Connecting unit for coupling electrically conductive cables, connecting sys-tem for coupling electrically conductive cables

Abstract

The present invention relates to a connecting unit (1) for coupling electrically conductive cables (11) comprising an electrically non-conductive main body (2) with at least two separate stand spaces (8, 9) in a first plane, at least one electrically conductive component (5), at least two connecting elements (6, 7, 10) for respective reception of electrically conductive cables (11), which are to be connected to each other via the at least one electrically conductive component (5). The non-conductive main body (2) has at least two separate support surfaces (3, 4, 12), each of which is designed to accommodate the at least one electrically conductive component (5), and wherein an orientation of at least one of the at least two separate support surfaces (3, 4, 12) differs from the first plane, so that a respective orientation of electrically conductive cables (11) in the coupled state on the electrically conductive component (5) can be redirected by means of this support surface (3, 4, 12). In addition, a connecting system (14) for coupling electrically conductive cables (11) is disclosed.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention pertains to a connecting unit for coupling electrically conductive cables and to a connecting system for coupling electrically conductive cables.TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] In aircraft construction, numerous electrically conductive cables are installed during assembly, among other things. These cables are often brought together in sections in cable harnesses to make installation easier and to make best use of the limited installation space.

[0003] In such sometimes very complex electrical installation systems, cables that are routed in different cable harnesses sometimes have to be coupled in an electrically conductive manner in respective sections. An example from aircraft construction concerns respective branches of main lines, which are predominantly laid in the longitudinal direction of the aircraft fuselage.

[0004] In other words, a common application is a so-called galley feeder network, which runs from the forward to the back of a fuselage of an aircraft while lateral branches are needed to connect the installed galleys.

[0005] Terminal blocks are already known for the branches and subsequent coupling of electrically conductive cables with other corresponding cables, which then lead to the unit that is actually to be supplied, for example in the form of a galley feeder or the like. These terminal blocks are used to connect at least two electrically conductive cables (wires) of at least two different harnesses to each other.

[0006] When more than two cables (wires) are connected, the terminal block is used, for example, to distribute electrical power. These so-called terminal blocks are also used as interfaces between the fuselage's components (e.g. nose, forward section) according to a selected industrial build concept.

[0007] Conventional terminal blocks are usually installed in lateral displacement to the main path of the involved harnesses. This lateral displacement requires not only space for the terminal block itself, but also for a proper routing of the harness to and from the terminal block under consideration of a minimum (cable-) bend radius. The associated space demand is quite huge and often imposes complex solutions in space limited environments like the fuselage of an aircraft.

[0008] The installation respectively the design challenge is further increased when so-called raceways are used to have several, e.g. longitudinal, pathways running in parallel. Raceways are a solution to cope with space limited environments because separation walls of a raceway provide a certain protection against respective external influences and also offer a defined respective routing of electrically conductive cables that are thus separated.

[0009] In order to maintain the advantages of raceways, crossing cables that run out of a channel of the raceway must be avoided or treated specifically. A special treatment, for example, provides for a separate sheathing, e.g. in the form of respective electrical protection sleeves, of these crossing cable sections, which is equivalent to an overall increase in installation costs. In addition, additional attachment devices for lateral guidance of the harness must also be provided in this context, which adds another cost factor.

[0010] These aforementioned measures not only affect the cable sections which have to be guided laterally out of the corresponding cable harness and to the terminal block, but also the cable sections to be connected, which then have to be guided from the terminal block back into the main sections of the other cable harness or back into the raceway. The routing back into the raceway is required because the connected equipment is in general at a different position than the terminal block.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide a new technical solution which allows space-saving connecting and coupling of electrically conductive cables especially for solutions in the aircraft industry.

[0012] This object is achieved by a connecting unit for coupling electrically conductive cables having the features of claim 1 and a connecting system for coupling electrically conductive cables having the features of claim 15.

[0013] According to the invention, a connecting unit for coupling electrically conductive cables comprises an electrically non-conductive main body with at least two separate stand spaces in a first plane and at least one electrically conductive component and at least two connecting elements for respective reception of electrically conductive cables, which are to be connected to each other via the at least one electrically conductive component. The non-conductive main body has further at least two separate support surfaces, each of which is designed to accommodate the at least one electrically conductive component, and wherein an orientation of at least one of the at least two separate support surfaces differ from the first plane, so that a respective orientation of electrically conductive cables in the coupled state on the electrically conductive component can be redirected by means of this support surface.

[0014] The inventive connecting unit lowers the space demand for installation by lowering the need to bend the attached electrically conductive cables (wires). This is provided through the special combination of features, in particular the interaction between the electrically non-conductive main body and the at least one electrically conductive component.

[0015] The support surface of the main body, which has an orientation different from the first plane, can not only accommodate the respective electrically conductive component, but also cause the involved electrically conductive cable to be redirected above the plane of the main routing, which can be provided essentially parallel to the first level. In this way, it is advantageously possible to orient an electrically conductive cable, which is ultimately to be coupled to another electrically conductive cable via the electrically conductive component, in such a way that a defined realignment of the electrically conductive cable (wire) can be carried out in a desired manner using the connecting unit according to the invention.

[0016] The support surface, which differs from the first plane, directs the cable to the electrically conductive component, thereby creating a defined bending radius and a space-saving arrangement in a defined manner, since the necessary functions for such an arrangement are brought together in the connecting unit according to the invention.

[0017] The special arrangement between the support surface and the electrically conductive component also makes it possible to prevent electrically conductive cables from crossing in a surprisingly simple manner. The running electrically conductive cables can not only be easily changed in their direction via the support surface, but at the same time they can be guided specifically to the electrically conductive component, which can then enable coupling to another electrically conductive cable.

