Cable connector assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a cable connector assembly for an electrical and / or optical cable K and for connection with a complementary connector assembly. A housing 1 for accommodating contact members can be coupled to a clamping sleeve 3 via a threaded connection. An at least partially radially compressible clamping part 10 grips and clamps the cable K at the latest when the threaded connection between the clamping sleeve 3 and the housing 1 is tightened. A clamping sleeve 4 having a length less than the length of the clamping sleeve 3 is slid coaxially over at least a partial section of the clamping sleeve 3. A one-way locking mechanism 15, 18 is intermediately connected between the clamping sleeve 3 and the clamping sleeve 4, which locking mechanism prevents the clamping sleeve 4 and the clamping sleeve 3 from rotating relative to each other beyond a predefined extent in the direction of tightening the threaded connection between the clamping sleeve 3 and the housing 1. The cable connector assembly can be manually compressed by a user but cannot be opened without a tool.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cable connector assembly for an electrical and / or optical cable as set forth in the preamble of claim 1.

Background Art

[0002] In the fields of entertainment electronics, stage technology, and the transmission of optical and acoustic signals and the supply of electrical signals to loads in these fields, extremely high demands are placed on the components used. This relates, on the one hand, to robustness, protection of the connector connection against dust, humidity, and unwanted detachment, and safety.

[0003] Cable connector assemblies for use with electrical and / or optical cables (which relate to both data and current supply) often have a modular structure. They typically have a housing for accommodating and protecting contact members for electrically and / or optically contacting complementary connector assemblies. At least a partially radially compressible clamping portion grips and clamps the cable. A clamping sleeve can be screwed onto the rear end of the housing, and by the action of the clamping sleeve, all the above-described components of the cable connector assembly and the cable are clamped together. Thus, the tensile load on the cable is removed.

[0004] The clamping portion for clamping the cable within the cable connector assembly typically has at least one section that is radially compressible and grips and clamps the cable in a compressed state, and a front edge region for abutting against the housing of the cable connector assembly and / or a connector projection inserted therein. The rear section is generally formed by several clamping tongues distributed along the circumference, which can preferably be elastically compressed radially.

[0005] Patent Document 1 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 4,632,488) discloses an electrical plug connector having a tension load removal part and a built-in means for tightening an electrical cable and manually removing it. The valve arrangement is provided behind the front section and is arranged circumferentially around the inner wall section. The inner wall section of the housing, which is arranged between the valve arrangement and the rear inlet opening of the housing, has a circumferential groove formed therein. The member inserted into the housing has a cable clamp part, which is integrally coupled to the tension load removal part by a bush. The bush has locking claws that can engage with the valve arrangement.

[0006] Patent Document 2 (Chinese Patent No. 10713515) discloses an electrical plug connector, which has a rotation limiting means, so that damage to the cable caused by an excessive torsion angle caused by pulling is effectively prevented. This arrangement has a double radial seal structure between surfaces adapted to rotate relative to each other and a dynamic and static ratchet wheel structure. The rib groove structure of the ratchet wheel arrangement and the attached parts can prevent the blocking defects caused by environmental factors, mechanical vibrations and collision environments.

[0007] Patent Document 3 (German Utility Model Registration No. 202016107079) discloses a waterproof connector having a housing, a clamp sleeve and a case. The housing and the clamp sleeve are provided with serrated notches. The cable through which the clamp sleeve is inserted is accommodated, and one end thereof is coupled to a stopper sleeve. The clamp sleeve is formed with a locking groove for accommodating a locking projection to be locked. The case connected to the metal bush accommodates the clamp sleeve and the cable inserted through the clamp sleeve in order to clamp the clamp sleeve or the cable. However, there is no requirement for engagement with a turn-tightening sleeve and a locking mechanism.

[0008] After assembling the cable connector assembly constructed in this way, there is an increasing demand to make it impossible to disassemble it manually later, that is, without using tools. However, in a known cable connector assembly having the structure as described above, this is possible by simply manually turning the clamp sleeve in the opening direction of the screw connection to remove it.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0009]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] The problem of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art and provide an apparatus that allows a user to manually assemble a cable connector assembly but that cannot be opened thereafter without using tools. This cable connector assembly should in particular be suitable for covering cables of various characteristics, in particular the large diameter regions of the cables.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0011] This problem is solved by the apparatus according to the claims. Other features are apparent from the description and the drawings.

[0012] In order to solve the above problems, the device according to the present invention has a length shorter than that of the clamping sleeve and is slid coaxially over at least a partial section of the clamping sleeve, and a tightening sleeve, and a one-way locking mechanism between the clamping sleeve and the tightening sleeve that prevents the tightening sleeve and the clamping sleeve from rotating relative to each other beyond a predetermined degree in a direction that tightens the screw connection between the clamping sleeve and the housing. Therefore, when the tightening sleeve is manually rotated, the locking mechanism engages after a predetermined circumferential play, and when the tightening sleeve is rotated further, the underlying clamping sleeve is also interlocked and rotated to form a screw connection with the screw of the housing. In any case, similar to the ratchet arrangement, the tightening sleeve can be rotated bidirectionally within the same angular range several times to tighten the screw connection, which further facilitates the assembly of the cable connector assembly. However, when the tightening sleeve is rotated in the reverse direction of rotation, the locking mechanism does not grip, the tightening sleeve idles, and no energy is supplied to the screw connection in the opening direction.

