and locking positions and is movable from the release position to the locking position due to tensile stress.

[0062] The release position is a mechanically unloaded, force-free mounting position of the locking element in the housing component. Conversely, the locking position is a mechanically loaded position (particularly due to tensile stress) of the locking element in the housing component, which differs from the release position.

[0063] Preferably, the transverse extent of the feed opening can be larger than the transverse extent of the locking element. In particular, such mechanical play can allow the movement of the locking element between the release position and the locking position.

[0064] A "release position" of the locking element is understood to be a position in which the locking element can be removed from the housing component without damage, preferably without tools, particularly in the opposite direction in which it was installed. The release position is preferably a pre-locking position in which the locking element is generally still movable towards the cable-side end of the connector housing assembly.

[0065] The locking element can be inserted into the housing component, in particular into the position mounted in the housing component, especially the aforementioned "release position," by a translational movement. Preferably, this can be achieved through a purely translational movement, and particularly preferably through a purely translational movement orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

[0066] Preferably, only when the locking element axially abuts the cable-side end stop of the housing component ("locking position") is the at least one movement of the locking element perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber also limited.

[0067] The movement of the locking element by the at least one first blocking means in the spatial direction running at least one angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber is preferably therefore only limited in the locking position.

[0068] However, it is also possible, in principle, to mount the locking element in the receiving chamber in such a way that, immediately after installation, the locking element is already in the locked position, in which the at least one first blocking means limits the movement of the locking element in at least one spatial direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. This can be achieved, for example, by making the feed opening and the locking element the same width, or at least substantially the same width.

[0069] According to the invention, the first blocking means is a first blocking surface. This can be formed on a recess or a projection in the housing component. The surface vector of the first blocking surface has a component pointing towards the plug-side end of the housing component.

[0070] It can also be optionally provided that the surface vector of the first blocking surface has a component in the insertion direction or in the assembly direction of the locking element in the release position.

[0071] The second locking element can also be designed as a locking surface. This second locking surface can be located on a recess or a projection of the locking element.

[0072] It may be provided that the area vector of the second locking surface has a component pointing towards the cable-side end of the housing component. Additionally or alternatively, it may also be provided that the area vector of the second locking surface has a component pointing towards the release position opposite to the insertion direction or the mounting direction of the locking element (i.e., a component in the "disassembly direction" of the locking element). For example, the second locking surface may have an area vector that is opposite in direction to the area vector of the first locking surface.

[0073] For the sake of simplicity, the first blocking area and the second blocking area are sometimes referred to collectively as "blocking areas" below.

[0074] The first locking surface can preferably be formed within the feed opening of the housing component. The second locking surface can preferably be formed on an outer surface of the locking element, in particular on an outer surface of the at least one locking leg.

[0075] The first blocking element, in particular the first blocking surface, can in principle also be formed on an outside or on an inside of the housing component. The first blocking surface does not necessarily have to be located within the feed opening.

[0076] In particular, the blocking surfaces may have a first directional component or a first extension direction along the tensile load or along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. Additionally, the blocking surfaces may 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 locking element.

[0077] If the locking surfaces exhibit only the first and second directional components, the movement of the locking element against the mounting direction can be advantageously limited. However, if the locking surfaces exhibit only the first and third directional components, the movement of the locking element in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber (i.e., spreading of the locking element) can be blocked.

[0078] In an advantageous further development, it may be provided that the first blocking surface is aligned at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber and / or to a mounting direction for the locking element (for example along the feed opening).

[0079] The first locking surface can be aligned orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber and / or to the mounting direction for the locking element, for example. Preferably, however, an angle other than 90° is provided. In the case of an oblique orientation of the locking surfaces at an angle other than 90°, the locking surfaces exhibit all three of the aforementioned directional components.

[0080] The angled orientation, which differs from 90°, makes it possible to center and align the secondary safety device in the deflected state within the housing component or in the feed opening.