[0018] In other words, due to the invention presented, it is possible to select a respective bending angle with respect to a main direction of the respective cable harness when coupling corresponding electrically conductive cables which are led out of a cable harness in such a way that a reduced space requirement for installation can be achieved.

[0019] Instead of providing additional protective sheathing for the cables, the realignment caused by the corresponding support surface can be used to easily separate the electrically conductive cables to be connected, with the electrically conductive components then ultimately effecting the actual coupling of the cables.

[0020] In addition, the corresponding support surface can be used due to its different orientation to the first level, in which the stand spaces are aligned, so that lateral installations can be avoided in order to avoid the space requirement for the installation.

[0021] Due to the new possibilities with regard to the alignment and arrangements of electrically conductive cables to be connected to one another, any external influences on the electrically conductive cables to be connected can also be better managed in an advantageous manner.

[0022] Further according to the invention, the respective connecting elements comprise respectively further connecting means so that a respective electrical connection of the respective electrical conductive cable to the at least one electrically conductive component can be realized by using the further connecting means or wherein the respective connecting elements are designed to comprise at least one electrically conductive portion which is designed to have direct contact with the at least one electrically conductive component when the connecting unit is assembled, so that a respective electrical connection of the respective electrical conductive cable to the at least one electrically conductive component can be realized by a direct connection of the respective electrical conductive cable to the respective connecting element.

[0023] Additional connecting means offer the advantage that, depending on the characteristics of these connecting means, more flexible installation routines can be carried out, since the connecting means can ultimately, for example, ensure the electrical connection while the connecting elements can, for example, only ensure positional location.

[0024] The connecting means can, for example, include eyelet-shaped connector units, which are connected to the electrically conductive component with any other components of the connecting means. For example, they can be pressed or simply arranged in the direction of the electrically conductive component by means of other components of the connecting means while they rest on the respective connecting elements, so that the desired electrical connection can be realized.

[0025] The advantage of a direct connection lies primarily in the saving of additional resources, meaning that a particularly cost-effective solution can be provided.

[0026] Further according to the invention, a connecting system for coupling electrically conductive cables comprises a raceway system for electrical wiring and at least one inventive connecting unit, wherein the at least one inventive connecting unit is arranged above the raceway system so that electrically conductive cables of different chambers of the raceway system can be electrically coupled via one inventive connecting unit.

[0027] The advantages mentioned above also apply to the connecting system according to the invention, to the extent that they can be transferred.

[0028] Due to the above placement of the connecting unit above the raceway system, it is possible in an advantageous and surprisingly simple manner to guide the respective cables out of the raceway system, gently and in a defined curve, in order to ultimately couple the respective electrically conductive cables, for example from different chambers or channels of the raceway system, via the electrically conductive component of the connecting unit.

[0029] The special arrangement between the connecting unit and the raceway system as well as the special combination of features of the connecting unit itself also enable the electrically conductive cables to be connected to be routed so that mutual influence is only possible to the desired extent.

[0030] Because the connecting unit is mounted on top of the raceway system, space demand for lateral installations can be removed; and also need for attachment devices to route the harness out of respectively into a chamber oder channel of the raceway system in lateral direction is removed.

[0031] Furthermore the electrical connection from one chamber to an adjacent chamber ist provided by the connecting unit, which can be understood as a special terminal block, itself, thus reducing the overall bend angle of the involved harnesses.

[0032] In addition, the separation principle of a multi-channel raceway system can be essentially retained by means of the invention presented; in particular, it is possible to design connections between electrically conductive cables from different areas of the raceway system in such a way that crossing of the electrically conductive cables to be connected can be avoided.

[0033] Thus, one idea of the present invention is to provide a technical solution which orients two electrically conductive cables to be electrically connected in such a way that both, a space-saving arrangement and an arrangement result, which enables a defined and not excessive bending of the corresponding electrically conductive cables, can be achieved.

[0034] The electrically conductive cables to be connected should also require no additional protective devices if they are connected using the unit or the system. At the same time, all necessary safety conditions that apply to the electrical coupling of electrically conductive cables should be able to be met without any further difficulties.

[0035] Advantageous embodiments and improvements of the present invention are found in the subordinate claims.

[0036] According to an embodiment of the invention, the main body has two separate support surfaces, each of which include a respective stand space, and an intersection angle between planes of these two separate support surfaces has a value between 20° and 150°, preferably between 30° and 100°, preferably between 40° and 90°, preferably of 90°.

[0037] Depending on the electrically conductive cables to be coupled and its respective properties, which determine the manner in which it is bent in a gentle and space-saving manner, a suitable orientation of the support surface that deviates from the first level can be selected. Before the respective electrically conductive cables to be connected are received on the respective connecting elements and thus connected to one another via the electrically conductive component, a defined realignment of a main direction of the electrically conductive cables, which is affected depending on the set intersection angle, is possible.

[0038] According to another embodiment of the invention, the main body has three separate support surfaces, a plane of a first support surface is substantially parallel to the first plane and an intersection angle between the two remaining separate support surfaces, each of which include a respective stand space, has a value between 20° and 150°, preferably between 30° and 100°. preferably between 40° and 90°, preferably of 90°.

[0039] A set intersection angle can advantageously achieve the desired alignment of the electrically conductive cables. A support surface, which has an orientation parallel to the first plane, can also be used advantageously for the desired orientation of the electrically conductive cables to be connected. It can also offer another option for connecting different electrically conductive cables connected to the unit.

