Insulating body for a connector

Abstract

An insulating body (110) for an industrial plug connector (100, 400, 500), with a first end and a second end, a first plug interface (111) at the first end and a second plug interface (115) at the second end, wherein, the first plug interface (111) is connectable to a first plug (400) and the second plug interface (115) is connectable to a second plug (500), wherein the first plug interface (111) and the second plug interface (115) are electrically connected to each other, wherein at least one electrical contact (112) of the first plug interface (111) is connected to at least one electrical contact (116) of the second plug interface (115), wherein an intermediate module (130) is arranged between the first plug interface (111) and the second plug interface (115), wherein the insulating body (110) comprises at least one recess configured to extend in a plane substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal extension of the at least one electrical contact (112, 116), wherein the intermediate module (130) is dimensioned to be removably inserted into the recess, and wherein the at least one recess at least partially surrounds the at least one electrical contact (112, 116), wherein the intermediate module (130) is electrically releasably connected to the at least one electrical contact (112, 116).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an insulating body for an industrial plug connector, in particular for an intermediate connector. The invention also relates to a connector system, a method, and the use of an insulating body.

[0002] Todays, intermediate connectors or interposable solutions or in-between solutions, are an essential facet of modern technology for several compelling reasons.

[0003] Such connectors have to offer a level of flexibility and adaptability that is critical in today's fast-paced, dynamic technological landscape. They must allow for enhancements and modifications to be made to existing systems without the need for complete overhauls or replacements. This needs not to only reduces costs, but also minimizes downtime and disruption to operations.

[0004] A vehicle charger assembly with a plug including a first thermal sensor, and an adapter mechanically and electrically couplable to the plug and including a thermal temperature sensor is disclosed in US 2019 / 375299 A1. The vehicle charger assembly further includes a charge circuit interrupting device in electrical communication with the plug and the adapter and adapted to reduce a charging current.

[0005] US 2012 / 220168 A1 discloses a cable interface device comprising a first pin pickup assembly electrically connectable to a first multi-pin connector of a first electronic device having a first pin geometry. The device also includes a hardware specific signal routing adapter connected electronically and physically in series with the pin pickup assembly and a second pin pickup assembly electrically connectable to a second pin connector of a second electronic device having a second pin geometry, the second pin geometry being electronically and mechanically different from the first pin geometry.

[0006] US 10734751 B2 discloses an insulating body or a module for a modular industrial plug-in connector with at least two electrical contact elements arranged in the module, each of which is assigned a Hall sensor. These Hall sensors are electromagnetically shielded from one another within the module by shielding arms.

[0007] As new developments emerge, there is a need that these solutions permit seamless integration and adaptation, ensuring that systems remain up-to-date and in step with technological progression.

[0008] Industrial plug connectors, also known as heavy-duty plug connectors, and their plug connector systems are specially designed for industrial applications where a very good seal against dust and water is required, and high demands are placed on mechanical vibrations. Industrial connectors are therefore particularly robust.

[0009] It is task of the invention to provide the insulating body for the industrial plug connector, in particular for the intermediate connector for the aforementioned problems.

[0010] According to the invention, this is achieved by the insulating body for the industrial plug connector according to claim 1 and an industrial plug connector system with an insulating body according to claim 12. Advantageous embodiments can be taken from the sub-claims, for example. The content of the claims is made the content of the description by express inclusion.

[0011] The industrial plug connector system may consist of at least two connectors, plug connectors or end connectors. The industrial plug connector system may also include a third connector, called an intermediate connector, for electrically connecting the two said connector or connector types.

[0012] The invention provides an insulating body for an industrial connector and / or an industrial intermediate connector, comprising a first end and a second end. A first plug interface at the first end and a second plug interface at the second end. Wherein, the first plug interface is connectable to a first plug and the second plug interface is connectable to a second plug. Wherein the first plug interface and the second plug interface are electrically connected to each other. Wherein at least one electrical contact of the first plug interface is connected to at least one electrical contact of the second plug interface. Wherein an intermediate module is arranged between the first plug interface and the second plug interface. Wherein the insulating body comprises at least one recess configured to extend in a plane substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal extension of the at least one electrical contact, wherein the intermediate module is dimensioned to be removably inserted into the recess. Wherein the at least one recess at least partially surrounds the at least one electrical contact, preferably all electrical contacts. Wherein the intermediate module is electrically releasably connected to the at least one electrical contact element.

