Connector, connection device and method of making a connection

Abstract

Title: Connector, connection device and method for making a connection Connector (1) combined with a counter-connector (2) having a housing (100), a stop means (200) with a stop element (210) for coupling to a counter-stop element (310) of the counter-connector (2) and a contact position safety (400). The stop means (200) moves perpendicular to the engagement direction on the housing (100); the safety (400) has a stop spring (410) and a locking spring (420), parallel to the engagement direction (z) between an unlocking position (P1) allowing the movement of the means (200) and the locking position (P2) preventing the movement of the means (200) towards the housing (100).The spring (410) is moved from an engagement position (EL) to a disengagement position (AL); the stop spring (410) is put into the engagement position (EL), the stop means (200) is put into the disengagement position (AL) by the stop means (200) not yet engaged. The safety (400) only moves from position (P1) to position (P2) if the spring (410) is in the disengagement position (AL). Figure 4a.

Description

Title of the invention: Connector, connection device and method for making a connection FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector to be assembled to a counter-connector according to an insertion direction, a connection device with such a connector and a counter-connector as well as a method of making a connection. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Connectors and connection devices exist in multiple variants. Such connection devices have a CPA device ("contact position safety") which is a connector position control element used to guarantee the mounting position of a connector with a counter-connector. Such CPA devices allow, on the one hand, to have, for example, a haptic reaction so that the installer correctly makes the connection between the connector and the counter-connector and, on the other hand, thus prevent a connector hooked to a counter-connector from being accidentally detached from the counter-connector, for example, by vibrations, thermal expansion or retraction, pulling on the cable connected to the connector housing or other mechanical action.For example, in the automotive sector in particular, the reliability requirements of the connection device are very strict for safety-related components such as airbags.

[0003] According to document DE 10 2014 206 431 A1, a connector equipped with a contact position safety device (CPA) is known.

[0004] DISCLOSURE AND ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The invention thus relates to a connector to be assembled to a counter-connector in an insertion direction, and comprising:

[0006] - a connector housing,

[0007] - a stopping means with a stopping element to be coupled to a counter-element counter-connector stop,

[0008] - a contact position safety,

[0009] * the stopping means being reversibly movable elastically perpendicular clearly to the insertion direction on the connector housing,

[0010] ** the contact position safety comprising a stop spring and a spring of blocking, being movable parallel to the direction of insertion between,

[0011] ** an unlocking position in which the locking spring allows to un- placement of the stop means on the connector housing, and

[0012] * a locking position in which the locking spring prevents movement of the stopping means on the connector housing,

[0013] * the stop spring being able to be moved from an engaged position, in a re elastically flexible perpendicular to the insertion direction to a release position on the connector housing,

[0014] - the stop spring being engageable with the stop means in position of commitment, and

[0015] - in the disengaged position, it cannot be engaged with the stopping means,

[0016] * the contact position safety is not movable from its unlocked position to its locking position only if the stop spring is in the release position.

[0017] The connector according to the invention comprises a connector housing, a stop means, i.e. a stop hook (the stop means can, in principle, take completely different forms) with a stop element for coupling, for example, cooperation with a counter stop element of the counter connector as well as a contact position safety CPA. A connection device consisting of a connector according to the invention and a counter connector provided with a counter stop element is also part of the subject of the invention. The counter stop element is, itself, designed for coupling or cooperation with the stop element.

[0018] The stop element and the counter-stop element thus form in particular the stop means (in particular in a complementary manner) of the connection device, which prevents the separation of the connection device when the stop element and the counter-stop element cooperate, i.e. are coupled to each other or interpenetrate or are hooked to each other. In an embodiment given solely by way of example, the stop element and the counter-stop element may be chosen from a recess, an opening, a relief, a hook, a beak, an undercut.

[0019] The stopping means with the stopping element can be moved to and from the connector housing, in particular from an engagement position into a disengagement position. The direction perpendicular to the engagement direction, in particular towards the connector housing can also be referred to as the "radial direction"; the engagement direction can be referred to as the "axial direction" or (z) direction. In particular on the one hand, the connector, when connected to the counter-connector, can be detached or separated from the counter-connector when the stopping means is moved onto the connector housing, i.e. in this position (disengagement position) the stopping element and the counter-stop element are not engaged, i.e. they are not coupled and they cannot be engaged or coupled.On the other hand, the connector, is connected with the counter-connector, cannot be detached from the counter-connector if the stopping means is not moved on the connector housing, i.e. in this . position (latching position) the stop element and the counter-stop element are coupled, i.e. cooperate or are engaged.

[0020] The contact position safety device comprises a stop spring and a locking spring which can be moved parallel to the engagement direction, i.e. axially) between an unlocking position and a locking position, with movement of the stop means towards the connector housing (i.e. in the disengagement position) and a locking position in which the locking spring prohibits movement of the stop means towards the connector housing (in the disengagement position). In other words, the contact position safety device can prohibit detachment of the connector relative to the counter-connector to prevent movement of the stop means in the disengagement position and thus not open the coupling between the stop element and the counter-stop element. According to one embodiment, the contact position safety device, CPA is more than a stop spring and / or more than a locking spring.For example, on the opposite side of the connector, there can be a detent spring and a locking spring each. Several detent and locking springs can thus be connected to a base part of the contact position safety device, CPA, for example, in the form of a bracket and then the contact position safety device comprises the base part and the latching and locking springs.

[0021] Furthermore, the stop spring can be elastically, reversibly displaced perpendicular to the engagement direction, i.e. radially towards the connector housing for a disengagement position, the stop spring being engaged or couplable in the engagement position with the stop means and in the disengagement position it cannot be engaged or coupled with the stop means.

[0022] The contact position safety can only be moved from the unlocked position to the locked position (in particular by axial movement) if the stop spring is in the engaged position.

[0023] In other words, the locking spring (of the contact position safety, CPA) cannot then be moved into the locking position (thus ensuring the connection) if the stop spring (of the contact position safety, CPA) cannot be coupled to the stop means or is not coupled to it, i.e. the stop spring is not coupled or cannot be coupled to the stop hook, then the contact position safety, CPA cannot be moved relative to the stop means.