[0081] Another advantage of an angled orientation other than 90° is that the force required to secure the locking element in the locked position increases with increasing tensile load on the contact element. Due to the angled orientation of the first locking surfaces, the locking element is preferentially pressed closer to the contact element as the tensile load increases. As the cable tension increases, the locking element wedges itself more firmly into place.

[0082] The first and second blocking agents are particularly preferably shaped in a complementary, oblique manner.

[0083] The blocking surfaces can preferably be flat or at least substantially flat. However, the blocking surfaces can also have a curved or bent profile, in particular a mutually complementary convex / concave profile. A stepped or multi-stepped profile of the blocking surfaces is also possible.

[0084] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the first blocking means limits the movement of the locking element in two mutually orthogonal spatial directions, each of which is perpendicular, preferably orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0085] This can result in three main options for limiting the safety element: a) The locking 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 oriented perpendicular to the mounting direction for the locking element, in particular orthogonally to it. b) The locking element is blocked transversely to its mounting direction in a direction pointing away from the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber, so that the locking element cannot spread open 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).

[0086] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the housing component and the locking element form a mutual thread-like connection.

[0087] The threaded connection preferably extends along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber in such a way that the locking element rotates relative to the housing component during an axial displacement along the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber.

[0088] For example, an inner wall of the housing component and an outer surface of the locking element can be shaped complementarily to each other, at least in sections, to form the threaded connection. Thus, when the cable is pulled longitudinally, the locking element can be set into rotation relative to the longitudinal axis of the connector or the receiving chamber.

[0089] The movement of the locking element can also be limited by rotating it in at least one spatial direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receiving chamber. Three particularly advantageous variants result from this: a) The rotation of the locking element causes the locking element to be immediately fixed to the contact element, by the locking element, rotated from its initial position, engaging behind the contact element at least partially, for example by rotating the opening of the clamp-like locking element relative to the mounting direction of the locking element; and / or b) The rotation of the locking element causes the locking element to be immediately fixed to the housing component, by the locking element, rotated from its initial position, engaging behind the housing component at least partially, for example by the locking element being moved radially and / or axially under a projection of the housing component during the rotation, or being moved radially and / or axially into a receptacle of the housing component at least partially;and / or c) The rotation of the locking element causes the locking element to be immediately fixed to the housing component, by the locking element being engaged at least partially behind it by the housing component after being rotated from its initial position.

[0090] According to a further development, it can be provided that the thread-like connection forms fewer than two complete threads, preferably only one complete thread or less, preferably only half a thread or less, and particularly preferably only a quarter of a thread or even less.

[0091] Thus, even a slight axial displacement can cause a rotation, so that the locking element is sufficiently limited in its movement or secured.

[0092] In an advantageous further development of the invention, it can be provided that the housing component has several parallel receiving chambers for respective contact elements.

[0093] For example, the housing component may have exactly two parallel receiving chambers for each contact element, three parallel receiving chambers for each contact element, four parallel receiving chambers for each contact element, or even more parallel receiving chambers for each contact element.

[0094] The locking element can be designed to secure at least two of the contact elements together (in particular at least two contact elements received in immediately adjacent receiving chambers).

[0095] The invention also relates to a connector, in particular an electrical connector or an optical connector, comprising a connector housing arrangement according to the preceding and following embodiments, as well as the contact element. The contact element can be received in the receiving chamber and the locking element for axially securing the contact element can be mounted in the housing component.

[0096] A connector with increased contact retention force can be advantageously provided by preventing the locking element from moving out of its locking position, for example, by springing back. In this way, the holding force of the contact element coupled to the locking element within the connector housing or a housing component of the connector can be increased. Complex geometries of the connector housing for accommodating or covering the locking element can be avoided, thus minimizing the installation space required for the connector despite high mechanical stability and holding force.

[0097] The contact element can be connected to an electrical or optical conductor of an electrical or optical cable, for example by crimping or crimping. As mentioned above, the connector can be any type of connector. It does not necessarily have to be a cable connector. Within the scope of the invention, the contact element can be connected to any conductor, for example, soldered to or solderable to an electrical conductor of a printed circuit board.

