Plug-in connector, plug-in connector arrangement and plug-in connector system

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug-in connector (1) comprising a contact carrier element (2) which has a contact chamber (3) for receiving a contact element (4) in an insertion direction (Z), the contact carrier element (2) having: -- a first contact carrier (5); -- a second contact carrier (6); the first contact carrier (5) having a locking lance (7), which is deflectable in an X-direction (X) transverse to the insertion direction (Z), for locking with the contact element (4), the second contact carrier (6) having a protective structure (8), in particular a protective wall (9), which in particular does not overlap with the locking lance (7) as viewed in the insertion direction (Z) and limits a deflection of the locking lance (7) in the X-direction (X), in particular in such a way that the locking lance (7) is not plastically deformed, in particular when the contact element is inserted and / or when the contact element (4) is disengaged by means of a disengaging tool.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] title

[0003] Connector, connector arrangement and connector system

[0004] Field of the invention

[0005] The invention relates to a connector, a connector assembly and a connector system.

[0006] State of the art

[0007] Connectors for mating with a mating connector in various applications often have contact carrier elements with contact chambers for accommodating contact elements. Such a contact carrier element can, for example, be composed of several contact carriers or contact carrier parts.

[0008] Contact chambers, in particular for accommodating miniaturized so-called "clean-body" contact elements, which have a cross-section of less than 2.0 mm x 2.0 mm, for example, contain filigree locking hooks or locking lances or primary locking lances to fulfill a primary locking function. These locking lances are generally elastically reversible. They usually protrude into an insertion channel or an insertion trajectory for the contact element to be inserted. When the contact element is inserted, they are initially pushed or displaced outwards by the contact element transversely to the insertion direction of the contact element and, after passing a (free) contact end of the contact element, spring back towards their rest position into a constriction or undercut of the contact element in order to lock the contact element in the contact chamber (primary locking).If such a contact element is to be removed from the contact chamber, this is often possible using a release tool or disassembly tool. This can be designed in a mandrel-like manner (e.g., like a screwdriver). It is inserted into the contact chamber from the side of the mating connector (from below). With or through the release tool, the locking lance can then be carefully moved out of engagement with the undercut, e.g., by gently moving it transversely to the insertion direction, and the contact element can be pulled out of the contact chamber, e.g., using a cable attached to it. These locking lances must be protected from excessive, e.g., mechanical, stress to avoid damage. Such undesirable mechanical stresses can occur, for example, by overpressing the locking lance (e.g.,When inserting the contact element into the contact chamber and / or when unlocking it with the unlocking tool, excessive force or excessive travel perpendicular to the insertion direction can be used. This, in turn, can result in undesirable plastic deformation, which makes it difficult or impossible for the locking lance to spring back into its rest position. For this purpose, a protective wall can be provided against which the locking lance abuts before plastic deformation occurs.

[0009] From DE 10 2009 004 845 A l a connector is known in which the protective wall is formed on the same contact carrier part of a contact carrier element as the locking lance.

[0010] Disclosure of the invention

[0011] The invention is based on the recognition that a complex and elaborate tool (e.g. injection molding tool) is required to manufacture a contact carrier part which has both the locking lance and the associated protective wall. In such a tool, the tool halves and slides must be matched in a lengthy process in order to create recesses between the locking lance and the protective wall and to avoid burrs. These complex geometries have a negative impact on the tool service life and lead to high tool and spare part costs. In addition, the complex geometry can affect the yield and quality. The invention is further based on the recognition that the material thicknesses of the locking lance and the protective wall and the mechanical requirements for these two elements differ significantly, which presents further challenges in the design and for the service life of a tool.Finally, the invention is based on the recognition that molding a protective wall directly adjacent to the locking lance in the same contact carrier part requires a tool design that results in the omission of a chamber wall adjacent to the protective wall, since there is no space for such a chamber wall. As a result, the contact cannot be guided in all directions within the contact chamber, which can lead to undesirable play of the contact element within the contact chamber. This, for example, increases the risk that the primary locking mechanism will not hold securely, making the assembly of the contact carrier element more complex or, as a remedy, requiring an unnecessarily large dimensioning of the locking lance.

[0012] There may therefore be a need to provide a connector, particularly for miniaturized contact elements, in which the locking lance or the locking lances of the connector are protected against mechanical damage such as plastic deformation when a contact element is inserted into the contact chamber or when a contact located in the chamber is unlocked, in which the locking lance can be made particularly small while at the same time providing reliable primary locking and which can be manufactured using comparatively simple or simpler, cost-effective and durable tools.

[0013] Advantages of the invention

[0014] This need can be met by the subject matter of the present invention according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0015] According to a first aspect of the invention, a connector is proposed.

[0016] The connector has a contact carrier element, wherein the contact carrier element has a contact chamber for receiving a contact element along an insertion direction. The contact carrier element has a first contact carrier and a second contact carrier. The first contact carrier has a locking lance or primary locking lance (or a locking hook) that can be deflected in or parallel to an X-direction transverse to the insertion direction for locking with the contact element or the contact. The second contact carrier has a protective structure that only does not overlap with the locking lance, for example when viewed along the insertion direction, and which limits deflection of the locking lance in or parallel to the X-direction, in particular in such a way that the locking lance is not plastically deformed.

[0017] This advantageously provides reliable protection against damage, e.g. overpressure protection, for the locking lance, together with a geometric separation of the locking lance and protective structure into two initially separate components (first contact carrier on the one hand and second contact carrier on the other). This means that the two structures (locking lance and protective structure) can be manufactured using much simpler tools, since, for example, very narrow recesses between the protective structure and locking lance do not have to be produced using very narrow slide elements in injection molding tools. At the same time, the tools can also be better adapted to the specific geometric or functional characteristics of the two structures (locking lance and protective structure). For example, the design of the locking lance may require the provision of a thinned-out area in order to achieve a defined tipping point orA folding point can be set, or a design that allows for high elasticity for a springback process. The design of the protective structure may, for example, require a high degree of robustness or rigidity to optimally protect the locking lance. Since the provision of different material thicknesses in a confined space, e.g., in injection molding, can lead to warping problems, the geometric division of the two structures into two different parts (two contact carriers) of the contact carrier element advantageously counteracts warping problems.

[0018] The optional non-overlapping of the locking lance and protective structure along the insertion direction has the particularly advantageous effect that even with larger manufacturing tolerances of the first and second contact carriers (particularly parallel to the insertion direction: the protective structure and locking lance can be positioned too close to one another in the axial direction), the locking lance can always be freely displaced and does not accidentally collide with the protective structure or come into contact before the locking lance has been deflected sufficiently to allow the contact element to pass during insertion or before the locking lance has been displaced sufficiently to unlock the contact element. The demands on the tools are advantageously further reduced and / or the service life of the tools, which wear out with use and result in higher tolerances, is advantageously increased. This advantageously allows the connector to be manufactured more cost-effectively.In addition, the contact area between the locking lance and the protective structure can be made larger in the event of contact, thus reducing point loading on the protective structure and the locking lance. Finally, no special geometric requirements (e.g., special bevels, angles, etc.) are required for the end faces of the locking lance and the protective structure to ensure reliable function of the damage protection provided by the protective structure. The manufacturing of the tools and the connector can be kept simple.

[0019] It can be provided, for example, that the second contact carrier has a base. It can be provided, for example, that an opening is provided in the base for one, in particular for each, contact chamber, through which opening a mating contact element of a mating connector can be inserted or through which the contact element can protrude towards the mating connector. It can be provided, for example, that a release opening is formed in the base for a contact chamber for the insertion of an release tool for releasing the contact element from the locking connection with the locking lance. It can be provided, for example, that such a release opening is provided for several or for all contact elements. In particular, each of these contact chambers to which a release opening is assigned can be assigned its own release opening. It can be provided, for example, that the release opening orthe release openings, viewed parallel to the X-direction, are each arranged outside the openings. In particular, the release opening and the opening (in particular the opening assigned to it) are designed to be separate from one another (e.g. by forming an edge or web between them) or they do not merge into one another. For example, the release opening can be offset from the opening by at least half a diameter of the opening, preferably offset by at least one diameter of the opening (e.g. viewed from the center of the opening or from the edge of the opening). In another embodiment, no edge or web is provided between the opening and the release opening. In particular, it can be provided that release by means of a release tool is not carried out through the same opening or the same part of the opening into which a mating contact element is inserted or is inserted to make contact with the contact element.through which the contact element protrudes to contact a mating contact element. This advantageously reduces the risk of a release tool colliding with a contact element inserted in the contact chamber or contact carrier element.

[0020] For example, it can be provided that the release opening is offset from the opening in a Y direction perpendicular to the insertion direction and the X direction. It can be provided, for example, that such a release opening is arranged between two openings, viewed along the Y direction, in particular substantially centrally between two openings. This can advantageously further reduce the risk of a release tool colliding with a contact element inserted in the contact chamber or in the contact carrier element.

[0021] It can be provided, for example, that only a single locking lance or primary locking lance is provided for at least one contact element in the first contact carrier, but no more than two locking lances or primary locking lances. It can also be provided, for example, that only a single locking lance or primary locking lance is provided for several or all contact elements in the first contact carrier, but no more than two locking lances or primary locking lances each. This advantageously allows the first contact carrier to be designed particularly simply, and a complex locking cone or holding cone (in particular with several locking lance-like elements) can be avoided. Furthermore, the individual locking lance or primary locking lance can advantageously be designed relatively robustly. It does not have to share the available space in a contact chamber for a contact element with other locking lances.Another advantage is that unlocking can be particularly quick and easy, since only a single locking lance or a maximum of two locking lances need to be unlocked to remove the contact element from the contact carrier element. If two locking lances are provided for a contact element, the locking lances can be arranged side by side or opposite each other.

[0022] For example, it can be provided that the contact carrier element is formed by exactly two elements, the first contact carrier and the second contact carrier (without any additional elements). This advantageously allows a particularly simple contact carrier element to be formed. A locking element described further below (e.g., a secondary locking slide), or a cover described further below, or an operating element described further below should not be considered part of the contact carrier element.

[0023] For example, it can be provided that a contact chamber in which a contact element is arranged is defined only by the first contact carrier and / or the second contact carrier. This allows the contact chamber to be designed particularly simply, and the risk of offset edges on the chamber walls is reduced. A locking element described further below (e.g., a secondary locking slide) or a cover described further below should not be considered part of the contact chamber.

[0024] For example, it can be provided that the contact carrier element forms a connector housing; if necessary, the connector housing can additionally have a cover or a cover element. In other words: the connector housing only has the first contact carrier, the second contact carrier and optionally a cover. In particular, the locking element described further below (e.g. a secondary locking element or a secondary locking slide) should not be considered part of the connector housing in this view. An operating element described further below can be attached to the connector housing. In other words again: it can be provided that the first contact carrier and the second contact carrier are not housed or are accommodated in the interior of another element (e.g. a sleeve, in particular a metallic sleeve).