[0013] The recess perpendicular to the electrical contact can allow the intermediate module to be inserted into and removed from the insulating body without dismantling the remaining insulating body. Furthermore, all contacts can be contacted at the same time while inserting the intermediate module into the recess, in particular in an embodiment in which the electrical contacts are arranged in multiple rows. In this case, the at least one recess can be adapted to at least partially surround all electrical contacts.

[0014] By being dimensioned to be removably inserted into the recess the intermediate module can be easily inserted into and removed from the recess, particularly without affecting and / or dismantling the remaining parts of the insulating body. Preferably, the at least one recess ca be dimensioned to removably insert the intermediate module into the recess.

[0015] The intermediate module is electrically releasably connected to the at least one electrical contact in such a way that the electrical connection between the intermediate module, particular a printed circuit board, and the at least one electrical contact can be released. The releasing can be achieved by removing the intermediate module from the at least one recess.

[0016] Preferably, the recess is a recess in the insulating material of the insulating body.

[0017] The industrial connector and / or industrial intermediate connector for a plug connection can typically refer to a connector part which facilitates or modifies the connection between the first plug and the second plug. It can be used to adapt different types of connectors, for signal conversion, or to extend the connection.

[0018] The insulating body of the industrial connector and / or industrial intermediate connector are generally made from non-conductive materials. The most advantageously insulating material for the insulating body can be: Plastics: Many types of plastics, especially thermoplastics such as PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate), and PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) are used due to their excellent insulation properties, mechanical strength, and affordability. These plastics are heat-resistant and durable. Ceramics: These can be used in specialized, high-temperature or high-frequency applications due to their excellent thermal stability and electrical insulation properties.

[0019] The choice of material depends largely on the specific requirement of the plug connection - including factors such as operating temperature range, required electrical insulation, mechanical robustness, chemical resistance, and cost.

[0020] In one embodiment, the intermediate module comprises at least one printed circuit board, wherein the at least one printed circuit board comprises at least one printed circuit board contact for contacting the at least one electrical contact.

[0021] Preferably, the at least one printed circuit board extends in a plane substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal extension of the at least one electrical contact. Further preferably, the printed circuit board can be arranged in the at least one recess for inserting the intermediate module. The recess perpendicular to the electrical contact can allow the printed circuit board to be inserted into and removed from the insulating body without dismantling the remaining insulating body. Furthermore, all contacts can be contacted at the same time while inserting the printed circuit board into the recess, in particular in an embodiment in which the electrical contacts are arranged in multiple rows.

[0022] Further, the intermediate module can comprise at least one printed circuit board, wherein the at least one printed circuit board contact is configured as: a) edge metallization; and / or b) at least one spring contact; and / or c) at least one pogo pin contact; and / or d) at least one spring plate; and / or e) at least one leaf spring contact for electrically contacting the first plug interface and / or the second plug interface and / or as f) at least one sensor interface for detecting a media signal.

[0023] In an embodiment the insulating body comprises at least one: a) edge metallization; and / or b) at least one spring contact; and / or c) at least one pogo pin contact; and / or d) at least one spring plate; and / or e) at least one leaf spring contact for contacting the intermediate module, in particular for electrically contacting the printed circuit board, and / or f) at least one sensor interface for detecting a media signal.

[0024] A Pogo pin contact is a type of spring-loaded contact. It comprises a plunger, barrel, and a spring, wherein the plunger can be pushed into the barrel and is always under constant pressure from the spring. This structure allows it to make reliable, flexible and momentary connections even under challenging conditions such as vibration or movement.

[0025] A leaf spring contact is an electrical component that functions similarly to a mechanical leaf spring, but in an electrical capacity. They can be used in electronic devices for establishing a connection while allowing some mechanical movement or flexibility.

[0026] In its most basic form, a leaf spring contact can be a thin strip of conductive metal. As material copper or a copper alloy can be used, that can be bent into a curved or V shape. When pushed, the spring contact deforms and then returns to its original shape when released, ensuring that the connection stays consistent even if the parts it's connecting move or vibrate.

[0027] Pogo pins are commonly used for charging and data transfer purposes in products such as smartphones, wearable devices, medical devices, and automotive systems, due to their reliable and durable nature.

