Electrical connector, electrical connector, electrical connector, electrical connector of network topology and electrical network topology

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical connector (9, 9') for connection with an electrical mating connector (3, 3'), comprising at least one contact element assembly (14) formed from at least one first electrical contact element (12) and a second electrical contact element (13). At least the first contact element (12) of at least one contact element assembly (14) has a first contact area (15) accessible for contacting a corresponding mating contact element (16, 16') of the mating connector (3, 3'), and a second contact area (18) distinct from the first contact area (15) for electrical and mechanical contacting at least one further contact element (13) of the same contact element assembly (14).It is provided that the first contact element (12) is deformable and / or displaceable by a contacting process with the counter-contact element (16, 16') via the first contacting area (15), starting from a mechanically unaffected ground state, in such a way that a contacting of the said first contact element (12) with the at least one further contact element (13) of the same contact element assembly (14) existing before the contacting process at the second contacting area (18) is separated.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an electrical connector for connection with an electrical mating connector, comprising at least one contact element assembly formed from at least one first electrical contact element and a second electrical contact element, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] The invention further relates to an electrical connector and an electrical connecting element of an electrical network topology, preferably a bus system.

[0003] The invention also relates to an electrical network topology, in particular a bus system, comprising at least two interconnected electrical connecting elements.

[0004] Electrical network topologies, particularly (differential) bus systems, are used in many application areas, such as industry, vehicles, and workplaces, for data transmission between multiple electrical devices. The wiring system of an electrical network topology typically includes at least one main line to which each device is connected. For flexible or on-demand connection of the electrical devices, electrical connectors are usually attached to the main line, which can be connected to mating connectors on the devices. These electrical connectors can be, for example, T-, F-, or Y-shaped. EP 4 322 341 A1 serves as an example of a known differential bus system.

[0005] A conventional bus connector requires a relatively large amount of installation space due to its design, which hinders the miniaturization of the overall electrical system. Furthermore, the assembly effort for common network topologies is sometimes high and therefore costly and time-consuming. The assembly effort, for example in an automotive plant or at an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) (Tier 1 supplier), can be considerable and also prone to errors, since at least one electrical conductor of the overall system must be connected to each of the connector's interfaces.

[0006] As an alternative to assembly on-site, the entire system can be pre-assembled by the manufacturer, which, however, hinders flexible application, as the branch points for the participants in the network topology are fixed.

[0007] In view of the known state of the art, the object of the present invention is to provide an electrical connector and an electrical plug connection which can be advantageously used in a network topology in order to preferably enable a flexible and technically simple connection option for electrical participants to the network topology.

[0008] The present invention also aims to provide an electrical connecting element that can be used modularly in a network topology, preferably to enable a flexible and technically simple design of a network topology.

[0009] Furthermore, the invention aims to provide an electrical network topology that can be assembled modularly.

[0010] The problem is solved for the electrical connector by the features listed in claim 1. With regard to the electrical connecting element, the problem is solved by the features of claim 10, and with regard to the electrical network topology by the features of claim 12. For the electrical plug connection, the problem is further solved by the features of claim 13.

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

[0012] The invention relates to an electrical connector for connection with a mating electrical connector, in particular a bus connector. The electrical connector comprises at least one contact element assembly formed from at least one first electrical contact element and a second electrical contact element.

[0013] A contact element assembly according to the invention can, in principle, comprise any number of individual contact elements, but in particular the aforementioned first electrical contact element and the aforementioned second electrical contact element (if only the first and second contact elements are present, the contact element assembly can therefore also be referred to as a "contact element pair"). The contact element assembly can, for example, additionally comprise a third electrical contact element, a fourth electrical contact element, a fifth electrical contact element, or even further electrical contact elements. Reference is sometimes made below to "at least one further contact element" of the common contact element assembly. This can be understood to refer in particular to the "second contact element," even if this is not explicitly mentioned.

[0014] The electrical connector can also have any number of contact element assemblies, although a single contact element assembly may also be sufficient (e.g., in the case of a coaxial connector). Preferably, the electrical connector has several contact element assemblies, for example, two, three, four, five, six, or even more. If several contact element assemblies are provided, the contact element assemblies can also be configured differently, for example, by having a different number of each type of contact element.

[0015] According to the invention, at least the first contact element of at least one contact element assembly has a first contact area accessible for contacting a corresponding counter-contact element of the mating connector, as well as a second contact area different from the first contact area for electrical and mechanical contacting of at least one further contact element of the same contact element assembly.

[0016] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided in particular that the electrical connector has at least one first (mechanical) interface for connection with a corresponding mating interface of the mating connector. The first contact element and at least one further contact element (e.g., the second contact element) of at least one group of contact elements can then preferably extend at least as far as said first interface for contact with the corresponding mating contact element of the mating connector.

[0017] The first interface can be of any electrical and / or mechanical design. The invention is not limited to a specific type or standard of (plug-in) interface. The contact elements in the area of ​​the first interface can be, among other things, pin- or socket-shaped. In addition to rotationally symmetrical or elongated contact elements, flat contacts or end contacts, for example, are also possible. The plug compatibility of the first interface can be arbitrary and may be suitable, for example, for connection with an Ethernet connector standard (e.g., RJ connectors) or another connector standard.

[0018] Preferably, but not necessarily, the first interface is designed for an electrical and mechanical connection with the corresponding mating connector. However, the first interface may also be a purely mechanical plug-in interface, for example, as a "parking position" for a mating connector.

[0019] Preferably, the second contact area of ​​said contact element is arranged outside the first interface or, during a regular contacting and / or plugging operation of the connector with the mating connector, is inaccessible or out of reach of direct influence or contact by the mating connector. In contrast to the first contact area, the second contact area is therefore preferably not directly mechanically contactable by the mating connector (in particular by its mating contact elements) during normal operation.

[0020] According to the invention, it is provided that the first contact element can be mechanically manipulated, in particular deformable (especially preferably elastically or reversibly deformable) and / or displaceable (preferably against an elastic restoring force) by a contacting process with the mating contact element via the first contacting area, starting from a mechanically unaffected ground state, such that a contacting of said first contact element with the at least one further contact element (in particular with the second contact element) of the same contact element assembly existing at the second contacting area before the contacting process is separated.

[0021] The electrical connector can be straight or angled (angled connector). A straight connector can preferably, but not necessarily, be elongated.