[0098] The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a connector, in particular an electrical connector, comprising at least the following process 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 locking element (preferably a locking element as described above and below) 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 stress.

[0099] The invention also relates to a locking element for a connector housing arrangement of a connector, in particular an electrical connector, wherein the locking 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.

[0100] Features described in connection with one of the subject matter of the invention, namely the connector housing arrangement according to the invention, the connector according to the invention, the locking element according to the invention, and the method for manufacturing the connector, can also be advantageously implemented for the other subject matter of the invention. Likewise, advantages mentioned in connection with one of the subject matter of the invention can also be understood to relate to the other subject matter of the invention.

[0101] It should also be noted that terms such as "comprehensive," "exhibiting," or "with" do not exclude other characteristics or steps. Furthermore, terms such as "a" or "the," which indicate a singular number of steps or characteristics, do not exclude a plurality of characteristics or steps—and vice versa.

[0102] In a purist embodiment of the invention, however, it may also be provided that the features introduced in the invention with the terms "comprising," "comprising," or "with" are exhaustively listed. Accordingly, one or more lists of features within the scope of the invention may be considered complete, for example, for each claim. The invention may, for instance, consist exclusively of the features mentioned in claim 1.

[0103] It should be noted that designations such as "first" or "second" etc. are primarily used for the purpose of distinguishing between the respective device or process features and are not necessarily intended to indicate that features are mutually dependent or related to each other.

[0104] 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 named value or parameter, provided that such 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 that are encompassed by the respective named range, in particular the initial and final values ​​and a respective mean value.

[0105] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0106] The figures each show preferred embodiments in which individual features of the present invention are combined with one another. Features of an 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 to form further meaningful combinations and subcombinations with features of other embodiments.

[0107] In the figures, functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0108] They show schematically: Figure 1 shows a connector according to an embodiment of the invention with a contact element and a connector housing arrangement comprising a housing component and a locking element, in a pre-assembled state in a perspective view; Figure 2 shows the connector of the Figure 1 in an assembled state during a tensile load acting on the contact element; Figure 3 a section-by-section longitudinal view through the assembled connector according to Figure 2 in an unloaded state of the contact element, in which the locking element is in a release position; Figure 4 a section-by-section longitudinal view through the assembled connector according to Figure 2in the tensile state of the contact element, in which the locking element is in a locking position; Figure 5 a section-by-section longitudinal view through an assembled connector according to a further embodiment of the invention, in which the locking of the contact element by the locking element is effected indirectly by locking a primary locking element; Figure 6 a connector according to a further embodiment of the invention, in a pre-assembly state in a perspective view; Figure 7 the connector of the Figure 6 in an assembled state, during a tensile load acting on the contact element; Figure 8 a section-by-section longitudinal view through the assembled connector according to Figure 7in an unloaded state of the contact element, in which the locking element is in a release position; Figure 9 a section-by-section longitudinal view through the assembled connector according to Figure 7 in the tensile state of the contact element, in which the locking element is in a locking position; Figure 10 a connector according to a further embodiment of the invention, in a pre-assembled state in a perspective view; Figure 11 the connector of the Figure 10 in an assembled state during a tensile load acting on the contact element; Figure 12 a connector according to a further embodiment of the invention, in a pre-assembled state in a perspective view; Figure 13 the connector of the Figure 12 in an assembled state in which the contact element is in an unloaded state; Figure 14 the connector of the Figure 12in an assembled state in which the contact element is under tensile stress; Figure 15 a cross-sectional view through the assembled connector according to Figure 13 in the unloaded state of the contact element; Figure 16 a cross-sectional view through the assembled connector according to Figure 14 in the tensile state of the contact element; and Figure 17 Two exemplary variants for mutual interlocking of locking element and housing component in the state of the locking element rotated from its initial position.

[0109] The Figures 1 to 4 show a connector 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention. Figure 1 In perspective, this is an unassembled state and in the Figures 2 to 4 Each connector is shown in its assembled state. Connector 1 is an example of an electrical connector 1.