[0028] In an embodiment the first plug interface is a plug or a socket and the second plug interface is a socket or plug. The second plug interface is complementary to the first plug interface. In other words the second plug interface can also be configured as a socket or a plug. Wherein, an alternating or complementary combination can be selected in each case what means plug - socket or socket - plug.

[0029] In another embodiment the intermediate module comprises an analysis module. The analysis module can be configured to receive electrical energy from the at least one electrical contact element of the first plug interface or the second plug interface. The analysis module can be configured to receive electrical energy from an external supply.

[0030] In an embodiment the analysis module is adapted to measure at least one current and / or at least one voltage and / or at least one temperature and / or a vibration and / or the rotational direction for checking the phase sequence and / or at least one phase position of at least one signal passing through the insulating body respectively the connector and / or intermediate connector between the first plug connector and the second plug connector. The analysis module can be further configured to detect, particularly measure, the presence of a media and / or a media flow rate, in particular between the first plug and the second plug. Wherein the media can be a gas and / or a fluid. The rotational direction can be related to a three-phase system.

[0031] The rotational direction and the phase sequence of for example an electrical machine are closely related and crucial in three-phase systems.

[0032] In a three-phase system, three alternating currents run through separate windings in the motor, offset by 120 degrees from each other. Three-phase systems are the common method used by electric power companies to distribute power.

[0033] Rotational direction of an electrical machine, typically a motor, refers to the direction in which the motor spins. This can either be clockwise (CW) or counter-clockwise (CCW) when viewed from the front or shaft end of the motor.

[0034] The phase sequence, also referred to as phase rotation, of a three-phase system is the order in which the waveforms reach their peak values. Standard phase order is Phase 1 followed by Phase 2, and then Phase 3, often designated as "1-2-3" or "A-B-C". The sequence can also be reversed (3-2-1 or C-B-A), but this will also reverse the motor's spinning direction.

[0035] The insulating body respectively the connector and / or intermediate connector can enable a simple possibility for checking such parameters by interposing the insulating body respectively the intermediate connector between the first plug and the second plug.

[0036] The analysis module can be part of the printed circuit board. The analysis module on a printed circuit board generally refers to a subsystem or circuit that can perform signal processing or data analysis functions on the connector and / or intermediate connector. The analysis module can comprise a microcontroller or microprocessors which can handle most of the data processing and analysis tasks and / or an operational amplifiers which are configured for signal amplification, filtering, and other types of analog signal processing and / or analog-to-digital converters which can be configured to convert analog signals into digital form for processing by digital circuits and / or digital signal processors which can be specialized microprocessors which can be optimized for real-time signal processing tasks.

[0037] In another embodiment the intermediate module comprises a communication module which is configured to enable a wired, i.e. wire-based, or a wireless communication to transmit data from the analysis module.

[0038] For example at least one of the following communication standards can be used for transmitting data from the analysis module: a) IEEE 802.11, (WLAN) b) IEEE 802.15.1, (Bluetooth ®< ) c) IEEE 802.15.4, (ZigBee ®< ) d) IEEE 802.3, (Ethernet) e) IEC standard IEC61158 and IEC61784, (EtherCat ®< ) f) IEC standards 61158 and 61784, (PROFIBUS ®< ).

[0039] In an embodiment the intermediate module comprises, i.e. provides, at least one measuring contact interface and / or at least one light indicator. Alternatively or additionally the intermediate module can comprise different type or types of light indicators. The light indicator can be configured to indicating a certain state of the insulating body respectively the connector and / or intermediate connector or the state or behavior of a signal passing through the insulating body respectively the connector and / or intermediate connector.

[0040] The measuring contact interface can be configured for power supply or data transmission to and / or from the insulating body respectively the industrial connector and / or industrial intermediate connector respectively the intermediate module. The intermediate interface can also be connected to least one electrical contact of the first plug interface and / or second plug interface. The measuring contact interface can also comprise a bus interface for connecting a control unit to the insulating body respectively the connector and / or intermediate connector. The light indicator can be configured to display at least one measurement result of the analysis module. The measurement result can be a direction of rotation and / or a current value and / or a voltage value and / or a status. The status can display the presence of voltage or a medium. The light indicator can be configures as LED display and / or liquid crystal display and / or at least one LED.