[0025] It can be provided, for example, that the second contact carrier is trough-like or cup-like and the first contact carrier is accommodated to a large extent or predominantly in the second contact carrier or in an interior space of the second contact carrier.

[0026] The expression "the locking lance does not overlap with the protective structure when viewed along the insertion direction" can be understood to mean that a projection of the locking lance and the protective structure along the insertion direction does not result in an intersection or overlap of the two projections. For example, a protective structure that is offset laterally to the locking lance in its rest position (e.g., offset parallel to the X-direction) does not overlap along the insertion direction.

[0027] The insertion direction can be referred to as the Z direction, for example. Together with the X and Y directions, it forms a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0028] The term “have” is used synonymously with the term “include” unless otherwise stated.

[0029] The connector can, for example, be designed to connect to a mating connector.

[0030] For example, it can be provided that the contact chamber is formed by the interaction of the first contact carrier and the second contact carrier. For example, the side walls of the contact chamber can be formed by sections of the first contact carrier and the second contact carrier. If multiple contact chambers are provided, this can apply to all contact chambers, for example.

[0031] For example, it can be provided that the contact chamber for the contact element is formed by a maximum of the first contact carrier and the second contact carrier, i.e., by a maximum of two individually manufactured parts. If multiple contact chambers are provided, this can, for example, apply to all contact chambers. This allows the connector to be manufactured particularly easily and cost-effectively. Particularly simple and geometrically simple tools can be used for production.

[0032] The contact element can be designed, for example, as a female contact element, e.g., as a socket contact element. Alternatively, the contact element can be designed as a male contact element, e.g., as a flat blade, as a pin, or the like. If the connector provides multiple contact chambers for accommodating contact elements, it can also be provided that at least one female contact element and at least one male contact element are arranged in the contact chambers (mixed assembly).

[0033] The plug connector can, for example, be provided for fitting with miniaturized contact elements. For example, for fitting with contact elements that have a maximum cross-section of 2.5 mm x 2.5 mm or a maximum cross-section of 2.0 mm x 2.0 mm or a maximum cross-section of 1.8 mm x 1.4 mm or a maximum cross-section of 1.1 mm x 1.1 mm. Accordingly, the locking lances (in their rest position without a plugged-in contact element) can have a distance from the protective structure that is at most 2.0 mm, preferably at most 1.5 mm, particularly preferably at most 1.0 mm and most preferably at most 0.5 mm. It goes without saying that the plug connector can, in principle, also be designed for larger contacts.

[0034] For example, it can be provided that the first contact carrier and the second contact carrier are manufactured separately from one another and are only later connected directly or indirectly during assembly of the contact carrier element. The first contact carrier and the second contact carrier can, for example, be captively coupled to one another. They can, for example, be detachably connected to one another, e.g., by latching, clipping, etc.

[0035] The locking lance or primary locking lance or the locking hook can be designed, for example, to be elastically reversibly deflectable or spring-loaded deflectable.

[0036] The locking lance can, for example, have a free end and a root, wherein it is connected to the first contact carrier in particular at the root.

[0037] The locking lance can, for example, protrude into a contact channel or a contact element trajectory of the contact chamber, so that when a contact element is inserted into the contact chamber and / or when unlocking, e.g. by means of an unlocking tool, it is displaced or pushed away from the contact element parallel to the X-direction, in particular to the side.

[0038] The protective structure can be designed as a protective wall merely by way of example. The protective structure can limit the deflection of the locking lance, for example when inserting the contact element and / or when unlocking the contact element (for example by means of an unlocking tool), for example to a predetermined maximum deflection. It can, for example, be arranged relative to the locking lance, for example offset laterally to the locking lance when viewed parallel to the X direction (for example separated from the locking lance by a gap), such that the locking lance abuts the protective structure and is prevented from further deflection before damage to the locking lance occurs, for example plastic deformation of the locking lance or breakage of the locking lance or the like.

[0039] For example, it can be provided that the locking lance is arranged on an open side of the contact chamber, in particular on an open side in the first contact carrier. This open side can, for example, run parallel to the insertion direction. This side can, for example, be open along at least 50% of the length of the locking lance.

[0040] The part or section of the contact chamber located or arranged or provided in the first contact carrier can, for example, be open on a first end face of the first contact carrier facing the second contact carrier.

[0041] For example, it can be provided that the locking lance is arranged parallel to the X-direction between the protective structure and the contact element. The protective structure thus advantageously protects against damage to the locking lance caused by displacement of the locking lance according to the usual deflection direction of the locking lance, particularly when inserting a contact element into the contact chamber and / or when unlocking the contact element. It is understood that the protective structure can also protect the locking lance from mechanical or other influences (e.g., temperature fluctuations, dust, fluids, etc.) that could act on the locking lance from the side of the protective structure.

[0042] For example, it can be provided that the first contact carrier protrudes into an interior space of the second contact carrier. The first contact carrier can, for example, be inserted into the interior space of the second contact carrier along the insertion direction. This advantageously allows a connector to be manufactured particularly easily and cost-effectively with a very simple tool geometry, which offers particularly good protection of the locking lance against damage and which can advantageously be designed to be particularly compact or small, particularly along the insertion direction. The second contact carrier can, for example, be cup-shaped.

[0043] For example, it can be provided that the locking lance is completely located within the interior of the second contact carrier. This advantageously provides particularly good protection of the locking lance against damage with a simple tool geometry and thus at a low cost.

[0044] In a further development, it is provided that the protective structure forms, at least in sections, an outer wall of the contact chamber that separates the contact chamber from the external environment.

[0045] This advantageously enables particularly cost-effective production with particularly simply designed tools. The protective structure therefore not only provides overpressure protection for the locking lance but also simultaneously assumes the function of the contact chamber outer wall. This advantageously eliminates the need for a further wall which would otherwise serve as the contact chamber outer wall, thus reducing the complexity of the manufacturing tools and the size of the connector. The protective structure is therefore also advantageously arranged close to the outer wall or forms this wall and can, for example, assume further functions. For example, the receptacle for an actuating element for reducing the insertion force or the counterpart for such an actuating element can be provided on a side of the protective structure facing the outside environment or on an outer side of the protective structure. Such an actuating element can, for example,be designed as a lever element or as a slider.

[0046] The external environment is understood to be the space outside the connector (when not mated with the mating connector). Pocket-like notches or recesses (e.g., for inserting a collar of a mating connector or stabilizing elements of the mating connector, such as so-called Kojiri ribs) can also be considered to face the external environment, and the walls of such recesses can separate the contact chamber from the external environment. The contact chamber outer wall can, for example, be a lateral outer wall (running parallel to the insertion direction) of the contact chamber.

[0047] In a further development, it is provided that the locking lance is arranged on the first contact carrier in such a way that it is displaced towards an outer wall of the second contact carrier when the contact element is inserted and / or released. This advantageously enables particularly cost-effective production with particularly simply designed or easier to manufacture and longer-lasting tools. The protective structure is thus further advantageously arranged close to the outer wall or can represent the outer wall of the connector; it can advantageously also assume further functions, as described above. This can also advantageously be used, particularly in multi-row

[0048] Contact carrier elements make it particularly easy to achieve the most symmetrical design possible for the second contact carrier with minimal material consumption. This reduces the complexity of the tools.

[0049] The locking lance can be moved, for example, when inserting the contact element in the direction of the nearest outer wall of the second contact carrier.

[0050] In a further development, it is provided that the protective structure extends along at least 25% of the length of the locking lance. In particular, there is a lateral overlap (locking lance and protective structure are spaced apart, e.g., when viewed parallel to the X-axis; they overlap, e.g., when viewed from a direction along the X-direction). This advantageously creates particularly reliable protection of the locking lance against damage caused by overpressure due to mechanical action (e.g., when inserting the contact element or during the unlatching process). With regard to the overpressure protection, even with larger

[0051] Manufacturing tolerances ensure that the locking lance and protective structure overlap sufficiently laterally (projection parallel to the X-axis). This allows for simpler tool construction and longer service life. Furthermore, the force applied during impact is distributed over a sufficiently large area to prevent damage to the locking lance and / or protective structure.

[0052] In one embodiment, the protective structure extends along at least 50% of the length of the locking lance. This further increases the protective function of the protective structure, allowing the tools to be constructed even more simply while still ensuring lateral overlap between the locking lance and the protective structure. The impact force can be advantageously distributed over an even larger area.

[0053] In one embodiment, the protective structure extends from a free end of the locking lance to a root of the locking lance. This maximizes the protective function of the protective structure; in particular, the locking lance is also largely protected from external influences (mechanical or other) or from the direction of the protective structure. The tools can be constructed even more simply to ensure lateral overlap between the locking lance and the protective structure.

[0054] In a further development, it is provided that the first contact carrier is formed from a first material, wherein the second contact carrier is formed from a second material, wherein the first material and the second material are different. In this way, the different requirements of the two structures (locking lance and protective structure) can advantageously be taken into account by means of a suitable choice of material for the first and second material respectively (e.g. elasticity vs. rigidity), or the choice of material can simplify the clever dimensioning of wall thicknesses and structural thicknesses for the manufacturing process. This simplifies the design of the tools for producing the first and second contact carriers respectively. The complexity of the tools can advantageously be reduced. For example, by using a stiffer second material compared to the first material, the wall thickness for the protective structure can be reduced while maintaining the same technical effect.At the same time, for example, the second contact carrier can also serve as an arrangement point for an actuating element or for an element interacting with an actuating element (e.g. a bolt if a link is provided in the actuating element or a rack if a gear is provided in the actuating element) by selecting a stiffer material for the second material compared to the first material.

[0055] For example, the first material can comprise polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), polyamide (PA) with different glass fiber filling.

[0056] For example, the second material may comprise polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), or polyamide (PA) with a different glass fiber filling (which is different from the first material). For example, the first material may have a lower glass fiber filling ratio than the second material.

[0057] It is understood that in another embodiment, the first and second materials can be selected to be identical. The first contact carrier and the second contact carrier are then made of the same material. This material can, for example, comprise polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), or polyamide (PA) with different glass fiber fillings. This advantageously enables particularly simple production.

[0058] In a further development, it is provided that the second contact carrier has a guide structure which is designed to limit a play of a contact end of a contact element accommodated in the contact chamber perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0059] This advantageously reduces the risk of a primary latch being too loose and / or the risk of a so-called mismating, in which a mating contact element that is to be electrically connected to the contact element is inserted next to the contact element due to incorrect operation during assembly. The guide structure enables a tightly tolerated end position of the contact element inserted into the contact chamber (low play). This allows the locking lance to be smaller, as it can always securely engage with the correctly positioned contact element. Furthermore, the risk of mismating due to carelessness during assembly is reduced. Such a guide structure can be advantageously implemented in the second contact carrier using simple means and simply designed tools, and is therefore cost-effective.