[0110] The connector 1 comprises a connector housing assembly 2 and a contact element 3. The contact element 3 can be connected to an electrical conductor of an electrical cable 4 (e.g., crimped or soldered / welded), as illustrated by way of example in the exemplary embodiments. In the exemplary embodiments, a coaxial or rotationally symmetrical, predominantly elongated contact element 3 is shown, which, however, should not be interpreted as a limitation.

[0111] The connector housing arrangement 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 therefore be mounted in the receiving chamber 6, as shown in Figure 2 shown. For reasons of clarity, housing component 5 is shown in Figure 2 Shown only with dashed lines.

[0112] 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 locking element 7, which can also be mounted in the housing component 5. A mounted state of the contact element 3 and the locking element 7 is shown in Figure 2 shown.

[0113] In principle, the locking element 7 can be of any design. In the exemplary embodiments, a clamp-like locking element 7 is provided, which has two locking arms 8 that are connected to each other via a common connecting bracket 9. The locking element 7 is thus able to clamp around the contact element 3.

[0114] It can be provided that at least one locking element 10b of the locking element 7 engages directly in at least one corresponding locking receptacle 10a of the contact element 3, so that a movement coupling between the contact element 3 and the locking element 7 is created. For this purpose, in the exemplary embodiments, the locking element 7 has an annular circumferential rib 10b on its inner surface between the locking legs 8, which engages in an annular circumferential recess or groove 10a of the contact element 3 on its outer surface. The locking element 7 can optionally also be latched to the contact element 3 or locked in some other way when mounted in the housing component 5 (not shown in the exemplary embodiments).

[0115] The locking element 7 of the Figures 1 to 4 (and also the following Figures 6 to 17The contact element 3 is thus designed to mechanically secure it axially in the state it is mounted in the housing component 5. As mentioned above, such a locking element 7 is also known as an "independent locking element".

[0116] However, in principle, indirect securing of the contact element 3 by a "dependent securing element" can also be provided, as in Figure 5 indicated. As can be seen from Figure 5 This results in the locking element 7 axially securing the contact element 3, for example, by blocking a separate primary locking element 11, for instance by preventing a primary locking hook from springing back, as is done in Figure 5 This is achieved through the connecting bracket 9 of the locking element 7. In this case, the locking element 7 can optionally also be mechanically connected directly to the contact element 3 and / or the housing component.

[0117] In the exemplary embodiments, the housing component 5 has a feed opening 12, in the form of a slot for the locking element 7, which extends at an angle, in particular orthogonally, to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6. The feed opening 12, or the slot, opens into the receiving chamber 6.

[0118] Although the exemplary embodiments show a connector 1 or a connector housing assembly 2 with only a single contact element 3 or with only a single receiving chamber 6, it is generally possible for the housing component 5 to have several receiving chambers 6 running parallel to each other for the respective contact elements 3. Several housing components 5, each with at least one receiving chamber 6, can also be provided in a common connector housing assembly 2. The locking element 7 can then be configured to axially secure at least two of the contact elements 3 together, in particular at least two immediately adjacent contact elements 3. In the case of several receiving chambers 6 or several contact elements 3, it is of course also possible for each of these to be secured by a respective locking element 7.The invention should therefore not be understood as being limited to use with a connector 1 having only a single contact element 3.

[0119] The axial securing of the contact element 3 in the receiving chamber 6 by the locking element 7 is particularly well illustrated by the Figures 3 and 4 recognizable. In Figure 3 is a force-free, unburdened state and in Figure 4 a tensile load FZ (see, for example, the force arrow in the Figures 2 and 3 ) deflected state of contact element 3 and locking element 7 shown.

[0120] The housing component 5 has a cable-side end stop 13 for each of the locking legs 8 in order to limit axial movement of the locking 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 locking element 7 is thus able, for example, to stop on the inside of the feed opening 12 and, due to the direct or indirect connection with the contact element 3, also to limit the movement of the contact element 3.

