Modular plug device arrangement for transferring electrical energy and / or electrical signals

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) which can be modified differently for transferring electrical energy and / or electrical signals, wherein the modular plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) comprises a base housing module (100), a connection housing module (210, 220) and a plug housing module (310, 320, 330, 340), wherein the base housing module (100), the connection housing module (210, 220) and the plug housing module (310, 320, 330, 340) are designed as separate individual parts and are configured to each form at least one interlocking connection for assembly of the modular plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4), preferably to each be plugged into each other in an assembly direction (X) of the plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4).

Description

[0001] MODULAR CONNECTOR ARRANGEMENT FOR TRANSMITTING ELECTRICAL ENERGY AND / OR ELECTRICAL SIGNALS

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] The present invention lies in the field of electrical connection technology and relates to a modular plug-in device arrangement for transmitting electrical energy and / or electrical signals, which can be individually and / or specifically configured due to a modular structure.

[0004] Industrially used plug-in devices in the form of sockets are used in many different areas, for example, in the process and / or manufacturing industries or in building management, and are used for the electrical connection and operation of a wide variety of electrical devices. The electrical devices to be operated can be, for example, field devices in the form of sensor devices or terminal devices in the form of stationary control devices.

[0005] In order to supply the socket for the respective electrical device with electrical energy and / or electrical signals, a corresponding connection device for the respective electrical conductors is required. One technology for connection devices is, for example, the so-called "push-in connection technology." Push-in connection technology, also known as "direct plug-in technology," is a well-known connection technology primarily for the direct plugging and automatic clamping of single-wire or multi-wire electrical conductors. For example, with a dimensionally stable or rigid electrical conductor, no tool, i.e., an operating tool, is required to create a clamp connection (see, for example, German Offenlegungsschrift No. DE 10 2015 105 757 A1).

[0006] In the future, additional devices in the form of mobile control units will also be able to be operated via the sockets. Mobile devices include tablets, laptops, and smartphones.

[0007] Furthermore, country-specific specifications, for example, increase the diversity and thus the requirements that industrially used socket systems must meet. For example, there are a variety of different plug faces for transmitting electrical energy, which depends on the respective country. Industrially used sockets, for example, are also intended to serve as charging stations for mobile devices.

[0008] In order to meet the above-mentioned requirements, various approaches for variable or modular socket devices and socket systems are known from the prior art patent literature.

[0009] For example, German Offenlegungsschrift No. DE 10 2015 100 040 A1 relates to a multiple socket system for a computer workstation that can be electrically connected to a power supply network. The multiple socket system comprises a plurality of modular socket elements, each with at least one socket. The system has mechanical coupling means by which the socket elements can be mechanically coupled to one another, as well as electrical connecting means by which the socket elements can be electrically connected to one another. Furthermore, a programmable control device is provided for selectively switching individual socket elements and / or sockets on and off.

[0010] Furthermore, US Patent No. 8,622,756 B2 discloses a multifunctional power strip comprising a rail for mounting various modular, separate components. These components can be network modules, USB modules, transformer modules, power connection modules, fuse modules, or switching modules.

[0011] For example, the known solutions all have the disadvantage that a separate module with its own housing must be provided to implement the respective function, which also leads to an increase in the variety of components and thus to higher costs.

[0012] It is an object of the present invention to provide a modular plug-in device arrangement for transmitting electrical energy and / or electrical signals, which is improved in particular with regard to configurability and adaptability as well as with regard to assembly.

[0013] The object is achieved by the features of independent claim 1. Further embodiments and applications of the present invention emerge from the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description with partial reference to the figures.

[0014] According to a first general aspect, the present invention relates to a modular plug-in device arrangement which can be modified and / or adapted in various ways for transmitting electrical energy and / or electrical signals, wherein the modular plug-in device arrangement comprises a carrier housing module, a connection housing module and a plug-in housing module, wherein the carrier housing module, the connection housing module and the plug-in housing module are each designed as separate individual parts and are configured to form at least one essentially positive connection for assembling and / or producing the modular plug-in device arrangement, preferably to be plugged together in each case essentially in an assembly direction of the plug-in device arrangement.

[0015] In other words, the modular plug-in device arrangement forms or represents a system, i.e. a plug-in device system comprising a plurality of, preferably at least three, separate housing parts, which are configured to each other for assembly and / or for production of the modular plug-in device system in order to form respective substantially positive-locking connections.

[0016] The modular design and the formation of separate housing modules, which are configured for connection to one another, ensure, above all, a modular connector arrangement that can be modified and / or adapted individually or depending on the area of ​​application.