[0040] According to another embodiment of the invention, in the case that the main body has three separate support surfaces, the first support surface is arranged between the two remaining separate support surfaces.

[0041] This embodiment can also be flexibly adapted to a respective installation space by means of the first support surface, since a spacing from the remaining support surfaces can be influenced by means of the first support surface. For example, geometric dimensions of this first support surface can be selected depending on the application.

[0042] For example, geometric dimensions of these first support surfaces can be selected depending on the application, so that a defined location can be provided for the other two support surfaces, for example, derived from a special geometric shape or the special dimensions.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the invention, the at least two separate support surfaces form a substantially compound curved surface and respective stand spaces are placed at respective end areas of this compound curved surface.

[0044] A substantially round orientation offers a particularly high level of flexibility in the desired realignment of the respective electrically conductive cables to be coupled to one another. The respective support surfaces can each be flat and arranged so that they form an essentially round shape overall.

[0045] In some embodiments of the inventions, the main body is designed in several parts and has user-defined adjustable connections between the respective support surfaces, so that respective planes of the support surfaces can be adjusted to one another.

[0046] The user-defined adjustable connections can be selected from any common solutions such as hinge-like means or the like. Also connection means are conceivable, which both enable a connection between the respective support surfaces and at the same time can be flexibly bent so that a desired adjustment of the respective angles can be achieved.

[0047] According to another embodiment of the invention, the at least one electrically conductive component has substantially a main shape according to a main shape of the support surface to which it is fixed.

[0048] This arrangement can ensure that the main body and the component are coordinated with one another so that a particularly stable connecting unit can be provided.

[0049] According to another embodiment of the invention, the at least one electrically conductive component extends over at least two support surfaces.

[0050] This means that further options for flexible coupling between different cables to be coupled are possible. A more flexible use of the installation space provided for coupling the electrically conductive cables can also be achieved.

[0051] According to another embodiment of the invention, the at least two connecting elements are pin-shaped, which are designed to accommodate eyelet-shaped connector units of electrically conductive cables, so that an electrical connection between the electrically conductive cables can be realized by means of the least one electrically conductive component.

[0052] A user-friendly, easy and reliable coupling between the electrically conductive cables to be connected is therefore possible.

[0053] According to another embodiment of the invention, the at least two connecting elements have fastening means for attaching to the main body selected from: Screw elements, clamping elements, suction buttons, self-adhesive surfaces, mandrel elements for pressing into the main body, nail elements.

[0054] An existing fixation between these two components can thus be reinforced in an advantageous manner.

[0055] According to another embodiment of the invention, a distance between the connecting elements has at least a value between 8 mm and 500 mm, preferably between 30 mm and 300 mm, preferably between 50 mm and 200 mm, preferably between 75 mm and 150 mm, preferably 60 mm.

[0056] Depending on the characteristics of the electrically conductive cables to be connected, a suitable distance can be selected so that a secure coupling can be achieved.

[0057] According to another embodiment of the invention, the respective stand spaces comprise connecting means in order to be releasably attachable to a raceway system for electrical wiring.

[0058] The stand spaces guarantee a particularly firm hold in the intended position. This can be particularly advantageous when used in an aircraft, since a particularly safe installation of the connecting unit is possible, which enables reliable positioning in any flight maneuvers of the aircraft.

[0059] According to another embodiment of the invention, the non-conductive main body is made of plastic, particularly selected of: Thermoplastics, PEEK, PTFE.

[0060] According to another embodiment of the invention, the at least one electrically conductive component and the connecting elements comprise metal or metal alloys, particularly selected of: Aluminum, aluminum alloys, copper, copper alloys, brass, corrosion resisting steel, aluminum with a nickel-plated surface treatment, aluminum alloys with a nickel-plated surface treatment, copper with a gold surface treatment, copper alloys with a gold surface treatment, brass with a nickel-plated surface treatment, corrosion resisting steel with a nickel-plated surface treatment.

[0061] The connecting elements can each be provided with a suitable surface treatment, for example nickel-plated or gold for copper.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] The present invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the embodiments shown in the schematic figures: Fig. 1shows a schematic view of a connecting unit according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2shows schematic top views of different possible arrangements of connecting units according to further embodiments of the invention; Fig. 3shows a schematic side view of a connecting unit according to another embodiment of the invention; Fig. 4shows a schematic side view of a connecting unit according to another embodiment of the invention; Fig. 5shows a schematic partial side view of a connecting unit according to another embodiment of the invention; Fig. 6shows a schematic view of a connecting system.

[0063] In the figures of the drawing, elements, features and components which are identical, functionally identical and of identical action are denoted in each case by the same reference designations unless stated otherwise.DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0064] Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a connecting unit 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The connecting unit 1 shown is designed to couple electrically conductive cables to another.

[0065] A non-conductive main body 2 of this connecting unit 1 is shown with two support surfaces 3, 4, wherein only one support surface 3 facing directly towards the viewer due to the perspective representation. The two support surfaces 3, 4 are arranged relative to one another in such a way that they are connected to one another lengthways at respective ends.

[0066] An intersection angle between planes of these two separate support surfaces 3, 4 has a value of 90°. In embodiments not shown in detail, it is conceivable that this value is between 20° and 150°, preferably between 30° and 100°, preferably between 40° and 90°.

[0067] An electrically conductive component 5 is shown arranged on the support surface 3 facing the viewer. The electrically conductive component 5 has substantially a main shape according to a main shape of the support surface 3 to which it is fixed.