[0024] The invention allows, by this particular embodiment of the coupling between the contact position safety and the stopping means (for example, a stopping hook or a similar means) with a particularly simple, reliable and rapid assembly or disassembly under the same conditions of the connector to the counter-connector or to be detached from it. This also has the advantage that the connection can be made by only one operation of the contact position safety CPA which can be carried out or be open. In particular, by placing the connector on the counter-connector, the connection is made by pushing on the contact position safety, CPA, i.e. the connector is taken into the engaged position or the end of engagement position (in which it is engaged in the counter-connector and in particular the mechanical and electrical connection are finally established) and then by continuing to push on the contact position safety it can be put into the locking position. This is done, preferably, by exerting a force in the single direction (for example the direction of engagement) in particular by exerting a linear force which does not follow a curved path or a rotation.Similarly, if the connection is made and the contact position safety is in the locking position, by pulling on the contact position safety, CPA it can be moved to the release position and by continuing to pull on the contact position safety, CPA the connector can be detached from the counter-connector. In this case also, it is sufficient to exert a force in a single direction, in particular to exert a linear force.

[0025] In other words: the engagement is carried out in several steps (for example, firstly the assembly of the connector and the counter-connector by exerting a force on the operating surface of the connector housing and then by turning and moving the contact position safety device, CPA, from the unlocking position to the locking position; the plugging process is simplified in a single step. Thus, an installer can directly recognize, for example, haptically or optically or acoustically that the connection has been made correctly. This is particularly the case if the force exerted on the contact position safety device CPA at the end of the engagement phase results in a displacement relative to the connector housing.It is also advantageous that the CPA contact position safety prevents the connector from accidentally detaching from the counter-connector because the locking spring prevents the opening of the stop element and the counter-stop element.

[0026] In other words: advantageously, because the functional separation of the CPA safety device is achievable until an engaged position or end-of-engagement position is reached between the connector and the counter-connector (for example, if the stop element and the counter-stop element are hooked to each other), the CPA safety device can function as a simple handle or operating element which allows an axial force to be exerted, in particular a purely linear force without rotational movement on the connector housing.When the end of engagement or end of travel position is reached (and if, for example, a correct latching is obtained), the function of the CPA safety device changes from that of an operating element for transmitting a force, to the actual and inherent function of the CPA safety device, namely, on the one hand, to display the correct engagement position (engagement position and end position): it will now be moved relative to the connector housing and thus shows . the user that the end of engagement position has been reached; and on the other hand, it guarantees that, by continuing the movement, the connection between the connector and the counter-connector is reached. The inherent functions described above of a CPA safety device are implicitly linked to the concept of contact position safety, CPA, and do not require further explanation.

[0027] In the engaged position, the CPA contact position safety device passes from its intrinsic CPA safety function to the unlocking position in the locking position and it can thus pass into the engaged position or end-of-engagement position, i.e. reach the end-of-engagement position with the stop spring in the disengaged position if a force is continued to be exerted, in particular in the axial direction, on the CPA safety device.

[0028] In other words:

[0029] Advantageously, the function of the CPA safety device changes from that of an operating element for transmitting a force to the actual CPA function during a single operating operation in which, in particular, the exertion, in particular axial, linear force on the CPA safety device will first be made with the CPA safety device and the coupling of the stop spring and the stop means transmits this force to the connector housing (operating function) and, for example, in that the engaged position or end-of-engagement position is reached; this operating function or force transmission function released by the intrinsic CPA operation is correctly signaled to the installer and thus by the movement of the CPA safety device relative to the connector housing the connection is guaranteed.

[0030] For separation, the two functions are performed in reverse order: firstly the CPA function (release of the latching safety, movement of the CPA safety to the “unprotected” display state) and then, force transmission function or connector maneuvering function.

[0031] Thus, the engagement phase (or the release phase) can advantageously be carried out by a single maneuvering movement (for example, by exerting an axial force, in particular purely axial, i.e. mainly linear without rotational movement or the like) on the single element (the CPA safety device), for example with a single hand. This results in the advantage of a particularly simple and intuitive maneuver.

[0032] The contact position safety device, CPA, may, for example, be implemented as a separate element from the stopping means. It may, for example, be, first of all, a free part installed on the connector housing and in particular be connected in a captive manner to the connector housing.

[0033] The stop means may be integrally connected to the connector housing or in one piece with the connector housing, i.e. (made with the connector housing) connector by not being detachable without destruction). The stopping means may be, for example, injected onto the connector housing or be injected together with the connector housing.

[0034] The expression “understand” is synonymous with the expression “comprise” unless otherwise indicated.

[0035] A method according to the invention for manufacturing a connection with such a connector device consists of placing the connector against the counter-connector, exerting a force in the engagement direction on the connector housing or the contact safety, CPA so that the connector moves in the connection direction to the connected position or end-of-travel position and applying a force in the engagement direction on the contact position safety thereby moves this contact position safety into the locking position.

[0036] According to a development, the stopping means comprises at least one side member and a blocking cross member projecting from the side member. The blocking spring is between the blocking spacer and the connector housing when the contact position safety device, CPA, is in the blocking position; the blocking spring is not between the blocking spacer and the connector housing if the contact position safety device is in its unlocking position.

[0037] The spar is in particular oriented axially, that is to say, parallel to the direction of extension. The locking spacer serves to prevent, by its interaction with the locking spring, the movement of the locking hook in the released position. In particular, the locking spring can block the movement path of the locking spacer and thus that of the locking hook towards the connector housing. This interaction with the locking spring can in particular be a blocking by the locking spring. This constitutes a simple and solid possibility for blocking the movement of the locking hook and thus the opening of the connector relative to the counter-connector.

[0038] The locking spacer may be raised from the spar, for example, transversely or parallel to the connector housing. The spacer, in this case, projects in the radial direction (for example also called transverse direction or (y) direction) relative to the spar; this radial orientation (transverse direction or (y) direction) is both perpendicular to the engagement direction and also perpendicular to that of the radial directions in which the stop spring is moved from its locking position to its unlocked position (for example, the (x) direction).