[0022] The electrical connector can be a plug, a socket, a coupler, or any other type of connector. Within the scope of the invention, it is particularly irrelevant whether the mating connector is inserted into the connector – or vice versa. Purely end-face contact can also be provided within the scope of the invention.

[0023] Preferably, the contact elements of a common contact element assembly are designed to connect by friction, preferably solely by friction. In addition to or optionally as an alternative to friction, the contact elements of a common contact element assembly may also connect by form-fit (for example, in the form of a snap-fit ​​or clip connection). However, a material-bonded connection or a crimp connection between the contact elements of a common contact element assembly is preferably not provided.

[0024] The contact elements of a common contact element assembly are particularly preferably able to be detached non-destructively if required.

[0025] Preferably, the contact elements of a common contact element assembly contact each other laterally or longitudinally, at least in sections. In particular, it can be provided that at least the contact elements of a common contact element assembly are arranged side by side or parallel in the contact carrier mentioned below.

[0026] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the first contacting area is connected to the second contacting area.

[0027] The connection in question between the contact areas can preferably be a kinematic connection in order to define and / or restrict the mobility of the contact areas relative to each other.

[0028] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the first contact area is further away from a central axis of the electrical connector than the second contact area.

[0029] In this way, it can be advantageously ensured that an enlarged insertion area is provided for inserting the mating contact element or a carrier of the mating contact element (for example, a carrier plate such as an electrical circuit board). Thus, the plugging process can be carried out with comparatively little force, while at the same time the contacting of the contact elements of the contact element assembly is separated at the second contacting area.

[0030] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the contact elements are each formed in one piece.

[0031] Preferably, the contact areas can therefore be monolithically connected to each other.

[0032] The contact elements can alternatively be multi-part, for example to form more complex contact structures. Individual contact element segments of a multi-part contact element can be connected to each other by positive locking, force locking, or material locking.

[0033] Preferably, the contact elements, or at least their components, can be designed as stamped and bent parts. However, contact elements manufactured as turned parts, deep-drawn contact elements, or contact elements manufactured in other ways can also be provided within the scope of the invention.

[0034] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the contacting process with the mating connector, i.e. the resulting mechanical manipulation of the first contact element at the first contacting area, is able to cause a movement of at least (preferably only) a partial section of the first contact element in order to separate the contacting of the contact elements at the second contacting area.

[0035] The movement in question can preferably be a rotational or pivoting movement. However, a translational movement, a displacement, or a combination of translation and rotation is also possible.

[0036] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the contact elements of at least one common contact element assembly each have a connection point at which the contact elements can be connected to respective electrical conductors.

[0037] The second contact area is preferably arranged between the connection point and the first contact area.

[0038] The connection point can be particularly suitable for connecting at least one electrical conductor of an electrical line. It can be specifically provided that, in the case of multiple contact element assemblies, all first contact elements are connected to their respective electrical conductors, which are bundled in a common first electrical line. Similarly, in the case of multiple contact element assemblies, all second contact elements can be connected to their respective electrical conductors, which are bundled in a second common line. Thus, it can be specifically provided that at least two electrical lines are supplied to the electrical connector, which can be respective main line sections of the network topology.

[0039] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one connection means for electrical and mechanical contact with the respective electrical conductor can be arranged at the connection point of the contact elements. The connection means can be configured, in particular, to establish a positive-locking and / or material-locking connection with the electrical conductor (a friction-locking connection is also possible). Preferably, the at least one contact element forms a crimp section at the connection point for a crimp connection with the at least one electrical conductor. The crimp section can, for example, be implemented as a crimp sleeve and / or crimp tab(s). Alternatively to a crimp section, it can also be provided, for example, that the at least one contact element is soldered, welded, or otherwise connected to the at least one electrical conductor at the connection point.Preferably, a permanent or non-destructively inseparable connection is provided between the at least one contact element and the at least one electrical conductor at the connection point. Preferably, the connection point is not a plug-in interface.

[0040] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the first contact element and the at least one further contact element of the same contact element assembly extend to a common interface for contacting the mating connector (for example, the aforementioned "first" interface).

[0041] The first contact element and the at least one further contact element can therefore each be accessible for contact with one or more mating contact elements of the mating connector. Thus, it can preferably be provided that the first contact element can be selectively connected either to the at least one further contact element (in particular to the second contact element) or to a mating contact element of the mating connector – the same can apply to the at least one further contact element or the second contact element.It can therefore be provided that inserting the mating connector into the mechanical interface disconnects the direct connection between the first contact element and at least one other contact element of the common contact element assembly at the second contact area, while corresponding mating contact elements of the mating connector make contact with the first contact element and at least one other contact element at the first contact area. This results in various possibilities for influencing the signal flow in the network topology.

[0042] For example, the mating connector can be designed to transmit the signals at least substantially unaffected, so that the electrical connection between the first contact element and the at least one further contact element (in particular the second contact element) is re-established after the mating connector is inserted (the electrical signal is "passed through"; a tap for an electrical participant in the network topology can, for example, be made electrically in parallel). The electrical connection between the first and the at least one further contact element can be established, for example, by a common mating contact element (i.e., the first and, for example, the second contact element contact the common mating contact element and are electrically connected to each other via the mating contact element) or via respective mating contact elements that are connected to each other via an electrical connection (e.g.,through electrical conductors, an electrical circuit, conductor tracks or vias on the circuit board mentioned below, etc.).

[0043] As an alternative to simply forwarding the signal, the mating connector or the electrical device connected to it can also manipulate the electrical signal in a defined way using an electrical circuit, or even replace it entirely with another electrical signal. In this way, an electrical device can, for example, be inserted into an electrical series circuit and / or be used to electrically influence the network topology in a defined way.

[0044] The mating contact elements can be arranged individually within the mating connector or on or within a common carrier of the mating connector. For example, the carrier for the mating contact elements could be the electrical circuit board mentioned below. This carrier can be any component that serves to fix one or more mating contact elements together (e.g., an electrically insulating plate). The mating contact elements can be arranged on opposite sides or on the same sides of the carrier.

[0045] A mating contact element can, for example, be an electrically conductive plate, a pin contact, or another type of contact.