[0013] The device is characterized by a correct locking mechanism or toothed locking mechanism in shape between the clamping sleeve and the tightening sleeve in a proven and functionally more reliable structure, and a connecting link having at least one long flat side surface on the tightening sleeve or on the clamping sleeve and at least one steep side surface facing the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamping sleeve and the housing is formed, and a locking claw having a substantially complementary shape is formed on the other component.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the height of the connecting link and the locking claw varies in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the clamping sleeve and the tightening sleeve. This allows a structure of the arrangement of the clamping sleeve and the tightening sleeve having a minimum dimension in the radial direction.

[0015] Embodiments according to the present invention are further characterized in that the length of the locking claw is only a fraction of the length of the connecting link. In a preferred variant, the length of the locking claw is at most 10% of the length of the connecting link.

[0016] In a particularly preferred embodiment from a manufacturing technology point of view, the connecting link is formed on the clamping sleeve and the locking claw is formed on the tightening sleeve.

[0017] However, often it is necessary to remove a cable connector assembly that is manually protected against unscrewing and tighten it using tools. Thus, another feature of the present invention is provided by the fact that the rear end of the clamping sleeve, opposite to the screw, protrudes beyond the rear edge of the tightening sleeve and has a location for attaching a tool for applying torque to the clamping sleeve.

[0018] Particularly preferably, in an embodiment of the present invention, the attachment location is formed by at least a pair of flat surfaces, the surfaces being parallel to each other and arranged opposite with respect to the longitudinal central axis of the clamping sleeve. By using an open-ended wrench or a similar tool, torque can be applied to the clamping sleeve, thereby loosening the screw connection to disassemble the cable connector assembly or, alternatively, tightening the screw connection with an accurately defined torque without risking damage to the locking mechanism and the corresponding components.

[0019] Particularly preferably, in the embodiment, the width of the flat surface is between 1 mm and 10 mm in the direction of the longitudinal central axis. A width between 3 mm and 6 mm is preferably selected. Thus, reliable attachment of the tool and a sufficient contact surface for providing the necessary torque are ensured.

[0020] Another preferred embodiment of the present invention features a stopper that limits the sliding of the clamping sleeve toward the rear edge of the clamping sleeve. Thereby, it is ensured that the clamping sleeve cannot slip off the clamping sleeve or move downward inadvertently.

[0021] According to the present invention, a specific embodiment that should be structurally easily formed for this type of safety measure to prevent the extraction of the clamping sleeve is provided by an overhang extending over at least a part of the circumference of the rear edge of the clamping sleeve, and the radial extension of the overhang is larger than the inner diameter of the rear opening of the clamping sleeve.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the radial extension of the circumferentially extending overhang decreases toward the rear end. This facilitates the assembly of the cable connector assembly by allowing the clamping sleeve to be fitted into the clamping sleeve from the rear and moved over the edge region of the clamping sleeve while slightly elastically expanding its rear edge region.

[0023] To compensate for play between the clamping sleeve and the clamping sleeve, a preferred embodiment of the cable connector assembly according to the present invention features at least one ridge on the outside of the clamping sleeve, and the ridge covers at least most of the gap between the clamping sleeve and the clamping sleeve. Thus, when the cable connector moves, as may occur due to vibrations that occur, for example, when used as a loudspeaker connector, the collision between the clamping sleeve and the clamping sleeve with respect to each other is reduced. Preferably, the ridge covers the entire gap between the two coaxial sleeves, thereby completely suppressing rattling or clattering as well.

[0024] In order to prevent the screw connection between the clamp sleeve and the housing from accidentally coming loose when the cable connector assembly vibrates, another preferred embodiment of the present invention features a one-way locking mechanism between the clamp sleeve and the clamping portion. This is designed to prevent the relative rotation of the clamp sleeve and the clamping portion in the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamp sleeve and the housing.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, a correct-shaped locking mechanism or a toothed locking mechanism is provided between the clamp sleeve and the tightening sleeve, with at least one locking portion formed on the tightening sleeve or the clamp sleeve, and at least one locking claw formed on the other component.

[0026] With regard to force distribution and the associated mechanical stability, embodiments of the present invention having a plurality, preferably three, sawtooth-shaped locking claws with short sides that are evenly distributed around the circumference are particularly effective, with the short sides facing the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamp sleeve and the housing.

[0027] To solve the problem set at the beginning, further contributing is the clamping portion, which is characterized by a plurality, preferably two different types of clamping tongues. This results in various characteristics of the various groups of clamping tongues, thereby enabling reliable clamping of a large number of different types of cables. This clamping portion is preferably used in a cable connector assembly as described above, but can also be used alone in other and conventional cable connector assemblies.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the first group of clamping tongues is wider than the second group of clamping tongues.

[0029] Another embodiment according to the present invention is characterized in that the first clamping tongue expands as the distance from the front edge of the clamping part increases. Preferably, this clamping tongue is cut obliquely at its side edges. This makes it possible, in some cases, to further compress other clamping tongues arranged therebetween radially inwards, thereby increasing the effect of the diameter reduction or clamping action.

[0030] Preferably, in order to improve the clamping action, the first clamping tongue has, at one of its ends, a section formed to exert a clamping force on the cable so as to enter the cable in a complementary shape within the shell of the cable.

[0031] In another embodiment according to the present invention of the clamping part, a second group of clamping tongues of the clamping tongue is formed to be slightly narrower, thereby facilitating elastic displacement and enabling radial compression more easily or over a larger range.

[0032] Preferably, the side edges of the second group of clamping tongues preferably extend parallel to each other over the entire length.