[0039] According to one development, the stopping means comprises two side members and a locking spacer connecting the two side members. This makes it possible to use the volume between the two side members for the locking spring and, if necessary, other elements, which makes the connector overall simpler in its construction. Furthermore, we have the advantage that the attachment means and the locking spacers are made in a particularly solid manner.

[0040] It should be noted that it is also possible to have more than two side members on the stop means. It is also possible to have more locking spacers than just a single locking spacer. For example, it is possible to have a locking spacer in relief from each side member or it is possible to have several locking spacers extending from one side member or several side members.

[0041] According to a development, the stop spring and the locking spring originate from a connecting region in which they are connected to an end region in which they are not connected. This has the advantage of a particularly simple implementation of the contact position safety device CPA (e.g., by injection molding) with low manufacturing tolerances and the guarantee of high stability. By means of the free end, the function of the necessary elasticity of at least the stop spring is advantageously achieved in a very simple manner. According to a development, the stop spring and the locking spring are parallel to the connecting region in the engagement direction. This makes it possible to shorten the length of the contact position safety device CPA and which allows a very compact spatial implementation of the contact position safety device.

[0042] According to a development, the end zone of the stop spring and the end zone of the blocking spring can be moved relative to each other, in a reversible elastic manner, perpendicular to the direction of engagement (i.e. in the direction of the previous explanations) for example, radially relative to the direction (x) (in the direction of this direction or in the opposite direction).

[0043] Thus, the movement of the stop spring from its engagement position to its disengagement position corresponds to a movement of the end zone of the stop spring relative to the end zone of the locking spring and in particular also a deflection or deformation of the end zone of the stop spring relative to the connection zone. This allows a stop spring function, advantageously of very simple construction, without hinge or the like. Thanks to the elastic reversibility, there is the advantage of the function of the contact position safety CPA which can also protect a large number of plugging operations and extension operations. This advantageously improves the reliability of the connector.

[0044] According to a development, the stop spring has a thrust stop which can be coupled in engagement with the stop means when the contact position safety CPA is in the unlocked position and cannot be engaged or coupled with the stop means if the stop spring is in its disengaged position.

[0045] This provides the advantage of particularly simple use of the connector and contact position security when assembling the connectors.

[0046] Two conditions are also distinguished, on the one hand the position of the CPA contact position safety device or the CPA safety locking spring and on the other hand, the position of the CPA safety stop spring.

[0047] If the contact position safety device CPA is in the unlocked position, then the pressure stop of the stop spring can be engaged with the stop means or coupled to it or be engaged with it or be coupled to it. This has the advantage of being a simple solution for transmitting a force (thrust) from the contact position safety device CPA to the connector and this by the stop spring of the CPA safety device and its thrust stop on the stop means and thus on the connector or the connector housing. Thus, it is possible, as described above, to make a connection only by pushing, i.e. by exerting an (axial) force on the contact position safety device CPA.

[0048] Such a force transmission of the CPA safety is possible by its stop spring on the connector housing, which, for example, makes it possible to prevent the displacement of the stop spring relative to the stop means. The stop spring and the stop means can thus be connected to each other at least, for example, for the direction of the force (for example, in a substantially rigid or bending-rigid manner).

[0049] If the stop spring is in the disengaged position, then the pressure stop of the stop spring cannot be engaged or coupled to the stop means, i.e. is not engaged with the stop means or is not coupled to it. This constitutes a simple solution for exerting the force (thrust) on the contact position safety device CPA by the thrust stop which no longer transmits it to the stop means and the connector if the stop spring is deflected into the disengaged position. The connector is thus in particular designed so that this situation occurs if the connector is in the engagement position or in the engaged position in the counter-connector. Thus, as described above, at the end of the engagement phase, it can be moved into the locking position only by pushing on the contact position safety device.

[0050] In this situation, the stop spring and the stop means can at least move relative to each other in one spatial direction.

[0051] According to a development, a force (thrust and / or axial force) acting on the stop spring in the engagement direction, on the connection housing, when the thrust stop is engaged or is coupled to the stop means. This allows a thrust force exerted on the contact position safety device and thus on the stop spring, to be transmitted by the pressure stop to the connector housing. Thus, as described above, an engagement phase is advantageously carried out with the simple pushing on the contact safety device. The advantage is that the connector and the counter-connector can be engaged in a particularly simple and secure manner (e.g., one-step assembly).

[0052] According to a development, the stop spring has a pull stop which can be engaged or coupled to the stop means or which is engaged or coupled if the contact position safety device CPA is in the unlocking position. If the contact position safety device CPA is in the unlocking position, then the pull stop of the stop spring can be engaged or coupled to the stop means. This constitutes a simple solution for transmitting a tensile force (e.g., in the axial direction, e.g., separation of the connector and the counter-connector) onto the contact position safety device CPA and thus onto its stop spring by the access stop on the stop means and thus this force is transmitted to the connector or its housing. Thus, as described above, the disengagement phase can be carried out by simply pulling the contact position safety device.First, the CPA safety device is pulled from the locking position to the unlocking position. The pull stop is then coupled to the stop means. When the CPA safety device is further pulled, the pull is transmitted to the connector housing and the connector is detached from the counter-connector. The CPA safety device can thus advantageously serve as a handle or operating element for separating the connector from the counter-connector.

[0053] According to a development, a force (pulling force) acting on the locking spring in the direction opposite to the plug-in direction if the pull stop is coupled or is engaged with the locking means. This makes it possible to transmit a pulling force to the contact position safety device CPA and thus to the locking spring via the pull stop towards the connector housing. Thus, as described above, a disengagement phase can be carried out by simply pulling on the contact position safety device.

[0054] According to a development, the stop means has a push / pull spacer which is raised relative to at least one longitudinal member; the pressure stop or the pull stop engaged with the push / pull element or coupled thereto, if the push stop or the pull stop is engaged with the stop means or coupled thereto. In other words, the push stop or the pull stop is coupled to the push / pull spacer to transmit the forces described above from the CPA safety to the connection box.