[0041] In another embodiment the intermediate module comprises a printed circuit board. Wherein at least one contact protrudes from or through the printed circuit board, wherein the at least one contact comprises: a) a spring contact attached to the first plug interface of the intermediate module or a contact pin attached to the second plug interface back side of the intermediate module; or b) a spring contact attached to the second plug interface of the intermediate module or a contact pin attached to the first plug interface of the intermediate module.

[0042] The at least one contact can be a separate interface or part of the measuring contact interface.

[0043] In an embodiment the first plug interface comprises a first insulating body part and the second plug interface comprises a second insulating body part, wherein a) the first insulating body part and the second insulating body part are made of a common single piece; or b) the first insulating body part and the second insulating body part are made of separate pieces, wherein the first insulating body part is attached to the front side of the intermediate module and the second insulating body part is attached to the back side of the intermediate module or the first insulating body part is attached to the back side of the intermediate module and the second insulating body part is attached to the front side of the intermediate module.

[0044] The first insulating body part and the second insulating body part can be stackable to each other.

[0045] In another embodiment an intermediate enclosure surrounds the intermediate module and at least a part of the first insulating body part and / or the second insulating body part.

[0046] In an embodiment the intermediate enclosure: a) comprises a metal and / or a light transparent material; or consists of metal or a light transparent material; and / or b) comprises at least one opening in a radial direction.

[0047] The opening in the radial direction can be configured to make the Light indicator visible from outside without to remove the intermediate enclosure.

[0048] In another embodiment a grommet housing or an attachment housing accommodating a plug or a socket corresponding to the first plug interface or the second plug interface; or a grommet housing or an attachment housing accommodating a socket or a plug corresponding to the second plug interface to or to the first plug interface.

[0049] The invention also provides a system for using the insulating body in an industrial plug connection.

[0050] In another embodiment the industrial connector, in particular the industrial intermediate connector, can comprise the insulating body according to one of the previous embodiments.

[0051] In an embodiment the attachment housing comprises a locking bracket which is connected to the grommet housing when the insulating body is connected and extends over the insulating body respectively the industrial connector, in particular the industrial intermediate connector, to the grommet housing or the attachment housing comprises a locking bracket which is connected to the intermediate enclosure of the insulating body respectively the connector, in particular the intermediate connector and the intermediate enclosure comprises a locking bracket which is connected to the grommet housing.

[0052] The invention also provides a method for extending the function of an industrial plug connection, comprising the following steps: Disconnecting a first plug and a second plug of the plug connection; connecting an insulating body according to at least one of the claims 1 to 11 to the plug connection, wherein a first plug interface is connected to the first plug and a second plug interface is connected to the second plug or the second plug interface is connected to the first plug and the first plug interface is connected to the second plug.

[0053] In another embodiment the method is characterized by the following steps: Unlocking the plug connection with a bracket; Locking the plug connection with a bracket.

[0054] The invention also provides a use of the industrial connector and / or industrial intermediate connector according to at least one of the previous embodiments to establish an industrial connector system according to at least one of the previous embodiments.

[0055] The invention is not limited to the described embodiments. Within the scope of the invention, all described and / or drawn features can be combined with each other as desired, unless otherwise indicated.

[0056] The invention is described below by way of example only, with reference to the drawings. It shows: Figure 1 an insulating body from a front side; and Figure 2 an insulating body from a rear side; and Figure 3 an insulating body in sectional view; and Figure 4 an insulating body in an enclosure with a grommet housing and an add on housing; and Figure 5 insulating body in an enclosure with a grommet housing and an add on housing; and Figure 6 insulating body in a plugged situation; and Figure 7 discloses an intermediate enclosure with insulating body; and Figure 8 discloses an intermediate enclosure with an insulating body in a sectional view; and Figure 9 discloses an intermediate enclosure with an insulating body in a sectional view.