[0060] The clearance can be reduced or limited by the guide structure, for example, in a direction parallel to the X direction. Alternatively or additionally, it can be reduced or limited by the guide structure, for example, in a direction parallel to the Y direction.

[0061] In other words, the guide structure is preferably configured to reduce the play such that the locking lance always securely locks the contact element. Alternatively or additionally, it can be configured to prevent the contact element from being pushed behind by the mating contact element during mating. The guide structure can, for example, be designed to limit the play to a maximum of 0.2 mm, preferably to a maximum of 0.15 mm, particularly preferably to a maximum of 0.1 mm, in particular parallel to the X-direction and / or parallel to the Y-direction.

[0062] The guide structure can be formed, for example, on a side of the second contact carrier facing the contact chamber.

[0063] The second contact carrier can, for example, have a base, with the guide structure being arranged in the area of ​​the base, on the base, or connected to the base. The guide structure can, for example, be integrally connected to the base. It can, for example, be directly connected to the base.

[0064] For example, it can be provided that a through-opening is formed in the base for inserting a male contact element, e.g. a pin or the like.

[0065] In a further development, it is provided that the plug connector has a locking element, which is displaceable in particular in a Y direction perpendicular to the insertion direction and perpendicular to the X direction, which locking element is designed to lock a contact element arranged in the contact chamber in the chamber, wherein the locking element is guided almost completely by means of the first contact carrier, wherein in particular any play of the locking element parallel to the insertion direction is limited almost exclusively by the first contact carrier part. This advantageously enables a particularly simple tool design, since the guidance of the locking element is not distributed over two contact carriers and therefore the manufacturing tolerances of two tools do not have to be coordinated with one another. At the same time, the play of the locking element can be tolerated more closely, which also ensures the positional accuracy of the contact element or contact elements in thethe contact chamber(s) improved.

[0066] The locking element can be designed, for example, as a locking slide. It can, for example, be fork-shaped with a transverse section and with a self-supporting arm projecting therefrom or with a plurality of self-supporting arms projecting from the transverse section. The locking element can, for example, be referred to as a secondary locking element. In a further development, it is provided that the contact carrier element has a plurality of contact chambers adjacent to one another in the X direction, wherein the first contact carrier has a locking lance for at least two of the adjacent contact chambers, and the second contact carrier has a protective structure which, in particular, does not overlap with the respective locking lance when viewed along the insertion direction and which limits deflection of the locking lance parallel to the X direction or in the X direction, in particular in such a way that the locking lance is not plastically deformed.

[0067] This advantageously ensures that at least two of the locking lances (in contact chambers that are adjacent in the X-direction or are located in a row) are protected from mechanical damage and that a geometric functional separation (locking lance vs. protective structure in different, geometrically separated parts) is made possible in a simple manner, for which particularly simple and cost-effective tools are advantageously sufficient.

[0068] It is understood that the contact elements or contact chambers in the connector can be arranged in multiple rows (adjacent to one another in the X direction) and / or multiple columns (adjacent to one another in the Y direction). For example, it can be provided that the contact chambers are positioned in parallel rows at the same positions in the Y direction.

[0069] It is further understood that contact cavities adjacent in the X direction are understood to mean, for example, all contact cavities in a column. This means not only the nearest or next-but-one neighbors, but also all contact cavities that are arranged at (almost) the same position in the Y direction. These contact cavities are then considered adjacent in the X direction.

[0070] For example, if four rows are provided, the second contact carrier can provide or have the protective structure only for the two outermost contact chambers of the four X-neighbors. This can also apply if the first contact carrier simultaneously provides or has a locking lance for three or all four X-neighbors (the same considerations can also be applied analogously to examples with three rows, five rows, etc.).

[0071] Alternatively, it can be provided, for example, that the second contact carrier provides or has the protective structure for three or all four of the X-neighbors. In this example with four rows, it can be provided, for example, that the first contact carrier for the outermost X-neighbors has locking lances, which are each displaced outwards or to an outer side of the first or second contact carrier (i.e. away from each other) when the respective contact element is inserted and / or when unlocked. And that the first contact carrier for the two inner X-neighbors (direct neighbors) has locking lances, which are each displaced inwards (i.e. towards each other).

[0072] In other examples, the first contact carrier for the X-neighbors may also have locking lances, most or all of which are displaced in the same direction (during the insertion process and / or during the unlocking process).

[0073] It may be provided merely as an example that the first contact carrier has locking lances for all contact chambers.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided merely by way of example that the second contact carrier has protective structures for all contact chambers or for all those contact chambers for which the first contact carrier has locking lances or for most of the contact chambers for which the first contact carrier has locking lances but not for all.

[0075] In a further development, it is provided that the locking lances of the outermost of the contact chambers adjacent in the X direction are designed in such a way that they are pivoted outwards when a contact element is inserted.

[0076] This has the advantageous effect that the protective structures for these locking lances can simultaneously serve as outer walls of the connector, thus saving a separate wall, which in turn enables particularly simple and durable tools and particularly cost-effective production of the connector.

[0077] In a further development, it is provided that the plug connector has an operating element for reducing the insertion force or that an operating element for reducing the operating force or for reducing the assembly force is provided on the plug connector, wherein the second contact carrier has an operating element guide structure which is designed to guide or mount the operating element. This advantageously ensures that the operating element, on which strong forces can act, can be guided particularly stably and safely and that possible twisting of the contact carrier element, in particular of the second contact carrier, when operating the operating element can advantageously be kept to a minimum. At the same time, the tool concept can be made particularly simple and durable in this way, since the second contact carrier can have more robust structures than the first contact carrier, e.g. with a greater material thickness and / or can be made from a stiffer material.Thus, a simple, robust tool can be provided for the first and one for the second contact carrier, which can be optimized with regard to this functional separation.

[0078] The operating element can be designed, for example, as a lever and / or a slider. A combination of lever and slider is conceivable, e.g., to cover part of the insertion path with the lever and another part with the slider, and / or to enable an even greater reduction in insertion force, and / or to enable two-handed assembly.

[0079] The guiding or mounting of the operating element can be understood, in particular, as a guiding or mounting with respect to a displacement of the operating element relative to the second contact carrier. The operating element can, for example, be movably mounted on the second contact carrier.

[0080] The operating element can be coupled to a coupling element or a coupling structure with a complementary counter-coupling element or a complementary counter-coupling structure of the mating connector, so that when the operating element is actuated (e.g., from the first position toward the second position), the connector and the mating connector are moved toward one another to close the plug connection or away from one another to open the plug connection (opening usually occurs when the operating element is moved in the opposite direction to closing, e.g., from the second position toward the first position). Such a pairing of coupling structure and counter-coupling structure can, for example, be provided by a link and a projection (e.g., a bolt) and / or by a toothed structure (e.g., a lever tooth) and a toothed rack, etc.

[0081] A lever can, for example, be rotatably mounted or guided on the connector or the second contact carrier. Such a lever can, for example, be displaceable, in particular rotatable, between a first position (e.g., an initial position) and a second position (e.g., an end position).

[0082] A slider can, for example, be mounted or guided on the connector or the second contact carrier in a displaceable manner. Such a slider can, for example, be displaceable, in particular, between a first position (e.g., an initial position) and a second position (e.g., an end position). Such a displacement can, for example, only occur along a straight line.

[0083] In a further training it is provided that the control element management structure is selected from the group:

[0084] - a shaft, in particular for receiving in a shaft receiving opening of the operating element

[0085] - a through opening, in particular for supporting a shaft of the operating element;

[0086] - a projection, in particular for guiding a link of the operating element;

[0087] - a backdrop, in particular for accommodating a projection of the operating element.

[0088] A design as a shaft has the advantageous effect that, for example, a rotatable lever can be arranged on the plug connector as an actuating or operating element, whereby large transmission ratios can be achieved with little lateral space required. The shaft on the plug connector or on the second contact carrier also advantageously means that it is not necessary for a shaft of the operating element to pass through the second contact carrier, thus not impairing the stability of the second contact carrier and providing a large interior space for many contact chambers. Such a shaft can protrude outwards (away from an interior space of the second contact carrier) or inwards (pointing towards the interior of the second contact carrier). Protruding outwards can be particularly advantageous, for example, in so-called internal plugs, in which the plug connector is (almost completely) located within a collar of a mating connector ora mating connector housing, whereby in the case of internal connectors the operating element for reducing the insertion force is often arranged within the collar of the mating connector or acts there. An inward projection can be particularly advantageous, for example, in the case of so-called external connectors, in which the connector with the contact chambers is accommodated within a collar of a mating connector or a mating connector housing, but in which the connector simultaneously accommodates or encloses the collar of the mating connector, e.g. between two walls of the contact carrier element. Such external connectors can, by means of a radial seal, enable a sealed connector system to be created particularly easily when mated together with the mating connector.In external connectors, the operating element is often located outside the collar of the mating connector or even outside the outermost wall of the connector, which makes it easier to avoid conflict between the operating element and the radial seal in a sealed connector.

[0089] A through-hole design advantageously makes it particularly easy to implement the connector as an external connector. Furthermore, this makes it particularly easy to create a particularly compact connector, as there are no outwardly projecting structures that would increase the width of the connector. Another advantage is that the risk of the second contact carrier becoming jammed during transport prior to assembly of the connector from its individual components is reduced, as fewer parts protrude outward. A particularly simple tool for this type of design is also advantageous.

[0090] When designed as a projection or as a plurality of projections, it is advantageous, for example, to securely guide a slider along the second contact carrier. The same considerations apply as for a shaft design.

[0091] In a design as a link, a slider, for example, can advantageously be guided securely along the second contact carrier. The same considerations apply as for a design as a shaft or as a through-opening. Such a link can be designed (at least in sections) as a link structure projecting outwards or inwards from the second contact carrier, e.g. two parallel rails between which a projection of the slider can run. In an alternative or additional embodiment, such a link can be designed (at least in sections) as an (elongated) opening or (elongated) recess or as a through-opening, e.g. in the form of an elongated hole. In this case, a particularly simple limitation of the displacement path of the operating element is advantageously possible - the edge of the opening, recess or through-opening can, for example, represent a displacement limit.

[0092] In a further development, the control element can be mounted on the connector in two different directions or orientations. This advantageously allows the connector to be adapted particularly flexibly to different spatial geometries, e.g., in vehicles: depending on where more space is available for operating the control element or the direction in which a cable exit from the connector is planned, the control element can be mounted in the more suitable direction or orientation, e.g., simply replugged. At the same time, the connector can be manufactured using a particularly simple tool concept and at a particularly low cost. Regardless of the mounting direction, only one control element is required.