[0033] Preferably, in order to improve the clamping action of the second group of clamping tongues, a region is formed that extends from the outer end of the clamping tongue to approximately its inner end to enhance the holding action on the cable.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in order to enable the clamping part according to the present invention to cover a large diameter region of the cable, when the clamping tongue extends in a straight line with the front edge region, the inner diameter between the ends of the clamping tongue is between 70 and 95% of the diameter of the clamping part, and when the clamping tongue is maximally compressed and the first clamping tongues are in contact with each other, the inner diameter between the ends of the clamping tongue, preferably between the second group of clamping tongues, is between 10 and 40% of the diameter of the clamping part.

[0035] To better understand the present invention, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following figures.

[0036] The figures are each a significantly simplified schematic representation:

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0037]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0038] First, it should be noted that in embodiments described differently, the same parts are provided with the same reference numerals or the same component names, and the disclosure included in the entire description can be transferred meaningfully to the same parts having the same reference numerals or the same component names. Also, the positional descriptions selected in the description, such as up, down, side, etc., are related to the figures directly described and shown, and this positional description is transferred to a new position meaningfully when the position changes.

[0039] Figure 1 shows an example of a specific embodiment of a cable connector assembly according to the present invention for use with complementary connector assemblies, typically used for current cables or speaker cables in the field of stage technology and events. The same or similar arrangements are possible for all types of electrical and / or optical cables.

[0040] From the housing 1, a connector projection 2 projects forwardly towards a complementary plug connector (not shown here). Inside the connector projection 2, a contact member (not shown) for making electrical and / or optical contact with a complementary connector assembly, such as a chassis bush, is protected and arranged. The housing 1 preferably has an unlock slider 20 for unlocking with a complementary plug connector. The rear section of the plug connector assembly forms an arrangement consisting of a clamp sleeve 3 and a clamping sleeve 4 slidably and coaxially fitted thereto. A cable K extends from the rear end of the cable connector assembly.

[0041] As is apparent from the exploded perspective view of FIG. 2, the connector projection 2 is typically inserted into the housing 1 from the rear. However, it can also be an integrated component of the housing 1, which has an external thread 5 for forming a screw engagement with an internal thread 6 in the front region of the clamp sleeve 3, for example, at the rear edge. Instead of a screw connection, other types of connections can be provided between the housing 1 and the clamp sleeve 3, which effect a rotation of the two components relative to each other, for example, via a bayonet lock. A sealing ring 7 can be inserted between the housing 1 and the connector projection 2. A spring member 8 effects the return of the unlock slider 20, which is slidable longitudinally on a web 9 provided on the housing 1.

[0042] The cable connector assembly according to the present invention typically further has a clamping portion 10, often also referred to as a clamping jaw. The clamping portion 10 is slidably fitted onto the cable K in the longitudinal direction of the cable, or in the radial direction along the entire length of the clamping portion if there is a longitudinal slit, and its front edge region 11 abuts against the connector projection 2 inserted into the housing 1 and / or into it, and in any case against one or more contact members inserted into the connector projection 2 and / or into the housing 1. The rear section of the clamping portion 10 is formed by several clamping tongues 12 distributed along the circumference, which can preferably be compressed radially elastically in order to clamp the cable K extending through them. The radial compression of the clamping tongues 12 is carried out when the clamping sleeve is slidably fitted and when a screw connection is formed between the housing 1 and the clamping sleeve 3. Since all the above-described components of the cable connector assembly and the cable are clamped to each other, accurate positioning of the components and removal of the tensile load for the cable K are provided.

[0043] At the rear end of the cable connector assembly, a seal collar 13 is arranged in an opening provided for the cable K, preferably in the region of the rear edge of the clamping sleeve 3, through which the cable K exits the cable connector assembly. Instead of the seal collar 13, a component combining bending protection or two functions can also be used.

[0044] Figure 3 shows the clamp sleeve 3 as seen from the direction of the housing 1. It can be recognized that the inner diameter from at least the front edge of the clamp sleeve 3 where the screw 6 is arranged to the opposite rear end preferably decreases in a conical shape or in a stepped manner. Thus, particularly when the screw connection with the housing 1 is tightly tightened (the clamp sleeve 3 moves axially onto the housing 1), the clamp portion 10, particularly the clamp tongue 12, is radially compressed, and the entire clamp portion 10 is compressed both forward and in the direction of the housing 1, thereby clamping the cable K inside the clamp portion.

[0045] When the housing 1 and the clamp sleeve 3 are screwed together, three locking claws 14 are arranged in the longitudinal section of the clamp sleeve 3, which will be located within the region of the clamp tongue 12. They are part of a properly shaped lock or toothed lock between the clamp sleeve 3 and the clamp portion 10. Preferably, three locking claws 14 of this kind or similar radially inwardly directed protrusions are provided inside the clamp sleeve 3, preferably evenly distributed over the circumference. They have a serrated shape when viewed in the circumferential direction, with their short sides facing the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamp sleeve 3 and the housing 1. The lateral edges of the clamp tongue 12 of the clamp portion 10 each form a locking portion, and the locking claws 14 can be supported by their short sides on the locking portion, thus representing the corresponding part of a one-way lock between the clamp sleeve 3 and the clamp portion 10, which prevents the relative rotation of the clamp sleeve 3 and the clamp portion 10 in the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamp sleeve 3 and the clamp portion 10, and thus provides protection against the unintentional loosening of this screw connection. In the reverse direction, by applying force, the locking claws 14 are pressed against the clamp tongue 12 via the edge by their long sides when viewed with respect to the short sides supported by the clamp tongue 12, and in this way the screw connection is tightened. The positioning of the locking claws and the locking in the clamp sleeve and the clamp portion can be selected reversely to that described above.