[0017] The modular connector arrangement is configured, for example, for integration into a control cabinet and can therefore be used in a wide range of industrial environments, including across borders, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0018] In the following, the modular plug and socket assembly is also abbreviated to "plug and socket assembly".

[0019] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the carrier housing module, the connection housing module and the plug housing module are configured to each form at least one substantially non-positive connection for the assembly and / or production of the plug device arrangement, preferably to each form a substantially detachable non-positive connection.

[0020] This can, for example, increase the durability of the respective connections between the respective housing modules.

[0021] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the connection housing module is configured as an exchangeable or replaceable connection housing module of a plurality of connection housing modules, and / or that the plug-in housing module is configured as an exchangeable or replaceable plug-in housing module of a plurality of plug-in housing modules; and / or that the carrier housing module is configured for connection to a connection housing module of a plurality of connection housing modules, preferably exchangeable or replaceable connection housing modules, in order to mount the plug-in device arrangement in a differently modified or adapted manner.

[0022] The connection housing modules of the plurality of connection housing modules are each designed essentially identically with regard to their connecting sections for connection to the carrier housing module and / or the plug-in housing module. The same applies to walls and / or wall sections and / or surfaces intended for implementing the respective connection.

[0023] The plug-in housing modules of the plurality of plug-in housing modules are each designed essentially identically with regard to their connecting sections for connection to the connection housing module. The same applies to walls and / or wall sections and / or surfaces intended for implementing the respective connection.

[0024] This ensures a comparatively high level of modularity and thus a high degree of modification or adaptation, which is characteristic of the modular connector arrangement.

[0025] It is possible for the carrier housing module to comprise a mounting section configured for mounting the plug-in device arrangement to a support rail, preferably with a top-hat profile, and extending substantially in a longitudinal direction of the plug-in device arrangement along the carrier housing module; and / or for the carrier housing module to be characterized, in a front view (main view), preferably in a mounting direction of the plug-in device arrangement, by a substantially square outline or by a substantially rectangular outline, which is preferably defined by four outer walls of the carrier housing module. Each of the four outer walls can, for example, be substantially flat and / or substantially plate-shaped.

[0026] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the carrier housing module is partially designed in the form of a first container or a first trough, or comprises a first container or a first trough in order to accommodate at least one printed circuit board module for converting electrical energy and / or electrical signals and / or to mount it therein and / or thereon; and / or that the carrier housing module comprises at least one mounting shaft or at least one mounting chamber for accommodating at least one connection module for an electrical conductor.

[0027] It is possible for the carrier housing module to comprise at least one connecting section which is configured to form the at least one substantially positive-locking and / or at least one substantially non-positive connection with the connection housing module, wherein preferably the at least one substantially positive-locking connection comprises a latching connection, particularly preferably a snap connection, and / or wherein preferably the at least one substantially non-positive connection comprises a clamping connection.

[0028] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the at least one connecting portion of the carrier housing module extends substantially in a mounting direction of the plug-in device arrangement; and / or that the at least one connecting portion of the carrier housing module is designed as a latching element or comprises a latching element; and / or that the at least one connecting portion of the carrier housing module is arranged on an outer wall of the carrier housing module.

[0029] It is possible for the carrier housing module to comprise, at least in sections, a shoulder, a groove or a tongue on an end face substantially in an assembly direction of the plug-in device arrangement, wherein the shoulder, the groove or the tongue is configured for the substantially form-fitting reception of the connection housing module in the assembly direction, and / or wherein the connection housing module comprises a shoulder formed complementarily to the shoulder, or a tongue formed complementarily to the groove, or a groove formed complementarily to the tongue.According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that in a front view (main view), preferably substantially in an assembly direction of the plug-in device arrangement, the connection housing module is characterized by a substantially square outline or by a substantially rectangular outline, which is preferably defined by four outer walls of the connection housing module, wherein preferably in the front view the outline of the connection housing module is substantially identical or similar to an outline of the carrier housing module. Each of the four outer walls can, for example, be substantially flat and / or substantially plate-shaped.

[0030] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the connection housing module comprises at least one connecting section which is configured to form the at least one substantially positive and / or at least one substantially non-positive connection with the carrier housing module and / or with the plug-in housing module.

[0031] It is possible for the at least one connecting portion of the terminal housing module to extend substantially in a mounting direction of the plug-in device arrangement; and / or for the at least one connecting portion of the terminal housing module to be designed as a recess or to comprise a recess; and / or for the at least one connecting portion of the terminal housing module to be arranged on an outer wall of the terminal housing module.