[0057] Figure 1 discloses an insulating body 110 for an industrial intermediate connector 100, comprising a first plug interface 111 and a second plug interface 115. The first plug interface 111 is connectable to a first industrial plug 400 and the second plug interface 115 is connectable to a second industrial plug 500. The fist plug 400 and the second plug 500 are not shown. Both the first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115 can be electrically interconnected either directly or indirectly via an intermediate module 130. At least one electrical contact 112 of the first plug interface 111 is connected with a corresponding electrical contact 116 of the second plug interface 115. The intermediate module 130 is arranged between the first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115. In other words the first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115 are arranged in opposing directions on the intermediate module 130. The first plug interface 111 is attached on a front side 131 of the intermediate module, while the second plug interface 115 is positioned on a back side 132 of the intermediate module 130. The Intermediate Module 130 comprises a measuring contact interface 135 and a Light indicator 136. The intermediate module 130 comprises a communication module 134 which is configured to enable a communication with a communication standard for transmitting data from the analysis module 133. The intermediate module 130 comprises a printed circuit board 137.

[0058] The first plug interface 111 comprises a first insulating body part 110 and the second plug interface 115 comprises a second insulating body part 110, wherein the first insulating body part 110 and the second insulating body part 110 are made of a single piece.

[0059] The insulating body 110 comprises a recess where the intermediate module 130 is inserted, wherein the intermediate module 130 contacts the first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115.

[0060] Figure 2 discloses an insulating body 110 for an industrial intermediate connector 100 from a different view, comprising a first plug interface 111 and a second plug interface 115. The first plug interface 111 is connectable to a first plug 400 and the second plug interface 115 is connectable to a second plug 500. Both the first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115 can be electrically interconnected either directly or indirectly via an intermediate module 130. At least one electrical contact 112 of the first plug interface 111 is connected with a corresponding electrical contact 116 of the second plug interface 115. The first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115 are arranged in opposing directions on the intermediate module 130.

[0061] The intermediate module 130 is arranged between the first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115. In other words the first plug interface 111 is attached on a front side 131 of the intermediate module, while the second plug interface 115 is positioned on a back side 132 of the intermediate module 130. The Intermediate module 130 comprises a measuring contact interface 135 and a light indicator 136. The intermediate module 130 comprises a communication module 134 which is configured to enable a communication with a communication standard for transmitting data from the analysis module 133. The intermediate module 130 comprises a printed circuit board 137.

[0062] The first plug interface 111 comprises a first insulating body part 110 and the second plug interface 115 comprises a second insulating body part 110, wherein the first insulating body part 110 and the second insulating body part 110 are made of a single piece.

[0063] The insulating body 110 comprises a recess where the intermediate module 130 is inserted, wherein the intermediate module 130 contacts the first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115.

[0064] Figure 3 discloses an insulating body 110 for an industrial intermediate connector 100 in a sectional view, comprising a first plug interface 111 and a second plug interface 115. The first plug interface 111 is connectable to a first plug 400 and the second plug interface 115 is connectable to a second plug 500. Both the first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115 can be electrically interconnected either directly or indirectly via an intermediate module 130.

[0065] At least one electrical contact 112 of the first plug interface 111 is connected with a corresponding electrical contact 116 of the second plug interface 115. The first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115 are arranged in opposing directions on the intermediate module 130.

[0066] The insulating body 110 comprises a recess where the intermediate module 130 is attached thereto, wherein the intermediate module 130 contacts the first plug interface 111 and the second plug interface 115.

[0067] Figure 4 discloses an industrial connector system including the insulating body 110. The system comprises a grommet housing 200 or an attachment housing 300, which accommodates a first plug 400 with a plug or a socket that corresponds to the first plug interface 111 or the second plug interface 115. Alternatively, the system may be characterized by a grommet housing 200 or an attachment housing 300, which accommodates a second plug 500 with a socket or a plug that corresponds to the second plug 115 interface or to the first plug interface 115.

[0068] The attachment housing 300 comprises a locking bracket 310 which is connected to an intermediate enclosure 150 of the insulating body 110 and the intermediate enclosure 150 comprises a locking bracket 140 which is connected to the grommet housing 200. So the first plug interface 111 of the insulating body 110 is connectable to a first plug 400 and the second plug interface 115 is connectable to a second plug 500.

[0069] Figure 5 discloses an industrial connector system including the insulating body 110. The system comprises a grommet housing 200 or an attachment housing 300, which accommodates a plug or a socket that corresponds to the first plug interface 111 or the second plug interface 115. Alternatively, the system may be characterized by a grommet housing 200 or an attachment housing 300, which accommodates a socket or a plug that corresponds to the second plug 115 interface or to the first plug interface 115.