[0046] In the side view of the clamp sleeve 3 according to the present invention shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, an outer diameter that is stepped and decreases outwardly can be seen from the front edge having the internal thread 6 towards the rear edge. Within the central longitudinal section, a circumferentially extending, slightly circumferentially inclined connecting link 15 is formed, and the connecting link extends around the clamp sleeve 3 by at least one long flat side 15a and at least one steep side 15b facing the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamp sleeve 3 and the housing 1.

[0047] At the rear edge of the clamp sleeve 3, an overhang 16 is provided that extends over at least a part of the circumference of the rear edge of the clamp sleeve 3. The radial extension of this overhang 16 is, in at least some places, greater than the inner diameter of the rear opening of the clamping sleeve 4 along the circumference, preferably over the entire circumference of the clamp sleeve 3, thus holding the clamping sleeve coaxially on the clamp sleeve 3 and ensuring that the clamping sleeve 4 does not accidentally slide off or be pulled out rearward from the clamp sleeve 3. This overhang 16 forms a rear stopper 16a that limits the clamping sleeve 4.

[0048] However, the overhang 16 is formed such that its radial extension decreases towards the rear end of the clamp sleeve 3, thus facilitating the placement of the clamping sleeve 4 over the clamp sleeve 3, and at least the rear edge region of the clamping sleeve preferably elastically expands gently.

[0049] At least one mounting location 17 for a tool is arranged on the overhang 16 provided in the rear section that projects beyond the clamping sleeve 4 of the clamping sleeve 3, and its dimensions are too small to apply a force that enables the clamping sleeve 3 to be rotated relative to the housing 1 for manual gripping or for loosening a screw connection. However, this tool that is movably mounted circumferentially and attached to the mounting location 17 can provide sufficient torque to the clamping sleeve 3 even if it is not purely manually possible based on the dimensions of the overhang 16. Preferably, at least two mounting locations 17 are formed in the form of at least a pair of two surfaces that are planar and extend parallel to the central plane of the clamping sleeve 3 in the longitudinal direction, and these surfaces are arranged parallel to each other and opposite to each other with respect to the longitudinal central axis A of the clamping sleeve 3. Typically, the flat surfaces have a width between 1 mm and 10 mm in the direction of the longitudinal central axis, and preferably a width between 3 mm and 6 mm is selected so that, for example, an open-ended spanner or a similarly formed tool can be applied thereto.

[0050] Figures 7 to 10 show the clamping sleeve 4 coaxially placed on the clamping sleeve 3 according to the present invention. Its length is shorter than the length of the clamping sleeve 3 and coaxially covers a partial section of the length of the clamping sleeve 3 in the longitudinal direction. A one-way locking mechanism is provided between the clamping sleeve 3 and the clamping sleeve 4 to enable the tightening of the screw connection between the clamping sleeve 3 and the housing 1 via the clamping sleeve 4. This prevents relative rotation beyond a predetermined degree or circumferential play in the tightening direction of the screw connection, and when the clamping sleeve 4 further rotates after overcoming this play and in the engaged state of the locking mechanism, it allows the clamping sleeve 3 below it to be interlocked, whereby when it further rotates, the screw connection between the clamping sleeve 3 and the housing 1 is tightly tightened, or other connections are provided such that the clamping sleeve 3 and the housing 1 have to be rotated relative to each other.

[0051] Furthermore, between the clamping sleeve 3 and the tightening sleeve 4, preferably a correctly shaped locking mechanism or toothed lock is used. At least one locking claw 18 (recognizable in FIGS. 9 and 10) of the tightening sleeve 4, which has a shape formed substantially complementary to the connecting link 15 of the clamping sleeve in the blocking direction, engages with the above-described connecting link 15 of the clamping sleeve. Preferably, the length of one or each locking claw 18 is a fraction of the length of the connecting link 15, and the locking claws 18 are evenly distributed around the circumference of the tightening sleeve 4 within the rear longitudinal section near the rear opening O. In a preferred variant, the length of the locking claw 18 has at most 10% of the length of the connecting link 15, particularly of its longer flat side 15a. It is generally preferably in terms of manufacturing technology to form the connecting link 15 on the clamping sleeve 3 and provide the locking claws 18 on the tightening sleeve 4, but this arrangement can also be reversed.

[0052] As can be clearly recognized when comparing FIG. 6 with FIG. 8, the cross-sectional shape of the rear opening O of the tightening sleeve 4 substantially corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the rear end of the clamping sleeve 3, particularly to the cross-sectional shape of the projection 16 or the stopper 16a. However, all radial spacings for the tightening sleeve 4 are slightly smaller than those of the clamping sleeve 3, particularly those of its stopper 16a. Therefore, the cross-sectional area of the rear opening O of the tightening sleeve 4 is slightly smaller than the cross-sectional area of the rear end of the clamping sleeve 3, or its projection 16, or its stopper 16a.

[0053] On the outer surface of the clamping sleeve 4, at the circumferential position of the locking claw 18 - or, in the case where the connecting link 15 is provided inside the clamping sleeve 4, at the location of the steep side surface 15b - a grip surface 19 is provided, and the grip surface ensures the ease of operation of the clamping sleeve 4 by virtue of the material and / or structure. Further, it indicates the position of the locking claw 18 or the corresponding section of the connecting link 15 to the user, and when operating, preferably compresses it in the radial direction, thereby preventing the slipping or bouncing of the locking claw 18 or the steep side surface 15b, and in this way, the clamping sleeve 3 located thereunder is surely interlocked when the clamping sleeve 4 rotates.