[0032] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the connection housing module is designed in the form of a shell or at least partially shell-shaped in order to at least partially or completely cover at least one connection module of the plug-in device arrangement and / or at least one printed circuit board module of the plug-in device arrangement; and / or that the connection housing module comprises a recess for actuating at least one connection module of the plug-in device arrangement and / or for connecting at least one conductor to at least one connection module of the plug-in device arrangement.

[0033] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the

[0034] Plug-in housing module for forming a plug-in face comprises a plug-in section, wherein the plug-in section is configured to form a plug-in connection with a mating plug-in connector in order to transmit electrical energy and / or electrical signals in an operating state.

[0035] Preferably, the plug-in section of the plurality of plug-in housing modules can each have a different design. The plug-in section can, for example, be designed according to country-specific requirements, resulting in a different plug-in face in each case.

[0036] The plug-in device arrangement may comprise respective or corresponding contact elements for transmitting electrical energy and / or electrical signals.

[0037] It is possible for the plug-in housing module to comprise at least one connecting section which is configured to form the at least one substantially positive-locking and / or at least one substantially non-positive-locking connection with the connection housing module, wherein preferably the at least one substantially positive-locking connection comprises a latching connection, particularly preferably a snap-in connection, and / or wherein preferably the at least one substantially non-positive-locking connection comprises a clamping connection.

[0038] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the at least one connecting portion of the plug-in housing module extends substantially in a mounting direction of the plug-in device arrangement; and / or that the at least one connecting portion of the plug-in housing module is designed as a latching element or comprises a latching element; and / or that the at least one connecting portion is arranged on an outer wall of the plug-in housing module.

[0039] It is possible that the carrier housing module is configured to form at least one substantially positive and / or at least one substantially non-positive connection with an interface housing module, and / or that the carrier housing module is designed in sections in the form of a second container or a second trough, or comprises a second container or a second trough in order to accommodate at least one interface module for converting electrical signals and / or to mount it therein and / or thereon.

[0040] According to a further aspect of the present invention, it can be provided that the carrier housing module, the connection housing module, and the plug-in housing module are each formed and / or manufactured integrally from a single material, preferably based on a plastic. The plastic is preferably an insulating material.

[0041] The previously described embodiments and features of the present invention can be combined with one another as desired. Further or other details and advantageous effects of the present invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0042] They show:

[0043] Fig. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of the modular plug-in device assembly according to the present invention;

[0044] Fig. 2 shows the carrier housing module with a mounted interface housing module of the modular plug-in device arrangement from Fig. 1;

[0045] Fig. 3 shows the plug-in device arrangement from Fig. 1 and a second embodiment of a modular plug-in device arrangement according to the present invention, each in a partially assembled state;

[0046] Fig. 4 shows the plug-in device arrangement from Fig. 1 together with three further embodiments of the modular plug-in device arrangement according to the present invention in an assembled state and in a perspective view.

[0047] Identical or functionally equivalent components or elements are identified by the same reference numerals in the figures. For explanations, reference is sometimes made to the description of other embodiments and / or figures to avoid repetition.

[0048] The following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures serves to further illustrate or clarify the invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a first exemplary embodiment of the modular plug-in device assembly 1 according to the present invention in a perspective view. The modular plug-in device assembly 1 is also referred to below as "plug-in device assembly 1" for short.

[0049] The plug-in device arrangement 1 according to the present invention can be modified or adapted in various ways for transmitting electrical energy and / or electrical signals, and can thus be mounted in different ways in order to be able to realize a plurality of different plug-in device arrangements 1, especially for transmitting electrical energy.

[0050] The plug-and-socket assembly 1 is characterized as a system primarily by modular housing components and thus by a modular structure, which extends beyond the design of the housing components and preferably concerns connection technology and / or interface technology. Due to its modularity, the plug-and-socket assembly 1 can be assembled or adapted individually or tailored to the respective application.

[0051] The following describes the structural design of the first embodiment of the

[0052] Plug-in device arrangement 1 is explained in more detail with reference to Figure 1.

[0053] The plug-in device assembly 1 comprises a carrier housing module 100, a connection housing module 210, and a plug-in housing module 310. The carrier housing module 100, the connection housing module 210, and the plug-in housing module 310 are each designed as separate individual parts and are thus, for example, manufactured independently of one another. The housing modules 100, 210, and 310 together form the housing of the plug-in device assembly 1, preferably in an assembled or manufactured state.

[0054] Preferably, each of the housing modules 100, 210, and 310 is formed and / or manufactured from a material based on an insulating plastic (insulating material), for example, by at least one casting process and / or by at least one injection molding process. It is additionally or alternatively possible for the housing modules 100, 210, 310 to be manufactured by at least one 3D printing process and / or by at least one sintering process.