[0121] To prevent, according to the invention, the locking element 7 from no longer being able to maintain its locking position within the receiving chamber 6 under further increased tensile load FZ, for example by moving the locking element 7 against its mounting direction M (cf. Figure 1) is partially lifted out of the feed opening 12 again or spreads out laterally to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6, it is proposed to form at least a first locking means 14 on the housing component 5 in order to prevent movement of the locking element 7, at least in the case of tensile load FZ, in at least one spatial direction x, y perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6 (see in particular the in Figure 1 to limit the represented coordinate system.

[0122] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 4 It is provided that the movement of the locking element 7 in the case of tensile load FZ is limited in a first spatial direction y opposite to the mounting direction M of the locking element orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6 (cf. Figures 2 and 4 ).

[0123] The locking element 7 has a second locking means 15 on each of its locking legs 8, which is configured to mechanically contact the first locking means 14 of the housing component 5 in order to limit the movement of the locking element 7 accordingly. Preferably, the second locking means 15 and the first locking means 14 each have a complementary shape. In particular, the first locking means 14 can be a first locking surface 16 formed on a recess or projection in the housing component 5, especially in the feed opening 12 for the locking element 7. Correspondingly, the second locking means 15 can be a complementary second locking surface 17.

[0124] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 1 to 4The blocking surfaces 16, 17 are aligned at an angle to the mounting direction M of the locking element 7 and to the course of the feed opening 12, respectively. An angle α other than 90° has proven particularly suitable (see figure). Figure 3 ), to ensure the centering of the locking element 7 in the case of tensile stress and also to continuously increase the holding force for the locking element 7 in the case of continuously increasing tensile load FZ.

[0125] In the Figures 1 to 4 In the illustrated embodiment, unwanted slippage of the locking element 7 out of the feed opening 12 is thus prevented, even under very high tensile loads FZ. However, lateral or radial spreading of the locking element 7 cannot be ruled out in this variant. To prevent spreading of the locking element 7, the following is to be considered: Figures 6 to 9 A further embodiment of the invention will be presented.

[0126] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 6 to 9 The blocking surfaces 16, 17 of the first blocking means 14 and of the second blocking means 15 are arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6, preferably at an angle β other than 90° (see figure). Figure 8 ). As can be seen particularly well from the information in the Figures 8 and 9 The depicted, cutaway top view shows that in the case of tensile load FZ (see...) Figure 9 ) spreading of the clamp-like locking element 7 out of its locking position in a second spatial direction x by the inclined blocking surfaces 16, 17 is avoided.

[0127] However, in the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 6 to 9 It cannot be ruled out that the locking element 7 will protrude from the feed opening 12 in the opposite direction to the mounting direction M if the contact element 3 is subjected to particularly high tensile loads FZ. Therefore, the following should be considered: Figures 10 and 11In a further embodiment of the invention, a combination of the two variants is shown to limit the movement of the locking element 7 in two mutually orthogonal spatial directions x, y, each of which is also orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6.

[0128] Accordingly, the housing component 5 has, for each locking leg 8, a first locking element 14 with a first locking surface 16 extending perpendicularly to the receiving chamber 6, and an additional first locking element 14 with a further first locking surface 16 oriented perpendicularly to the mounting direction M of the locking element 7. Thus, two first locking surfaces 16 are provided in the housing component 5 for each locking leg 8. The locking element 7 has complementary second locking surfaces 17. In this way, spreading of the locking element 7 and slipping out of the feed opening 12 can be prevented.

[0129] Another embodiment of the invention is described in the Figures 12 to 16 depicted.

[0130] As an alternative to the above variants, the housing component 5 and the locking element 7 can form a mutual, thread-like connection 18, which extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6 such that the locking 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 case of tensile loading is described in the Figure 14 and 16 depicted.