[0055] The push / pull spacer may be raised, for example, on the side and / or parallel to the connector housing of at least one spar. It may, for example, be removed in the (y) direction or transverse direction, from at least one spar. It may, for example, be oriented perpendicular to the engagement direction and at the same time perpendicular to the direction of movement of the stop spring relative to the engaged position to the disengaged position or detach from at least one spar.

[0056] According to a development, the stopping means comprises two side members and the push / pull spacer connects the two side members, in particular perpendicular to the direction of engagement (e.g., in the transverse direction or (y) direction). This allows the forces to be transmitted advantageously well and regularly to the stopping means to avoid, for example, its seizure.

[0057] According to a development, the traction stop considered in particular from the connection zone, is closer to the end zone of the stop spring than to the thrust stop. Thus, between the traction stop and the thrust stop, space is created in which the push / pull spacer can come in particular when the push stop or the traction stop is coupled to the push / pull spacer. This provides the advantage of a single spacer, sufficient for the stopping means, to have both thrust forces during the assembly of the connector and the counter-connector and also to receive tensile forces when it is desired to separate the connector from the counter-connector. The push / pull spacer can advantageously be made more solidly because it is not necessary to have space for two separate spacers (a push spacer and a traction spacer).This advantageously allows for particularly simple manufacturing and robust construction of the stopping means.

[0058] According to a development, the stop spring has a deflecting element which, under the effect of a force opposite to the engagement direction, deflects the stop spring perpendicular to the engagement direction (radial direction, for example direction (x)) towards the disengagement position. A force applied to this first deflecting element in the direction opposite to the engagement direction can occur in particular when engaging the connector in the counter-connector, if, at the same time, the first deflecting element is pushed onto a counter-element which is located in particular in the counter-connector; -this counter-element then exerts a force opposite to the engagement direction on the first deflecting element. As such, the counter-element is particularly useful for the stop counter-element of the counter-connector, which simplifies the construction.To thus have a simple possibility to engage at the right time (in particular when the connector reaches its engaged position or its end-of-engagement position) to decouple the stop spring from the stop means to use the continuation of the thrust on the contact position safety CPA to put it in the blocking position. The first deflecting element can be, for example, in the form of a ramp. Particularly advantageously, the first deflecting element provides an element which produces a direction transformation. With the effect of a force in the axial direction and an axial displacement of the CPA safety, a radial force (direction (x)) exerted on the stop spring produces a deflection (direction (x)) of the stop spring which is thus moved into the disengagement position without requiring any further maneuver. This has the advantage of a particularly simple and intuitive use of the connector when it is assembled to the counter-. connector.

[0059] According to a development, the first deflector element is behind the stop element in the engagement direction if the contact position safety is in the unlocking position (if the engagement direction were a river, the stop element of the stop means would be downstream of the first deflector element of the stop spring of the CPA safety). Starting from the unlocking position, during the engagement phase, the stop element arrives first and then the first deflector element comes into contact with the counter-stop element. This provides a simple possibility for decoupling at the right time (in particular when the stop element is hooked to the counter-stop element) to decouple the stop spring from the stop means, i.e. from the stop hooks to move the rest of the thrust force onto the contact position safety and put it in the locking position.

[0060] Advantageously, the stop spring is moved from its engagement position to its disengagement position if the contact element is hooked to the counter contact element. This provides the advantage of particularly simple means for performing the separation function of the CPA unit (force transmission function and CPA safety function) up to the instant of detachment of the stop element and the complementary stop element which acts on the CPA unit like a simple handle or operating element with which an axial force is exerted on the connector housing. If the hooking is correct and / or if the end position or the engagement position is reached, then the first deflector element is deflected which brings the stop spring into the disengagement position.

[0061] Then, the function of the CPA safety of the operating element switches to the transmission of force for the CPA safety itself: it is then moved relative to the connector housing and thus indicates to the operator that it is in the end-of-travel position or end-of-engagement position; furthermore, the continuation of the movement guarantees the attachment between the connector and the counter-connector.

[0062] It is clear that this functional separation can also be obtained with a different geometry and a specific deflecting element for this does not constitute an essential element.

[0063] According to a development, the stop spring has a second deflecting element which, when a force is exerted in the engagement direction, deflects the stop spring perpendicular to the engagement direction (radial direction, for example, the (x) direction) into the disengagement position. The application of the force of the second deflecting element in the engagement direction can be done in particular during disengagement of the connector relative to the counter-connector if thus the second deflecting element pushes on a counter-element which is located in particular on the connector; this counter-element then exerts a force opposite to the engagement direction on the first deflecting element. The counter-element may in particular be the stopping means, in particular its push / pull spacer, which simplifies the construction. This provides the advantage of a simple possibility for the stop spring to be decoupled from the stopping means or the counter-stop element at the right time (in particular from the start) upon release, so that the tensile force is first transmitted to the contact position safety device, initially not to the stopping means and / or the counter-stop element, but only to the contact position safety device in order to move it into the unlocking position. The second deflecting element may, for example, form a clearance ramp. Particularly advantageously, the second deflecting element constitutes a means which produces a direction transformation.The axial action of the force and the axial displacement of the CPA unit produce a radial action of the force (direction (x)) on the stop spring and the deflection (direction (x)) of the stop spring so as to be able to move these without requiring any further maneuvering step, in the disengagement position. This advantageously results in a particularly simple and intuitive maneuver on the connector when detaching it from the counter-connector.