[0093] The two directions can be different from each other by 180°, e.g. in the form of a left-hand mounting or a right-hand mounting, etc.

[0094] In particular, it is provided that during assembly in each of the two directions or orientations, operation or actuation of the operating element results in the plug connector and mating connector being moved towards one another in order to close the plug connection (or away from one another in order to open the plug connection). For this purpose, it can be provided, for example, that a counter-coupling element or a counter-coupling structure is present or designed or configured multiple times on the mating connector and / or symmetrically with regard to the direction or orientation of the operating element. For example, a counter-coupling structure designed as a toothed rack can be formed at least twice on the mating connector, so that depending on the mounted direction of the operating element, its coupling element or coupling structure (e.g. a lever tooth) couples to one or the other counter-coupling structure (e.g. a toothed rack).

[0095] According to a second aspect of the invention, a connector assembly is proposed.

[0096] The connector assembly comprises a connector as described above and a contact element received in the contact chamber.

[0097] This advantageously creates a connector assembly that can be manufactured cost-effectively using particularly simple and durable tools, while simultaneously providing a geometric functional separation between the locking lance and the protective structure, and advantageously protecting the locking lance against damage, particularly against excessive pressure and / or external influences. The play of the contact element in the contact chamber can also be advantageously reduced using a particularly simple tool concept. A particularly well-guided locking element can also be advantageously realized. A particularly simple and stable guide or mounting of an operating element can also be advantageously provided to reduce the operating force.

[0098] The contact element can, for example, be inserted into the contact chamber.

[0099] In a further development, the contact element has a first undercut, particularly at the front, for locking with the locking lance. This advantageously ensures simple and secure locking, particularly primary locking, of the contact element in the contact chamber.

[0100] For example, it can be provided that the contact element has a second undercut, particularly at the rear, for locking by means of a locking element as described above. This advantageously enables secure and permanent positioning of the contact element in the contact chamber. At the same time, the locking element allows an installer to determine whether the contact element (or contact elements) is inserted far enough toward its desired end position, because only then can the locking element be guided past the undercut. This advantageously allows assembly errors to be detected in a timely manner, which reduces rejects.

[0101] According to a third aspect of the invention, a connector system is proposed.

[0102] The connector system comprises a connector arrangement as described above and a mating connector arrangement with a mating contact element, wherein the connector arrangement is connectable or connected to the mating connector arrangement, wherein the contact element is electrically connectable or electrically connected to the mating contact element.

[0103] This makes it possible to provide a particularly cost-effective connector system that can be manufactured using simple tools.

[0104] Drawings

[0105] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of exemplary embodiments, which, however, are not to be construed as limiting the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0106] It shows

[0107] Fig. 1 : a schematic cross section through a

[0108] connectors;

[0109] Fig. 2: a schematic cross-section through a

[0110] connector arrangement;

[0111] Fig. 3: a section of the connector arrangement from

[0112] Fig. 2 with inserted mating contact elements;

[0113] Fig. 4: a schematic cross-section through a

[0114] connectors;

[0115] Fig. 5: a perspective and partially sectioned view of two connector systems in the unmated state of two connectors and two mating connectors;

[0116] Figs. 6: a perspective view of the two

[0117] Connector systems from Fig. 5 in the mated state of the connectors and mating connectors;

[0118] Fig. 7: a perspective detail view of a

[0119] connectors;

[0120] Fig. 8: a perspective exploded view of a first

[0121] contact carrier and a second contact carrier;

[0122] Fig. 9: a perspective exploded view of a

[0123] Section of a first contact carrier and a second contact carrier; Fig. 10: a perspective view of a first contact carrier. f

[0124] Figures 1 and 2 show schematic cross sections through a connector 1 each for explaining relevant relationships of the invention. Figure 2 shows a connector assembly 100 comprising a connector 1 and a contact element 4. Connector 1 and connector assembly 100 are surrounded by an external environment 10. Figures 1 and 2 are taken from internal models and simulations of the applicant and are described together below.

[0125] The plug connector 1 of Figs. 1 and 2 is designed here as a so-called external plug, which is configured to receive a collar of a mating connector (not shown here) (see, for example, Figs. 5 and 6 for a collar 58 of a mating connector 50, wherein a so-called internal plug is shown there, in which the plug connector 1 is received in a mating connector interior 74 of the mating connector 50). The plug connector 1 of Figs. 1 and 2 is designed here for so-called "clean body" contact elements, which are (primarily) locked in the plug connector 1 by means of locking lances 7 arranged in the plug connector and usually do not have a contact element locking lance that protrudes outwards.

[0126] The plug connector 1 has a contact carrier element 2 which has a plurality of contact chambers 3 for receiving contact elements 4 (see, for example, Figs. 2 - 4) along an insertion direction Z, wherein here, for example, the contact chambers 3 are arranged in four rows (Fig. 1) or in two rows (Fig. 2), which are arranged next to one another or adjacent to one another in an X-direction X perpendicular to the insertion direction Z. In Fig. 1, between each pair of rows of contact chambers 3, a recess 26 is arranged, which is in contact with the external environment 10 and whose bounding walls are thus to be regarded as outer walls, wherein in the section shown here, the recess 26 is open in the lower part towards the two internally located contact chambers 3 or is delimited from them by a locking lance 7 described further below.1 shows a Cartesian coordinate system with the insertion direction Z, the X-direction X and a Y-direction Y that is perpendicular to the insertion direction Z and the X-direction X.

[0127] It is understood that further contact chambers 3 can be added in the four rows along the Y-direction Y.

[0128] The contact carrier element 2 has a first contact carrier 5 (shown at the top in Fig. 1, below a mat seal 23) and a second contact carrier 6 (shown at the bottom in Fig. 1, facing the mating connector). The first contact carrier 5 here has an upper part of the contact chambers 3 for each contact chamber 3 in the X-direction X transverse to the insertion direction Z. The second contact carrier 6 here has a locking lance 7 for each contact chamber 3, which can be deflected parallel to the X-direction X (in the direction of the arrows with the reference number 25), in particular elastically reversibly deflected. Furthermore, the second contact carrier 6 has a protective structure 8, in particular a protective wall 9, which here, for example, does not overlap with the locking lance 7 viewed along the insertion direction Z and which here, likewise merely for example, is arranged or runs laterally next to the locking lance 7.The protective structure 8 limits a deflection of the locking lance 7 parallel to the X-direction X, in particular when inserting the contact element 4 and / or when unlocking the contact element 4 by a unlocking element or unlocking tool, in particular in such a way that the locking lance 7 is not plastically deformed (in Fig. 1, such a protective structure 8 is shown only for the two outer locking lances 7).

[0129] In other words, if the locking lance 7 were to be deflected too far toward the protective structure 8, it would strike the protective structure 8, which acts like a guardrail, and would be protected from further displacement, which could damage the locking lance 7 (breakage, plastic deformation, and / or loss of resilience). The protective structure 8 thus prevents the locking lance 7 from being over-pressed.

[0130] This protective structure 8 extends from a protective structure root 71 to a free end 72 of the protective structure 8, i.e., from top to bottom. A gap 28 extending approximately parallel to the insertion direction Z is formed between the protective structure 8 and the locking lance 7. This gap 28 enables, on the one hand, a displacement or pivoting of the locking lance 7 when the contact element 4 is inserted into the contact chamber 3 and / or when the contact element 4 is to be unlocked in order to be removed from the contact chamber 3 again. At the same time, the gap 28 is dimensioned so narrow that the locking lance 7 is not deflected too far, thus preventing overpressure (during insertion and / or unlocking).

[0131] The locking lance 7 and protective structure 8 are integrally connected to the second contact carrier 6 and cannot be removed without causing damage. They are manufactured here together with the second contact carrier 6 in an injection molding process.

[0132] The locking lance 7 extends along a length L approximately parallel to the insertion direction L between a root 14 and a free end 13. It is connected to the root 13 with the remaining part of the second contact carrier 6. The locking lance 7 projects into an insertion path or insertion route or insertion trajectory of a contact element 4 that can be inserted or has been inserted into the contact chamber 3, at least with a free end 14 of the locking lance 7.

[0133] Figure 2 shows the configuration of the contact chambers 2, each with a contact element 4 (here as a female contact element 35 in the form of a socket contact), for the double-row connector 1 shown there. The contact element 4 has a contact box 30 with a front contact end 16 facing the mating connector 50. Arranged inside the contact box 30 is at least one contact blade 29 which can make electrical contact with a mating contact element 73 designed as a male contact element 36 (see Figs. 3, 5). A first undercut 18 is formed in the contact box 30 for (primary) locking with the locking lance 7. A second undercut 19 is defined by the end of the contact box 30 for (secondary) locking with a locking element 17 described further below. Further up in Fig.2, a crimping section 31 is connected to the rear end of the contact box 30, in which a stripped wire 32 of a cable 34 otherwise having an insulation 33 is connected or crimped here.

[0134] When equipping the contact chamber 3 with a contact element 4, the contact element 4 (see Fig. 2) is usually first pushed through the mat seal 23 (see Fig. 1) (if such a mat seal 23 is present), then passes the first contact carrier 5, reaches the lower part of the contact chamber 3 in the second contact carrier 6, meets the elastically reversible or spring-loaded locking lance 7 with its front contact end 16 and displaces this radially outwards (here: parallel to the X direction X in the direction of the arrows with the reference number 25) and is then stopped on a base 20 of the second contact carrier 6, wherein at the latest in this position (end position) the locking lance 7 springs back behind the first undercut 18 (see Fig. 2) of the contact element 4 in the direction of its rest position and the contact element 4 is (primarily) locked in the contact chamber 3.For example, an opening 21 is provided in the base 20 for each contact chamber 3, through which a mating contact element 73 (see Figs. 3 and 5) of the mating connector 50 can be inserted (or through which the contact element 4 can protrude toward the mating connector 50). Furthermore, a release opening 47 is provided in the base 20 for each contact chamber 3, through which a release tool can be inserted to move the locking lance 7 out of the first undercut 18 (parallel to the X-direction X) and thus enable removal of the contact element 4 from the contact chamber 3.

[0135] A locking element 17, or secondary locking element, is arranged between the first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6. This locking element engages behind the second undercut 19 (see Fig. 2) of the contact element 4 in its end position and locks it in the contact chamber 3. In this way, the locking lances 7 can be relieved of pressure. The locking element 17 is displaceable here along the Y-direction Y and is guided between the lower end of the first contact carrier 5 and the upper end of the second contact carrier 6.