[0054] To assemble the cable connector assembly according to the present invention, the clamping sleeve 4 is gripped by the grip surface 19 and rotated in the direction of tightening the screw connection between the housing 1 and the screws 5 and 6 of the clamping sleeve 3. In some cases, after overcoming the play or circumferential spacing between the steep side surface 15b of the connecting link of the housing 1 and the locking claw 18, which are opposing components, the locking claw 18 abuts against the steep side surface 15b, and when further rotated in the same rotational direction, the clamping sleeve 3 is interlocked by the clamping sleeve 4, and the screw connection between the clamping sleeve 3 and the housing 1 is tightened. In any case, similar to the ratchet arrangement, the clamping sleeve 4 can always be rotated forward and backward within an equal angular region multiple times, and the clamping sleeve 3 located thereunder is always further rotated to tighten the screw connection, which makes the assembly of the cable connector assembly even easier.

[0055] However, when the tightening sleeve 4 rotates circumferentially in the reverse direction to loosen the screw connection between the housing 1 and the clamping sleeve 3, the locking mechanism described above does not act, the tightening sleeve 4 idles, and no energy is supplied in the direction of loosening the screw connection. For example, the locking claw 18 of the tightening sleeve 4 slides along the flat and long side surface 15a of the connecting link and does not exert sufficient torque on the clamping sleeve 3 in the circumferential direction to loosen the screw connection or other connections. The tightening sleeve 4 reaches the end of the side surface 15a, and the locking claw 18 contacts the steep side surface 15b and slides downward until the tightening sleeve 4 slides slightly backward in the direction of the longitudinal axis A of the clamping sleeve 3 until the tightening sleeve 4 can slide forward again as a whole.

[0056] A preferred embodiment of the present invention has at least one raised portion 21 on the outside of the clamping sleeve 3 as play compensation between the clamping sleeve 3 and the tightening sleeve 4, and the raised portion 21 covers at least most of the gap between the clamping sleeve 3 and the tightening sleeve 4. Preferably, the raised portion 21, as a relatively short web or a relatively long web, preferably oriented in the longitudinal direction of the clamping sleeve 3, covers the entire gap between the two coaxial sleeves 3, 4. The raised portion 21, which can also exist in other shapes, for example in the shape of a projection or a small circular web, can also be arranged inside the tightening sleeve 4. As long as the groups of sleeves 3, 4 facing each other are axially spaced apart from each other so as not to prevent the relative movement between the tightening sleeve 4 and the clamping sleeve 3, the positioning of the raised portion 21 in the two components 3, 4 is also possible. Preferably, two raised portions 21 are arranged on the clamping sleeve 3, and they form a surrounding outer contour U having a substantially elliptical shape from a geometric and functional point of view (see FIG. 6). On this elliptical clamping sleeve 3, a tightening sleeve 4 having a circular inner contour is put on and can rotate without play on the clamping sleeve 3.

[0057] Although particularly preferred for the cable connector assembly according to the present invention, the clamp portion 10, which is also effective in other types of plug connectors, is shown in FIG. 11 in its initial position from the perspective of looking at the clamp tongue 12 from the rear. This clamp portion 10 has the advantage that it can be used within a very large diameter region for the cable K.

[0058] The clamp portion preferably has two different types of clamp tongues 12. Each clamp tongue 12a of the first group of clamp tongues 12 is wider than each clamp tongue 12b of the second group of clamp tongues 12. The first clamp tongue 12a widens as the distance from the front edge 11 of the clamp portion increases, and is cut obliquely at its side edges. They typically have sections that can provide an essential clamping action on the cable K, mainly at the outermost ends, or can enter the cable shell in a complementary shape or deform it.

[0059] The second group of clamp tongues 12b are formed slightly narrower, and their edges are typically parallel to each other over the entire length of the clamp tongue 12b. Regions that have transverse ribs or are formed by a similar structuring to enhance the holding action on the cable K, guarantee a high clamping action by increasing friction or by entering at least partially into the cable shell in a complementary shape, extend from the outer end to approximately the inner end of the second group of clamp tongues 12b.

[0060] Figure 12 shows, in perspective, the arrangement of the clamp part 10, the clamp sleeve 3, the tightening sleeve 4 and the sealing collar 13 for use with a cable K having a very large diameter. As seen from the front, -not shown here- in the direction of the housing 1, Figure 13 is formed. What can be seen there is that two groups 12a, 12b of clamp tongues 12 extend substantially in line with the rest of the clamp part 10, are compressed so as to extend slightly radially towards the rear ends of the clamp tongues 12, and are placed flat on the cable K, whereby the cable is clamped by the action of the two groups 12a, 12b.

[0061] In contrast, Figure 14 shows the arrangement of Figure 12 in the same direction as Figure 13, but this time for a cable K having a very small diameter. Here, the clamp sleeve 3 can be put on the housing 1 over a very long distance towards the front and presses the clamp tongues 12 radially inwards. The lateral edges of the different groups of clamp tongues 12 abut against one another and are further pressed radially when the screw connection is tightened, so that the second group of clamp tongues 12b is strongly pressed inwards onto the cable K or into the shell of the cable K by the obliquely cut side surface of the first group of clamp tongues 12a. The clamping of the cable K is effected here mainly by the second group of clamp tongues 12b.