[0064] According to one development, the first deflector element is in front of the second deflector element in the engagement direction (if the engagement direction were a river then the first deflector element would be downstream of the second deflector element). In other words, during engagement, the first deflector element first arrives at a given location of the connector housing and only then the second deflector element; during disengagement, the operations are carried out in the reverse direction. This provides the advantage of reliable operation on the connector which does not result in seizure or other malfunction. Brief description of the drawings

[0065] The present invention will be described below in more detail with the aid of an embodiment of a connection device according to the invention shown schematically in the appended drawings in which:

[0066] [Fig. 1] perspective view of an embodiment of a connection device according to the invention, the connector and the counter-connector not yet being connected,

[0067] [Fig.2] connection device of [Fig.l] with the connector and the counter-connector connected, and a contact position safety CPA in the unlocking position,

[0068] [Fig.3] connection device according to [Fig.2] with the contact position safety CPA in the locking position,

[0069] [Fig.4a] detail of a means for stopping the connector and the CPA contact position safety device in the unlocked position,

[0070] [Fig.4b] means of stopping and safety of contact position CPA of [Fig.4a] in locked position,

[0071] [Fig.5a] sectional view of the stopping means and the safety of the contact position of figures 4a and 4b according to the section line AA,

[0072] [Fig.5b] sectional view of the stopping means and the safety of the contact position of figures 4a and 4b according to the section line AA,

[0073] [Fig.5c] sectional view of the stopping means and the safety of the contact position of figures 4a and 4b according to the section line AA,

[0074] [Fig.6a] sectional view of the stopping means and the contact position safety of figures 4a and 4b along the section line BB,

[0075] [Fig.6b] sectional view of the stopping means and the contact position safety of figures 4a and 4b along the section line BB,

[0076] [Fig.6c] sectional view of the stopping means and the contact position safety of figures 4a and 4b along the section line BB.

[0077] DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0078] Figures 1 to 3 show an embodiment of a connection device 500 according to the invention, according to a schematic perspective view. The connection device 500 comprises a connector 1 according to an embodiment of the invention as well as a counter-connector 2 which has, here, for example, a counter-connector housing 20; this housing is presented here, solely by way of example, in the shape of a cup and is designed, for example, to receive the connector 1. The connector 1 is designed to be assembled to the counter-connector 2 according to the insertion direction (z); it has a connector housing 100 and a stop means 200 which, in the example presented, comprises two stop elements 210 intended to cooperate or to be coupled to a counter-stop element 310 of the counter-connector 200. The stop means 200 can be elastically moved, reversibly, perpendicular to the insertion direction (z) on the connector housing 100.The stop means 200 is implemented, purely by way of example, in the form of a stop hook, but it can also be implemented differently, (e.g., in the form of a stop eyelet, etc.). The connector 1 also comprises a contact position safety 400 CPA; this contact position safety 400 CPA comprises a stop spring 410 and a locking spring 420 (see also Figures 4a-6c) and is movable parallel to the insertion direction (z). In addition to the insertion direction (z), [Fig.l] also shows the radial direction (x) and (another) radial direction (y). The directions (x), (y), (z) subtend a Cartesian coordinate system. The stop element(s) 210 and the counter-stop element 310 form the stop means of the connection device 500 which prevent the separation or opening of the connection device when the stop element and the counter-stop element are coupled.In the example presented, the stop elements 210 are produced in the form of reliefs and the counter-stop element . 310 is made in the form of a recess or undercut.

[0079] The connection device 500 is shown in [Fig. 1] in an unassembled position, i.e. the position at the start of an insertion phase. In particular, the connector 1 is applied against the counter-connector 2 and by applying a force (in particular mainly or exclusively linear) in the insertion direction (z) to the connector housing 100 and / or the contact position safety 400 CPA, the connector 1 is moved in the engagement direction (z). The hooking elements 210, which in [Fig. 1] have a ramp (see [Fig. 5b]), are pushed by the counter-connector housing 20 (by a housing spacer 21 above the recess serving as a counter-stop element 310), inwards, i.e. towards the connector housing 100 (in the radial direction which is here parallel to the direction (x); the connector 1 is thus engaged in the counter-connector 2.As soon as the connector 1 is sufficiently engaged in the counter-connector housing 20 and is in an engagement position or end-of-travel position shown in [Fig. 2], the stop elements 210 can be elastically pivoted in a reversible manner, backwards into the recess 310 (under the housing spacer 21) parallel to the direction (x) which produces the hooking or stopping. The disengagement phase is carried out from here in the opposite direction. The stop elements 210 can also comprise, as shown in [Fig. 1], at the top, a ramp ([Fig. 5b]) which cooperates at the time of engagement with the housing spacer 21 or with the upper edge of the recess 310 with coupling thereto, to push the stop elements 210 of the connector housing 100 inwards.

[0080] In the engaged position or end of engagement position, the stop elements 210 and the counter-stop element 310 are already hooked, but the contact position safety 400 CPA in both figures 1 and 2, is in the unlocking position PI (see [Fig.4a]) in which the stop elements 210 can be hooked and unhooked relative to the counter-stop element 310.

[0081] As is usual for the contact position safety devices 400, CPA, the contact position safety device 400, CPA in this state of the engaged position or the end of engagement position (but also only at this time) can pass according to the engagement direction (z) from the unlocking position PI to the locking position P2 (see [Fig.4b]). In the unlocking position PI, the locking spring 420 allows the movement of the stop means 200 towards the connector housing 100 (direction (x)) or does not block this movement. In the locking position P2, the locking spring 420 prohibits the movement of the stop means 200 towards the connection housing 100, (direction (x)) or blocks this movement.

[0082] The stop spring 410 can be moved from an engagement position EL (see [Fig.5a]) in an elastically reversible manner, perpendicular to the direction engagement (z) towards the connector housing 100 in a release position AL (see [Fig.5b]); the stop spring 410 in the engagement position EL can be engaged with the stop means 200; in the release position AL it cannot be engaged with the stop means 200; the contact position safety 400 can only move from the release position PI into the blocking position P2 if the stop spring 410 is in the release position AL.

[0083] The details of the construction will be described below.

[0084] According to Figures 4a and 4b, starting from the state shown in [Fig. 2] (the connector 1 and the counter-connector 2 are in the engagement position or in the engaged position and the contact position safety 400 CPA is not yet in the blocked position PI) if one continues to push or exert another force (in particular axial, preferably linear) on the contact position safety 400 CPA, to move the latter in the insertion direction (z) into the blocked position P2 in which the hooking or unhooking of the stop element 210 is prevented relative to the counter-stop element 310 (and thus of the connector 1 relative to the counter-connector 2). This is shown in [Fig. 3].