[0136] With the plug connector 1 in the form of an external plug, a tight plug connection can be formed when plugged into the mating connector (not shown here). For this purpose, the plug connector 1 has a radial seal 22 on the first contact carrier 5, which is arranged in a receptacle 27 in which the collar 58 of the mating connector 50 is received. The receptacle 27, which is designed to run all the way around here, is pocket-shaped and is formed in the first contact carrier 5 or is formed by two walls of the first contact carrier 5 or, in the lower section in Figs. 1 and 2, by an outermost wall of the first contact carrier 5 and another outermost wall of the second contact carrier 6. The external environment 10 is located inside the receptacle 27. Furthermore, the plug connector 1, as already described above, has, here as an example, the mat seal 23 with feedthroughs 24 for the contact elements 4 (not shown in Fig. 1).In this way, the connector 1 can be sealed or is sealed against the external environment 10. The geometry shown in Figs. 1 and 2 prevents overpressing of the locking lance 7, at least in those contact chambers 3 for which the second contact carrier 6 has a protective structure 8. However, a tool for injection molding the second contact carrier 6 is difficult because the locking lance 7 and the protective structure 8 are only separated from each other by the small or narrow gap 28. This gap 28 requires thin, needle-like projections in the tool, which are comparatively difficult to manufacture. In addition, a recess for these projections must be provided on the base 20 of the second contact carrier 6 in order to demold the second contact carrier 6 from the tool. As a result, the contact end 16 of the contact element 4 cannot be reliably guided laterally (in the X direction X).Furthermore, different materials cannot be used for locking lance 7 and protective structure 8, even though the locking lance should have elastic properties and the protective structure should be as robust as possible. Furthermore, for manufacturing reasons, it is advisable to select similar wall thicknesses for locking lance 7 and protective structure 8 in order to minimize material distortion during cooling – this impairs the freedom in designing the rigidity (protective structure 8) or elasticity (locking lance 7) of the two components. Finally, in this design of a connector 1, it is not easily possible to mount or guide an operating element for reducing the insertion force on the second contact carrier 6. Such a mounting or guidance must absorb high forces, so a greater material thickness and / or a stiffer material may be required.This would increase the complexity of a tool in which the comparatively delicate, elastic locking lances are to be formed. These challenges are particularly significant when it comes to a connector 1 for miniaturized contacts whose smallest dimension in the cross-section of the contact box is, for example, at most 2.5 mm, at most 2.0 mm, at most 1.8 mm, or at most 1.5 mm.

[0137] Figure 3 shows a section of the connector arrangement 100 from Fig. 2 with inserted mating contact elements 73, here in the form of maleregen) contact elements 36, e.g. in the form of pins (Fig. 3, like Figs. 1 and 2, is taken from internal models and simulations of the applicant).

[0138] The right side shows the desired state, in which the contact element is securely locked to the locking lance 7. Furthermore, the mating contact element 73 is inserted through the opening 21 of the base 20 into the contact box 30 of the contact element 4 and is mechanically clamped and electrically contacted between the spring-loaded contact blade 29 and a base of the contact box 30.

[0139] On the left-hand side, an undesirable situation is shown in which the contact element 4 is positioned slightly too far in the direction of the locking lance 7 due to the limited lateral guidance of the contact end 16, which can impair the reliability of the (primary) locking. At the same time, the mating contact element 73 protrudes slightly too far to the right, or was slightly inclined during the mating process of connector 1 and mating connector 50. Although the mating contact element 73 was able to pass through the opening 21 in the base, it then came to lie between a wall of the contact chamber 3 and the base of the contact box 30 - this situation can be referred to as "back-mating". In this situation, a permanent and undesirable force parallel to the X-direction X can be exerted on the locking lance (here to the left), which can, for example, impair the elastically reversible nature of the locking lance 7.

[0140] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-section through a connector 1 that overcomes the problems of the connectors from Figs. 1 to 3.

[0141] The connector 1 has a contact carrier element 2, which has a contact chamber 3 for receiving a contact element 4 along an insertion direction Z. Here, a connector 1 with two—in particular parallel—rows of contact chambers 3 is shown as an example. The contact carrier element 2 has a first contact carrier 5 and a second contact carrier 6.

[0142] In contrast to the connectors from Figs 1 to 3, in Fig. 4 the first contact carrier 5 has a locking lance 7 which can be deflected parallel to an X-direction X transversely to the insertion direction Z, in particular elastically reversibly deflected, for locking with the contact element 4 (and not the second contact carrier 6).

[0143] The second contact carrier 6 has a protective structure 8, in particular a protective wall 9, which limits a deflection of the locking lance 7 parallel to the X-direction X, in particular during insertion of the contact element 4, in particular such that the locking lance 7 is not plastically deformed. The protective structure 8 is not designed to overlap the locking lance 7 when viewed along the insertion direction Z. Here, for example, it runs laterally from the locking lance 7 (parallel to the X-direction, offset from the locking lance 7, here, for example, spaced from the locking lance 7 by a gap 28).

[0144] In this way, the gap 28 between the locking lance 7 and the protective structure 8 or protective wall 9 arranged laterally therefrom can be provided simply and with very small dimensions (e.g., a maximum of 1 mm wide, preferably a maximum of 0.7 mm wide, particularly preferably a maximum of 0.5 mm wide). This is because the gap 28 is realized here through the interaction of two separate elements (first and second contact carriers 5, 6). At the same time, the tools for the first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6 can be kept very simple and they can also have a longer service life, since fewer thin parts are required, which can wear out particularly quickly over several hundred thousand or millions of production cycles or injection cycles or material injections.The protective structure 8 runs here from the protective structure root 71 below (facing the mating connector 50) upwards (facing the first contact carrier 5) to the free end 72 of the protective structure 8.

[0145] In this exemplary embodiment, the protective structure 8 forms, at least in sections, a contact chamber outer wall 11, in particular a lateral one, which delimits the contact chamber 3 from the external environment 10.

[0146] The protective structure 8 here forms, for example, an outer wall 12 of the second contact carrier 6 or a part of the outer wall of the plug connector 1, wherein the second contact carrier 6 is designed, for example, in a cup-like or cup-shaped manner and the first contact carrier 5 is largely accommodated in an interior of the second contact carrier 6.

[0147] Through this geometric functional separation of locking lance 7 and protective structure 8, a very robust outer wall of the connector 1 and protective structure 8 for the locking lances 7 can be created and, at the same time, the tool complexity can be kept low, since the more delicate structures of the locking lances 7 do not have to be provided in the same tool as the robust protective structure 8.

[0148] The locking lances 7 are arranged here, for example, on the first contact carrier 5 in such a way that when the contact element 4 is inserted and / or when the contact element (4) is unlatched, they are displaced in the direction of an outer wall 12 of the second contact carrier 6, in particular in the direction of the nearest outer wall 12 of the second contact carrier 6.

[0149] It is understood that in other embodiments (e.g., for a four-row connector 1 of the type shown in Fig. 1), several locking lances 7 may also be provided, which are moved radially inward when the contact element 4 is inserted. However, if one or two protective structures 8 or protective walls 9 were provided in the recess 26 (see Fig. 1) in such an embodiment, these would also be considered outer walls, since they border the external environment 10.

[0150] In the embodiment of Fig. 4, the protective structure 8 extends along the entire length L of the locking lance 7, in this case from the free end 13 of the locking lance 7 to the root 14 of the locking lance 7. This provides particularly good overpressure protection. The load on the locking lance 7 and the protective structure 8 is thus reduced in the event of an impending overpressure, which can cause the locking lance 7 to bear against the protective structure 8 over a large area.

[0151] In other embodiments, it can be provided, for example, that the protective structure 8 extends along at least 25% of the length L of the locking lance 7, preferably along at least 50% of the length L of the locking lance 7.

[0152] In the area of ​​the free end 13 of the locking lance 7, an inwardly directed locking projection 48 is arranged for (primary) locking with the first undercut 18 of the contact element 4 (see also Fig. 10).

[0153] In the illustrated embodiment, it can be provided, for example, that the first contact carrier 5 is formed from a first material M1 and that the second contact carrier 6 is formed from a second material M2, wherein the first material M1 and the second material M2 are different. For example, the second material M2 can be a stiffer material than the first material M1 or, in the case of a glass fiber admixture, can have a higher admixture of glass fibers than the first material M1.

[0154] For example, the first material can comprise polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), polyamide (PA) with different glass fiber filling.

[0155] For example, the second material can comprise polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), or polyamide (PA) with different glass fiber fillings. For example, the first material can have a lower glass fiber filling ratio than the second material.

[0156] It is understood that in another embodiment, the first material M1 and the second material M2 can be selected to be identical. The first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6 are then made of the same material. This material can, for example, comprise polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), or polyamide (PA) with different glass fiber fillings. This advantageously enables particularly simple production of the contact carriers 5, 6.

[0157] The second contact carrier 6 further comprises a guide structure 15 (see also Figs. 8 and 9) which is designed to limit the play of a contact end 16 of a contact element 4 accommodated in the contact chamber 3 perpendicular to the insertion direction Z, in particular parallel to the X-direction X and / or the Y-direction Y, in particular to a maximum of 0.2 mm, preferably to a maximum of 0.15 mm or to a maximum of 0.1 mm, particularly preferably even to a maximum of 0.07 mm. This advantageously leads to a particularly secure (primary) locking, so that the locking lance can be designed with comparatively small dimensions.

[0158] The plug connector 1 has a locking element 17 or secondary locking element, which is displaceable in particular in the Y direction and is designed to lock a contact element 4 arranged in the contact chamber 3 in the contact chamber 3. The locking element 17 is guided almost entirely by the first contact carrier 5, and in particular any play of the locking element 17 parallel to the insertion direction Z is limited almost exclusively by the first contact carrier part 5. In other words: the locking element 17 is guided in a locking channel 76 which surrounds the locking element 17 at least at the top and bottom, here, for example, also on the inside. The boundary surfaces of the locking channel 76 (at least at the top and bottom in Fig. 4) are formed by the first contact carrier 5.As a result, the locking element 17 can be guided particularly securely and smoothly - a coordination of manufacturing or assembly tolerances of the first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6 is not necessary here.

[0159] In contrast to the connectors 1 shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the locking element 17 (possibly with the exception of an insertion opening in the contact carrier element 2) here runs, for example, completely within the first contact carrier part 5 (in the locking channel 76), which enables particularly smooth and tightly tolerable guidance.

[0160] As already described above in other words, in the embodiment of Fig. 4 it is provided that the contact carrier element 2 has a plurality of contact chambers 3 adjacent to one another in the X direction (here: 2 rows), wherein for at least two of the adjacent contact chambers 3 the first contact carrier 5 has a locking lance 7 each, and the second contact carrier 6 has a protective structure 8 which, in particular, does not overlap with the respective locking lance 7 when viewed along the insertion direction Z, and which limits a deflection of the locking lance 7 parallel to or in the X direction X, in particular in such a way that the locking lance 7 is not plastically deformed.