[0055] The carrier housing module 100, the connection housing module 210 and the plug-in housing module 310 are configured to each form at least one substantially positive connection for the assembly and / or production of the plug-in device arrangement 1, preferably to be plugged together substantially in an assembly direction X of the plug-in device arrangement 1.

[0056] The mounting direction X is preferably a direction in which the plug device arrangement 1 can be substantially mounted and thus manufactured and / or assembled.

[0057] It is additionally possible for the carrier housing module 100, the connection housing module 210 and the plug-in housing module 310 to be configured to each form at least one substantially force-locking connection for the assembly and / or manufacture of the plug-in device arrangement 1, preferably to each form a substantially detachable force-locking connection.

[0058] The plug-in device arrangement 1 according to the present invention is preferably characterized by three separate housing modules 100, 210, 310, i.e., each independent housing part, which is configured to form essentially positive-locking connections, preferably plug-in connections, during the assembly and / or manufacture of the plug-in device arrangement 1. The housing modules 100, 210, 310 comprise connections and / or connecting sections that are configured and / or coordinated with one another, primarily to ensure interchangeability or replaceability of the connection housing module 210 and / or the plug-in housing module 310, so that a different modification or adaptation of the plug-in device arrangement 1 to the respective application can be realized. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0059] The carrier housing module 100 serves as a base housing module or fastening housing module of the plug-in device arrangement 1. The carrier housing module 100 comprises a mounting section 106. The mounting section 106 is configured for mounting the plug-in device arrangement 1 to a support rail 800, preferably with a top-hat profile. The support rail 800 is shown in Figure 4. The mounting section 106 extends substantially in a longitudinal direction L of the plug-in device arrangement 1 along the carrier housing module 100, i.e., from a first end face to an opposite second end face in the longitudinal direction L.

[0060] In other words, the carrier housing module 100 forms, on the one hand, the supporting structure of the plug-in device arrangement 1 and, on the other hand, the mounting structure of the plug-in device arrangement 1 for fastening to a support rail 800. The support rail 800 can, for example, be part of a control cabinet, which is not shown in the figures for reasons of clarity.

[0061] The carrier housing module 100 is characterized in a front view (main view), preferably in the mounting direction X, by a substantially square outline or by a substantially rectangular outline. The outline is preferably defined by four outer walls of the carrier housing module 100, each of which is substantially planar and / or substantially plate-shaped in sections and extends substantially in the mounting direction X. The outer walls as well as other walls and / or wall sections of the carrier housing module 100 are not identified in more detail in the figures for reasons of clarity.

[0062] The carrier housing module 100 is partially formed in the form of a first tray or a first container or comprises a first tray or a first container to accommodate, preferably hold in a form-fitting manner, at least one printed circuit board module 700. The at least one printed circuit board module 700 is configured to convert electrical energy and / or electrical signals and, for this purpose, comprises, for example, respective electrical and / or electronic components and elements (circuits, capacitors, diodes, transistors, etc.). The electrical energy and / or the electrical signals are preferably transmitted via single-wire or multi-wire electrical conductors.

[0063] The carrier housing module 100 comprises at least one mounting shaft 107 or at least one mounting chamber for accommodating at least one connection module 600 for an electrical conductor. The at least one mounting shaft 107 preferably extends substantially in the mounting direction X. The at least one connection module 600 comprises a conductor connection element 610 for inserting an electrical conductor into the at least one connection module 600. Furthermore, the at least one connection module 600 comprises an actuating element 620 for opening or releasing the connection module 600, so that a connected, preferably clamped, electrical conductor can be released in the connection module 600 and the electrical conductor can thus be removed, i.e., pulled off, from the connection module 600. For reasons of clarity, the figures identify a conductor connection element 610 and an actuating element 620, as well as just one connection module 600.

[0064] The at least one connection module 600 can be designed, for example, according to the so-called push-in connection technology, wherein the actuating element 620 is designed in the form of a pusher. Alternatively, the actuating element 620 can also be designed as a screw of a

[0065] Connection module 600 is designed in the form of a screw terminal.

[0066] The carrier housing module 100 comprises at least one connecting section 102. The at least one connecting section 102 is configured to form the at least one substantially positive connection and, furthermore, at least one substantially non-positive connection with the connection housing module 210. In the present exemplary embodiment, the at least one connecting section 102 is designed as a latching element in the form of a latching hook, which is arranged on an outer wall of the carrier housing module 100. The at least one connecting section 102 extends substantially in the mounting direction X.

[0067] It is understood that the at least one connecting section 102 can also be designed differently. For example, the at least one connecting section 102 can be designed as a clamping bracket, for example with a U-shaped or curved profile, or can comprise such a clamping bracket.