[0085] Figures 4a-6c are different perspective views and sectional views of the positions in a phase of engagement or disengagement of the elements relative to the connector 1 and the counter-connector 2. Thus, in Figures 4a and 4b there are details of the stop means 200 and the contact position safety 400, CPA shown in detail. Figures 5a-5c show sectional views of the stop means 200 and the contact position safety 400 CPA from Figures 4a and 4b cut along the line AA; Figures 6a-6c show corresponding sectional views made along the line BB.

[0086] The stop means 200 of the presented embodiment example comprises two longitudinal members 220 and a locking spacer 230 connecting the two longitudinal members 220; the locking spacer 230 is oriented in the (y) direction. The contact position safety device 400 CPA comprises a base part designed as a bracket 405 (this part is oriented here in the (x) direction and passes through the connector housing 100) (see [Fig. 1] to 3) and at both ends of the bracket 405 there is each a locking spring 410 and a locking spring 420 which pass here, for example, between the two longitudinal members 220 of the stop means 200.

[0087] Figures 4a and 4b are schematic perspective views of a detail of the contact position safety device 400 CPA in the unlocked position PI ([Fig.4a]) and in the locked position ([Fig.4b]).

[0088] In Figures 5a-6c, parts (A) each show the contact position safety 400, CPA in the unlocked position PL. Parts (C) each show the contact position safety 400, CPA in the locked position P2. Parts (B) each show an intermediate state in which the stop spring 410 is moved in the released position AL to decouple the stop spring 410 from the stop means 200 and allow the movement of the contact position safety device 400, CPA from its released position PI to its blocked position P2 and vice versa.

[0089] The contact position safety device 400, CPA is parallel to the engagement direction (z) between the unlocking position PI shown in [Fig. 4a] and the locking position P2 shown in [Fig. 4b]. In the unlocking position PI, the contact position safety device 400, CPA is displaced relative to the stop means 200 in the direction opposite to the engagement direction (z) (upwards in [Fig. 4a]). In the locking position PI, the contact position safety device 400, CPA is displaced in the engagement direction (z) downwards (see [Fig. 4b]); the locking spacer 230 can form a stop for the stop spring 410.

[0090] The stop spring 410 and the locking spring 420 of the contact position safety device 400, CPA extend respectively from the connecting region 430 in which they are connected, to an end region 440a or 440b. In the embodiment shown, the end region 440a of the stop spring 410 and the end region 440b of the locking spring 420 are elastically reversible towards each other perpendicular to the engagement direction (z) (i.e. radially, which here corresponds to the direction parallel to the direction (x), for example, towards the connector housing 200 or back). In particular, the stop spring 410 can be deflected relative to the locking spring 420 as shown in [Fig.5b].

[0091] The stop means 200 can be moved in an elastically reversible manner, perpendicular to the engagement direction (z) on the connector housing 200 (here by way of example, parallel to the direction (x)); for example, in Figures 5b and 6b there is a first interval 50 with a first distance dl between the stop means 200 and the connector housing 100 which, when moving the stop means 200 (in the direction of the connector housing 100, for example, for hooking), decreases. In particular, the stop means 200 can be tilted in the direction of the connector housing 100 until it stops and the first distance dl becomes zero.

[0092] In the unlocking position PI of the contact position safety device 400, CPA, the locking spring 420 allows movement of the stop means 200 towards the connector housing 100 as appears in particular in FIGS. 5a, 5b, 6a and 6b whereas in the locking position P2, the locking spring 420 prevents movement of the stop means 200 on the connector housing 100 as appears in particular in [Fig. 6c] (here the locking spring 420 is engaged in the first gap 50 with its end zone 440b and it thus blocks the movement of the stop means 200). This is solved in the example shown, in that the locking spring 420 is, for example, with its end region 440b in the locking position of the contact position safety device 400, CPA in the first interval 50 so that it is located also between the stopping means 200, here especially the locking spacer 230 and the connector housing 100. In other words, when the contact position safety device 400, CPA is in the locking position P2, the locking spring 420 is between the locking spacer 230 of the stopping means 200 and the connector housing 100 (see [Fig. 6c]). When the contact position safety device 400, CPA is in the unlocking position PI, the locking spring 420 is not between the locking spacer 230 and the connector housing 100 (see [Fig. 6a]); the first gap 50 is freed for the tilting of the stopping means 200.

[0093] The stop spring 410 can be moved from an engagement position EL as, for example, shown in Figures 5a, c to the disengaged position AL shown, for example, in [Fig. 5b]. The stop spring 410 in the engaged position EL is engaged or is coupled to the stop means 200 and in the disengaged position AL it is not engaged with the stop means 200 or cannot be coupled to it. For the movement between the engaged position EL and the disengaged position AL, the stop spring 410 is elastically reversible in its movement perpendicular to the engagement direction (z) (thus to the direction (x) or to the radial direction) on the connector housing 100. The spring can thus be moved in the second gap 40 with the second distance d2 between the stop spring 410 and the connector housing 100 (see [Fig. 5a]). By moving the engagement position EL to the disengagement position AL (see the transition from [Fig.5a] to [Fig.5b]) the second distance d2 is reduced as shown in [Fig.5b]. In particular, thus, the stop spring 410 in the engaged position EL cannot be deflected in the direction of the connector housing 100 whereas in the disengaged position AL it can be deflected in the direction of the connector housing 100 (inwards) (to the right in [Fig.5b]).