[0070] The attachment housing 300 comprises a locking bracket 310 which is connected to the grommet housing 200 when the insulating body 110 is connected and extends over the insulating body 110 to the grommet housing 200. So the insulating body 110 is connectable to the first plug 400 and the second plug interface 115 is connectable to the second plug 500.

[0071] Figure 6 discloses an industrial connector system including the insulating body 110 in a mated state. The system comprises a grommet housing 200 or an attachment housing 300, which accommodates a first plug 400 with a plug or a socket that corresponds to the first plug interface 111 or the second plug interface 115. Alternatively, the system may be characterized by a grommet housing 200 or an attachment housing 300, which accommodates a second plug 500 with a socket or a plug that corresponds to the second plug 115 interface or to the first plug interface 115. So the first plug interface 111 of the insulating body 110 is connectable to the first plug 400 and the second plug interface 115 is connectable to the second plug 500.

[0072] The attachment housing 300 comprises a locking bracket 310 which is connected to the grommet housing 200 when the insulating body 110 is connected and extends over the insulating body 110 to the grommet housing 200.

[0073] Although figures 4, 5, and 6 illustrate the use of the insulating body 110 in conjunction with industrial connector systems and / or configured as intermediate connector 100, the insulating body 110 according to the examples may also be used solely with an industrial connector, end connector or plug connector, such as the first or second plug 400, 500 illustrated in said figures. Therefore, an industrial connector in combination with an insulator 110 is also explicitly disclosed.

[0074] Figure 7 discloses the intermediate enclosure 150 with the plug interface 110 from a top view. The electrical contact 116 of the first plug interface 111 is contacted by a printed circuit board contact 117. The printed circuit board contact 117 is attached to the printed circuit board 137 of the intermediate module 130. The insulating body 110 comprises a recess where the intermediate module 130 is inserted, wherein the intermediate module 130 contacts the first plug interface 111 and second plug interface 115 respectively the electrical contact 116.

[0075] Figure 7 discloses an embodiment, in which the recess extends in a plane substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal extension of the electrical contacts 112, 116. The recess is dimensioned to allow the intermediate module 130 to be removably inserted into the recess. Furthermore, the recess is adapted to partially surround the electrical contacts 112, 116.

[0076] The electrical contacts 116 in Figure 7 are arranged in multiple rows. All these contacts electrical contacts 116 can be contacted at the same time with the printed circuit board 137 while inserting the printed circuit board 137 into the recess.

[0077] Figure 8 discloses the intermediate enclosure 150 with the plug interface 110 from a sectional view. The electrical contact 116 of the first plug interface 111 is contacted by a printed circuit board contact 117. The printed circuit board contact 117 is attached to the printed circuit board 137 of the intermediate module 130. The electrical contact 116 is attached to the insulating body 110. The Intermediate module 130 comprises a measuring contact interface 135. The intermediate module 130 comprises a communication module 134 which is configured to enable a communication with a communication standard for transmitting data from the analysis module 133. The insulating body 110 comprises a recess where the intermediate module 130 is inserted, wherein the intermediate module 130 contacts the first plug interface 111 and second plug interface 115 respectively the electrical contact 116.

[0078] Figure 9 discloses the intermediate enclosure 150 with the plug interface 110 from a sectional view according to the previous embodiments. The plug interface 110 comprises a media interface. The analysis module 133 configured to detect a media flow rate. Reference signsIntermediate connector100Insulating Body110First plug interface111Electrical contact112Second plug interface115Electrical contact116Printed circuit board contact117Intermediate module130Front side131Back side132Analysis module133Communication module134Measuring contact interface135Light indicator136Printed circuit board137Locking Bracket140Intermediate enclosure150Grommet housing200Attachment housing300Locking Bracket310First plug400Second plug500

Claims

1. An insulating body (110) for an industrial plug connector (100, 400, 500), comprising a first end and a second end, a first plug interface (111) at the first end and a second plug interface (115) at the second end, wherein, the first plug interface (111) is connectable to a first plug (400) and the second plug interface (115) is connectable to a second plug (500), wherein the first plug interface (111) and the second plug interface (115) are electrically connected to each other, wherein at least one electrical contact (112) of the first plug interface (111) is connected to at least one electrical contact (116) of the second plug interface (115), wherein an intermediate module (130) is arranged between the first plug interface (111) and the second plug interface (115), characterized in that the insulating body (110) comprises at least one recess configured to extend in a plane substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal extension of the at least one electrical contact (112, 116), wherein the intermediate module (130) is dimensioned to be removably inserted into the recess, and wherein the at least one recess at least partially surrounds the at least one electrical contact (112, 116), wherein the intermediate module (130) is electrically releasably connected to the at least one electrical contact (112, 116).