[0046] The carrier with the mating contact elements, or at least one of the mating contact elements itself, can be inserted, for example, between the first contact element and at least one further contact element (in particular the second contact element), or it can grip said contact elements (like pincers) to tap a signal, take over signal transmission, and / or influence it. Optionally, several mating contact elements can be electrically connected or interconnected directly or indirectly via electrical conductors (e.g., wires, cables, electrical traces, or vias of a printed circuit board), components, or circuits.

[0047] In the manner described above, for example, an electrical device in a network topology can be added to an existing series connection of various electrical devices using simple measures. Furthermore, electrical devices can be easily removed or replaced from an existing series connection without negatively affecting the function of the overall system.

[0048] The proposed connector can be distinguished in particular by the fact that it is delivered pre-assembled by the manufacturer with at least two cables or wires and can therefore be integrated into a bus system or a more complex network topology by the installer (e.g. an automobile manufacturer) without any assembly effort.

[0049] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the electrical connector has an electrically insulating contact carrier in which the contact elements are received at least partially in respective contact receptacles.

[0050] The positioning and / or alignment and / or course of the contact elements can be defined and specified by the contact carrier.

[0051] The contact surfaces can, in principle, have any design. For example, the contact surfaces can be cavities, slots, grooves, channels, chambers, bores, openings, blind holes, windows, or other recesses or receptacles. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the contact surfaces have an elongated geometry (e.g., in the form of a slot, a bore, or a groove). The contact surfaces, especially those with an elongated geometry, can extend at least substantially along a mating direction, axial direction, or longitudinal extent of the electrical connector.

[0052] The contact carrier is preferably made of an electrically insulating material, for example a plastic.

[0053] Preferably, the contact elements are fixed axially and / or radially in the contact carrier or in the corresponding contact receptacles.

[0054] Preferably, the contact elements can be non-destructively removed from the contact carrier after assembly. This allows network topology sections to be adapted or replaced as needed, which can, for example, facilitate maintenance or repair.

[0055] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the electrical connector, the electrical contact elements, and / or the contact carrier are designed to allow the contact elements to be mounted in the contact carrier even after the individual components (especially the contact carrier and contact elements) have been manufactured. That is, the contact elements are preferably not overmolded by the contact carrier, additively formed together with the contact carrier, or manufactured by any other common manufacturing process. Preferably, the contact elements can be mounted in the contact carrier by a single assembler in a force-fit, form-fit, and / or material-fit (less preferably) manner along at least one spatial direction.

[0056] The contact carrier can be designed as a single piece, especially monolithically.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, however, it can be provided that the contact carrier is formed in multiple parts from a first contact carrier part and a second contact carrier part, wherein each of the first contact elements is received in the first contact carrier part and each of the second contact elements is received in the second contact carrier part.

[0058] The contact carrier parts of the multi-part contact carrier can preferably be connected to each other in such a way that the respective contact elements of a common contact element assembly are able to contact each other.

[0059] The contact carrier parts can have a respective mechanical and electrical connection interface for mutual connection.

[0060] In the context of the present invention, a "multi-part contact carrier" is understood to be, in particular, a contact carrier that can only be used functionally (fully) in the electrical connector when the contact carrier parts are assembled and preferably also only offers a functional interface for connecting a bus participant when assembled. The multi-part contact carrier can be characterized, in particular, by the fact that it is delivered pre-assembled by the manufacturer with at least two cables or wires and can therefore be integrated into a bus system or a more complex network topology by the installer (e.g., an automotive manufacturer) without any assembly effort.

[0061] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that at least the first contact element of at least one contact element assembly has at least one further contact area for contacting a further mating contact element of a further mating connector. For example, the electrical connector can thus have at least one second (mechanical) interface for connection with a further mating connector. The at least one further interface or contact area allows for the implementation of even more complex network structures, such as star-shaped, tree-shaped, or mesh network topologies, in a flexible and technically simple manner. Advantageously, any number of interfaces or contact areas for contacting further mating connectors can be provided within the scope of the invention. The second interface or contact area can be used to connect the first contact element of a further mating connector.The additional contact area may preferably be located on a different side than the first interface or contact area (though this is not mandatory). Features and advantages mentioned above and below with regard to the first interface and contact area can also be applied to the second interface and the additional contact area – and vice versa.

[0062] In one embodiment of the invention, the electrical connector may have at least one outer conductor contact element extending at least along an axial section of the contact carrier. It may be provided that the at least one outer conductor contact element circumferentially encloses all contact elements together in said section. Preferably, the outer conductor contact element is a component that is at least substantially sleeve-shaped. The electrical connector may therefore also be a shielded electrical connector.

[0063] The external conductor contact element can preferably be designed as a contact plate, preferably as a formed contact plate. This contact plate can optionally be fixed to the outer sides of the contact carrier. The external conductor contact element can be a one-piece or monolithic component (preferred) or a multi-piece component.

[0064] A crimping or compression fitting can be provided to connect the outer conductor contact element to, for example, one of the electrical conductors or the electrical cable. This allows for an electrical and mechanical connection to the cable shield of the line, and can also provide strain relief.

[0065] The contact carrier and / or the outer conductor contact element may optionally also be the outer housing or part of the outer housing of the electrical connector. However, an additional insulating or electrically conductive outer housing may also be provided, in which the contact carrier is contained. In the case of a shielded connector, the contact carrier may preferably be the insulating element between the outer conductor and the inner conductors.

[0066] The invention also relates to an electrical connecting element of an electrical network topology, preferably a bus system, comprising a first electrical connector according to the preceding and following embodiments, and at least one electrical conductor connected to at least one of the contact elements of the first electrical connector.

[0067] In a further development of the invention, it can optionally be provided that the electrical connecting element additionally has at least one second electrical connector, in particular a second electrical connector according to the preceding and following embodiments, wherein at least one of the electrical conductors connected to the first electrical connector is connected to at least one of the contact elements of the second electrical connector.

[0068] The proposed connecting elements can be easily and flexibly expanded during assembly, for example in an automotive plant, to accommodate any bus system or other network topology. If required, individual electrical conductors or wires pre-assembled with contact elements can also be used for this purpose; these can be inserted into unpopulated contact receptacles in the connectors of the connecting elements. Similarly, it can also be provided that individual electrical conductors or wires are connected on-site to the contact areas of the electrical connectors, for example by crimping, in order to assemble a chain of connectors or connecting elements as needed. The present invention makes it possible for the connector manufacturer to pre-assemble an electrical connecting element or wire during the manufacturing process.A chain link for a network topology can be provided, with a respective main line section at each end of which corresponding contact elements are pre-assembled, allowing for easy installation into the electrical connector or its contact carrier. The installation space required for connecting the bus participants or for providing connection options for electrical participants of the respective topology can also be significantly reduced compared to conventional T, Y, or F connectors.

