Single pole electrical connector system

Abstract

The invention is based on a single-pole connector system consisting of a connector and a mating connector, wherein the connector has a locking shape and the mating connector has a locking mechanism corresponding to the locking shape, or vice versa, wherein the locking mechanism is triggered in a locking manner by a first pressure in the plugging direction.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a single-pole electrical connector system according to the preamble of independent claim 1.

[0002] Such connector systems are needed to ensure reliable electrical contact for work equipment in harsh environments, for example, for trucks, tractors, and construction machinery in agricultural fields, forests, quarries, and also in industrial environments such as manufacturing halls and workshops. In particular, these connector systems are required for heavy, mobile work machines with DC-powered work units. State of the art

[0003] Connector systems for harsh environments are typically equipped with dust caps. These dust caps are often fitted with tamper-evident devices to prevent them from being lost or needing to be stored separately when the connector system is in use.

[0004] Alternatively, there are connector systems which have a spring-loaded cap integrated into the housing of the connector and / or the mating connector, which closes automatically as soon as the connector system is not in use.

[0005] An example of such connector systems is US 4,061,407 A, which discloses an electrical connector arrangement with a plug and a socket, wherein the socket has a cover which is guided in a closed direction by a spring, the cover holding the plug in the connected state in the direction of the socket.

[0006] A disadvantage of known connector systems is the use of external components, such as spring-loaded external covers, or simple rubber grommets and / or plastic caps. On the one hand, these caps can easily get lost. On the other hand, such caps are quickly damaged, which logically reduces their ability to protect the connector system components from the ingress of foreign substances such as dirt, dust, fluids, or the like. Task

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide a self-sealing connector system against foreign media with a simple locking mechanism. A further object of the invention is to provide overload protection for such a locking mechanism.

[0008] The problem is solved by the subject matter of independent claim 1. A further problem is solved by the subject matter of independent claim 9.

[0009] The invention relates to a single-pole connector system consisting of a connector and a mating connector, wherein the connector comprises a connector housing, a connector contact seal, and a connector contact element, and wherein the mating connector comprises a mating connector housing, a mating connector contact seal, a mating connector touch guard, and a mating connector contact element. The connector contact seal engages functionally with a connector sealing spring, such that the connector contact seal is displaceable within the connector housing in the insertion direction against a force exerted by the connector sealing spring.Furthermore, the mating connector contact seal is in functional engagement with a mating connector sealing spring, so that the mating connector contact seal is displaceable within the mating connector housing in the mating direction against a force of the mating connector sealing spring.

[0010] The terms "connector" and "mother connector" are chosen to describe two distinct connectors within the connector system. All properties of the mother connector can apply to the connector, and vice versa, provided that a meaningful correspondence between the connector and mother connector is ensured.

[0011] The "housings," both the connector housing and the mating connector housing, are designed to accommodate the contact elements, i.e., the connector contact element and the mating connector contact element. According to the invention, the housings are designed to completely surround the contact elements along their longitudinal orientation.

[0012] The term "contact element" refers to electrically conductive elements that can be brought into corresponding contact with one another and are each connected to an electrical conductor, preferably an electrically conductive cable. In the following, terms such as "contact-side" or "cable-side" are used in reference to the contact elements. "Contact-side" refers to the side of a contact element that can be brought into electrically conductive contact with a corresponding contact element. "Cable-side" refers to the side opposite the "contact-side," i.e., the side to which an electrical conductor, such as an electrically conductive cable, is connected.

[0013] The "contact seal" consists of sealing elements that essentially seal a contact against foreign media. According to the invention, the aforementioned contact seals interact at least with the respective housing to achieve the desired seal.

[0014] The term "sealing spring" refers to spring elements designed to return the respective contact seal of the connector or mating connector to a predetermined starting position. As soon as the respective sealing spring—that is, the connector sealing spring or the mating connector sealing spring—is not subjected to a defined force against the insertion direction (in the case of the connector sealing spring) or the opposite insertion direction (in the case of the mating connector sealing spring), the sealing spring forces the corresponding contact spring in the insertion direction, all the way to the end of the housing. More precisely, the connector sealing spring forces the connector contact seal in the insertion direction to a mating-side end of the connector housing. Here, the connector contact seal, moved by the connector sealing spring, seals the connector contact element against foreign matter.Preferably, an approximately flush end face is formed at the plug-side end of the connector housing with the connector sealing element. Similarly, the mating connector sealing spring forces the mating connector contact seal in the opposite direction to a plug-side end of the mating connector housing. The mating connector contact seal, moved by the mating connector sealing spring, seals the mating connector contact element against foreign media. Preferably, an approximately flush end face is formed at the plug-side end of the mating connector housing with the mating connector sealing element and the mating connector touch guard.According to the invention, the connector sealing spring exerts a force of ≥ 10 Newtons (N), preferably ≥ 14.7 N, ideally ≥ 30 N, or alternatively ≥ 50 N in the mating direction when the connector is unmated. To comply with standards for preventing accidental contact, a force of 20 N is required to displace the connector sealing element in the opposite mating direction. This ensures the seal remains securely closed and protects the connector against the unintentional ingress of foreign matter until a mating operation with a corresponding mating connector is initiated.According to the invention, the mating connector sealing spring exerts a force of ≥ 10 N, preferably ≥ 14.7 N, ideally ≥ 30 N, or alternatively ≥ 50 N in the mating direction when the mating connector is unmated. To comply with standards for preventing accidental contact, a force of 20 N is required to displace the mating connector sealing element in the mating direction. This ensures the seal remains securely closed and protects the mating connector against the unintentional ingress of foreign matter until a mating operation with a corresponding connector is initiated.