2. The insulating body (110), according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate module (130) comprises at least one printed circuit board (137), wherein the at least one printed circuit board (137) comprises at least one printed circuit board contact (117) for contacting the at least one electrical contact (112, 116).

3. The insulating body (110), according to claim 2, wherein the at least one printed circuit board contact (117) is configured as: a) edge metallization; or b) at least one spring contact; or c) at least one pogo pin contact; or d) at least one spring plate; or e) at least one leaf spring contact for electrically contacting the first plug interface (111) or the second plug interface (115) or as: f) at least one sensor interface for detecting a media signal.

4. The insulating body (110), according to at least one of the previous claims, wherein the insulating body (110) comprises: a) at least one edge metallization; or b) at least one spring contact; or c) at least one pogo pin contact; or d) at least one spring plate; or e) at least one leaf spring contact for contacting the intermediate module (130) or f) at least one sensor interface for detecting a media signal.

5. The insulating body (110), according to at least one of the previous claims, wherein the first plug interface (111) is configured as a plug or socket and the second plug interface (115) is complementary to the first plug interface (111).

6. The insulating body (110), according to at least one of the previous claims, wherein the intermediate module (130) comprises an analysis module (133).

7. The insulating body (110), according to claim 6, wherein the analysis module (133) is adapted to measure at least one current or at least one voltage or at least one temperature or a vibration or the rotational direction for checking the phase sequence or at least one phase position of at least one signal passing through the insulating body (110) between the first plug (400) and the second plug (500); or, wherein the analysis module (133) is configured to measure a media flow rate between the first plug (400) and the second plug (500).

8. The insulating body (110), according to at least one of the claims 6 to 7, wherein the intermediate module (130) comprises a communication module (134) which is configured to enable a wire-based or a wireless communication to transmit data from the analysis module (133).

9. The insulating body (110), according to at least one of the previous claims, wherein the intermediate module (130) comprises at least one measuring contact interface (135) or at least one light indicator (136).

10. The insulating body (110), according to at least one of the previous claims, wherein an intermediate enclosure (150) which surrounds the intermediate module (130) and at least a part of the first insulating body part and the second insulating body part.

11. The insulating body (110), according to at least one of the previous claims, wherein the intermediate enclosure (150): a) comprises a metal and a light transparent material; and / or b) comprises at least one opening in a radial direction.

12. An industrial plug connector system comprising an insulating body (110), according to at least one of the previous claims, with a grommet housing (200) or an attachment housing (300) accommodating a plug or a socket corresponding to the first plug interface (111) or the second plug interface (115); or, with a grommet housing (200) or an attachment housing (300) accommodating a socket or a plug corresponding to the second plug (115) interface or to the first plug interface (115).

13. The industrial plug connector system with an insulating body (110), according to claim 12, wherein the attachment housing (300) comprises a locking bracket (310) which is connected to the grommet housing (200) when the insulating body (110) is connected and extends over the insulating body (110) to the grommet housing (200) or, wherein the attachment housing (300) comprises a locking bracket (310) which is connected to the intermediate enclosure (150) of the insulating body (110) and the intermediate enclosure (150) comprises a locking bracket (140) which is connected to the grommet housing (200).

14. Method for extending the function of an industrial plug connection, comprising the following steps: - Disconnecting a first plug (400) and a second plug (500) of the plug connection; - connecting an insulating body (110) according to one of claims 1 to 11 to the plug connection, wherein a first plug interface (111) is connected to the first plug (400) and a second plug interface (115) is connected to the second plug (500) or, wherein the second plug interface (115) is connected to the first plug (400) and the first plug interface (111) is connected to the second plug (500).

15. Method for extending the function of an industrial plug connection, according to claim 14, further comprising the following steps: - Unlocking the plug connection with a bracket (140, 310); - Locking the plug connection with a bracket (140, 310).

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