[0069] A particular advantage of the invention is that electrical connecting elements or pre-assembled contact elements with different conductor or cable lengths can be provided by the manufacturer, so that the connecting elements with the different conductor or cable lengths can be modularly assembled during assembly to form any network topologies with arbitrarily subdivided main conductor sections with respective plug-in options for optional electrical participants.

[0070] The invention also relates to an electrical network topology, in particular a bus system, comprising at least two interconnected electrical connecting elements according to the preceding and following embodiments and at least two mating electrical connectors connected to one of the respective electrical connectors for connection with at least two electrical participants of the network topology.

[0071] In the context of the preceding invention, a "network topology" refers to the topology or overall system of an electrical network, with a specific arrangement of the respective participants and lines in relation to one another for exchanging data and / or electrical energy or power. The electrical network topology can be, among other things, a ring structure, a mesh structure, a star structure, a fully meshed structure, a series structure, a tree structure, or a bus structure (bus system). The specific design or topology is not essential in this case. Ultimately, what matters is that one or more electrical participants can be interconnected within the electrical network topology according to the invention to form a common network, for which the aforementioned electrical interconnects can be used.Electrical connectors offer an advantageous way to integrate electrical devices into the network topology using technically simple means.

[0072] In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the electrical network topology has at least two electrical participants which are connected to a respective mating connector or which each have one of the mating connectors.

[0073] Typically, the electrical network topology can be designed to have more than two electrical devices, for example, three, four, five, ten, or even more. Each of the electrical devices can preferably be connected to the network topology via a corresponding mating connector using the mechanical interfaces of the electrical connectors.

[0074] The electrical participant can be any electrical assembly that is connected or connectable to other electrical participants for the exchange of energy and / or data via the network topology.

[0075] The electrical component can be, for example, a control device, a voltage and / or power supply (e.g., a battery or accumulator), a microprocessor, a computer, an electrical circuit, an electrical load (e.g., a light source), an electrical sensor system (e.g., a camera system), or an electrical input device. The invention is not fundamentally limited to any particular type of electrical component.

[0076] The invention also relates to an electrical connector comprising the electrical connector according to the preceding and following embodiments and the electrical mating connector.

[0077] For the electrical connector, it can preferably be provided that a mating contact element or a respective mating contact element contacts only the first contacting area of ​​each or a respective contact element of a common contact element assembly, wherein or whereby the electrical contacting of the first contact element and of the at least one further contact element (in particular the second contact element) is separated or is separated at the second contacting area.

[0078] In an advantageous further development, it can be provided in particular that the first contacting area is located in a displacement path of the mating connector and can be moved from the displacement path by the mating connector during a plugging and / or contacting process - preferably against an elastic restoring force (caused by the contact element itself and / or by a separate spring element).

[0079] In one embodiment of the invention, the mating connector itself may be an electrical connector as described above and below. In this way, for example, a second network topology can be connected to the proposed network topology. The electrical device that can be connected to the electrical connector via, for example, the first interface, can therefore also be an independent network topology.

[0080] It can be provided that the at least one mating contact element is arranged in advance on a carrier (in particular on the electrical circuit board) such that the first mechanical contact between the carrier or the electrical circuit board and the contact element of the electrical connector simultaneously establishes the electrical contact between the at least one mating contact element and the respective first contacting area of ​​the contact elements of a common contact element assembly of the electrical connector during the insertion of the carrier or the electrical circuit board into the interface of the connector.

[0081] The advantage of the leading mating contact element can be that the connection of the network topology with the other electrical participant can be made relatively interference-free, since the main line section of the network topology is forwarded via the electrical connector or via the mating connector and thus the electrical participant to the other main line section of the network topology.

[0082] Alternatively, the main line can also be interrupted initially during the insertion of the mating connector; that is, the contact between the mating contact elements and the contact elements of the connector can thus be deliberately delayed during insertion of the mating connector. In this case, one embodiment of the invention provides that the at least one mating contact element is arranged set back from a front end of the carrier (in particular the electrical circuit board) in the insertion direction, so that during the insertion of the carrier or the electrical circuit board into the interface, a mechanical contact is first established between the carrier or the electrical circuit board and the contact elements of the electrical connector, which leads to the separation of the electrical contact of the electrical contact elements at the second contact area.Only when the carrier or the electrical circuit board is inserted a further time is the electrical contact established between the at least one mating contact element and the contact elements of the electrical connector at the first contacting area.

[0083] A temporary interruption of the electrical connection in the main conductor of the overall system while plugging in another electrical device or the mating connector can be advantageous, for example, to signal to a control unit (e.g., a master) of the network topology that a change has occurred in the network regarding the connected devices. This allows for a faster update of the device inventory, as needed, compared to a cyclical, regular update.

[0084] If the mating contact elements are arranged on a circuit board of the mating connector, they can be distributed across both main areas of the circuit board. Thus, opposing mating contact elements on the circuit board can be connected to each other via electrical traces and / or metallic vias to transmit an electrical data or power signal between two main line segments of the network topology across the circuit board of the mating connector when the mating connector is inserted into the mechanical interface.

[0085] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that, for the electrical contacting of the at least one contact element assembly by the mating connector, the mating contact element of the mating connector directly contacts both or all contact elements of the common contact element assembly. The mating contact element itself can preferably be inserted between the first contact element and the at least one further contact element or clamp around said contact elements.

[0086] Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that, for the electrical contacting of the at least one contact element assembly by the mating connector, a first mating contact element of the mating connector is arranged on a first side surface of a carrier (e.g., a printed circuit board) of the mating connector, and a second mating contact element of the mating connector is arranged on a second side surface of the carrier opposite the first side surface. The carrier (i.e., the aforementioned printed circuit board) can be positioned in the mated state of the connector and the mating connector such that the first mating contact element contacts the first contact element, and the second mating contact element contacts at least one further contact element.The carrier of the counter-contact elements can preferably be arranged between the first contact element and the at least one further contact element (in particular the second contact element) or clamp around said contact elements.