[0015] The term "mating connector touch guard" primarily refers to a device that is not electrically connected to a conductive element, thus preventing an electrical connection to an operator and / or a third party in the event of accidental or intentional contact with the mating connector. Preferably, such a touch guard is made of a non-conductive plastic. Alternatively, a non-conductive metal can also be used to provide touch protection. A rubber-containing material can also be used. Combinations of the aforementioned materials are, of course, conceivable, such as plastic-coated metal elements, rubber-coated plastic elements, or the like. The touch guard is preferably applied to a cylindrical part of a mating connector contact element.

[0016] Advantageously, it is proposed that the connector sealing element and the mating connector sealing element be designed with features that ensure the sealing elements are approximately flush with the housing. This means, for example, that a connector sealing element has a circumferential groove into which a connector contact element engages once the desired end position of the connector sealing element is reached along the connector housing, more precisely, at an end face facing the mating direction. For the mating connector, this means that a mating connector sealing element has, for example, a circumferential spring or a stop that abuts an inner surface of the mating connector housing once the desired end position of the mating connector sealing element is reached along the mating connector housing, more precisely, at an end face facing the mating direction.According to the invention, the mating connector touch guard fits approximately flush into the arrangement consisting of the mating connector sealing element and the end face of the mating connector.

[0017] One embodiment provides that the connector contact element has a hollow cylindrical crimp area, a substantially hollow cylindrical contact area, and a spring-loaded receptacle within the contact area. An electrical conductor is inserted into the crimp area and crimped there to create electrical contact. The contact area is designed for mating with a corresponding mating contact area. The proposed connector contact element is designed as a socket contact. The contact area has slots along its longitudinal axis, allowing for elastic deformation. These slots can be parallel to the longitudinal axis or, alternatively, parallel to a longitudinal plane.Particularly advantageous is the design of the slots, offset from the longitudinal axis in the insertion direction and rotating accordingly. The plug contact spring receptacle can be designed as a pin pointing in the insertion direction. In this case, the outer diameter of the pin essentially corresponds to the inner diameter of the connector sealing spring. Alternatively, the plug contact spring receptacle can be designed as a concentric groove, with the groove width essentially corresponding to the thickness of the connector sealing spring. Furthermore, the plug contact spring receptacle can be designed as a concentric recess, with the radius of the recess essentially corresponding to the outer diameter of the connector sealing spring. The plug contact spring receptacle ensures a secure fit of the connector sealing spring in the connector contact element, thereby guaranteeing reliable movement of the connector contact seal.

[0018] Another embodiment provides that the mating connector contact element has a hollow cylindrical crimp area and a substantially cylindrical contact area, wherein, in the mating direction, a mating contact touch guard receptacle is formed at the end of the contact area, which is designed to receive a mating connector touch guard. This mating connector touch guard is preferably pressed onto the mating connector contact element. Alternatively, the mating connector touch guard can be screwed into a threaded mating connector touch guard receptacle. Furthermore, a material-bonded connection, for example by adhesive bonding, of the mating connector touch guard to or on the mating connector touch guard receptacle is also possible.In an alternative embodiment, the mating connector contact element has a hollow cylindrical crimp area and a substantially hollow cylindrical contact area, wherein a mating contact touch guard receptacle is formed at the end of the contact area in the mating direction, which is designed to receive a mating connector touch guard. This mating connector touch guard is preferably pressed onto the mating connector contact element. Alternatively, the mating connector touch guard can be screwed into a threaded mating contact touch guard receptacle. Furthermore, a material-bonded connection, for example by adhesive bonding, of the mating connector touch guard to, or on, the mating connector touch guard receptacle is also possible.

[0019] In a further developed embodiment, the mating connector contact element within the hollow cylindrical mating contact area further comprises at least one mating contact pin element, wherein a corresponding connector contact element is electrically connected between the mating contact area and the mating contact pin element. To enable the practical and reliable use of such a contact configuration in harsh working environments, it is further proposed that transmission spring elements be used to connect the mating connector contact element and the connector contact element. In the prior art, ring-shaped spiral springs are frequently used for this purpose. Alternatively, resilient, ring-shaped contact strips can be used.

[0020] In a clever embodiment, the connector housing is shaped in such a way that it displaces the mating connector's contact seal during a mating operation. This ensures a secure mating process between the connector and its mating connector, with the connector housing relieving the connector contact element of stress by transferring the force required to displace the mating connector's contact seal to the connector housing, thereby largely preventing potential damage to the connector contact element.

[0021] In a clever embodiment, the mating connector touch guard is shaped in such a way that it displaces the connector contact seal during a mating operation. This ensures a secure mating process between the connector and mating connector, with the mating connector touch guard protecting the mating connector contact element by transferring the force required to displace the connector contact seal from the mating connector touch guard itself, thus largely preventing potential damage to the mating connector contact element.