[0161] The locking lances 7 of the respective outermost contact chambers 3 adjacent in the X direction X are designed in such a way that they are pivoted outwards when a contact element 4 is inserted and / or when a contact element 4 is unlocked.

[0162] In Figure 4, in conjunction with Figures 5 to 7, it can be seen that the plug connector 1 has an operating element 39 for reducing the insertion force or operating force or for reducing the assembly force, or such an operating element 39 can be mounted on the plug connector 1, or an operating element 39 for reducing the insertion force is provided or can be mounted on the plug connector 1, in particular a lever 40 and / or a slide, wherein the second contact carrier 6 has an operating element guide structure 69 which is designed to guide or support the operating element 39, or to which the operating element 39 can be attached or mounted.

[0163] The operating element guide structure 69 is designed here in the form of a shaft 37 projecting outward from the second contact carrier 6 (here: toward the external environment 10). For example, a shaft 37 projects from each of the two outer sides of the second contact carrier 6 shown in Fig. 4, to which shaft the operating element 39 can be attached (or is detachably attached or mounted in Figs. 5 and 7). As described, the operating element guide structure 69 is designed here as a shaft 37, in particular for reception in a shaft receiving opening 42 (see Figs. 5 and 7) of the operating element 39.

[0164] In other embodiments, the operating element guide structure 69 can alternatively or additionally be designed, for example, as a through-opening, in particular for supporting a shaft of the operating element 39 and / or as a projection, in particular for guiding a link of the operating element 39 and / or as a link, in particular for receiving a projection of the operating element 39.

[0165] It is understood that, for example, analogous to the embodiment of Fig. 4, the operating element guide structure 69 can be designed in one way on one side and in another way on the other side (e.g. shaft 37 and through opening).

[0166] In the embodiment of Figures 4 to 10, the operating element 39 is designed to be mountable on the connector 1 in two different directions, in particular directions differing from one another by 180°. In other words: it can be mounted on the connector 1 or on the second contact carrier 6 rotated by 180°, for example, in order to be able to accommodate a different mounting situation, e.g. a cable outlet (e.g. in a cover 38 or by means of a cover 38). In both mounting states, the operating element 39 can be operated in the same way and ensures that the connector 1 and the mating connector 50 are plugged together or detached from one another, as described in more detail below with reference to Figures 5 and 6.

[0167] Figure 5 shows a perspective and partially sectioned view of two connector systems 200 in the unmated state of two connectors 1 and two mating connectors 50.

[0168] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the two connector systems 200 from Fig. 5 in the mated state of the connector 1 and mating connector 50.

[0169] Figures 5 and 6 are described together below.

[0170] Figure 5 shows in the upper part two separate connector assemblies 100, each having a connector 1 and at least one contact element 4, which is received in the contact chamber 3, in particular is plugged into the contact chamber 3 - here it can be seen that in each connector 1 a plurality of contact chambers 3 for a plurality of contact elements 4 are provided.

[0171] As already shown in Fig. 4, each contact element 4 has, by way of example, a first undercut 18, in particular a front one, for locking with the locking lance 7 (in particular with the exemplary locking projection 48 of the locking lance 7) and a second undercut 19, in particular a rear one, for locking by means of the locking element 17.

[0172] In the lower part of Fig. 5, two mating connectors 50 with at least one mating contact element 73 (here a plurality of mating contact elements 73) are shown, wherein the two mating connectors 50 are connected to one another in one piece, by way of example.

[0173] The two connector assemblies 100 and the two mating connectors 50 can - when they are connectable to one another (see Fig. 5) or connected to one another (see Fig. 6) - be regarded as two connector systems 200, wherein each connector system 200 has a connector assembly 100 and a mating connector 50 and connector 1 and mating connector 50 are then connectable or connected to one another and contact elements 4 and mating contact elements 73 are electrically connectable or connected.

[0174] The connector 1 has a connector housing 70, which has the first contact carrier 5, the second contact carrier 6, and a cover 38—here, for example, detachably mounted on the first contact carrier 1 and optionally rotatable by 180° in two different directions. The cover 38 protects the cables 34 of the contact elements 4 protruding from the contact chambers 3 and can exit them bundled as a cable harness by means of the opening, which here, for example, points to the left. Depending on the installation situation, the two covers 38 in Figs. 5 and 6 can point in the same direction (both to the left or both to the right) or in different directions (e.g., the left cover open to the left, the right cover open to the right—i.e., both pointing outwards; in other embodiments, both can also point towards each other with their openings for the cables 34).It is also clearly visible that the locking element 17 is inserted or pushed into the connector 1 in the Y direction on the side of the narrow side of the connector.

[0175] The first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6 are connected to one another here, for example—in particular, in a non-destructively detachable manner (here, for example, arranged one above the other along the insertion direction Z). This is achieved, for example, by locking recesses 44 in the second contact carrier 6 or in the outer wall 12 of the second contact carrier 6 and by locking projections 45 of the first contact carrier 5 engaging from the inside into these locking recesses 44—here, for example. The locking projections 45 are formed on the first contact carrier 5 on its outer side or outer wall.

[0176] The second contact carrier 6 is, for example, cup-shaped or trough-shaped. The first contact carrier 5 is inserted into an interior space of the second contact carrier (see Figs. 8 and 9). It is connected to the second contact carrier 6 in a non-destructive manner (e.g., here by a clip connection). This enables simple and quick assembly and, in the event of repairs, easy disassembly.

[0177] Both connectors 1 each have an operating element 39, here each exemplary in the form of a U-shaped lever 40, which is mounted on the shafts 37 arranged on both sides as an operating element guide structure 69 of the second contact carrier 6.

[0178] For assembly on the shaft 37, each operating element 39 has a shaft receiving opening 42 which is arranged in a disk 59 - here, for example, approximately circular - wherein an arm of the lever 40 is arranged on the disk 59 (the two arms of the lever 40 are connected to each other outside the cover 38 by a cross member). On each disk 59, a lever tooth 43 is arranged facing outwards, projecting radially outwards with respect to the shaft 37. The shaft receiving opening 42 is provided approximately centrally in the disk 59. The disk 59 is placed or plugged onto the shaft 37 from the outside by means of the shaft receiving opening 42. The lever 40 can be moved between a first position P1 (e.g.

[0179] initial position) and a second position P2 (e.g. end position) around the shaft 37 relative to the connector housing 70 or the second contact carrier 6.

[0180] In order to clarify the two lever positions, the lever 40 of the right connector 1 in Fig. 5 (approximately horizontal) is shown in the first position P1 and the lever 40 of the left connector 1 (approximately vertical) is shown in the second position P2.

[0181] Arranged radially outside the disk 59 on the first contact carrier 5 is a first disk guide element 60 and on the second contact carrier 6 is a second disk guide element 61 (here in the form of two segments). The disk guide elements 60, 61 are, for example, raised relative to the (outer) walls of the two contact carriers 5, 6 - in other words: they protrude outwards from the walls. The segments of the first and second disk guide elements 60, 61 each form (for example here) circular segments (and also a circular segment when combined), which extend radially at a slight distance from an outer edge of the disk 59 (radial here is to be understood with reference to the shaft 37). This advantageously ensures that in the event of a strong force acting on the operating element 39, which could potentially lead to severe stress (e.g., twisting or compression, etc.),) of the shaft 37 or the outer wall 12 of the second contact carrier 6, the disc 59 is nevertheless guided reliably and safely on a predetermined path and, at the same time, the shaft 37 is relieved of load. The disc guide elements 60, 61 form a type of stop against excessive radial displacement of the disc 59 and limit a possible radial misalignment of the disc 59, which, among other things, also contributes to a defined mating or unmating process of the connector 1 and the mating connector 50.

[0182] Both mating connectors 50 have a mating connector housing 80. The mating connector housing 80 of each mating connector 50 has a collar 58 that protrudes in the direction of the connector 1 (here: opposite the insertion direction Z). The mating contact elements 73, here exemplary in the form of male mating contact elements 36, are arranged in a mating connector interior 74 surrounded by the collar 58. The collar 58 forms a type of cup shape. Furthermore, the collar 58 has two toothed racks 51 on each of its two inner sides – here exemplary long – with which the lever tooth 43 of the operating element 39 can couple (here exemplary, a disk 59 with a lever tooth 43 is arranged on each of the two arms of the lever 40). The two racks 51 on each side are designed symmetrically to each other, so that the operating element 39 can be rotated in both directions - here, for example, by half a turn around the vertical axis orInsertion direction Z rotated relative to each other - assembly directions works or the lever tooth 43 can couple or interact with one or the other rack 51 in both assembly directions.

[0183] The racks 51, viewed from top to bottom, initially have a first projection 52, then a rack recess 53, and then a second projection 54. The first projection 52 and the second projection 53 lie in one plane here, for example. The first projection 52 and the second projection 54 protrude the same distance here, for example parallel to the Y direction Y. When the plug connector 1 and the mating connector 50 are plugged together, the lever 40 is initially in the first position P1. When the plug connector 1 and the mating connector 50 are plugged together, the shaft 37 is inserted into a channel 75 or a gap between the two facing racks 51 or is received by the channel 75. The lever tooth 43 slides into the gap or the channel 75 between the two racks 51 when the plug connector 1 is placed onto the mating connector 50.If the lever 40 is then moved from the first position P1 towards the second position P2, the lever tooth 43 engages under or around the first projection 52 (in particular engaging in the rack recess 53) of one or the other rack 51, is supported on its underside and pulls the connector 1 towards the mating connector 50. In this way, the (high) plugging forces (e.g. in the case of a multi-pin plug or connector 1) can be overcome by means of the leverage with less operating force from an installer.

[0184] When plugging connector 1 and mating connector 50 apart, lever tooth 43 can, for example, be supported on the lower second projection 54 (on its upper side). When lever 40 moves (e.g., from the second position P2) toward the first position P1, this support allows connector 1 to be detached from mating connector 50, particularly in a simplified or easier manner.

[0185] Due to the symmetrical design of the two racks 51 (on the inner wall of the collar 58), the lever 40 can be mounted on the second contact carrier 6 in both mounting directions (as shown in Fig. 5 or rotated by 180° around the insertion direction Z) and can fulfill its function in both mounting directions.

[0186] Preferably, a pair of racks 51 is arranged on each of the opposite sides (here: inner sides) of the collar 58 of the mating connector 50. This allows the forces of the lever 40 to act particularly evenly. The connector 1 is designed here, for example, as an internal connector. It is completely accommodated in the mating connector interior 74 with the contact carrier element 2, here, for example, in the state plugged together with the mating connector 50. The contact carrier element 2 consists, for example, of only two elements: the first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6.