[0087] The invention also relates to an assembly method for assembling an electrical network topology, in particular a bus system, comprising at least the following method steps: Providing at least one contact element assembly consisting of at least one first electrical contact element and a second electrical contact element, wherein at least the first contact element of at least one contact element assembly has a first contact area accessible for contacting a corresponding mating contact element of the mating connector, and a second contact area different from the first contact area for electrically and mechanically contacting at least one further contact element of the same contact element assembly; mounting the provided contact elements (preferably in a one- or multi-part contact carrier) such that the contact elements of a respective contact element assembly make electrical and mechanical contact at the second contact area. wherein said contact elements are deformed and / or displaced by a contacting process with the associated counter-contact element via the respective first contacting area, starting from a mechanically unaffected basic state, such that The contact between the said first contact element and at least one further contact element (in particular with the second contact element) of the same contact element assembly, which existed before the contacting process at the second contacting area, is separated.

[0088] Optionally, the following process steps may also be included in the above assembly procedure: Connecting the electrical contact elements to the respective electrical conductors at a connection point, in particular crimping the electrical contact elements to the electrical conductors; and / or connecting several electrical connectors via at least one common electrical conductor or a common electrical line to form respective connecting links in order to successively build a network topology; and / or connecting one or more electrical participants of the network topology by means of respective mating connectors to at least one mechanical interface of one of the electrical connectors.

[0089] Features described in connection with one of the subject matter of the invention, in particular the electrical connector, electrical connecting element, electrical network topology, electrical plug connection, or assembly method according to the invention, can also be advantageously implemented for the other subject matter of the invention. Likewise, advantages mentioned in connection with one of the subject matter of the invention can also be understood as relating to the other subject matter of the invention.

[0090] It should also be noted that terms such as "comprehensive," "exhibiting," or "with" do not exclude other characteristics or steps. Furthermore, terms such as "a" or "the," which indicate a singular number of steps or characteristics, do not exclude a plurality of characteristics or steps—and vice versa.

[0091] In a purist embodiment of the invention, however, it may also be provided that the features introduced in the invention with the terms "comprising," "comprising," or "with" are exhaustively listed. Accordingly, one or more lists of features within the scope of the invention may be considered complete, for example, for each claim. The invention may, for instance, consist exclusively of the features mentioned in claim 1.

[0092] It should be noted that designations such as "first" or "second" etc. are primarily used for the purpose of distinguishing between the respective device or process features and are not necessarily intended to indicate that features are mutually dependent or related to each other.

[0093] Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the values ​​and parameters described herein include deviations or fluctuations of ±10% or less, preferably ±5% or less, more preferably ±1% or less, and most preferably ±0.1% or less of the respective named value or parameter, provided that such deviations are not excluded in the practical implementation of the invention. The specification of ranges by initial and final values ​​also includes all those values ​​and fractions that are encompassed by the respective named range, in particular the initial and final values ​​and a respective mean value.

[0094] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0095] The figures each show preferred embodiments in which individual features of the present invention are combined with one another. Features of an embodiment can also be implemented independently of the other features of the same embodiment and can therefore be readily combined by a person skilled in the art to form further meaningful combinations and subcombinations with features of other embodiments.

[0096] In the figures, functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0097] They show schematically: Figure 1: Connecting elements of an electrical network topology according to an embodiment in a disconnected state; Figure 2: the connecting elements according to Figure 1in a state connected to an electrical network topology with a mating connector; Figure 3 a longitudinal section through an electrical connector with a multi-part contact carrier in an unmated state of the mating connector, according to an embodiment; Figure 4 the electrical connector according to Figure 3 Figure 5 shows a longitudinal section through an electrical connector according to a further embodiment, with a second interface for a second mating connector, in an unplugged state of the mating connector; Figure 6 shows the electrical connector according to Figure 5 in a plugged-in state of the mating connector; Figure 7 shows a variant for producing the connection between a first contact element and a second contact element of an electrical connector according to the embodiment of the Figure 3, based on a detailed representation of the contact elements; Figure 8 shows a further variant for producing the connection between a first contact element and a second contact element of an electrical connector according to the embodiment of the Figure 3 , based on a detailed representation of the contact elements; Figure 9 a variant of an electrical connector according to a further embodiment, with a central arrangement of the electrical interface between two connection points arranged at opposite ends, in an unmated state of the mating connector; Figure 10 the electrical connector according Figure 9 in a plugged-in state of the mating connector; Figure 11 the process of inserting and locking two contact elements into a one-piece contact carrier; Figure 12 the contact carrier of the Figure 11after the insertion of the contact elements; Figure 13 shows a variant of a contact carrier with external grooves for inserting the contact elements, in a longitudinal section; Figure 14 shows a cross-section of the contact carrier. Figure 13 Figure 15 shows a longitudinal section through another electrical connector in an unmated state of the mating connector, according to a further embodiment; Figure 16 shows the electrical connector according to Figure 15 in a plugged-in state of the mating connector; Figure 17 shows an enlarged section of the electrical connector according to Figure 16 Figure 18 shows a longitudinal section through another electrical connector in an unmated state of the mating connector, according to a further embodiment; Figure 19 shows the crossed contact elements of the electrical connector according to Figure 18 in a close-up view; Figure 20 shows the electrical connector according to Figure 18in a plugged-in state of the mating connector; and Figure 21 a shielded electrical connector according to an embodiment, in a perspective view.

[0098] In the Figure 1 and 2 Several connecting elements 1 of an electrical network topology 2 are shown according to a first embodiment of the invention. Figure 1 are the connecting elements 1 in a disconnected state and in Figure 2 in an interconnected state, whereby the electrical network topology 2 with multiple plug-in options for respective mating connectors 3 of an electrical participant 4 (each dashed line in Figure 2 ) is provided.

[0099] Each of the electrical connecting elements 1 has an electrical line 5 in which at least one electrical conductor 6 (cf. e.g. Figure 5). A first contact carrier part 7 of a multi-part contact carrier 8 of a first electrical connector 9 is connected to a first end of the electrical conductor 5 or electrical conductor 6, and a second contact carrier part 10 of a multi-part contact carrier 8 of a second electrical connector 9' is connected to a second end of the electrical conductor 5 or electrical conductor 6. The contact carrier parts 7, 10 arranged at the respective ends of the electrical conductor 5 are compatible with each other, so that they can be connected to form a common, multi-part connector 9, 9', 9" (see Figure 1). Figure 2 ).