[0022] One advantageous embodiment provides that the connector contact element is essentially designed as a socket contact and that the mating connector contact element is essentially designed as a pin contact, or vice versa. In this context, a pin contact can also be configured as a pin contact with a concentric contact sleeve, whereby this configuration allows for a particularly advantageous contact arrangement. In this way, the socket contact can be electrically connected internally to the pin contact element, while simultaneously an external contact is established through the concentric contact sleeve.

[0023] A further developed embodiment proposes that the connector contact element has a contact shape at the end of the plug-in contact area in the insertion direction, which ensures contact between the connector contact element and the mating connector contact element. Advantageously, this contact shape is designed as an inwardly directed, circumferential ridge. The connector contact element, preferably designed as a socket, ideally has longitudinal slots that allow elastic deformation of the plug-in contact area, making the contact shape particularly advantageous for ensuring electrical contact.

[0024] Furthermore, one embodiment provides that the connector has a locking feature and the mating connector has a locking mechanism corresponding to the locking feature, or vice versa, wherein the locking mechanism is triggered by a first pressure in the insertion direction. Such pressure locks are particularly suitable for a self-sealing solution. Solutions that lock under pressure and release under tension are especially preferred. According to the invention, the pressure movement for locking displaces the contact seals, i.e., the connector contact seal and the mating connector contact seal, from their respective counterparts, i.e., the connector housing and the mating connector touch guard, thus establishing electrical contact between the connector contact element and the mating connector contact element.Simultaneously, the locking mechanism secures the connector to the mating connector in this contacting position. A release mechanism, often implemented as a release sleeve in known solutions, disengages the lock, allowing the connector to be separated from the mating connector. Here, the sealing springs—the connector sealing spring and the mating connector sealing spring—ensure that the contact seals are returned to their respective sealing positions. Such locking mechanisms are also known in the prior art as "push-pull locks."

[0025] A particularly advantageous embodiment proposes that the locking mechanism is released from the locking form by a second push in the insertion direction. In other words, the embodiment locks upon a first push, as described above, and upon a second push, the lock is released, allowing the connector to be separated from the mating connector. In the prior art, such locks are also referred to as "ballpoint pen locks" or "push-push locks".

[0026] Another problem is solved by a single-pole connector comprising a connector housing and a connector contact element arranged in the connector housing. The connector contact element has a crimp contact area at its end opposite the insertion direction and a contact contact area at its end in the insertion direction. A connector contact seal is arranged for the contact contact area, which is displaced by a corresponding mating connector during a insertion operation. Such a connector has the advantage of being simple and robust to manufacture compared to a corresponding mating connector with a locking mechanism.Especially in agricultural, construction, or similarly harsh environments, it can be particularly advantageous for a piece of equipment requiring an electrical power supply to have a simple electrical connection. A corresponding mating connector can typically be of a more complex design, as it can be implemented as a mounting housing and integrated into a generator, tractor, truck, wheel loader, excavator, or similarly robust machine. Therefore, it is proposed that the connector, as previously described in the connector system description, be equipped with a locking mechanism, while the mating connector is designed with a more complex structure, including a locking mechanism, as previously described in the connector system description.

[0027] In a further developed embodiment, the connector contact element has a plug-contact spring receptacle on or within the connector contact area, which is shaped to receive a connector sealing spring, and in which the connector contact seal interacts with the plug-contact sealing spring. In this way, a simple and effective seal of the connector against foreign media is achieved, whereby the seal, or sealing cap, in this case the connector contact seal, cannot be easily lost, damaged, or stolen. Furthermore, the connector sealing spring moves the connector contact seal in the insertion direction as soon as the mating connector and connector are separated, thus achieving a particularly advantageous, quasi-permanent seal of the connector when the connector is not in use.

[0028] Another problem is solved by a single-pole mating connector comprising a mating connector housing and a mating connector contact element arranged in the mating connector housing, wherein the mating connector contact element has a mating contact crimp area at its end opposite to the mating direction and a mating contact contact area at its end in the mating direction, wherein a mating connector contact seal is arranged for the mating contact area, which is displaced by a corresponding connector during a mating operation.Such a mating connector can advantageously be designed as a mounting housing, allowing it to be more complex compared to a corresponding connector with a locking mechanism. This more complex design can be installed, for example, inside a generator, tractor, truck, excavator, wheel loader, or similarly robust construction machine. It therefore seems particularly advantageous that the mating connector, as previously described in the connector system description, features a locking mechanism, while the connector itself has a robust and simple design.

[0029] In a further developed embodiment, the mating connector contact element is held in the mating connector housing by a mating connector contact receptacle. The mating connector contact receptacle has a mating contact spring receptacle, which is formed on or in the mating connector contact receptacle and is designed to receive a mating connector sealing spring, wherein the mating connector contact seal interacts with the mating connector sealing spring. The mating connector contact receptacle can be screwed to the mating connector housing to secure the mating connector contact element, and the mating connector housing can have a stop to fix the mating connector contact element in a desired position.Advantageously, the mating connector contact is designed with locking elements that interact with corresponding locking features in the mating connector housing, or vice versa, so that the mating connector contact element is held in the mating connector housing by a simple locking action. Advantageously, the mating connector contact is provided with a circumferential flange located between the interior of the mating connector housing and the outer circumference of the mating connector contact, thus acting as a mating contact spring receptacle. Alternatively, the mating contact spring receptacle can be formed as a concentric, circumferential groove in an outer projection of the mating connector contact, into which the mating connector sealing spring fits.