[0094] The stop spring 410 has a thrust stop 411 which can be coupled or be engaged with the stop means 200, more precisely with the push / pull spacer 240 connected to one of the two side members 220 when the contact position safety 400, CPA is in the unlocking position PI as shown in Figures 4a, 5a and 6a. Furthermore, the thrust stop 411 cannot be engaged with the stop means 200 or is not engaged when the stop spring 410 is in the disengagement position AL as shown in particular in Figures 5b and 6b. When the thrust stop 411 is engaged or coupled with the stop means 200, a force acting on the stop spring 410 in the plugging direction (z) also acts on the connector housing 100.The thrust stop 411 is here produced in the form of a relief or a surface which extends perpendicular to the stop spring 410 towards it or away from it (parallel to the direction (x)) to have a connection by shape with the push / pull spacer 240. The surface is turned towards the counter connector 2. .

[0095] The contact position safety device 400, CPA is only movable from the unlocking position PI to the locking position P2 (downwards in [Fig. 4a]) if the stop spring 410 is in the disengagement position AL. As can be seen in particular in [Fig. 5a], the movement of the stop spring 410 is blocked in the engagement position EL in the engagement direction (z) (downwards in FIGS. 4a, 5a, 6a) because the thrust stop 410 rests on the stop means 200, more precisely on its push / pull spacer 240.

[0096] Furthermore, the stop spring 410 also has a pull stop 412 which can be engaged or coupled to the stop means 200 or its push / pull spacer 240 when the contact position safety device 400, CPA is in the unlocking position PI as also shown in [Fig. 5a] (in [Fig. 5a] there is no coupling). The movement of the contact position safety device 400, CPA is against the engagement direction (z) (e.g. when separating the connector 1 and the counter-connector 2) towards a contact of the pull stop 412 with the push / pull spacer 240 (the latter is brought into mechanical contact at its lower end according to [Fig. 5a]). Thus, a force acting on the contact position safety device 400, CPA and thus on the locking spring 410 against the engagement direction (z) (pulling force) is transmitted to the connector housing 100.The traction stop 410 is here a surface or relief perpendicular to the stop spring 410 to allow a connection by the form with the push / pull spacer 240. The surface of the traction stop 412 is opposite the counter-connector 2 (it is turned upwards in [Fig.5a]).

[0097] In particular, in the sectional views of Figures 5a-5c it is clear that the traction stop 412 (in particular seen from the connection zone 430) is closer to the end zone 440a of the stop spring 410 than to the thrust stop 411.

[0098] The stop spring 410 has a first deflector element 413 which, biased by a force by the counter-stop element 310, in the direction opposite to the engagement direction (z), deflects the stop spring 410 into the disengagement position A1 (i.e. transversely to the engagement direction (z), here the deflection is parallel to the direction (x)). In the example shown in Figures 4a and 5a, i.e. in the release position PI of the contact position safety device, 400, CPA, the first deflector element 413 is behind the stop element 210 in the engagement direction (z) (starting from the connection zone 430 along the engagement direction, i.e. the stop element 210 is downstream of the first deflector element 413.In other words, this means that: during engagement, the hooking element 210 arrives first and then the first deflector element 413 comes into mechanical contact with the counter-stop element 310 when the contact position safety 400, CPA is in the unlocking position PL.

[0099] Furthermore, the stop spring 410 has a second deflecting element 414 which, biased by a force by the stop means 200 or its push / pull spacer 240, deflects along the engagement direction (z) the stop spring 410 into its disengaged position AL (i.e. transversely to the engagement direction (z) which is here the direction parallel to the direction (x)).

[0100] An engagement phase begins in the state shown in Figures 1, 4a, 5a, 6a.

[0101] By pushing on the stirrup 405 of the contact position safety device 400, CPA, via the stop spring 410 and the push stop 411, a force is transmitted to the push / pull spacer 240 which transmits this thrust via the stop means 200 to the connector housing 100. The entire connector 1 is thus engaged in the counter-connector 2. For example, it is sufficient to exert the force only in one direction (the axial direction). It is thus preferably a linear force, in particular without a rotational component or without a curved path.

[0102] The lower deflection ramps of the stop elements 210 are acted upon by the upper side of the counter-stop element 310 (for example, by the housing spacer 21) with a force opposite to the engagement direction (z) and thus there is an inward deflection (parallel to the direction (x)) on the connector housing 100. The first distance dl thus decreases, for example until the locking spacer 230 comes against the connector housing 100. The path is cleared and the connector 1 can be engaged further into the counter-connector 2 until the state shown in [Fig. 2] is reached. The stop elements 210 are turned over and hooked onto the counter-stop element 210. This is in the engaged position or end-of-engagement position. However, in this state, the stop means 200 can be moved without difficulty into the second interval 50 so that, in principle, the attachment can be detached.

[0103] By continuing to push on the stirrup 405 of the contact position safety 400, CPA, there is a cooperation between a ramp under the first deflector element 413 with the top of the counter-stop element 310 by exerting a force on the first deflector element 413 opposite the engagement direction (z), which results in the deflection of the stop spring 410 on the connector housing 100 (parallel to the direction (x)). This reduces the distance d2 until both the push stop 411 is detached from the push / pull spacer 240 and, also, the first deflector element 413 can slide on the counter-stop element 310.

[0104] Continuing the thrust on the arch 405 causes the contact position safety 400, CPA to move downwards relative to the connector housing 100 until also the first deflector element 413 is deflected under the undercut of the counter-stop element 310, i.e. under the housing spacer 21. This operation is shown in Figures 5b and 5c.

[0105] At the same time, with the stop spring 410, the locking spring 420 is moved downwards; the end region 440b of the locking spring 440 comes into the first gap 50 between the locking spacer 230 and the connector housing 100. The stop connection is thus protected because the locking spacer 230 and thus the stop means 200 can no longer disengage from the connector housing 100.

[0106] During the deflection phase, the arch 405 of the contact position safety 400, CPA is pulled in the direction opposite to the engagement direction (z) and a ramp at the top of the second deflector element 414 comes against the push / pull spacer 240 and is deflected inward onto the connector housing 100. Thus, the first deflector element 413 can pass over the counter stop element 310 and the second deflector element 414 can pass over the push / pull spacer 240 (upwards in Figures 1-6c) (in the direction opposite to the engagement direction (z)). When the above elements have passed over each other, the stop spring 410 swings back into the engagement position EL, in return as shown in particular in Figures 4a, 5a and 6a.