[0068] This electrically conductive component 5 can be, for example, provided in a form of a sheet plate as an electrical shunt. A thickness of the electrically conductive component 5 in a form of a sheet plate can be selected depending on the application scenario, for example depending on what type of electricity is to be transmitted or distributed. A material to be used can be provided accordingly.

[0069] Two connecting elements 6, 7 are also shown, which are arranged on the electrically conductive component 5 and thus fix it to the main body 2. The two connecting elements 6, 7 are each provided in a cylindrical shape, with a substantially round surface facing the viewer, wherein they have a defined distance d from one another and are each at least partially electrically coupled to the electrically conductive component 5. Respective cables 11 are shown electrically coupled to the two connecting elements 6, 7.

[0070] However, in further embodiments not shown in detail, that the shown connecting elements 6, 7 have a different appearance. For example, they could be provided with an angular shape with an angular surface facing the viewer. In this context, an appropriate material can also be selected according to the respective application scenarios.

[0071] In that respect the two connecting elements 6, 7 are pin-shaped and are designed to accommodate eyelet-shaped connector units (not shown in detail in Fig.1) of the electrically conductive cables 11, so that an electrical connection between the electrically conductive cables 11 can be realized by means of the electrically conductive component 5. The bending angles of the respective cables 11 shown in FIG. 1 are only to be viewed as examples. In particular, flatter bending angles can be achieved if, for example, a more direct connection to the connecting elements 6, 7 is provided.

[0072] The following further arrangements are conceivable in variants of this design that are not shown in detail: It is conceivable, for example, that the connecting elements 6, 7 are initially only in connection with the main body 2, the electrically conductive component 5 is arranged on these connecting elements 6, 7 with respective through holes (without having direct contact to them), but is ultimately only fixed by further connecting means.

[0073] For example, it is conceivable that further connecting means are provided in the form of eyelet-shaped connector units as an integral part of the connecting unit 1, which are then pressed onto the electrically conductive component 5 using further means. These eyelet-shaped connector units are designed to be coupled with respective electrically conductive cables 11.

[0074] For example, the connecting elements 6, 7 can each have threads and the connecting means include further corresponding nuts, which are then screwed onto these threads.

[0075] In this way, the electrically conductive cables 11 to be connected can first be connected to the eyelet-shaped connector units and then brought into electrical contact with the electrically conductive component 5 using the screw connection.

[0076] The advantage is that the desired function of the connecting unit 1 presented can be provided even if there is no direct contact between the connecting elements 6, 7 and the electrically conductive component 5.

[0077] Rather, the respective components are arranged relative to one another through a mechanical connection, for example by means of the aforementioned screw connection, so that the desired effect is achieved.

[0078] In this context, it is further conceivable that in any variants of the connecting unit 1, the electrically conductive component 5 can either be arranged separately on the main body 2 using any other means, for example screws, rivets, adhesive elements, etc., for fixing it thereon.

[0079] Alternatively, it is conceivable that the electrically conductive component 5 is already fixed or arranged there during the production of the main body 2. For example, the electrically conductive component 5 could be cast or glued in there. Any construction using 3D printing technology is also conceivable.

[0080] The main body 2 is shown with two separate stand spaces 8, 9. The stand spaces 8, 9 are each represented in this embodiment by end edges of the support surfaces 3, 4, wherein both are provided equally aligned in a first plane (illustrated by a dashed auxiliary line in Fig. 1), so that the connecting unit 1 can be set up stably on a surface. In most applications, an alignment of the first plane will be essentially parallel to an alignment of a main pathway of cable harnesses in which the electrically conductive cables 11 to be connected are routed before they are coupled using the connecting unit 1.

[0081] In so far the non-conductive main body 2 is shown with two separate support surfaces 3, 4, each of which is designed to accommodate the at least one electrically conductive component 5, and wherein an orientation of at least one of the at least two separate support surfaces 3, 4 differs from the first plane, so that a respective orientation of electrically conductive cables 11 in the coupled state on the electrically conductive component 5 can be redirected by means of this support surface 3.

[0082] In the example shown in Fig. 1, electrical current can be passed (relative to the image plane), for example, from the upper cable 11 via the electrically conductive component 5 to the lower cable 11. A bending angle of the respective cables 11 can be below 90°, for example between 30° and 45°.

[0083] The cables 11 to be coupled can, for example, be designed to conduct higher currents, e.g. above 15 A. For this purpose, these electrically conductive cables 11 can have a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm 2< . However, any other electrically conductive cables 11 are also conceivable, which have a diameter that is adapted to the electrical current to be conducted. The connecting unit 1 can be adapted for the respective cables 11 to be guided and coupled, so that a defined bend of the electrically conductive cables 11 brings about the advantages already mentioned.

[0084] For example, the connecting unit 1 can be adapted so that an intersection angle between planes of these two separate support surfaces (3, 4) has a value between 20° and 150°, preferably between 30° and 100°, preferably between 40° and 90°, preferably of 90°. In this way, depending on the intersection angle selected, a bending angle of the respective electrically conductive cables 11 can be below 90°, for example between 30° and 45°.

[0085] In Fig. 1 only two electrically conductive cables 11 to be coupled are shown. However, it is conceivable that more than two electrically conductive cables 11 are coupled or routed using the inventive connecting unit 1. For example, three or more electrically conductive cables 11 can also be routed and coupled according to the example shown.

[0086] It is also conceivable that the connecting unit 1 comprises an adapted electrically conductive component 5, which, for example, has corresponding connecting elements 6, 7 in a matrix of four times five, which are then at least partially provided in pairs on separate electrically conductive component 5.