[0030] Furthermore, a method for manufacturing a connector is disclosed, wherein a connector system comprises a connector with a connector contact seal and wherein a mating connector comprises a mating connector contact seal. During a mating operation, the connector displaces a mating connector contact seal, wherein the displaced connector contact seal exposes a connector contact element, and wherein the displaced mating connector contact seal exposes a mating connector contact element.

[0031] A solution to a further problem of the invention provides a single-pole connector system consisting of a connector and a mating connector, wherein the connector has a connector housing, a connector contact seal and a connector contact element, and wherein the mating connector has a mating connector housing, a mating connector contact seal, a mating connector touch guard and a mating connector contact element.The connector has a locking form, and the mating connector has a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism interacts with the locking form and is actuated by pressure in the insertion direction. This pressure engages the locking mechanism with the locking form, thus locking the connector to the mating connector in an electrically conductive connection. A release pressure in the insertion direction releases the locking mechanism from the locking form. Naturally, the mating connector can also have a locking form, while the connector can be equipped with a locking mechanism. In other words, the terms "connector" and "mother connector" can essentially be used synonymously and primarily serve to improve readability.

[0032] The term "locking feature" refers to a feature on the connector designed to engage with a locking mechanism to secure the connection between a connector and a mating connector against unintentional disconnection. Locking features include, in particular, grooves, springs, detents, detents, bolts, bayonet locking grooves, bayonet locking bolts, cams, cam tracks, projections, or combinations thereof. Other features are known to those skilled in the art and can certainly be transferred. A locking feature designed as a circumferential groove is particularly preferred.

[0033] In principle, any type of device that can be engaged with the previously described locking mechanisms can be considered a "locking mechanism", so that a plug connector and a mating plug connector are secured against accidental disconnection of the electrical connection in the plugged-in position.

[0034] The term "actuating pressure" refers to a mating operation that preferably extends to a physical stop. This physical stop can be limited by the travel of a connector sealing spring, a mating connector sealing spring, or both. Actuating pressure is therefore a pushing movement during a mating operation up to a stop, where the locking mechanism engages in a locking form.

[0035] The term "release pressure" refers to a separation process, specifically a second, repeated pressure, preferably until a physical stop is reached. This release pressure moves a mechanism within the locking system from a locked position to an open position, thus releasing the locking mechanism from its fixed engagement. After this release pressure, the connectors and mating connectors can be separated by a simple pulling motion in the opposite direction of insertion. Locking mechanisms that engage with a first pressure in the insertion direction (actuation pressure) and release with a second pressure in the insertion direction (release pressure) are also known as "push-push locking mechanisms."

[0036] In a further developed embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a locking changer, a locking housing, a rotation stop and a locking spring.

[0037] The term "lock changer" refers to a part of the locking mechanism that, in combination with the locking housing, enables switching between the locked and unlocked positions. It is proposed that the lock changer be designed as a rigid, i.e., non-rotating, movable element, for example, as a sleeve-shaped, essentially hollow cylindrical component, preferably located within a higher-level housing. The locking housing abuts the lock changer, engages with it, penetrates it, or a combination thereof.

[0038] The "rotation stop" is designed in a manner essentially comparable to the locking changer as a hollow cylindrical, rigid, i.e., non-rotatably movable element, which is preferably arranged in a higher-level housing.

[0039] In a suitable embodiment, the locking changer has a reversible toothing, and the locking housing has a housing reversible toothing corresponding to the reversible toothing, with a locking spring forcing the locking housing in the direction of the locking changer. Preferably, the reversible toothing and the housing reversible toothing are designed parallel to the central axis of the mating connector, i.e., the toothing is oriented longitudinally on each end face.

[0040] In a further embodiment, the rotary stop has rotary teeth, and the locking housing has housing rotary teeth corresponding to the rotary teeth. A pressure movement against the locking spring engages the rotary teeth with the housing rotary teeth in such a way that the locking housing is forced to partially rotate. The partial rotation is determined by a tooth width of the rotary teeth, the housing rotary teeth, or both. Preferably, the rotary teeth and the housing rotary teeth are arranged parallel to the central axis of the mating connector, i.e., the teeth point longitudinally on each end face.

[0041] A further developed embodiment proposes that the locking housing has a spring stop against which the locking spring acts, thus forcing the locking housing towards the locking changer. According to the invention, a locking housing is removed from a locking changer by first inserting the connector and mating connector. During this process, the housing's rotary teeth and the housing's rotary teeth engage with each other in such a way that a partial rotation of the locking housing is forced. This partial rotation causes the alternating teeth and the housing's alternating teeth to align in a staggered orientation relative to each other. When the locking spring then brings the alternating teeth and the housing's alternating teeth back together, the teeth engage in such a way that a complete alternating rotation occurs.