[0062] As is also apparent from FIGS. 13 and 14, the inner diameter, i.e., the inner method, of the clamp portion 10 provided for inserting the cable K is only slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the clamp portion 10 and the housing 1 or the clamp sleeve 3. Therefore, it is extremely thin and cannot be formed to essentially increase the diameter of the cable connector assembly. In this case, this inner diameter is consistently, but particularly between the ends of the clamp tongues 12, between 70 and 80% of the clamp portion 10. Preferably, this value is between 75 and 95%. On the other hand, when the clamp sleeve 3 is maximally screwed to the housing 1 of the cable connector assembly, the clamp tongues 12 are in a maximally compressed state both circumferentially and radially. The first group of clamp tongues 12a of the clamp tongues 12 are adjacent to each other at their side edges and press the second group of clamp tongues 12b maximally inward. An inner diameter as small as possible is created between the clamp tongues 12, particularly between the second group of clamp tongues 12b, and the diameter for inserting the cable K through the clamp portion 10 is between 20 and 40% of the diameter of the clamp portion. Preferably, this value is between 10 and 30%. Regarding the housing 1 or the clamp sleeve 3, the maximum or minimum value for the inner diameter is between 60 and 80% of its diameter, or between 5 and 20% of its diameter.

[0063] FIG. 15 shows another embodiment of the cable connector assembly according to the present invention, and here too, the same reference numerals or component names are used for the same parts as in the figures of the preceding drawings. Instead of the connector projection 2, the housing 1 preferably has an integrally formed insertion projection 22. Apart from this difference, the structure and function are the same as those described so far in relation to FIGS. 1 to 14. Therefore, the housing 1 and the connector projection 2 or the insertion projection 22 can be varied in order to cover all popular plug connectors and contact types of XLR connectors, for example, all possible standard types or unique types of data connectors of the RJ45 type, via all possible standard types or unique types according to the connector type.

[0064] In the embodiments according to the invention, which have been described hitherto and are shown in FIGS. 1 to 15, the heights of the connecting link 15 and the locking claw 18 vary parallel to the axis of rotation of the clamping sleeve 3 and the clamping sleeve 4 in one direction, but other forms are possible. That is, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the connecting link 35 is formed inside the clamping sleeve 34, and its height varies radially with respect to the axis V of the relative rotation of this clamping sleeve 34 and the complementary clamping sleeve 33. Outside this latter clamping sleeve 33, a locking claw 38 is arranged, as can be seen in FIG. 18, which also has a height that varies radially with respect to the axis V. The connecting link 35 and the locking claw 38 engage in the same way as described for the connecting link - locking claw - system with a radially varying height, or slide relative to each other with a slight radial bulge of the clamping sleeve 34.

[0065] In addition to the embodiments described above, in a conceivable structure having a fixed structure for the locking mechanism, instead of acting on the clamping sleeve 3 itself with a tool, at least one locking member between the clamping sleeve 3 and the clamping sleeve 4 can be moved to a certain position with a tool, which results in a non - rotatable, in some cases temporary connection between the clamping sleeve 3 and the clamping sleeve 4. For example, using a pin or a driver, which can preferably be introduced into the axial opening of the cable connector assembly, the inner locking pin that connects the clamping sleeve 3 and the clamping sleeve 4 in a non - rotatable manner can be moved, or the locking claw can be swung.

[0066] The examples show possible implementation variations, which are recorded here, but the invention is not limited to the specifically shown implementation variations. Rather, it is also possible to combine the individual implementation variations with each other in various ways, and these possibilities of variation are within the discretion of those skilled in the art operating in this technical field based on the teachings for technically handling by this invention.

[0067] The scope of protection is defined by the claims. However, the description and the drawings shall be used to interpret the claims. The individual features and combinations of features consisting of the various illustrated and described embodiments can represent independent inventive solutions in themselves. The problems underlying the independent inventive solutions can be read from the description.

[0068] All descriptions regarding value ranges within the specific description shall include any sub-ranges and all sub-ranges together. For example, descriptions from 1 to 10 shall include all sub-ranges starting from the lower limit of 1 and the upper limit of 10, that is, all sub-ranges starting from the lower limit of 1 or more and ending at the upper limit of 10 or less, such as all sub-ranges from 1 to 1.7, or from 3.2 to 8.1, or from 5.5 to 10.