[0187] It is understood that the racks 51 can alternatively be arranged on an outer side of the collar 58 (e.g., in the case of an external connector). It is further understood that, instead of the rack-and-lever tooth structures, other coupling structures are also conceivable (e.g., projections guided in guides, and the like).

[0188] The possibility of mounting the operating element 39 and the cover 38 (each as an identical part) in two different directions on the contact carrier element 2 enables a particularly simple, robust and cost-effective tool concept for the production of the connector 1, which at the same time can be adapted particularly flexibly to different installation situations.

[0189] In the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 5, it can be seen that a rack undercut 55 is formed on the mating connector 50 on the sides of the racks 51 facing away from the channel 75. A vertical guide projection 56 (running parallel to the insertion direction Z) is formed on the second contact carrier 6 outside the disk 59. Here, it is rod-shaped, for example. Two such guide projections 56 are thus formed on the outer wall 12 visible in Fig. 5. On the other, opposite, outer wall 12 (not visible in Fig. 5 because it points into the image plane), two guide projections 56 are also formed, for example.Each guide projection 56 has a cover 57 which projects furthest from the outer wall 12 and partially covers the guide projection 56. Here, the cover 57 forms an undercut facing the disc 59; it projects parallel to the Y direction Y beyond the guide projection 56 in the direction of the disc 59.

[0190] When plugging connector 1 and mating connector 50 together, a guide projection 56 (here: each guide projection) engages in a corresponding rack undercut 55. The cover 57, in turn, engages the corresponding rack 51. In this way, for example, the connector 1 can be guided relative to the mating connector 50 parallel to the X direction X by means of the cover 57 and guided in the Y direction Y by means of the guide projection 56. The risk of tilting, jamming, or slipping in a lateral direction during actuation of the operating element 39 is thereby reduced. The plugging process can thus be carried out simply, safely, reliably, and precisely.

[0191] Furthermore, it can be clearly seen in Fig. 5 that the cover 38 has a cover mounting projection 67 (one on the left side in Fig. 5 runs parallel to the Y direction Y on an underside of the cover 3), which is pushed through a mounting opening 66 (one runs perpendicularly on the left side in Fig. 5) of the first contact carrier 5 during assembly of the cover 38 and thus couples the cover 38 to the first contact carrier 5 on a first side or fastens it captively thereto. Furthermore, the cover 38 has on its closed side (pointing to the right in Fig. 5) a tab (not visible here) with an opening that is designed to latch with a cover mounting projection 77 on the narrow side of the first contact carrier 5 (in the manner of a clip closure).Here, for example, a cover mounting projection 77 is formed on each of the two narrow sides of the first contact carrier 5, in particular the two cover mounting projections 77 are formed symmetrically on the first contact carrier 5. The mounting openings 66 and the cover mounting projections 77 on the first contact carrier 5 are each formed symmetrically to one another (see, for example, also Fig. 8), so that the cover 38 can be mounted on the first contact carrier 5 in two different directions or orientations, for example rotated by 180' to one another.

[0192] Figure 6 shows the two connector systems 200 in the mated state (the two connectors 1 or connector assemblies 100 are mated with the two mating connectors 50, the contact elements 4 and the mating contact elements 73 are electrically connected to one another). Both operating elements 39 are located in the second position P2. It is clearly visible that the connectors 1 are designed as internal connectors here. Both connectors 1, including their operating elements 39, are arranged within the collar 58 in the mating connector interior 74. This results in a particularly compact external shape of the connector system 200, and the movable elements (operating elements 39, disk 59, etc.) are particularly well protected against external influences.

[0193] It can be seen that the connector 1 has a very simple design and can be assembled from just five individual components: the first contact carrier 5, the second contact carrier 6, the cover 38 (shown here as fixed parts, for example), the operating element 39, and the locking element 17 (shown here as movable parts, for example). Essentially, only the two elements are required for its function: the first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6. For a desired reduction in insertion force or operating force, the operating element 39 is also required as a third element.

[0194] The connector housing 70 in the narrower sense ultimately only has the first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6, in the broader sense it also has the cover 38. The operating element 39 is a separate part from the connector housing 70, which is or is mounted on the connector housing 70. The locking element 17 is also an element that is ultimately separate from the connector housing 70, which is pushed into the connector housing 70 or mounted on it at the end of the connector housing 70 being equipped with contact elements 4. In particular, the first contact carrier 5 and partly also the second contact carrier 6 form the outer wall of the connector housing 70. By way of example, no further sleeves or walls or elements are provided here into which the contact carrier element 2 is introduced in order to secure the connector 1 orto form the connector housing 70, in particular, no metal sleeve or metallic shell is provided here, for example.

[0195] This enables a particularly simple tool concept, robust tools, high flexibility of the connector 1, easy assembly, the use of many identical parts, and elements separated by function. Overall, the result is a cost-effective, robust, and flexibly applicable connector 1.

[0196] Figure 7 shows a perspective detailed view of a connector 1, such as that shown in Figs. 5 and 6, for example. The disc 59 with the lever tooth 43 mounted thereon is clearly visible. The lever tooth 43 protrudes outwards from the disc 59 (here in the second position P2, for example, parallel to the X-direction X) and radially outwards from the shaft receiving opening 42. The various disc guide elements 60, 61 on the first and second contact carriers 5, 6 clearly show how these limit a radial displacement of the disc 59.

[0197] Mounting structures 62, spaced apart from one another in a circumferential direction of the disk 50, are formed in the disk 59—here two, for example—for mounting the operating element 39 on the shaft 37. Here, the mounting structures 62 are designed, for example, as disk recesses 63, which, for example, enlarge the shaft receiving opening 42 radially outward in small angular sections. Corresponding shaft mounting structures 64 are formed on the shaft 37 and are designed to be complementary to the mounting structures 62. Here, the shaft mounting structures 64 are designed as radial projections 65 that protrude radially from the shaft 37. The mounting structure 62 and the shaft mounting structure 64 ensure, on the one hand, correct mounting of the operating element 39 on the shaft 37 (correct angle). At the same time, the arrangement of the two structures 62, 64 also enables mounting of the operating element 39 in two different directions.The shaft mounting structures 64 are arranged symmetrically around the insertion direction Z, for example. Furthermore, the shaft mounting structures 64 protrude from the outer wall 12 of the second contact carrier 6 or are spaced from the outer wall 12, in particular with their undersides. In other words: the shaft mounting structures 64 are designed in the manner of undercuts for the disk 59, wherein these undercuts cover the disk, for example, here covering the edge of the shaft receiving opening 42 (with the exception of the locations of the mounting structures 62), see also Fig. 8. In this way, after mounting on the shaft 37, the disk 59 is guided closely against the outer wall 12 ((outer) axial guide or (outer) axial stop or guide parallel to the X-direction X) and cannot slip outward from the shaft 37.

[0198] It is understood that, in principle, the mounting structure 62 and the shaft mounting structure 64 can be dispensed with, or only one such structure or more than two of these structures can be provided.

[0199] Figure 8 shows a perspective exploded view of the first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6, here as an example from an angle above.

[0200] Guide projections 56 and covers 57 on the second contact carrier 6 for interaction with the racks 51 of the mating connector 50 are clearly visible. The first and second disc guide elements 60, 61 are also clearly visible. The locking element 17 is not shown here, but can generally be inserted from right to left into the locking channel 76 of the first contact carrier 5 in this view.

[0201] Furthermore, the openings 21 in the base 20 for the passage of the mating contact elements 73 are clearly visible, as are the guide structures 15, which are arranged in blocks around the openings 21: two guide structures each in the Y direction Y next to an opening 21 (at its edge) and a further guide structure centrally in front of an opening 21 in the direction of the outer wall 12. A fourth guide structure 15 is arranged as a continuous rib in the Y direction Y in the center of the base 20 (see Fig. 9). As a result, the openings 21 are arranged as in a recess in the base 20 and the front contact end 16 of a contact element 4 is guided in the lateral direction (XY plane) with only slight play, so that the risk of insecure or wobbly (primary) locking with the locking lance 7 is minimized and the risk of back-plugging is also minimized.The design of these guide structures 15 is particularly simple, since they are arranged in the second contact carrier 6 and do not conflict with the design of the locking lances 7 during production. Furthermore, this advantageously makes it possible to realize the guide structures 15 in a single element together with the protective structure 8, so that no additional element (e.g., no third contact carrier) is necessary.

[0202] Fig. 8 also shows that at the upper end of the first contact carrier 5, the contact chambers 3 are formed with completely closed contact chamber walls 46; here, for example, an approximately rectangular cross-section of the contact chambers 3 is provided. The locking lances 7 are arranged, for example, only in a lower section of the first contact carrier 5.

[0203] Figure 9 shows a further perspective exploded view of the first contact carrier 5 and the second contact carrier 6.

[0204] The arrangement of the guide structures 15 is particularly clearly visible on the base 20 of the second contact carrier 6. The openings 21 are arranged more in the center of the second contact carrier 6 when viewed parallel to the X-direction X. Release openings 47 are formed in the base of the protective structure 8 or protective wall 9, which simultaneously forms an outer wall 11 of the contact chamber and also the outer wall 12 of the second contact carrier 6. These release openings 47 are designed for the insertion of an release tool, wherein the contact element 4 can be released from the (primary) locking with the locking lance 7 by means of the release tool. Such a release element or release tool can, for example, be designed like a mandrel. The release openings 47 are arranged here, for example, outside the openings 21 when viewed parallel to the X-direction X. They are separated from one another in the Y-direction Y by the outer one of the guide structures 15.Viewed parallel to the Y-direction Y, a release opening 47 is arranged between every two openings 21. The guide structure 15 that is arranged between adjacent openings 21 in the Y-direction Y points approximately to the center of the release opening 47. Damage to the contact element 4 by the release tool or the release of the incorrect contact element 4 is advantageously prevented by the guide structure 15, here in the form of the various blocks.The second contact carrier 6 designed in this way makes it easy to incorporate not only the opening 21 but also the guide structure 15 and the release opening 47 for releasing the contact elements 4 in a single component, while simultaneously protecting the locking lances 7 of the connector 1 against overpressure and positioning the contact elements 4 at their front contact end 16 with little play in order to ensure secure (primary) locking and minimize the risk of back-mating. In particular, damage to the contact elements 4 during release or release of incorrect contact elements 4 can be prevented by this advantageous design with just a single component in the form of the second contact carrier 6, wherein the operating element 39 can also advantageously be mounted, stored, or guided on the second contact carrier 6.