[0087] Fig. 2 shows schematic top views of different possible arrangements of connecting units 1 according to further embodiments of the invention.

[0088] In relation to the image plane and in a clockwise direction, four exemplary arrangements of the connecting units 1 are shown each provided with one electrically conductive component 5 and two support surfaces 3, 4 of the main body 2.Four connecting elements 10 are provided in each of the four arrangements, wherein these four connecting elements 10 are each arranged in pairs on a respective support surface 3, 4. The respective connecting elements 10 on the respective support surfaces 3, 4 are equally spaced from one another, so that they are arranged opposite the connecting elements 10 on the respective other support surface 3, 4.

[0089] In an embodiment not shown in detail, these two support surfaces 3, 4 can have user-defined adjustable connections between the respective support surfaces 3, 4so that respective planes of the support surfaces 3, 4 can be adjusted to one another.

[0090] These user-defined adjustable connections (not shown in Fig. 2) can include, for example, joint-like means. They can also include joint-like means with latching devices, so that a respective position can be fixed in place by means of the respective latching device.

[0091] In respect to this aforementioned embodiment not shown the main body 2 can not only be designed in several parts but also can have user-defined adjustable connections between the respective support surfaces 3, 4 so that respective planes of the support surfaces 3, 4 can be adjusted to one another.

[0092] In this Fig. 2, the connecting elements 10 are essentially identical to the connecting elements 6, 7 from Fig. 1. For the sake of clarity, only one connecting element 10 is provided in FIG. 2 with a reference number to represent all of them.

[0093] In an embodiment not shown in detail, these connecting elements 10 have fastening means for attaching them to the main body 2. These fastening means can be selected from: Screw elements, clamping elements, suction buttons, self-adhesive surfaces, mandrel elements for pressing into the main body, nail elements.

[0094] Alternatively, the connecting elements 10 can also be attached to the main body 2 using an adhesive connection. It is also conceivable that the connecting elements 10 are simply made of a harder material than the main body 2 and are pressed into it or the like.

[0095] In the arrangement at the top left, the electrically conductive component 5 extends over the two support surfaces 3, 4, so that respective electrically conductive cables 11 are shown electrically coupled by means of the connecting unit 1. This arrangement can also be referred to as a manufacturing interface.

[0096] In the arrangement at the top right, the electrically conductive component 5 extends only above one of the two support surfaces 3, 4. In this example, the electrically conductive cables 11 accommodated on the connecting elements 10 have a distribution function, since the number of electrically conductive cables 11 accommodated differs. This arrangement can also be referred to as comprising a distribution function.

[0097] In the arrangement at the down left, the electrically conductive component 5 extends over the two support surfaces 3, 4, so that respective electrically conductive cables 11 are shown electrically coupled by means of the connecting unit 1. In contrast to the example above on the left, however, all four connecting elements 10 are connected to the electrically conductive component 5, with two electrically conductive cables 11 being arranged on the connecting elements 10 shown on the right (relative to the image plane). In this respect, this arrangement can also be referred to as a combined manufacturing interface with distribution function.

[0098] In the arrangement at the down left, the electrically conductive component 5 extends over the two support surfaces 3, 4, so that respective electrically conductive cables 11 are shown electrically coupled by means of the connecting unit 1. Here, however, the component has an L-shape, so that an extension over both support surfaces 3, 4 is only provided on one side.

[0099] In further embodiments not shown in detail, it is conceivable that the electrically conductive component 5 can be attached to the main body 2 with more than four connecting elements 10. For example, five to twenty connecting elements 10 can be provided, which are arranged essentially symmetrically in four rows and five columns or four columns and five rows. They can also be provided in any other pattern or even arranged arbitrarily.

[0100] It is also conceivable that only part of these connecting elements 10 is intended for fixing the electrically conductive component 5 to the main body 2 and another part of these connecting elements 10 are only intended to be attached to the electrically conductive component 5.

[0101] For example, half of the connecting elements 10 can be provided for attaching the electrically conductive component 5 to the main body 2 and the other half is only attached to the electrically conductive component 5 itself for the sake of connecting the electrically conductive cables 11.

[0102] The advantage of arrangements with a corresponding number of such connecting elements 5 is that electrically conductive cables 11, which are to be coupled to the connecting unit 1, can be placed with different lengths in a substantially precisely fitting manner.

[0103] In particular, the so-called repair lengths present in the aircraft industry can be advantageously compensated for in such a case by means of such a flexible connecting unit 1.

[0104] In other words, an electrically conductive cable 11, which is longer, is correspondingly coupled to a connecting element 10 arranged further up. Accordingly, a shorter electrically conductive cable 11 can be coupled to the connecting unit 1 by means of a connecting element 10, which is further down.

[0105] Fig. 3 shows a schematic side view of a connecting unit 1 according to another embodiment of the invention. The two side support surfaces 3, 4 include a first support surface 12 in their middle, wherein in this example they are intended to be materially connected to one another. In this respect, these three support surfaces 3, 4, 12 are an integral part of the main body 2 shown.

[0106] In an embodiment not shown in detail, these three support surfaces 3, 4, 12 can have user-defined adjustable connections between the respective support surfaces 3, 4, 12, so that respective planes of the support surfaces 3, 4, 12 can be adjusted to one another. In respect to this aforementioned embodiment not shown the main body 2 can not only be designed in several parts but also can have user-defined adjustable connections between the respective support surfaces 3, 4, 12, so that respective planes of the support surfaces 3, 4, 12 can be adjusted to one another.

[0107] These user-defined adjustable connections (not shown in Fig. 3) can include, for example, joint-like means. They can also include joint-like means with latching devices, so that a respective position can be fixed in place by means of the respective latching device.