[0068] The at least one connecting section 102 is preferably configured to form a detachable locking connection, preferably a detachable snap connection. Accordingly, in addition to a substantially positive connection, a substantially force-locking connection can also be realized between the carrier housing module 100 and the connection housing module 210, which, for example, contributes to increased durability of the connection.

[0069] To implement the snap-in connection with the carrier housing module 100, the connection housing module 210 comprises at least one connecting section 212, which in the case of the connection housing module 210 is formed as a recess or comprises a recess, preferably on an outer wall of the connection housing module 210. The recess is preferably formed as a through-hole with a substantially rectangular cross-section. The outer walls as well as other walls and / or wall sections of the connection housing module 210 are not identified in detail in the figures for reasons of clarity.

[0070] In order to position the connection housing module 210 opposite and / or on the carrier housing module 100 during the assembly and / or manufacture of the plug-in device arrangement 1 and to be received by the carrier housing module 100, the carrier housing module 100 comprises, at least in sections in the assembly direction X, a shoulder 101, preferably an at least partially circumferential shoulder 101, on one end face. The shoulder 101 is configured for the essentially form-fitting reception of the connection housing module 210 in the assembly direction X. Furthermore, the connection housing module 210 also comprises a shoulder 211 complementary to the shoulder 101.

[0071] Analogous to the carrier housing module 100, the connection housing module 210 is also characterized in a front view in the mounting direction X by a substantially square outline or by a substantially rectangular outline, which is preferably defined by four outer walls of the connection housing module 210. Each of the outer walls is substantially flat and / or substantially plate-shaped.

[0072] In an assembled state, the carrier housing module 100 and the connection housing module 210 form a substantially positive-locking and subsequently a substantially force-locking connection and merge into one another substantially flush in the assembly direction X.

[0073] The connection housing module 210 is configured as a replaceable or interchangeable connection housing module of a plurality of connection housing modules 210, 220, which, however, are more or less characterized by a standardized basic configuration with regard to structure, especially with regard to the formation of connections with the carrier housing module 100 and subsequently with the plug-in housing module 310.

[0074] To form a substantially positive and / or a substantially non-positive connection with the plug-in housing module 310, the connection housing module 210 further comprises at least one connecting section 213, preferably a plurality of connecting sections 213. The at least one connecting section 213 is designed as a recess in the form of a through-hole with a substantially square cross-section.

[0075] The connection housing module 210 is designed in the form of a shell, or at least partially in a shell-shaped manner, in order to at least partially or completely cover the at least one connection module 600 and / or the at least one printed circuit board module 700. For actuating the at least one connection module 600, i.e., the actuating element 620, and / or for connecting at least one conductor to the at least one connection module 600 via the at least one conductor connection element 610, the connection housing module 210 comprises a respective recess 215, 215. For reasons of clarity, a recess 214 for an actuating element 620 and a recess 125 for a conductor connection element 610 are identified in the figures.

[0076] Depending on the design and / or configuration of the connection module 600, preferably of the at least one actuating element 620, only the at least one recess 214 of the connection housing module 210 can or need to be designed differently with regard to its configuration. The at least one recess 214 can, for example, be designed in the form of a through-hole with a substantially round, rectangular, or square cross-section.

[0077] The connection housing module 210 represents more or less an exchangeable housing part, which contributes to the modification or adaptation of the plug-in device arrangement 1 depending on the respective field of application.

[0078] The plug housing module 310 comprises a plug section 311 to form a plug face, wherein the plug section 311 is configured to form a plug connection with a mating connector substantially in a plug direction in order to transmit electrical energy and / or electrical signals in an operating state.

[0079] The plug-in housing module 310 comprises at least one connecting section 312, which is configured to form the at least one substantially positive and / or at least one substantially non-positive connection with the connection housing module 210. In the illustrated embodiment of the plug-in device arrangement 1, the at least one connecting section 312 is designed as a latching element or comprises a latching element in the form of a latching hook. The at least one connecting section 312 is arranged on an outer wall of the plug-in housing module 310. The outer walls as well as other walls and / or wall sections of the plug-in housing module 310 are not identified in detail in the figures for reasons of clarity.

[0080] Depending on the application, for example, depending on the country, the mating face 311 of the plug-in housing module 310 can vary. The plug-in housing module 310 is designed to be essentially identical in different configurations and thus variants, at least in sections, preferably with respect to the connection and the at least one connecting section 312 for assembly with the connection housing module 210, but with the exception of the mating section 311.