[0042] Furthermore, one embodiment proposes that a locking cage be associated with the locking changer, which, during alternating rotation of the locking housing, forces and releases locking elements located within the locking cage alternately into a locking position. The term "locking cage" can be understood as either a single component or an assembly consisting of several essentially separate components that together fulfill the function.

[0043] Another method provides that a connector is provided with a locking form and the mating connector is equipped with a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism is engaged with the locking form by a first actuating pressure in the insertion or rejection direction, thus electrically contacting the connector in the mating connector, and by a second actuating pressure in the insertion or rejection direction releases the locking form through the locking mechanism, so that the connector can be removed from the mating connector.

[0044] A further developed embodiment provides a single-pole connector system comprising a connector and a mating connector, wherein a locking mechanism is arranged in the connector system and wherein a breakaway safety device is assigned to the locking mechanism, which enables the locking mechanism to be released in the event of mechanical overload, in particular by pulling against the direction of insertion.

[0045] In one embodiment, the breakaway device releases the locking mechanism of the connector system upon the occurrence of mechanical overload, such that the connector and mating connector are essentially separated from each other in a functional manner for further use. Ideally, the triggered breakaway device adjusts the locking mechanism in such a way that a subsequent mating operation is possible without further preparation and / or resetting of the locking mechanism.

[0046] In a clever embodiment, it is proposed that the breakaway device incorporates a safety energy storage element, particularly a spring element. The breakaway device allows a locking cage to disengage from the locking housing and / or the locking changer in the disengagement direction, whereby the locking elements release a locking form and thus allow separation of the connector and mating connector.

[0047] In one embodiment, it is proposed that the breakaway safety device at the plug-side end of the locking mechanism has a release sleeve which fixes the locking cage in the intended position on the locking mechanism and is held in this position by a safety energy storage device.

[0048] A further developed embodiment provides that the safety energy storage device can be adjusted in its release force by means of a safety calibration. For this purpose, the safety calibration is essentially designed as a flange with an internal thread, is arranged at a cable-side end of the locking mechanism, and its position along the locking mechanism can be changed by means of an external thread located thereon via the internal thread.

[0049] Preferably, one embodiment provides that the safety energy storage device is arranged between the release sleeve and the locking housing and is designed as a circumferential spring. This embodiment thus offers a safe, yet cost-effective and robust possibility for the flexible implementation of the breakaway safety device according to the invention.

[0050] Alternatively, it is proposed that in one embodiment the safety energy storage device be designed as a circumferential spiral spring ring, arranged in a first groove in the locking mechanism and engaging in a corresponding second groove in the release sleeve. For this purpose, inclined spiral springs, also known in the prior art as BalSeal springs, can be used effectively. The safety energy storage device designed as a spiral spring ring deforms under a defined tensile load in the opposite direction to the deflection direction, thus releasing the release sleeve in the insertion direction.

[0051] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims and the following description. Example of implementation

[0052] An embodiment of the invention is shown in the drawings and is explained in more detail below. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a connector; Fig. 2 a perspective view of a mating connector; Fig. 3 a sectional view along the longitudinal axis of a connector system; Fig. 4 a sectional view along the longitudinal axis of a mated connector system; Fig. 5 a side view of a connector system with a locking mechanism in the initial position; Fig. 6 a side view of a connector system with a locking mechanism in the mated position; Fig. 7 a perspective sectional view along the longitudinal axis of a connector system with a breakaway device in the locked state; Fig. 8 a perspective sectional view along the longitudinal axis of a connector system with a breakaway device during a breakaway operation.

[0053] The figures contain simplified, schematic representations. In some cases, identical reference symbols are used for elements that are the same but may not be identical. Different views of the same elements may be scaled differently. Directional indications such as "left," "right," "up," and "down" are to be understood in relation to the respective figure and may vary from one representation to the actual object depicted.

[0054] The Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a connector 2 according to the invention, in a particularly simple embodiment. The illustration shows a connector housing 20 and a connector contact seal 21 arranged on the mating end face.

[0055] The Figure 2The illustration shows a mating connector 3 according to the invention in a particularly simple embodiment corresponding to the connector 2. The illustration shows a mating connector housing 30, a mating connector contact seal 31 arranged on the mating end face, and a mating connector touch guard 32 in the concentrically annular mating connector contact seal 31.