[0108] Relative to the image plane, an electrically conductive component 5 is arranged on the left and middle support surfaces 3, 12, which is fixed by respective connecting elements 10 to a main body 2 of the connecting unit 1. In so far this electrically conductive component 5 extends over these two support surfaces 3, 12.

[0109] In an embodiment not shown in detail, these connecting elements 10 have fastening means for attaching them to the main body 2. These fastening means can be selected from: Screw elements, clamping elements, suction buttons, self-adhesive surfaces, mandrel elements for pressing into the main body, nail elements.

[0110] Alternatively, the connecting elements 10 can also be attached to the main body 2 using an adhesive connection. It is also conceivable that the connecting elements 10 are simply made of a harder material than the main body 2 and are pressed into it or the like.

[0111] The electrically conductive components 5 can, for example, have respective openings for the connecting elements 10, through which the connecting elements 10 are inserted, in order to thereby effect a fixation of the respective electrically conductive component 5 on the main body 2.

[0112] Respective cables 11 are accommodated by the respective connecting elements 10, so that an electrical connection between these electrically conductive electrically conductive cables 11 can be achieved by means of the connecting unit 1. For these purposes, the electrically conductive cables 11 have corresponding eyelet-shaped connector units 13 which are arranged on the connecting elements 10.

[0113] In this respect the connecting elements 10 are pin-shaped, which are designed to accommodate eyelet-shaped connector units 13 of electrically conductive cables 11, so that an electrical connection between the electrically conductive cables 11 can be realized by means of the electrically conductive component 5.

[0114] In relation to the image plane, a cable 11 coming from the left can be redirected in its direction up to its receptacle by means of the connecting unit 1. An electrical current or a correspondingly conducted electrical signal or the like can then be forwarded to the electrically conductive cable 11 at the top by means of the connecting unit 1, the electrically conductive cable 11 then having a further course at the top perpendicular to the first level of the connecting unit 1.

[0115] The electrically conductive cable 11 coming from the left is only guided indirectly through the support surface 3. In further embodiments not shown in detail, it can be provided that an electrically conductive cable 11 to be received by the connecting element 10 is first deflected in its course by the support surface 3, so that it can then be coupled accordingly.

[0116] Fig. 4 shows a schematic side view of a connecting unit 1 according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0117] The two side support surfaces 3, 4 include a first support surface 12 in their middle, wherein in this example they are intended to be materially connected to one another. In this respect, these three support surfaces 3, 4, 12 are an integral part of the main body 2 shown.

[0118] In an embodiment not shown in detail, these three support surfaces 3, 4, 12 can have user-defined adjustable connections between the respective support surfaces 3, 4, 12, so that respective planes of the support surfaces 3, 4, 12 can be adjusted to one another.

[0119] In respect to this aforementioned embodiment not shown, the main body 2 can not only be designed in several parts but also can have user-defined adjustable connections between the respective support surfaces 3, 4, 12, so that respective planes of the support surfaces 3, 4, 12 can be adjusted to one another. These user-defined adjustable connections (not shown in Fig. 4) can include, for example, joint-like means. They can also include joint-like means with latching devices, so that a respective position can be fixed in place by means of the respective latching device.

[0120] A separate electrically conductive component 5 is shown arranged on each of the support surfaces 3, 4, 12. It is conceivable that these respective electrically conductive components 5 are at least partially connected to one another or even at least partially form a material unit, so that an electrical connection can be provided accordingly.

[0121] Respective electrically conductive cables 11 are accommodated by the respective connecting elements 10, so that an electrical connection between these electrically conductive cables 11 and the respective electrically conductive component 5 can be achieved.

[0122] For these purposes, the electrically conductive cables 11 have corresponding eyelet-shaped connector units 13 which are arranged on the connecting elements 10. In this respect the connecting elements 10 are pin-shaped, which are designed to accommodate eyelet-shaped connector units 13 of electrically conductive cables 11, so that an electrical connection between the electrically conductive cables 11 and the respective electrically conductive component 5 can be realized.

[0123] In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4 it is also conceivable that further respective connecting elements 10 are provided behind the respective connecting elements 10 shown (and thus covered by them). In this way, an electrical current can be passed on or distributed accordingly by means of the connecting unit 1.

[0124] On the support surface 12, the electrically conductive cable 11 is shown facing directly towards the viewer and can therefore only be recognized as a circular image.

[0125] In this respect, a direction of this electrically conductive cable 11 can be provided here essentially parallel to the first plane.

[0126] Fig. 5 shows a schematic partial side view of a connecting unit 1 according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0127] A section of the support surfaces 3 and 12 from Figures 3 and 4 is shown. A connecting element 10 with a correspondingly connected electrically conductive cable 11 is shown arranged on the support surface 12 (as already shown in FIG. 3).

[0128] Relative to the image plane, an electrically conductive component 5 is arranged on the left and middle support surfaces 3, 12, which is fixed by respective connecting elements 10 to a main body 2 of the connecting unit 1. In so far this electrically conductive component 5 extends over these two support surfaces 3, 12.

[0129] The electrically conductive components 5 can, for example, have respective openings for the connecting elements 10, through which the connecting elements 10 are inserted, in order to thereby effect a fixation of the respective electrically conductive component 5 on the main body 2.

[0130] Respective electrically conductive cables 11 are accommodated by the respective connecting elements 10, so that an electrical connection between these electrically conductive cables 11 can be achieved by means of the connecting unit 1. For these purposes, the electrically conductive cables 11 have corresponding eyelet-shaped connector units 13 which are arranged on the connecting elements 10.