[0107] Continuing the traction on the bracket 405 causes the contact position safety device 400, CPA to continue to lift until the traction stop 412 at the bottom comes against the push / pull spacer 240. The tensile force exerted on the bracket 405 is transmitted by the traction stop 412 and the push / pull spacer 240 to the stop means 200 and to the connector housing 100 (this is not shown here). The stop means 200 can then be disengaged. For this, the upper ramp of the stop element 210 reaches the counter stop element 310 which tilts it inwards (parallel to the direction (x)). The tilting in the first gap 50 is thus released because the locking spring 420 is lifted with the stop spring 410. The connector 1 is thus pulled out of the counter-connector 2 when the pull is continued.

[0108] The invention thus provides a connection that is simple to use and with assurance through the safety of the CPA contact position.

[0109] NOMENCLATURE OF MAIN ELEMENTS

[0110] 1 Connector [YES] 2 Counter-connector

[0112] 10 Housing

[0113] 21 Housing spacer

[0114] 50 Interval

[0115] 60 Interval

[0116] 200 Means of stopping

[0117] 210 Stop element

[0118] 220 LongeronS

[0119] 230 Locking spacer

[0120] 240 Pull / push spacer

[0121] 310 Additional stopping element

[0122] 400 Contact position safety

[0123] 405 Stirrup

[0124] 410 Stop spring

[0125] 420 Locking spring

[0126] 411 Thrust stop

[0127] 412 Traction stop

[0128] 413 First deflecting element

[0129] 414 Second deflecting element

[0130] 430 Connection area

[0131] 500 Connection device

[0132] PI Unlock Position

[0133] P2 Locking position

[0134] EL Engagement position

[0135] AL Release Position

Claims

Claims

1. Connector (1) to be assembled to a counter-connector (2) in an insertion direction (z), and comprising: - a connector housing (100), - a stop means (200) with a stop element (210) to be coupled to a counter stop element (310) of the counter connector (2), - a contact position safety (400), * the stop means being reversibly movable elastically perpendicular to the insertion direction (z) on the connector housing (100), ** the contact position safety (40) comprising a stop spring (410) and a locking spring (420), being movable parallel to the insertion direction (16) between, ** an unlocking position (PA1) in which the locking spring (420) allows movement of the stopping means (200) on the connector housing (100), and * a locking position (P2) in which the locking spring (420) prevents the movement of the stopping means (200) on the connector housing (100), * the stop spring (410) being able to be moved from an engagement position (EL), elastically reversible, perpendicular to the insertion direction (z) to a release position (AL) on the connector housing (100), - the stop spring (410) being able to be engaged with the stop means (200) in the engagement position (EL), and - in the disengaged position (AL), it cannot be engaged with the stopping means (200), * the contact position safety (400) is only movable from its unlocking position (PI) to its locking position (P2) if the stop spring (410) is in the release position (AL).

2. Connector according to claim 1, in which the stopping means (200) comprises at least one spar (220) and a blocking spacer (230) in relief from the spar (220), in particular transversely and / or parallel to the connection housing (100), the blocking spring (420) being between the blocking spacer (230) and the connector housing (100) when the contact position safety (400) is in the locking position (P2), and the locking spring (420) is not between the locking spacer (230) and the connector housing (100) when the contact position safety (400) is in the unlocking position (PI).

3. Connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the stop spring (410) and the locking spring (420) are connected to each other respectively in a connection zone (430) towards an end zone (440a, 440b), in which they are not connected.

4. Connector according to claim 3, wherein the end zone (440a) of the stop spring (410) and the end zone (440b) of the locking spring (420) are movable relative to each other and elastically deformable, perpendicular to the direction of engagement (z).

5. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, in which the stop spring (410) comprises a thrust stop (411) which can engage with the stop means (200) when the contact position safety (400) is in the unlocked position (PI) and can only be engaged with the hooking means (200) if the stop spring (410) is in the out-of-disengagement position (AL).

6. A connector according to claim 5, wherein a force applied to the stop spring (410) in the engagement direction (z) acts on the control housing (100) when the thrust stop (411) is engaged with the stop means (200).

7. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stop spring (410) comprises a traction stop (412) which can engage with the stop means (200) if the contact position safety (400) is in the unlocked position (PI).

8. A connector according to claim 7, wherein a force applied to the stop spring (410) in the direction opposite to the engagement direction (z) acts on the connector housing (100) if the pull stop (412) is engaged with the stop means (200).

9. Connector according to one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the stop means (200) comprises a push / pull spacer (240) raised transversely and / or parallel to the connector housing (100), and the push stop (411) or the pull stop (412) is engaged with the push / pull spacer (240) if the push stop (411) or the pull stop (412) is engaged with the stop means (200).

10. A connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the stop spring (410) has a first deflecting element (413) which, under the effect of a force applied in the direction opposite to the insertion direction (z), deflects the stop spring (410) into the disengaged position (AL).

11. A connector according to claim 10, wherein the first deflecting element (413) is provided behind the unlocking position (PI) in the engagement direction.

12. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stop spring (410) has a second deflecting element (414) which, under the effect of a force in the insertion direction (z), deflects the stop spring (410) into the disengaged position (AL).

13. A connector according to a combination of claim 12 and one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the first deflector element (413) is installed before the second deflector element (414) in the engagement direction (z).

14. Connection device (500) consisting of a connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims and a counter-connector (2), the counter-connector (2) has a counter-connection element (2) and this has a complementary stop element (310) which is designed for coupling with the stop element (210).

15. Method for making a connection by connection with a connection device (500) according to claim 14, comprising the following steps: - applying the connector (1) to the counter-connector (2), - applying a force in the insertion direction (z) to the connector housing (100) and / or the contact position safety device (400) so that that the connector (1) moves in the engagement direction (z) until it reaches the engaged position, - applying a force in the engagement direction (3) to the contact safety (400), so that the contact position safety (400) moves to the blocking position (P2).

Images