[0100] By mechanically and electrically connecting the connecting elements 1 to each other, any network topology 2, in particular a bus system, can finally be assembled, whereby by joining the contact carrier parts 7, 10 to form a respective multi-part electrical connector 9, 9', 9" a contact closure for the transmission of current and / or data between the respective electrical lines 5 of the connecting elements 1 and also an additional plug-in option for the electrical participant 4 of the network topology 2 is created.

[0101] The invention covers a multitude of possible variants of electrical connectors 9, 9', 9" for use within the network topology 2 described above. The following will illustrate the Figures 3 to 21Some particularly advantageous embodiments will be explained by way of example, which, however, should not be understood as limiting for the invention.

[0102] The Figures 3 and 4 Figure 1 shows a longitudinal section through an electrical connector 9 according to an embodiment of the invention. The electrical connector 9 forms a common electrical connection 11 with a mating connector 3 (not shown in detail), which is Figure 3 in an unplaced and in Figure 4The electrical connector 9 is shown in a plugged-in state. It has at least one contact element assembly 14 formed from at least one first electrical contact element 12 and a second electrical contact element 13. In the exemplary embodiment, only a single contact element assembly 14 is shown, which, however, is not to be understood as limiting the invention. In principle, any number of contact element assemblies 14 can be provided. In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 3 and 4 The first contact element 12 and the second contact element 13 are identical in design, which can be advantageous in principle, but is not absolutely necessary.

[0103] The contact elements 12, 13 of at least one contact element assembly 14 each have a first contact area 15 which is accessible for contact with the corresponding mating contact element 16 of the mating connector 3. In the exemplary embodiments, the first contact area 15 is located in a first interface 17 (in the Figures 3 and 4 (indicated by dashed lines) of the electrical connector 9 arranged.

[0104] Furthermore, at least the first contact element 12 has a second contact area 18, distinct from the first contact area 15, for the electrical and mechanical contacting of at least one further contact element of the same contact element assembly 14. Figure 3The first contact element 12 and the second contact element 13 each make contact at their second contact area 18. The second contact area 18 is preferably located out of reach of the mating contact element 16 or the mating connector 3. Figures 3 and 4 The second contact area 18 is arranged behind an end stop that limits the insertion area of ​​the mating contact element 16 in the interface 17, although this is not strictly necessary. The second contact area 18 can also be arranged completely outside the interface 17.

[0105] According to the basic idea of ​​the invention, it is provided that the contact elements 12, 13 are connected by a contacting process with the corresponding counter-contact element 16 with the respective first contacting area 15, starting from a mechanically unaffected basic state (cf. Figure 3), are so deformable and / or displaceable that a contact of the said contact elements 12, 13 of the same contact element assembly 14 existing before the contacting process at the second contacting area 18 is separated (cf. Figure 4 ).

[0106] The relevant mechanical interaction between the mating connector 3 and the first contact area 15 of the respective contact element 12, 14 can result directly from the mating contact element 16 itself or from a carrier 30 having the mating contact element(s) 16 (cf. Figure 2 ), for example, by means of an electrical circuit board on which one or more contact elements are formed on the same or on opposite side surfaces.

[0107] As can be seen from a summary of the Figures 3 and 4As a result, the first interface 17 of the electrical connector 9 forms a large receptacle for the depicted mating contact element 16, which is why the insertion or plugging in of the mating contact element 16 is possible with a comparatively low insertion force. At the same time, the direct contact between the first contact element 12 and the second contact element 13 in the respective second contact area 18 can be separated without the second contact area 18 having to be directly affected by the mating contact element 16.

[0108] In order to indirectly manipulate the second contact area 18 by influencing the first contact area 15, the first contact area 15 and the second contact area 18 are integrally or monolithically connected in the exemplary embodiments. The respective contact elements 12, 13 can, in particular, be designed as stamped and bent parts.

[0109] Preferably, a mechanical manipulation of the first contact element 12 by the contacting process with the mating connector 3 or its mating contact element 16 at the first contacting area 15 causes a movement of at least a partial section of the first contact element 12, preferably a pivoting and / or translational movement, in order to separate the contacting of the contact elements 12, 13 at the second contacting area 18.

[0110] In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the electrical signal between the two contact elements 12, 13 of the same contact element assembly 14 is only transmitted directly as long as the mating contact element 16 is not inserted into the first interface 17. If, however, the connector 11 is in a plugged-in or connected state, as shown in Figure 4As indicated, the electrical connection is subsequently routed via the electrical participant 4 or at least via the electrical mating connector 3 or its electrical mating contact element 16. An electrical participant 4 can thus be advantageously integrated into an existing series circuit using simple technical means. In this way, the electrical signal can be passed unchanged from the first contact element 12 via the electrical participant 4 or its mating connector 3 to the second contact element 13, modified by an optional electrical circuit, or completely replaced.

[0111] As can be seen from the Figures 3 and 4As can be clearly seen, each contact element has a connection point 19 where the contact elements 12, 13 can be connected to the respective electrical conductors 6. Crimp tabs 20 for a crimp connection are indicated at the connection point 19 as an example. The second contact area 18 is shown in the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 3 and 4 for example, arranged between junction 19 and the first contact area 15.

[0112] As mentioned above, the electrical connector 9 preferably has an electrically insulating contact carrier 8. The contact elements 12, 13 are received in contact receptacles 21 in the contact carrier 8 and are preferably fixed therein. The contact carrier 8 can be multi-part or monolithic, with the multi-part version generally being preferred. However, the monolithic version of the contact carrier 8 will also be presented below.

[0113] As can be seen from the Figures 3 and 4 As can be clearly seen, the contact carrier 8 has the aforementioned first contact carrier part 7 and the second contact carrier part 10. Each of the first contact elements 12 is preferably received in the first contact carrier part 7, and each of the second contact elements 13 is received in the second contact carrier part 10. The contact carrier parts 7 and 10 can be connected to one another in such a way that the respective contact elements 12 and 13 of a common contact element assembly 14 contact each other when the contact carrier 8 is assembled. This contacting takes place via the second contacting area 18 and is generally based on a force-fit between the contact elements 12 and 13.