[0069] Finally, formally noted that for ease of understanding the structure, the members are not shown exactly to scale and / or are shown enlarged and / or reduced. Furthermore, the present disclosure includes the following inventions. The first aspect is a cable connector assembly for an electrical and / or optical cable (K) and for connection to a complementary connector assembly, a) having a housing (1) provided with a screw (5) arranged at a rear edge for accommodating a contact member for electrically and / or optically contacting the complementary connector assembly, b) having a clamping portion (10) which is at least partially radially compressible and which grips the cable (K) and clamps the cable (K) in a compressed state, c) having a clamping sleeve (3) provided with a screw (6) arranged at a front edge for forming a screw connection with the screw (5) provided in the housing (1), in a cable connector assembly, when the screw connection is tightened, the clamping sleeve (3), the clamping portion (10), the housing (1) and the cable (K) are clamped together, and preferably the cable (K) is positioned non-rotatable relative to the clamping portion (10) and / or the clamping portion (10) is positioned non-rotatable relative to the housing (1), d) a tightening sleeve (4) having a length smaller than the length of the clamping sleeve (3) and being slid coaxially through at least a partial section of the clamping sleeve (3), e) a one-way locking mechanism (15, 18) for preventing relative rotation beyond a predetermined degree between the tightening sleeve (4) and the clamping sleeve (3) in a direction of tightening the screw connection between at least the clamping sleeve (3) and the tightening sleeve (4), and optionally also between the clamping sleeve (3) and the clamping portion (10) and between the clamping sleeve (3) and the housing (1), The second aspect is It has a correct locking mechanism or a toothed locking mechanism (15, 18) in the shape between the clamp sleeve (3) and the tightening sleeve (4), and on the tightening sleeve (4) or the clamp sleeve (3), there is formed a connecting link (15) having at least one long, flat side surface (15a) and at least one steep side surface (15b) facing the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamp sleeve (3) and the housing (1), and on other components, there is formed a locking claw (18) having a substantially complementary shape. It is a cable connector assembly in the first aspect, characterized by this. The third aspect is A cable connector assembly in the second aspect, characterized in that the heights of the connecting link (15) and the locking claw (18) change in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the clamp sleeve (3) and the tightening sleeve (4). The fourth aspect is A cable connector assembly in the second or third aspect, characterized in that the length of the locking claw (18) is only a fraction of the length of the connecting link (15), preferably at most 10% of the length. The fifth aspect is A cable connector assembly according to any one of the second to fourth aspects, characterized in that the connecting link (15) is formed on the clamp sleeve (3) and the locking claw (18) is formed on the tightening sleeve (4). The sixth aspect is A cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, characterized in that the rear edge of the clamp sleeve (3) opposite to the screw (6) protrudes beyond the rear edge of the tightening sleeve (4) and has an attachment location (17) for a tool that provides torque to the clamp sleeve (3). The seventh aspect is A cable connector assembly in the fifth aspect, characterized in that the attachment location (17) is formed from at least one pair of flat surfaces, the surfaces being parallel to each other and arranged opposite to each other with respect to the longitudinal central axis (A) of the clamp sleeve (3). The eighth aspect is A cable connector assembly in the sixth aspect, characterized in that the width of the flat surface in the direction of the longitudinal central axis (A) is between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 3 mm and 6 mm. The ninth aspect is A cable connector assembly according to any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, characterized by a stopper (16a) that restricts the sliding movement of the tightening sleeve (4) relative to the rear edge of the clamping sleeve (3). The tenth aspect is An overhang (16) extending over a part of the circumference is provided at the rear edge of the clamping sleeve (3), and the radial extension of the overhang (16) is larger than the inner diameter of the rear opening (O) of the tightening sleeve (4), and preferably decreases towards the rear end of the clamping sleeve (3). A cable connector assembly according to the eighth aspect, characterized by this. The eleventh aspect is At least one raised portion (21) is preferably provided on the outside of the clamping sleeve (3), and the raised portion (21) covers at least most, preferably all, of the gap between the clamping sleeve (3) and the tightening sleeve (4). A cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, characterized by this. The twelfth aspect is A one-way locking mechanism is provided between the clamping sleeve (3) and the clamping portion (10), and the locking mechanism prevents relative movement between the clamping sleeve (3) and the clamping portion (10) in the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamping sleeve (3) and the housing (1). A cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, characterized by this. The thirteenth aspect is A correctly shaped locking mechanism or a toothed locking mechanism is provided between the clamping sleeve (3) and the clamping portion (10), and at least one locking portion is formed on the clamping portion (10) or the clamping sleeve (3), and at least one locking claw (14) is formed on the other component. A cable connector assembly according to the twelfth aspect, characterized by this. The fourteenth aspect is A cable connector assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, characterized by a plurality of, preferably three, saw-toothed locking claws (14) with short side faces, evenly distributed over the circumference, facing in the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamping sleeve (3) and the housing (1). The fifteenth aspect is The inner diameter of the housing (1) and / or the clamp sleeve (3) has a maximum value between 60 and 80% of its diameter or a minimum value between 5 and 20% of its diameter, which is a cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects. The sixteenth aspect is A clamp portion for clamping the cable (K) within the cable connector assembly, at least one section that is radially compressible and grips the cable (K) to clamp the cable (K) in a compressed state, a front edge region (11) and a rear section that abut against the housing (1) of the cable connector assembly and / or the connector protrusion (2) inserted therein, the section being formed by a plurality of clamp tongues (12) distributed around the circumference, the clamp tongues being preferably radially elastically compressible, and having a clamp portion (10) with a plurality of, preferably two, different types of clamp tongues (12), which is a cable connector assembly according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects. The seventeenth aspect is Each clamp tongue (12a) of the first group of clamp tongues (12) is wider than the clamp tongues (12b) of the second group, which is a cable connector assembly according to the sixteenth aspect. The eighteenth aspect is The first clamp tongue (12a) widens as the distance from the front edge (11) of the clamp portion (10) increases, and preferably its side edges are cut obliquely, which is a cable connector assembly according to the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect. The nineteenth aspect is The first clamp tongue (12a) has a section formed at one of its ends to provide a clamping action on the cable (K) for entering into the cable (K) in a complementary shape within the shell of the cable (K), which is a cable connector assembly according to the eighteenth aspect. The twentieth aspect is The clamp tongues (12b) of the second group of clamp tongues (12) are formed to be slightly narrower, which is a cable connector assembly according to any one of the sixteenth to nineteenth aspects. The twenty-first aspect is The cable connector assembly according to the 20th aspect, wherein the side edges extend parallel to each other over the entire length of the clamp tongue piece (12b). The 22nd aspect is a cable connector assembly according to the 21st aspect, characterized in that a region is formed which extends from the outer end of the second group of clamp tongue pieces (12b) of the clamp tongue piece (12) to almost its inner end so as to increase the holding action on the cable (K). The 23rd aspect is When the clamp tongue piece (12) extends in a straight line with the front edge region (11), the inner diameter between the ends of the clamp tongue piece (12) is between 70 and 95% of the diameter of the clamp portion (10), and when the clamp tongue piece (12) is compressed to the maximum and the first clamp tongue pieces (12a) are in contact with each other, the inner diameter between the ends of the clamp tongue piece (12), preferably between the second group of clamp tongue pieces (12b), is between 10 and 40% of the diameter of the clamp portion (10). It is a cable connector assembly according to any one of the 16th to 22nd aspects, characterized by this.