[0131] In this respect the connecting elements 10 are pin-shaped, which are designed to accommodate eyelet-shaped connector units 13 of electrically conductive cables 11, so that an electrical connection between the electrically conductive cables 11 can be realized by means of the electrically conductive component 5.

[0132] A further electrically conductive component 5 is shown arranged on the support surface 3 on the left side (relative to the image plane), which is rotated by 90° to the first plane and is electrically conductively coupled to the electrically conductive component 5, which extends above two support surfaces 3, 12.

[0133] In this respect, an electrical current arriving at the above electrically conductive cable 11 or an electrical signal, for example an electrical control signal or the like, can be redirected accordingly via the connecting unit 1.

[0134] This arrangement shown in FIG. 5 is only an example. However, it is conceivable that further examples not shown in detail are possible based on this embodiment shown, without departing from the core of the disclosed invention.

[0135] For example, further support surfaces 3, 4, 12 that are essentially attached to the side are conceivable. It is also conceivable that these support surfaces 3, 4, 12 can be arranged on the main body 2 in different variants according to a modular principle and with the help of the connecting elements 10.

[0136] In a further embodiment, not shown in detail, it is conceivable that the main body 2 is essentially hemispherical, with any wall thicknesses being conceivable and the cut edge correspondingly representing the stand spaces 8, 9.

[0137] The corresponding electrically conductive component 5 can, for example, then have adapted shapes so that they can be fastened essentially precisely on a respective outer section of the hemispherical shape, for example by means of the connecting elements 10.

[0138] Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of a connecting system 14. A connecting unit 1 according to Fig. 1 is shown arranged above a raceway system 15. It is conceivable that any other embodiment of the connecting unit 1 can be arranged above such a raceway system 15 for electrical wiring with appropriate adjustments.

[0139] The reference numbers already introduced in FIG. 1 apply in the same way to the connecting unit 1 shown in FIG. 6 and are therefore not introduced separately again at this point.

[0140] The stand spaces 8, 9 shown in this illustration are merely elongated parts, i.e. edges, of the respective support surfaces 3, 4, which lie in the first plane. Upper edges of the raceway system 15 are essentially parallel to this first plane, so that the connecting unit 1 can be placed above the raceway system 15 using the stand spaces 8, 9.

[0141] In an embodiment not shown in more detail, it is conceivable that the respective stand spaces 8, 9 comprise connecting means in order to be releasably or not releasably attachable to the raceway system 15.

[0142] For example, it is conceivable that this is a snap and click system or something similar. Socket devices in the sense of a plug-in system are also conceivable. It is also conceivable that it is essentially a screw system with corresponding screw elements and threaded bushings. It is also conceivable that the connecting unit 1 in the form shown is simply glued onto the raceway system 15.

[0143] It is conceivable that the connecting unit 1 can be arranged in a stationary manner on the raceway system 15, so that a particularly secure connecting system 14 can be provided.

[0144] The raceway system 15 shown has a total of three chambers 16, in which electrically conductive cables 11 can be guided. The two electrically conductive cables 11 connected to the connecting unit 1 are shown as an example in FIG. 6, with partial areas of the raceway system being shown with dashed lines, so that an internal view of the raceway system 15 is possible at this point.

[0145] The chambers 16 are each laterally delimited by corresponding wall elements 17. These wall elements 17 provided therefore a certain protection function the electrically conductive cables 11 inside the chambers 16.

[0146] The connecting unit 1 rests on these wall elements 17 above the raceway system 15, i.e. the stand spaces 8, 9 lie essentially flat on the upper ends of these wall elements 17 over an entire width of the raceway system 15.

[0147] However, in embodiments not shown in detail, it is conceivable that the raceway system 15 is provided with a number of chambers 16 between two and ten, preferably between two and seven, or only with five chambers 16.

[0148] By means of the connecting system 14 according to the invention, it is therefore possible in a surprisingly simple manner to distribute, for example, electrical current from one electrically conductive cable 11 to another electrically conductive cable 11.

[0149] In the example shown in Fig. 6, electrical current can then be passed (relative to the image plane) from the upper electrically conductive cable 11, which is routed in the chamber 16 shown above, via the electrically conductive component 5 to the lower electrically conductive cable 11, which is guided in the chamber 16 shown below. A bending angle of the respective electrically conductive cables 11 when they are led out of the corresponding chambers 16 is below 90°, for example between 30° and 45°.

[0150] The invention presented requires that, depending on the nature of the connecting unit 1, in particular the respective orientation of the support surfaces 3, 4, only a defined and therefore limited bending of the electrically conductive cables 11 to be led out of the raceway system 15 is possible.

[0151] Due to the smaller conditional angles, this not only results in a smaller requirement for installation space when coupling the electrically conductive cables 11 to one another, but at the same time the electrically conductive cables 11 can also be guided securely.

[0152] In this respect, the connecting system 14 presented offers a simple solution for transferring electrically conductive cable 11 out of one chamber 16 and into another in a defined and safe manner using the connecting unit 1.

[0153] The advantages of the raceway system 15 with its respective chambers 16 can be maintained and excessive bending of the electrically conductive cables 11, which leads to an increased space requirement during installation, can be avoided in a surprisingly simple manner.

[0154] It is also conceivable that the connecting unit 1 only rests partially above on the raceway system 15, for example along a broad side only over two chambers 16.

[0155] It is also conceivable that a separately adapted shape of the connecting unit 1 is not at a right angle as shown in Fig. 6. Instead it can be arranged in a longitudinal direction of the raceway system 15, but correspondingly offset with an angle between 90° and 150°, for example.