[0056] In the Figure 3A longitudinal section of a connector system 1 according to the invention is shown, illustrating the structures of the connector 2 and the mating connector 3. The figure first shows the connector 2 and mating connector 3 in an unmated state, with the connector 2 positioned against the mating connector 3 in such a way that a mating operation can take place. The mating end face of the connector 2 is guided against the mating end face of the mating connector 3, so that the connector contact seal 21 is opposite the mating connector touch guard 32. The end face of the connector housing 20 abuts the mating connector contact seal 31. Furthermore, a mating connector contact element 34 is provided with a mating connector touch guard 32, which is substantially flush with the mating connector housing 30 on the mating side.It becomes clear here that the mating connector touch guard 32 corresponds to the connector contact seal 21 in such a way that, during a mating operation, the mating connector touch guard 32 is designed to displace the connector contact seal 21 in the mating direction G against a spring force of the connector sealing spring 23. Similarly, the connector housing 20 is designed to displace the concentric mating connector contact seal 31 in the mating direction S against a force applied by a mating connector sealing spring 33. Furthermore, a simple structure of a connector 2 according to the invention is illustrated. Within the connector housing 20, a spring-loaded connector contact seal 21, a connector contact element 22, and a connector sealing spring 23, arranged in the connector contact element 22 and interacting with the connector contact seal 21, are arranged.A connector sealing spring 23 forces the connector sealing element 21 in the insertion direction S, so that it is approximately flush with the end face of the connector housing 20. It is proposed to provide a sealing element 6 in a designated shape and / or recess in the insertion-side end of the connector housing 20. In the illustrated, unmated state, the sealing element 6 seals the interior of the connector housing 20 and thus the connector contact element 22 against foreign media. The sealing element 6 can be designed as a simple O-ring. Preferably, the sealing element is designed as a lamellar seal or lamellar sealing ring, with the lamellae pointing towards the connector contact seal 21. The simple design of the mating connector 3 is also disclosed.The mating connector housing 30 accommodates at least one mating connector contact seal 31, which is approximately flush with the mating connector housing 30 and also approximately flush with a mating connector touch guard 32. The mating connector contact seal 31 is pushed in the mating direction G by a mating connector sealing spring 33, where at least one sealing element 6, in a form provided for this purpose, is directed inwards within the mating connector housing 30 and seals the mating connector contact seal 31 against foreign media when unmated. It is further proposed that the mating connector contact seal 31 be equipped with a sealing element 6 pointing inwards towards the mating connector touch guard 32. Alternatively, it is proposed that the mating connector touch guard 32 have an outwards-facing sealing element 6.The mating connector sealing spring 33 and a mating connector contact element 34 are held in the mating connector housing 30 by a mating connector contact receptacle 35.

[0057] In the Figure 4A longitudinal section of a connector system 1 according to the invention is shown, illustrating the structures of the connector 2 and the mating connector 3 in a connected state. This clearly shows how a connector 2 engages with a mating connector 3. Furthermore, it shows how the connector contact element 22 is brought into an electrically conductive connection with the mating connector contact element 34 according to the invention. An electrical conductor, typically a cable, is inserted into a connector contact crimp area 220 and crimped there. Arranged at its end in the insertion direction S, the connector contact element 22 has a connector contact area 221, which is designed to be connectable with a mating connector contact element 34.The embodiment shown depicts the connector contact element 22 as a socket contact; the plug contact contact area 221 is therefore essentially hollow cylindrical.

[0058] At its end, pointing in the insertion direction S, the plug contact contact area 221 is provided with a plug contact contact form 223. The illustrated embodiment features a bead pointing in the direction of the longitudinal axis, which improves contact with the mating connector contact element 34. Within the plug contact contact area 221, which is shaped as a hollow cylinder, there is a plug contact spring receptacle 222. The plug contact spring receptacle 222 is designed to receive the connector sealing spring 23. The plug contact spring receptacle 222 can be designed as a simple bolt-like projection. In this case, the outer diameter of the projection conveniently corresponds to the inner diameter of the connector sealing spring 23. Alternatively, the plug contact spring receptacle 222 can be designed as a concentric groove into which the connector sealing spring 23 fits or can be inserted.Within the mating connector 3, the mating connector contact element 34 is held in the mating connector housing 30 by a recess or a retaining form. The mating connector contact receptacle 35 also has a mating contact spring receptacle 350. Opposite the mating direction G, the mating connector contact element 34 is designed with a mating contact crimp area 340, into which an electrical conductor, in particular a cable, is inserted and crimped. Furthermore, the mating connector contact element 34 has a mating contact contact area 341. The mating contact contact area 341 is essentially designed as a pin contact, which can be inserted into the connector contact element 22, which is designed as a socket contact.The mating connector contact element 34 terminates in the mating direction G with a mating connector touch guard 32, which is held on the mating connector contact element 34 by a mating connector touch guard receptacle 342. In one embodiment, the mating connector touch guard receptacle 342 is designed as a thread which interacts with a corresponding thread of the touch guard 32. Preferably, the mating connector touch guard receptacle 342 is designed as a locking element and / or locking ridge into which the mating connector touch guard 32 can be snapped and / or pressed in or crimped.

[0059] The Figure 5Figure 1 shows a connector system 1 comprising a connector 2 and a mating connector 3, wherein the mating connector 3 further comprises a locking mechanism 4 which can engage in a locking form 200 molded onto the connector 2. An unlocked, unmated state of the connector system 2 is shown.