[0114] To create even more complex network topologies, the electrical connector 9 can be provided with at least a second interface 22 for connection with a further mating connector 3'. This variant of the invention will be illustrated by the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 5 and 6 This will be illustrated by example. Figure 5 This shows an unplugged state of the mating connectors 3, 3' and Figure 6 a plugged-in state. By plugging the first mating contact element 16 into the first interface 17, a participant 4 of the network topology 2 can be added to an existing series circuit, analogous to what was previously described, and the previously existing direct contact between the contact elements 12, 13 can be disconnected.

[0115] The additional, second interface 22 at the opposite end of the electrical connector 9 provides yet another connection option, for example, to connect another electrical device 4 in parallel. However, it can also be provided that the insertion process of the second mating connector 3' or the second mating contact element 16' alternatively or additionally causes a contact separation between the first contact element 12 and the second contact element 13 (or another contact element). For example, at least the first contact element 12 can be deformable and / or displaceable by the contacting process with the second mating contact element 16' via a further (third) contact area (not shown) such that the contact is separated at the second contact area 18.

[0116] In a similar way to the Figures 5 and 6As shown, further interfaces for connecting to other mating connectors may also be provided. The basic principle should be understood based on the Figures 5 and 6 This is merely an example to illustrate the point.

[0117] Based on the Figures 7 and 8 Two exemplary variants for establishing the contact between the first contact element 12 of the first contact carrier part 7 and the second contact element 13 of the second contact carrier part 10 will now be presented. The two contact elements 12 and 13 are shown individually for clarity. For example, it may be provided that a connection direction V for establishing the connection runs parallel to a plugging direction S of the first interface 17 (cf. Figure 7 ).

[0118] Alternatively, it can also be provided that the connection direction V runs at an angle, in particular orthogonally, to the insertion direction S (cf. Figure 8 ).

[0119] Based on the Figures 9 and 10 It should be clarified that the first interface 17, which in this case is formed jointly by the two contact carrier parts 7, 10, does not necessarily have to be located at an axial end of the connector 9, but can also be located centrally between the two connection points 19 of the contact elements 12, 13. Thus, the previously described shell-side connection of the individual contact elements 12, 13 is also not absolutely necessary, since, in principle, contacting the contact elements 12, 13 of a common contact element assembly 14 in the longitudinal direction of the connector 9 is also possible within the scope of the invention. Even in this case, at least with regard to the first contact element 12 (in the exemplary embodiment of the Figures 9 and 10In both contact elements 12, 13, a first contact area 15 is provided, which is spaced apart from the second contact area 18. Thus, only the mechanical influence on the first contact area 15 can separate the contact at the second contact area 18, as shown in Figure 10 clearly visible.

[0120] Based on the Figures 11 to 14 This example illustrates that the invention can also be advantageously suited for use with an electrical connector 9 having a one-piece or monolithic contact carrier 8. For continued flexible usability within the modular network topology 2, it can be particularly advantageous in this case to provide a particularly simple assembly technique for the contact elements 12, 13 in the contact carrier 8. This will be explained below.

[0121] The contact receptacles 21 for receiving the contact elements 12, 13 are preferably designed as elongated channels and extend from one end of the contact carrier 8 at least partially through the contact carrier 8. Thus, the contact elements 12, 13 can be mounted, for example, in the insertion direction S or against the insertion direction S, as shown in Figure 11 indicated. For this purpose, in particular a contact carrier 8 that is at least partially hollow can be provided, with a correspondingly accessible contact point 21.

[0122] For lateral and / or axial fixation, the contact elements 12, 13 can have locking tabs, a collar 23 (as shown), or other locking elements. This allows locking behind suitable projections or in locking recesses 24 of the contact receptacle 21.

[0123] Another variant for mounting the contact elements 12, 13 is illustrated by way of example in Figures 13 and 14. In this case, the contact receptacles 21 of the contact carrier 8 are designed as grooves that run along an outer surface 25 of the contact carrier 8. In this way, the contact elements 12, 13 can be mounted laterally from the outside with respect to the insertion direction S. Again, lateral fixation can be provided, for example by clipping or snapping the contact elements 12, 13 into the grooves or contact receptacles 21. Axial fixation by one or more stops can also be provided, for example by the collar 23 of the contact elements 12, 13 mentioned above.

[0124] In the preceding embodiments, it was proposed to contact the contact elements 12, 13 of the common contact element assembly 14 internally, i.e., on their side facing the central axis M of the connector 9, by means of the mating contact element 16. The contact elements 12, 13 were therefore bent outwards or spread apart to effect the separation of the contact at the second contact area 18. As an alternative to such internal contact, external contact can also be provided (in particular, a pincer-like gripping), as exemplified by the Figures 15 to 17 This should be made clear.

[0125] Figure 15 indicates an unplugged state of connector 11 and Figure 16 a fixed state, in which also in Figure 17 a close-up of the in Figure 16The section X, highlighted with dashed lines, is shown. The mating connector 3 has two mating contact elements 16, between which an insulator element 26 is formed. When the connector 9 and the mating connector 3 are plugged together, the insulator element 26 creates a pivot point D in an axial section between the respective first contact area 15 and the second contact area 18 of the contact elements 12, 13. The respective contact element 12, 13 can be supported at this pivot point when contact is made with the corresponding mating contact element 16. A contact force acting inwards in the first contact area 15, i.e., towards the central axis M of the connector 9, thus causes an outwards force at the second contact area 18, thereby breaking the electrical contact (see overview of the Figures 15 and 16It should be noted here that the pivot point D does not necessarily have to be provided by the insulator element 26 of the mating connector 3. The connector 9, 9' itself, or its contact carrier 8, may also have the pivot point D.

[0126] Based on the Figures 18 to 20 An arrangement of the contact elements 12, 13 of a common contact element assembly 14 will now be shown, in which the kinematic relationships are somewhat more complex than in the previously presented embodiments. A one-piece contact carrier 8 is shown as an example, although the principle can also be applied to a multi-part contact carrier 8. Figure 18 shows the unplanted and Figure 20 the inserted state of the plug connection 11. A perspective view of the contact elements 12, 13 is shown in Figure 19 hinted at.