[0131] The rotation of the locking element 7 also allows for direct fixation of the locking element 7 to the contact element 3 (and / or to the housing component 5, as will be shown below by means of Figure 17(illustrated) can be realized. The rotation can cause the opening of the locking element 7 to be rotated with respect to its mounting direction M, so that the locking element 7 engages behind the contact element 3, which can lead to a movement limitation according to the invention (see the Figures 15 and 16 ).

[0132] Based on Figure 17Furthermore, two variants, which can be implemented independently or in combination, for a locking element 7 that is rotated under load are shown in section (the contact element 3 is hidden in each case), in which the locking element 7 is directly fixed or secured to the housing component 5 by the locking element 7 and the housing component 5 mutually interlocking, at least partially, axially and / or radially, due to the rotation. For example, the locking element 7 can be moved under a first locking surface 16 of a first locking means 14, as also shown in a comparison of the Figures 13 and 14is clearly recognizable. The respective locking edges 19 of locking element 7 and / or housing component 5 can also be used accordingly to limit the movement of the locking element 7 in at least one spatial direction x, y perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the receiving chamber 6 when the locking element 7 is rotated from its initial position. This is particularly (but not exclusively) the case when the locking element 7 is rotated from its initial position. Figure 17 In the variant shown on the right, the locking can be achieved by utilizing the simultaneous axial and radial displacement of the thread.

[0133] It has been shown that a particularly advantageous securing of the locking element 7 can be achieved if the thread-like connection 18 forms only one complete thread or less, preferably only one quarter of a thread.

[0134] The variants described and illustrated above are merely examples and are not to be understood as limiting. In principle, limiting the locking element 7 by at least one first blocking means 14 of the housing component 5 is also possible in many other ways within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. 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), wherein the housing component (5) has a feed opening (12) for the securing element (7) which runs at an angle to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6) and opens into the receiving chamber (6), wherein the housing component (5) has at least one cable-side end stop (13) for the securing element (7) 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 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) in order to limit 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 to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6), and wherein the securing element (7) comprises at least one second blocking means (15), which is designed to mechanically contact the first blocking means (14) of the housing component (5) in the locking position in order to limit the movement of the securing element (7) in the at least one spatial direction (x, y) extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6), wherein the securing element (7) is axially displaceable between a release position and a locking position in the housing component (5) and / or is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6), wherein the release position is a mechanically unloaded, force-free mounting position of the securing element (7) in the housing component (5), and the locking position is a mechanically loaded position of the securing element (7) in the housing component (5), which differs from the release position, wherein the securing element (7) secures the contact element (3) in both the release position and the securing position, wherein the securing element (7) is mechanically coupled to the contact element (3) in the assembled, so that the securing element (7) is carried axially by the contact element (3) in the case of axial cable pull, wherein the securing element (7) is movable from the release position to the securing position as a result of the tensile load (FZ), and wherein the first blocking means (14) is a first blocking surface (16) of which the surface vector has a component in the direction of a plug-side end of the housing component (5).

2. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to Claim 1, characterized in that a transverse extent of the feed opening (12) is greater than a transverse extent of the securing element (7).

3. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to Claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the securing element (7) is designed to mechanically secure the contact element (3) directly axially in the state in which it is mounted in the housing component (5), in particular by means of 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).

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

5. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 4, 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 each other in a clamp-like manner via a connecting bracket (9).

6. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the second blocking means (15) has a course complementary to that of the first blocking means (14).

7. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 6, 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.

8. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 7, 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 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).

9. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to Claim 8, 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) other than 90°.

10. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 9, 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).

11. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to Claim 7, 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) during axial displacement along the longitudinal axis (L) of the receiving chamber (6).

12. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the housing component (5) has several receiving chambers (6) running parallel to each other for respective contact elements (3), wherein the securing element (7) is designed to secure at least two of the contact elements (3) together axially.

13. Plug connector housing assembly (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the securing element (7) is a rigid component.

14. Plug connector (1), in particular electrical plug connector (1), comprising a plug connector housing assembly (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 13 and the contact element (3), wherein the contact element (3) is received in the receiving chamber (6) and the securing element (7) is mounted in the housing component (5) for axial securing of the contact element (3).

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