[0205] The locking lances 7 are clearly visible on the first contact carrier 5, wherein the locking lances 7 here have, for example, on one side towards the next locking lance 7, a chamfer 68 in which the thickness of the locking lance is reduced in the X direction X, here for example from the free end 13 to the root 14. The chamfer 68 enables the formation of a particularly simple, robust and durable tool for the production of the first contact carrier 5. This is because mandrel-like projections are arranged between the locking lances 7 in the tool, which are intended to prevent material from forming between adjacent locking lances 7. These projections are difficult to manufacture, can be easily damaged and wear out comparatively quickly, in particular in plug connectors 1 for miniaturized contact elements 4 (e.g. with side lengths of the contact box cross-sections of at most 2.5 mm, preferably of at most 2.0 mm, particularly preferably of at most 1.8 mm and most preferably of at most 1.5 mm).The design of the chamfer 68 (here, for example, on only one side of the locking lance 7) enables the creation of a defined distance to the next locking lance 7 and, at the same time, the creation of a thicker projection in the tool which does not wear out as quickly and also seals better against a counter-tool, thereby reducing the risk of burrs forming between the locking lances 7. Furthermore, the design of the chamfer 68 also advantageously allows the spring action of the locking lance 7 (elastically reversible locking lance 7) to be specifically adjusted. It is also conceivable, in principle, to have a chamfer 68 on each side (towards the respective directly adjacent locking lance) of the locking lance 7. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the first contact carrier 5, here from the side below.

[0206] In addition to the bevel 68 on the side of the locking lances 7 described in connection with Fig. 9, the locking projections 48 or locking hooks on the free end 13 of the locking lances 7, which here are exemplary inward-facing, can also be clearly seen in Fig. 10. The locking lance 7 has a first width B1 at the free end 13. The locking projection 48 arranged at the free end 13 has a second width B2. The second width B2 of the locking projection 48 is less than the first width B1; the second width B2 is, for example, from 50% of the first width up to 85% of the first width B1, here, for example, approximately 75% of the first width B1.

[0207] At the point on the locking lance 7 where the locking projection 48 is recessed (i.e., does not extend over the entire first width B1), the unlocking tool can engage in the event of necessary unlocking in order to displace the locking lance 7 in the direction of the arrow with the reference number 25 and to bring the locking projection 48 out of engagement with the first undercut 18 of the contact element (see Fig. 4) - then the contact element 4 can be pulled out of the contact chamber 3, for example by pulling on the cable 34. As described in connection with Fig. 9, the unlocking tool can be inserted through the unlocking opening 47 of the contact chamber 3 belonging to the contact element 4 to be unlocked.

[0208] Overall, the presented connector 1 can be advantageously manufactured using a few, comparatively simple and durable tools, and various complex functionalities of the connector 1 can be provided using a few elements (protection against overpressure of the locking lance 7 when inserting the contact element and / or when unlocking, protection against back-plugging, robust arrangement of an operating element 39, secure (primary) locking, reliable guidance of a locking element 17 (secondary locking), flexible assembly of the connector 1 (in particular of the cover 38 and / or operating element 39) depending on different installation situations, secure guidance of the operating element 39 in the radial and axial direction, etc.).The connector 1 can be provided for all types of contact elements 4, preferably for clean-body contact elements. It can be provided for contact elements 4 of different sizes. It is particularly advantageous for high-pin count connectors (e.g., more than 10 contact elements or more than 30 contact elements). It is particularly advantageous for connectors for miniaturized contact elements (side lengths in cross-section of at most 2.5 mm or at most 2.0 mm or at most 1.8 mm or at most 1.5 mm). The connector 1 can be implemented as an internal connector or as an external connector. It can be implemented as a sealed connector 1 (e.g., similar to the connectors in FIGS. 1 to 3) or as an unsealed connector 1.

[0209] 8 to 10, for example, it is provided here by way of example that the second contact carrier 6 has a base 20. Here it is provided merely by way of example that an opening 21 is provided in the base 20 for each contact chamber 3, through which opening a mating contact element of a mating connector 50 can be inserted or through which the contact element 4 can protrude towards the mating connector 50. In this exemplary embodiment it is provided that a release opening 47 is formed in the base 20 for at least one of the contact chambers 3 or for several contact chambers 3 or, as here by way of example, for each contact chamber 3, for the insertion of an release tool for releasing the contact element 4 from the locking connection with the locking lance 7. It can be provided, for example, that the release openings 47 are each arranged outside the openings 21 when viewed parallel to the X direction.In particular, the release opening 47 and the opening 21 are formed separately from one another or do not merge into one another. In particular, it can be provided that release by means of a release tool is not performed through the same opening 21 or the same part of the opening 21 into which a mating contact element is inserted to contact the contact element 4 or through which the contact element 4 protrudes to contact a mating contact element. This can advantageously reduce the risk of a release tool colliding with a contact element 4 inserted in the contact chamber 3 or in the contact carrier element 2.

[0210] Here, for example, it is provided that the release opening 47 is offset from the opening 21 in the Y direction Y, which is perpendicular to the insertion direction Z and the X direction X. In principle, however, the release opening 47 can also be formed in line with the opening 21 when viewed in the X direction X (not offset from one another in the Y direction). For example, it can be provided that such a release opening 47 is arranged between two openings 21 when viewed along the Y direction Y, in particular, as shown here merely by way of example, essentially centrally between two openings 21 (it goes without saying that at the edge of the base 20 the release opening 47 is then not arranged between two openings 21, but only next to one opening 21). This can advantageously further reduce the risk of a release tool colliding with a contact element 4 inserted in the contact chamber 3 or in the contact carrier element 2.

[0211] Here, it is provided by way of example that only a single locking lance 7 or primary locking lance is provided for at least one contact element 4 in the first contact carrier 5, or that only a single locking lance 7 or primary locking lance is provided or arranged in a contact chamber 3 (in the first contact carrier 5). It is even provided here merely by way of example that only a single locking lance 7 or primary locking lance is provided for all contact elements 4 or for all contact chambers 3 in the first contact carrier 5 (or is assigned to the contact element 4 or the contact chamber 3). In other advantageous embodiments, it can also be provided by way of example that a maximum of two or exactly two locking lances 7 or primary locking lances are provided for one contact element 4 or one contact chamber 3 (or for several contact elements 4 or several contact chambers 3, or for all contact elements 4 or all contact chambers 3).

Claims

1 . Connector (1) with a contact carrier element (2) having a contact chamber (3) for receiving a contact element (4) along a plug-in direction (Z), the contact carrier element (2) comprising: - a first contact carrier (5); - a second contact carrier (6); wherein the first contact carrier (5) has a locking lance (7) that can be deflected parallel to an X-direction (X) transversely to the insertion direction (Z) for locking with the contact element (4), wherein the second contact carrier (6) has a protective structure (8), in particular a protective wall (9), that does not overlap with the locking lance (7) when viewed along the insertion direction (Z), and that limits a deflection of the locking lance (7) in the X-direction (X), in particular when inserting the contact element (4) and / or when unlocking the contact element (4) by means of an unlocking tool, in particular in such a way that the locking lance (7) is not plastically deformed.

2. Connector (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the protective structure (8) forms at least in sections a contact chamber outer wall (11), in particular a lateral one, which delimits the contact chamber (3) from the external environment (10).

3. Plug connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking lance (7) is arranged on the first contact carrier (5) in such a way that it is displaced in the direction of an outer wall (12) of the second contact carrier (6), in particular in the direction of the nearest outer wall (12) of the second contact carrier (6) when the contact element (4) is inserted and / or when the contact element (4) is unlatched.

4. Connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective structure (8) extends along at least 25% of a length (L) of the locking lance (7), preferably along at least 50% of the length (L) of the Locking lance (7), preferably from a free end (13) of the locking lance (7) to a root (14) of the locking lance (7).

5. Connector (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first contact carrier (5) is formed from a first material (M1), wherein the second contact carrier (6) is formed from a second material (M2), wherein the first material (M1) and the second material (M2) are different.

6. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second contact carrier (6) has a guide structure (15) which is designed to limit a play of a contact end (16) of a contact element (4) accommodated in the contact chamber (3) perpendicular to the insertion direction (Z), in particular parallel to the X-direction (X) and / or parallel to the Y-direction Y, in particular to less than 0.15 mm.

7. Plug connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plug connector (1) has a locking element (17), which is displaceable in particular in a Y-direction (Y) perpendicular to the insertion direction (Z) and perpendicular to the X-direction (X), which is designed to lock a contact element (4) arranged in the contact chamber (3) in the contact chamber (3), wherein the locking element (17) is guided almost completely by means of the first contact carrier (5), wherein in particular a play of the locking element (17) parallel to the insertion direction (Z) is limited almost exclusively by the first contact carrier part (5).

8. Connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact carrier element (2) has a plurality of contact chambers (3) adjacent to one another in the X direction, wherein for at least two of the adjacent contact chambers (3) - the first contact carrier (5) has a locking lance (7) each, and - the second contact carrier (6) has a protective structure (8), which in particular does not overlap with the respective locking lance (7) viewed along the insertion direction (Z), which protective structure limits a deflection of the locking lance (7) parallel to the X-direction (X), in particular in such a way that the locking lance (7) is not plastically deformed.

9. Connector (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the locking lances (7) of the respective outermost contact chambers (3) adjacent in the X direction (X) are designed such that they are pivoted outwards when a contact element (4) is inserted and / or when a contact element (4) is unlatched.

10. Connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector (1) has an operating element (39) for reducing operating force, in particular a lever (40) and / or a slider, wherein the second contact carrier (6) has an operating element guide structure (69) which is designed to guide the operating element (39).

11. Connector (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the operating element guide structure (69) is selected from the group: - a shaft (37), in particular for receiving in a shaft receiving opening (42) of the operating element (39); - a through opening, in particular for supporting a shaft of the operating element (39); - a projection, in particular for guiding a link of the operating element (39); - a link, in particular for receiving a projection of the operating element (39).

12. Connector (1) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the operating element (39) can be mounted on the connector (1) in two different directions, in particular directions differing from one another by 180°.

13. Connector assembly (100), comprising: - a connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims; - a contact element (4) which is accommodated in the contact chamber (3), in particular is plugged into the contact chamber (3).

14. Connector arrangement (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the contact element (4) has a, in particular front, first undercut (18) for locking with the locking lance (7), wherein in particular the contact element (4) has a, in particular rear, second undercut (19) for locking by means of the locking element (17) according to claim 7.

15. Connector system (200), comprising: -- a plug connector arrangement (100) according to one of the two preceding claims; -- a mating plug connector arrangement with a mating contact element; wherein the plug connector arrangement (100) is connectable to the mating plug connector arrangement, wherein the contact element (4) is electrically connectable to the mating contact element.

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