[0127] Based on the Figures 18 to 20This is merely intended to illustrate by way of example that, in principle, many different variants exist for the mechanical connection and force transmission between the contacting areas 15, 18 of the contact element 12, 13, which can be implemented within the scope of the invention. Figures 18 to 20 Figure 1 shows an example of a scissor-like kinematic connection, in which the contact elements 12, 13 intersect in the region of their respective pivot points D. The pivot points D are formed in this case by a support element 27 of the contact carrier 8.

[0128] To illustrate that the invention is also suitable for use with a shielded electrical connector 9, it is shown in Figure 21A contact carrier 8 encased by an external conductor contact element 28 is shown (again, a one-piece contact carrier 8 is shown as an example). The external conductor contact element 28 extends laterally around the contact carrier 8 in cross-section and extends axially completely along the contact carrier 8 (or even beyond it). The external conductor contact element 28, which is at least substantially sleeve-shaped, can be mounted from the plug-side end, but preferably from the cable- or conductor-side end, of the contact carrier 8. Preferably, the external conductor contact element 28 is mounted after the contact elements 12, 13 have been inserted into the contact carrier 8.

[0129] In addition to the use of an outer conductor contact element 28, it can be provided that an outer conductor sleeve 29, for example the one described in [reference to original text], is finally fitted onto the fully assembled connector 9. Figure 21A crimp sleeve is applied, providing optimized mechanical fixation to a cable shield and strain relief. The outer conductor sleeve 29 can extend over any length of the connector 9. Multiple outer conductor sleeves 29 can also be used. The outer conductor sleeve 29 can be mounted on the cable side or the connector side.

Claims

1. Electrical connector (9, 9') for connection with an electrical mating connector (3, 3'), comprising at least one contact element assembly (14) formed from at least one first electrical contact element (12) and a second electrical contact element (13), wherein at least the first contact element (12) of at least one contact element assembly (14) has a first contact area (15) accessible for contacting a corresponding mating contact element (16, 16') of the mating connector (3, 3'), and a second contact area (18) different from the first contact area (15) for electrical and mechanical contacting at least one further contact element (13) of the same contact element assembly (14). characterized by the fact thatthe first contact element (12) is deformable and / or displaceable by a contacting process with the counter-contact element (16, 16') via the first contacting area (15), starting from a mechanically unaffected ground state, such that a contacting of the said first contact element (12) with the at least one further contact element (13) of the same contact element assembly (14) existing at the second contacting area (18) before the contacting process is separated.

2. Electrical connector (9, 9') according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first contact area (15) is connected to the second contact area (18).

3. Electrical connector (9, 9') according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that the first contact area (15) is further away from a central axis (M) of the electrical connector (9, 9') than the second contact area (18).

4. Electrical connector (9, 9') according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the fact that the contact elements (12, 13) are each formed in one piece, preferably as respective stamped and bent parts.

5. Electrical connector (9, 9') according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that the contacting process with the mating connector (3, 3') at the first contacting area (15) is able to cause a movement of only a partial section of the first contact element (12), preferably a pivoting movement, to separate the contacting of the contact elements (12, 13) at the second contacting area (18).

6. Electrical connector (9, 9') according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the fact thatthe contact elements (12, 13) each have a connection point (19) at which the contact elements (12, 13) can be connected to respective electrical conductors (6), wherein the second contacting area (18) is preferably arranged between the connection point (19) and the first contacting area (15).

7. Electrical connector (9, 9') according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the first contact element (12) and at least one further contact element (13) of the same contact element assembly (14) extend to a common interface (17, 22) for contacting the mating connector (3, 3').

8. Electrical connector (9, 9') according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by an electrically insulating contact carrier (8) in which the contact elements (12, 13) are received in respective contact receptacles (21), preferably fixed.

9. Electrical connector (9, 9') according to claim 8, characterized by the fact that the contact carrier (8) is formed in multiple parts from a first contact carrier part (7) and a second contact carrier part (10), wherein each of the first contact elements (12) is received in the first contact carrier part (7) and each of the second contact elements (13) is received in the second contact carrier part (10), and wherein the contact carrier parts (7, 10) can be connected to each other in such a way that the respective contact elements (12, 13) of a common contact element assembly (14) are able to contact each other.

10. Electrical connecting element (1) of an electrical network topology (2), preferably of a bus system, comprising a first electrical connector (9) according to one of claims 1 to 9, and at least one electrical conductor (6) connected to at least one of the contact elements (12, 13) of the first electrical connector (9).

11. Electrical connecting element (1) according to claim 10, characterized bya second electrical connector (9') according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one of the electrical conductors (6) connected to the first electrical connector (9) is connected to at least one of the contact elements (12, 13) of the second electrical connector (9').

12. Electrical network topology (2), in particular bus system, comprising at least two interconnected electrical connecting elements (1) according to claim 10 or 11 and at least two mating electrical connectors (3, 3') connected to one of the respective electrical connectors (9, 9') for connection to at least two electrical participants (4) of the network topology (2).

13. Electrical connector (11) comprising the electrical connector (9, 9') according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and the mating electrical connector (3, 3'), wherein the mating contact element (16, 16') contacts only the first contacting area (15) of at least the first contact element (12), and wherein the electrical contacting of the first contact element (12) and the second contact element (13) is separated at the second contacting area (18).

14. Electrical connector (11) according to claim 13, characterized by the fact that the first contact area (15) is located in a displacement path of the mating connector (3, 3') and can be moved out of the displacement path by the mating connector (3, 3') during a plugging and / or contacting process.

15. Electrical connector (11) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized by the fact thatfor electrical contacting of the at least one contact element assembly (14) by the mating connector (3, 3') a) the mating contact element (16, 16') of the mating connector (3, 3') of each of the contact elements (12, 13) of the common contact element assembly (14) is directly contacted, preferably between the first contact element (12) and the at least one further contact element (13);and / or b) a first mating contact element (16, 16') of the mating connector (3, 3') is arranged on a first side surface of a carrier (30) of the mating connector (3, 3') and a second mating contact element (16, 16') of the mating connector (3, 3') is arranged on a second side surface of the carrier (30) opposite the first side surface, wherein the carrier (30) for the mating contact elements (16, 16') is positioned in the plugged-in state of the connector (9, 9') and the mating connector (3, 3') such that the first mating contact element (16, 16') contacts the first contact element (12) and the second mating contact element (16, 16') contacts the at least one further contact element (13).

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