[0060] In the Figure 6The operation of the locking mechanism 4 is illustrated in more detail. The connector 2 is inserted into the mating connector 3, which guides a locking housing 41 away from a locking changer 40 in the insertion direction S. The locking housing 41 is guided in the direction of a rotation stop 43. This disengages a housing changeover tooth 410 from a changeover tooth 400. Simultaneously, a housing rotation tooth 412 engages with a rotation tooth 420. Due to the offset arrangement and design of the alternating gearing 400, the housing alternating gearing 410, the housing rotary gearing 412 and the rotary gearing 420, the locking housing 41 is rotated in such a way that locking elements 43 arranged in the locking changer 40 are brought into engagement with a locking cage 401.This prevents connector 2 from being unintentionally disconnected from mating connector 3. When connector 2 is pushed again in the insertion direction S, this rotational movement is repeated, so that the locking elements 43 are no longer engaged with the locking cage 401, allowing connector 2 to be disconnected from mating connector 3. To enable the locking housing 41 to move back against the locking changer 40 after a push in the insertion direction S, the locking housing 41 has a spring stop 411. A locking spring 44 can engage this spring stop 411 to force the locking housing 41 against the locking changer 40 in the opposite insertion direction G.The housing rotary gear 412 and the rotary gear 420 are cleverly designed such that a half locking rotation is performed when fully engaged, while the housing reversible gear 410 and the reversible gear 400 complete this half locking rotation. The locking rotation here refers to the rotation of the locking housing 41, which is necessary to engage the locking elements 43 with a locking cage 401 and / or to release this engagement.

[0061] A clever implementation is found in the Figures 7 and 8This illustrates the following: A connector system 1 is provided with a breakaway safety device 5. This breakaway safety device 5 is designed to allow the locking mechanism 4 to release the locking of connector 2 and mating connector 3 in the event of mechanical overload, particularly due to pulling on a connected cable or cable harness, before connector 2, mating connector 3, or the cable or cable harness is (possibly permanently) damaged. It is proposed that the breakaway safety device 5 be implemented with a safety calibration 50, a safety energy storage device 51, and a release sleeve 52. The release sleeve 52 is preferably integrated into the housing wall of a machine. Figure 5 and Figure 6The release sleeve 52 is designed with an external thread that can engage with the housing wall of the machine. As shown, the release sleeve 52 and the safety calibration 50 each have a flange and / or features that allow them to remain engaged with the safety energy storage device 51. In a convenient embodiment, the safety calibration 50 has an internal thread 53 that interacts with an external thread 402 of the locking mechanism 4, allowing the storage capacity of the safety energy storage device 51 to be adjusted. This means that the spring force of the energy storage device 51, designed as a coil spring, can be adjusted by the safety calibration 50 so that the breakaway safety device 5 is triggered at the desired, set force.Triggering means that the connector 2, which is locked to the mating connector 3, is dislodged from the pull-out protection 5 under tensile stress in the opposite mating direction G, along with the locking mechanism 4. By removing the locking cage 401 from the release sleeve 52 that secures it, the locking cage can move in the deflection direction A. Preferably, this deflection is limited by a form-fit or elastically to prevent loss of the locking cage 401. This deflection, for example, through the stretching of elastic components, releases the locking element 43, thus freeing the locking form 200 of the connector 2. In other words, the locking element 43 no longer engages in the locking form 200. The underlying pulling movement in the opposite direction G releases the connector 2 from the mating connector 3.Subsequently, the safety energy storage device 51, by applying pressure in the insertion direction S against a stop element, for example a flange on the safety calibration device 50, forces the mating connector 3 back into the predetermined position, thereby causing the release sleeve 52 to return the locking cage 401 and the locking element 43 located below it to their original positions. It is conveniently proposed that the locking elements 43 are moved into a non-latching position, so that the mating connector 3 and the locking mechanism 4 are again in their initial position and thus ready for a new insertion operation.

[0062] Even though the figures show various aspects or features of the invention in combination, it is apparent to the person skilled in the art – unless otherwise stated – that the combinations shown and discussed are not the only possible ones. In particular, corresponding units or sets of features from different embodiments can be interchanged. Reference symbol list

[0063] 1 connector system 2 Connector 20 Connector housing 21 Connector contact seal 22 Connector contact element 23 Connector sealing spring 24 Connector contact receptacle 200 Locking form 220 Connector contact crimp area 221 Connector contact contact area 222 Connector contact spring receptacle 223 Connector contact contact form 3 Mating connector 30 Mating connector housing 31 Mating connector contact seal 32 Mating connector touch guard 33 Mating connector sealing spring 34 Mating connector contact element 35 Mating connector contact receptacle 340 Mating contact crimp area 341 Mating contact contact area 342 Mating contact touch guard receptacle 350 Mating contact spring receptacle 4 Locking mechanism 40 Locking changer 400 Changeover toothing 401 Locking cage 402 External thread 41 Locking housing 410 Housing changeover toothing 411 Spring stop 412 Housing rotary toothing 42 Rotary stop 420 Rotary toothing 43 Locking element 44 Locking spring 5 Breakaway fuse 50 Fuse calibration 51 Fuse energy storage 52 Release sleeve 53 Internal thread 6 sealing element A) Diverting direction S) Plugging direction connector G) Plugging direction mating connector

Claims

1. Single-pole connector system (1) comprising a connector (2) and a mating connector (3), wherein the connector has a connector housing (20), a connector contact seal (21) and a connector contact element (22), and wherein the mating connector (3) has a mating connector housing (30), a mating connector contact seal (31), a mating connector touch guard (32) and a mating connector contact element (34), characterized in thatthe plug connector (2) has a locking shape (200) and the mating plug connector (3) has a locking mechanism (4), wherein the locking mechanism (4) interacts with the locking shape (200) and wherein the locking mechanism (4) is actuated by a pressure movement in the plugging direction (S), wherein a first actuating pressure engages the locking mechanism (4) with the locking shape (200), whereby the plug connector (2) is locked to the mating plug connector (3) in an electrically conductive connection, and wherein a second actuating pressure releases the locking mechanism (4) from the locking shape (200).