[0081] This allows a variety of variants of the plug-in device arrangement 1 to be realized through appropriate modification or adaptation by exchanging the respective plug-in housing module 310. The plug-in housing module 310 is configured as an exchangeable or replaceable plug-in housing module 310 of a plurality of plug-in housing modules 310, 320, 330, 340 (see Figure 4).

[0082] Furthermore, the carrier housing module 100 of the plug-in device arrangement 1 according to the present invention is configured to form at least one substantially positive and / or at least one substantially force-fitting connection with an interface housing module 500. The carrier housing module 100 is partially formed in the form of a second container or a second tray, or comprises a second container or a second tray to accommodate at least one interface module 400 for converting electrical signals.

[0083] To connect the carrier housing module 100 to the interface housing module 500, the carrier housing module 100 comprises at least one connecting section 105, which comprises a locking element or is designed as a locking element, preferably in the form of a locking hook. Furthermore, the interface housing module 500 comprises a connecting section 501, which is designed as a recess or comprises a recess, preferably in the form of a through-hole with a substantially rectangular cross-section.

[0084] The at least one interface module 400 can preferably be designed in the form of a USB circuit board module. The interface housing module 500 can comprise two recesses, for example, each for a USB connection element 510 and 520. The first USB connection element 510 can be configured, for example, according to the USB Type-A format and / or the USB Type-B format, and the second USB connection element 520 can be configured according to the USB Type-C format. It is possible for the interface housing module 500 and / or the interface module 400 to be designed and / or configured according to a different specification. For example, the interface module 400 can be designed and / or configured for communication according to the so-called Single Pair Ethernet (abbreviated to "SPE") or the so-called Power Over Ethernet (abbreviated to "POE"). The connections 510 and 520 can be designed, for example, in the form of RJ45 ports.

[0085] This ensures, for example, that electrical signals and / or electrical energy can also be transmitted to mobile devices in the form of smartphones or tablets by means of the plug-in device arrangement 1, for example during a charging process.

[0086] Figure 2 shows the carrier housing module 100 with the mounted interface housing module 500 of the modular plug-in device arrangement 1 from Figure 1.

[0087] Clearly visible is the section-wise design of the carrier housing module 100 as a container or as a tray for accommodating at least one printed circuit board module 700 as disclosed herein, as well as mounting slots 107 for accommodating connection modules 600 as disclosed herein. In other words, during the assembly of the plug-in device arrangement 1, the at least one printed circuit board module 700 and the at least one connection module 600 are mounted in the carrier housing module 100 by a plugging process essentially in the plugging direction X in and / or on the carrier housing module 100.

[0088] Furthermore, the illustration in Figure 2 shows a formed locking connection, preferably a snap connection, between a connecting section 105 of the carrier housing module 100 and a connecting section 501 of the interface housing module 500.

[0089] Figure 3 shows the plug-in device arrangement 1 from Figure 1 and a second embodiment of a modular plug-in device arrangement 2 according to the present invention, each in a partially assembled state.

[0090] In other words, Figure 3 shows the carrier housing module 100, the connection housing module 210 and the interface housing module 500 of the modular plug and socket assembly 1 from Figure 1 together with a carrier housing module 100, a connection housing module 220 and an interface housing module 500 of a second embodiment of the modular plug and socket assembly 2 according to the present invention in a perspective view and in an assembled state.

[0091] The carrier housing module 100 of the second plug and socket arrangement 2 is designed identically to the carrier housing module 100 of the first plug and socket arrangement 1. The connection housing module 220 of the second plug and socket arrangement 2 is designed essentially identically to the connection housing module 210 of the first plug and socket arrangement 1, except for corresponding recesses 214, in order to ensure interchangeability. In other words, the connection housing module 220 can be mounted on the carrier housing module 100 of the first plug and socket arrangement 1, and the connection housing module 210 of the first plug and socket arrangement 1 can be replaced. Conversely, the connection housing module 210 of the first plug and socket arrangement 1 can also be mounted on the carrier housing module 100 of the second plug and socket arrangement 2.

[0092] As already described, the connection housing module 220 differs from the connection housing module 210 in the design of the recesses 214 for the actuating elements 620. Instead of recesses 214 with a substantially rectangular cross-section, the connection housing module 220 has recesses 214 with a substantially circular cross-section, since actuating elements 620 in the form of screws are used in the plug-in device arrangement 2.

[0093] For reasons of clarity, only one actuating element 620 and one conductor connection element 610 are shown in Figure 3 per connection housing module 210, 220. Both the first plug-in device arrangement 1 and the second plug-in device arrangement 2 each comprise three actuating elements 620 and three conductor connection elements 610 associated with them.