[0156] This offset arrangement can also be adapted depending on the application, for example in an aircraft along respective connection points along a fuselage structure of the aircraft.

[0157] According to the invention and shown as an example in the embodiment according to Fig. 6, it is thus possible that instead of a lateral arrangement (with reference to a longitudinal direction of a main pathway of the electrically conductive cables 11 to be routed) for the coupling of electrically conductive cables 11, a space-saving arrangement is provided, which also enables a defined bending of the respective electrically conductive cables 11, so that these electrically conductive cables 11 can be carried out reliably and safely using the connecting unit 1 involved.LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0158] 1connecting unit 2main body 3support surface 4support surface 5electrically conductive component 6connecting element 7connecting element 8stand space 9stand space 10connecting element 11cable 12support surface 13eyelet-shaped connector unit 14connecting system 15raceway system 16chamber 17wall element ddistance

Claims

1. Connecting unit (1) for coupling electrically conductive cables (11) comprising an electrically non-conductive main body (2) with at least two separate stand spaces (8, 9) in a first plane, at least one electrically conductive component (5), at least two connecting elements (6, 7, 10) for respective reception of electrically conductive cables (11), which are to be connected to each other via the at least one electrically conductive component (5), characterized in that the non-conductive main body (2) has at least two separate support surfaces (3, 4, 12), each of which is designed to accommodate the at least one electrically conductive component (5), and wherein an orientation of at least one of the at least two separate support surfaces (3, 4, 12) differs from the first plane, so that a respective orientation of electrically conductive cables (11) in the coupled state on the electrically conductive component (5) can be redirected by means of this support surface (3, 4, 12).

2. Connecting unit (1) according to claim 1, wherein the respective connecting elements (6, 7, 10) comprise respectively further connecting means so that a respective electrical connection of the respective electrical conductive cable (11) to the at least one electrically conductive component (5) can be realized by using the further connecting means or wherein the respective connecting elements (6, 7, 10) are designed to comprise at least one electrically conductive portion which is designed to have direct contact with the at least one electrically conductive component (5) when the connecting unit (1) is assembled, so that a respective electrical connection of the respective electrical conductive cable (11) to the at least one electrically conductive component (5) can be realized by a direct connection of the respective electrical conductive cable (11) to the respective connecting element (6, 7, 10).

3. Connecting unit (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the main body (2) has two separate support surfaces (3, 4), each of which include a respective stand space (8, 9), and an intersection angle between planes of these two separate support surfaces (3, 4) has a value between 20° and 150°, preferably between 30° and 100°, preferably between 40° and 90°, preferably of 90°.

4. Connecting unit (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the main body (2) has three separate support surfaces (3, 4, 12), a plane of a first support surface (12) is substantially parallel to the first plane and an intersection angle between the two remaining separate support surfaces (3, 4), each of which include a respective stand space (6, 7), has a value between 20° and 150°, preferably between 30° and 100°. preferably between 40° and 90°, preferably of 90°.

5. Connecting unit (1) according to claim 4, wherein the first support surface (12) is arranged between the two remaining separate support surfaces (3, 4).

6. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the at least two separate support surfaces (3, 4) form a substantially compound curved surface and respective stand spaces (8, 9) are placed at respective end areas of this compound curved surface.

7. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the main body (2) is designed in several parts and has user-defined adjustable connections between the respective support surfaces (3, 4, 12), so that respective planes of the support surfaces (3, 4, 12) can be adjusted to one another.

8. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the at least one electrically conductive component (5) has substantially a main shape according to a main shape of the support surface (3, 4, 12) to which it is fixed.

9. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the at least one electrically conductive component (5) extends over at least two support surfaces (3, 4, 12).

10. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the at least two connecting elements (6, 7, 10) are pin-shaped, which are designed to accommodate eyelet-shaped connector units (13) of electrically conductive cables (11), so that an electrical connection between the electrically conductive cables (11) can be realized by means of the least one electrically conductive component (5).

11. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the at least two connecting elements (6, 7, 10) have fastening means for attaching to the main body (2) selected from: Screw elements, clamping elements, suction buttons, self-adhesive surfaces, mandrel elements for pressing into the main body, nail elements.

12. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein a distance between the connecting elements (6, 7, 10) has at least a value between 8 mm and 500 mm, preferably between 30 mm and 300 mm, preferably between 50 mm and 200 mm, preferably between 75 mm and 150 mm, preferably 60 mm.

13. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the respective stand spaces (8, 9) comprise connecting means in order to be releasably attachable to a raceway system (15) for electrical wiring.

14. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the non-conductive main body (2) is made of plastic, particularly selected of: Thermoplastics, PEEK, PTFE.

15. Connecting unit (1) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the at least one electrically conductive component (5) and the connecting elements (6, 7, 10) comprise metal or metal alloys, particularly selected of: Aluminum, aluminum alloys, copper, copper alloys, brass, corrosion resisting steel, aluminum with a nickel-plated surface treatment, aluminum alloys with a nickel-plated surface treatment, copper with a gold surface treatment, copper alloys with a gold surface treatment, brass with a nickel-plated surface treatment, corrosion resisting steel with a nickel-plated surface treatment.

16. Connecting system (14) for coupling electrically conductive cables (11) comprising a raceway system (15) for electrical wiring and at least one connecting unit (1) according to one of the claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the at least one connecting unit (1) is arranged above the raceway system (15) so that electrically conductive cables (11) of different chambers (16) of the raceway system (15) can be electrically coupled via one connecting unit (1).

Images