2. Connector system (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking mechanism (4) comprises a locking changer (40), a locking housing (41), a rotation stop (42) and a locking spring (44).

3. Connector system (1) according to claim 2, characterized in thatthe locking changer (40) has an alternating toothing (400) and the locking housing (41) has an alternating housing toothing (410) corresponding to the alternating toothing (400), wherein a locking spring (44) forces the locking housing (41) in the direction of the locking changer (40).

4. Connector system (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the rotation stop (42) has a rotation toothing (420) and the locking housing (41) has a housing rotation toothing (412) corresponding to the rotation toothing (420), wherein a pressure movement against the locking spring (44) engages the rotation toothing (420) with the housing rotation toothing (412) such that the locking housing (41) is forced to rotate which is predetermined by at least one of the tooth widths of the rotation toothing (420) or the housing rotation toothing (412).

5. Connector system (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the locking housing (41) has a spring stop (411) on which the locking spring (44) engages, so that the locking housing (41) is forced in the direction of the locking changer (40).

6. Connector system (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the locking housing (41) accommodates at least one locking element (43), wherein the locking housing (41) moves the locking element (43) alternately during rotation between a locking cage (401) and a free position within either the locking changer (40) or the mating connector housing (30).

7. Connector system (1) according to claim 6, characterized in thatthe locking cage (401) forces the locking element (43) into the locking shape (200), whereby the locking of the connector (2) and the mating connector (3) is achieved and the free position within the locking changer (40) allows the locking element (43) to escape in the escape direction (A), whereby the locking of the connector (2) and the mating connector (3) is released.

8. A method for producing a single-pole electrical plug connection, comprising a plug connector system (1) according to claim 1, characterized in thata plug connector (2) is provided with a locking form (200) and the mating plug connector (3) is equipped with a locking mechanism (4), wherein the locking mechanism (4) is brought into engagement with the locking form (200) by a first actuating pressure in the plugging direction (S), i.e. secures the plug connector (2) in an electrically contacting manner in the mating plug connector (3) and releases the locking form (200) by the locking mechanism (4) by a second actuating pressure in the plugging direction (S), so that the plug connector (2) can be removed from the mating plug connector (3).

9. Single-pole connector system (1) consisting of a connector (2) and a mating connector (3), wherein the connector has a connector housing (20), a connector contact seal (21) and a connector contact element (22), and wherein the mating connector (3) has a mating connector housing (30), a mating connector contact seal (31), a mating connector touch guard (32) and a mating connector contact element (34), wherein the connector (2) has a locking shape (200) and the mating connector (3) has a locking mechanism (4), characterized in that the locking mechanism (4) is assigned a tear-off protection device (5), which enables the locking mechanism (4) to be released in the event of mechanical overload, in particular by pulling against the plug-in direction (S).

10. Connector system (1) according to claim 9, characterized in thatthe tear-off protection (5) releases the locking mechanism (4) of the connector system (1) in the event of mechanical overload such that the connector (2) and mating connector (3) are essentially functionally separated from one another.

11. Connector system (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the tear-off safety device (5) has a safety energy accumulator (51), in particular designed as a spring element, which allows a locking cage (401) to escape from the locking housing (41), or from the locking changer (40) or from both in the escape direction (A), wherein the locking element (43) releases a locking form (200) and thus allows a separation of the plug connector (2) and the mating plug connector (3).

12. Connector system (1) according to claim 9, characterized in thatthe tear-off safety device (5) has a release sleeve (52) at the plug-side end of the locking mechanism (4), which fixes the locking cage (401) in the intended position on the locking mechanism (4) and is held in this position by a safety energy accumulator (51).

13. Connector system (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the safety force accumulator (51) can be adjusted in its release force by means of a safety calibration (50), in that the safety calibration (50) is designed essentially as a flange with an internal thread (53), is arranged at a cable-side end of the locking mechanism (4) and can be changed in its position along the locking mechanism (4) by means of the internal thread (53) by means of an external thread (402) located thereon.

14. Connector system (1) according to claim 12, characterized in thatthe securing energy accumulator (51) is arranged between the release sleeve (52) and the locking housing (41) and is designed to consist of or comprise at least one circumferential spring, or spiral spring, or disc spring, or a combination of the above.

15. Connector system (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the safety energy accumulator (51) is designed as a circumferential spiral spring ring, is arranged in a first groove or first holding shape in the locking mechanism (4) or a housing surrounding the tear-off safety device (5) and engages in a corresponding second groove or second holding shape in the release sleeve (52).

16. Connector system (1) according to claim 15, characterized in thatthe safety energy accumulator (51) designed as a spiral spring ring deforms under a defined tensile load against the deflection direction (A) and thus releases the release sleeve (52) in the plug-in direction (S), or allows the locking changer (40) or the locking housing (41) to emerge from the release sleeve (52) in the counter-plug-in direction (G), so that the locking cage (401) releases the locking elements (43) in the deflection direction (A).

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