[0094] Figure 4 shows the first plug-in device arrangement 1 from Figure 1 together with three further embodiments of the modular plug-in device arrangement 2, 3, 4 according to the present invention in an assembled state and in a perspective view.

[0095] In other words, in addition to the first plug-in device arrangement 1, a second plug-in device arrangement 2, a third plug-in device arrangement 3 and a fourth plug-in device arrangement 4 are shown in Figure 4.

[0096] The plug-in device arrangements 1, 2, 3, 4 comprise identical

[0097] Carrier housing modules 100 to ensure modularity as base housing parts or uniform mounting platforms. Each of the carrier housing modules 100 is mounted on the support rail 800 via the respective mounting section 106. Furthermore, the interface housing modules 500 of the plug-in device assemblies 1, 2, 3, 4 are identical to one another and are mounted on the respective base housing modules 100 via the respective connecting sections 105 and 501. For reasons of clarity, only one connecting section 105 and one connecting section 501 are marked in Figure 4 for the plug-in device assembly 1.

[0098] The connection housing modules 210 of the plug and socket assemblies 1 and 2 are each configured identically to one another, and the connection housing modules 220 of the plug and socket assemblies 3 and 4 are also configured identically to one another. According to the present invention, the connection modules 210, 220 are configured to be interchangeable for the assembly and / or manufacture of a modified or adapted plug and socket assembly 1, 2, 3, 4, depending on the application.

[0099] Furthermore, in the plug-in housing modules 310, 320, 330, and 340, only the plug-in sections 311, 321, 331, and 341 are designed differently from one another. In other words, the plug-in housing modules 310, 320, 330, and 340, with their respective plug-in faces formed by the plug-in sections 311, 321, 331, and 341, are adapted to country-specific requirements.

[0100] The plug housing modules 310, 320, 330 and 340 preferably serve to transmit electrical energy by forming a plug connection with a respective mating connector and, due to their different configuration with respect to the plug sections 311, 321, 331 and 341 and due to their interchangeability, ensure corresponding possibilities for modifying or adapting the respective plug device arrangement 1, 2, 3, 4.

[0101] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also utilize the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. Preferably, the present invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the subclaims, independent of the claims referenced.

[0102] 1 Plug-and-socket arrangement

[0103] 2 Plug-in device arrangement

[0104] 3 Plug-in device arrangement

[0105] 4 Plug-in device arrangement

[0106] 100 carrier housing module

[0107] 101 paragraph

[0108] 102 connecting section

[0109] 105 connecting section

[0110] 106 Assembly section

[0111] 107 Assembly shaft

[0112] 210 Connection housing module

[0113] 211 paragraph

[0114] 212 connecting section

[0115] 213 connecting section

[0116] 214 recess

[0117] 215 recess

[0118] 220 connection housing module

[0119] 310 plug-in housing module

[0120] 311 plug-in section

[0121] 312 connecting section

[0122] 320 plug-in housing module

[0123] 321 plug-in section

[0124] 330 plug-in housing module

[0125] 331 plug-in section

[0126] 340 plug-in housing module

[0127] 341 plug-in section

[0128] 500 interface housing module

[0129] 501 connecting section

[0130] 510 USB connector element

[0131] 520 USB connector element

[0132] 600 connection module

[0133] 610 conductor connection element

[0134] 620 Actuator 700 Circuit board module

[0135] 800 mounting rail

[0136] L Longitudinal direction X Mounting direction

[0137] * * * *

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Modular plug and socket arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) which can be modified in various ways for transmitting electrical energy and / or electrical signals, wherein the modular plug and socket arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) comprises a carrier housing module (100), a connection housing module (210, 220) and a plug-in housing module (310, 320, 330, 340), wherein the carrier housing module (100), the connection housing module (210, 220) and the plug-in housing module (310, 320, 330, 340) are each designed as separate individual parts and are configured to form at least one positive connection for assembling the modular plug and socket arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4), preferably to be plugged together in a respective assembly direction (X) of the plug and socket arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4).

2. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to claim 1, wherein the carrier housing module (100), the connection housing module (210, 220) and the plug housing module (310, 320, 330, 340) are configured to each form at least one force-locking connection for assembling the plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4), preferably to each form a detachable force-locking connection.

3. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connection housing module (210, 220) is designed as a replaceable Connection housing module (210, 220) of a plurality of connection housing modules (210, 220), and / or wherein the plug-in housing module (310, 320, 330, 340) is configured as an exchangeable plug-in housing module (310, 320, 320, 330) of a plurality of plug-in housing modules (310, 320, 330, 340); and / or wherein the carrier housing module (100) is configured for connection to a connection housing module (210, 220) of a plurality of connection housing modules (210, 220) in order to assemble the plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) in a differently modified manner.

4. Plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier housing module (100) comprises a mounting section (106) which is configured for mounting the plug-in device arrangement (1, 1, 3, 4) to a support rail (800), preferably with a top-hat profile, and which extends in a longitudinal direction (L) of the plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) along the carrier housing module (100); and / or wherein, in a front view, preferably in a mounting direction (X) of the plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4), the carrier housing module (100) is characterized by a square outline or by a rectangular outline, which is preferably defined by four outer walls of the carrier housing module (100).

5. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier housing module (100) is partially designed in the form of a first container or comprises a first container to accommodate at least one printed circuit board module (700) for converting electrical energy and / or electrical signals; and / or wherein the carrier housing module (100) comprises at least one mounting shaft (107) for accommodating at least one connection module (600) for an electrical conductor.

6. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier housing module (100) comprises at least one connecting section (102) which is configured to form the at least one positive and / or at least one non-positive connection with the connection housing module (210, 220), wherein preferably the at least one positive connection comprises a locking connection, particularly preferably a snap connection, and / or wherein preferably the at least one force-locking connection comprises a clamp connection included.

7. Plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to claim 6, wherein the at least one connecting section (102) extends in a mounting direction (X) of the plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4); and / or wherein the at least one connecting section (102) is designed as a locking element or comprises a locking element; and / or wherein the at least one connecting section (102) is arranged on an outer wall of the carrier housing module (100).

8. Plug-in device arrangement (1, 1, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier housing module (100) comprises, at least in sections, a shoulder (101), a groove or a tongue on an end face in an assembly direction (X) of the plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4), wherein the shoulder (101), the groove or the tongue is configured for the positive-locking reception of the connection housing module (210, 220) in the assembly direction (X), and / or wherein the connection housing module (210, 220) comprises a shoulder (211) complementary to the shoulder (101), or a tongue complementary to the groove, or a groove complementary to the tongue.

9. Plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in a front view, preferably in an assembly direction (X) of the plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4), the connection housing module (210, 220) is characterized by a square outline or by a rectangular outline, which is preferably defined by four outer walls of the connection housing module (210, 220), wherein preferably in the front view the outline of the connection housing module (210, 220) is identical or similar to an outline of the carrier housing module (100).

10. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection housing module (210, 220) comprises at least one connecting section (212, 213) which is configured to form the at least one positive and / or at least one non-positive connection with the carrier housing module (100) and / or with the plug housing module (310, 320).

11. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to claim 10, wherein the at least one connecting section (212, 213) extends in an assembly direction (X) of the plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4); and / or wherein the at least one connecting section (212, 213) is designed as a recess or comprises a recess; and / or wherein the at least one connecting section (102) is arranged on an outer wall of the connection housing module (210, 220).

12. Plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection housing module (210, 220) is designed in the form of a shell in order to at least partially or completely cover at least one connection module (600) and / or at least one printed circuit board module (700) of the plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4); and / or wherein the connection housing module (210, 220) comprises a recess (214, 215) for actuating at least one connection module (600) of the plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) and / or for connecting at least one conductor to at least one connection module (600) of the plug-in device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4).

13. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plug housing module (310, 320, 330, 340) comprises a plug section (311, 321, 331, 341) for forming a plug face, wherein the plug section (311, 321, 331, 341) is configured to form a plug connection with a mating plug connector in order to transmit electrical energy and / or electrical signals in an operating state.

14. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plug housing module (310, 320, 330, 340) comprises at least one connecting section (312) which is configured to form the at least one positive and / or at least one non-positive connection with the connection housing module (210, 220), wherein preferably the at least one positive connection comprises a locking connection, particularly preferably a snap connection, and / or wherein preferably the at least one force-locking connection comprises a clamp connection included.

15. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one connecting section (312) extends in an assembly direction (X) of the plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4); and / or wherein the at least one connecting section (312) is designed as a latching element or comprises a latching element; and / or wherein the at least one connecting section (312) is arranged on an outer wall of the plug housing module (310, 320, 330, 340).

16. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, the carrier housing module (100) is configured to form at least one positive and / or at least one non-positive connection with an interface housing module (500), and / or wherein the carrier housing module (100) is partially in the form of a second Container or comprises a second container to accommodate at least one interface module (400) for converting electrical signals.

17. Plug device arrangement (1, 2, 3, 4) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier housing module (100), the connection housing module (210, 220) and the Plug-in housing module (310, 320, 330, 340) are each integrally formed from a material, preferably based on a plastic. * * * *

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