Description of Symbols

[0070] 1 Housing 2 Connector Projection 3 Clamp Sleeve 4 Tightening Sleeve 5 External Thread 6 Internal Thread 7 Seal Ring 8 Spring Member 9 Guide Web 10 Clamp Portion 11 Front Edge 12 Clamp Tongue 12a First Clamp Tongue 12b Second Clamp Tongue 13 Seal Collar 14 Lock Claw 15 Connecting Link 15a Flat Side 15b Steep Side 16 Projection 16a Stopper 17 Mounting Location 18 Lock Claw 19 Grip Surface 20 Unlock Slider 21 Bulge 22 Insertion Protrusion A Longitudinal Central Axis O Rear Opening U Outer Contour

Claims

1. A cable connector assembly for use with an electrical and / or optical cable (K) and for connection to a complementary connector assembly, comprising: a) a housing (1) having a screw (5) disposed at a rear edge for receiving a contact member for making electrical and / or optical contact with a complementary connector assembly; b) a clamp portion (10) that is at least partially radially compressible and that grips the cable (K) and clamps the cable (K) in a compressed state; c) a clamp sleeve (3) having a screw (6) disposed at a front edge for forming a threaded connection with the screw (5) provided in the housing (1); In a cable connector assembly in which, when the threaded connection is tightened, the clamp sleeve (3), the clamp portion (10), the housing (1) and the cable (K) are clamped together; d) a tightening sleeve (4) having a length smaller than the length of the clamp sleeve (3) and slid coaxially through at least a partial section of the clamp sleeve (3); e) a one-way locking mechanism (15, 18) that prevents relative rotation between the tightening sleeve (4) and the clamp sleeve (3) beyond a predetermined degree in a direction that tightly tightens the threaded connection between the clamp sleeve (3) and the housing (1) at least between the clamp sleeve (3) and the tightening sleeve (4). A cable connector assembly characterized by the above.

2. The cable connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the cable (K) is positioned non-rotatable relative to the clamp portion (10) and / or the clamp portion (10) is positioned non-rotatable relative to the housing (1).

3. It has a correct locking mechanism or toothed locking mechanism (15, 18) in the shape between the clamp sleeve (3) and the tightening sleeve (4), and on the tightening sleeve (4) or the clamp sleeve (3), at least one long, flat side surface (15a) that extends perpendicularly from the circumferential surface of the clamp sleeve (3) or the tightening sleeve (4), and at least one steep side surface (15b) that extends perpendicularly from the circumferential surface of the clamp sleeve (3) or the tightening sleeve (4) and faces the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamp sleeve (3) and the housing (1). A connecting link (15) is formed, and a locking claw (18) having a substantially complementary shape is formed on other components. The cable connector assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that.

4. The height of the connecting link (15) and the locking claw (18) in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the clamp sleeve (3) and the tightening sleeve (4) changes around the rotation axis of the clamp sleeve (3) and the tightening sleeve (4). The cable connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that.

5. The length of the locking claw (18) is at most 10% of the length of the connecting link (15). The cable connector assembly according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that.

6. The connecting link (15) is formed on the clamp sleeve (3), and the locking claw (18) is formed on the tightening sleeve (4). The cable connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that.

7. The rear edge of the clamp sleeve (3) opposite to the screw (6) protrudes beyond the rear edge of the tightening sleeve (4) and has a mounting location (17) for a tool that provides torque to the clamp sleeve (3). The cable connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that.

8. The mounting location (17) is formed from at least one pair of flat surfaces, the surfaces being parallel to each other and arranged opposite to each other with respect to the longitudinal central axis (A) of the clamp sleeve (3). The cable connector assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that.

9. The width of the flat surface in the direction of the longitudinal central axis (A) is between 1 mm and 10 mm. The cable connector assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that.

10. The tightening sleeve (4) is characterized by a stopper (16a) that limits its ability to slide relative to the rear edge of the clamp sleeve (3). The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 8.

11. An overhang (16) extending over a part of the circumference is provided at the rear edge of the clamp sleeve (3), and the radial extension of the overhang (16) is larger than the inner diameter of the rear opening (O) of the tightening sleeve (4). The cable connector assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that.

12. At least one raised portion (21) is provided on the clamp sleeve (3), and the raised portion (21) covers the gap between the clamp sleeve (3) and the tightening sleeve (4). The cable connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that.

13. A one-way locking mechanism is provided between the clamp sleeve (3) and the clamp portion (10), and the locking mechanism prevents relative movement between the clamp sleeve (3) and the clamp portion (10) in the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamp sleeve (3) and the housing (1). The cable connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that.

14. A locking mechanism or a toothed locking mechanism is provided between the clamp sleeve (3) and the clamp portion (10), and at least one locking portion is formed on the clamp portion (10) or on the clamp sleeve (3), and at least one locking claw (14) is formed on the other component, The cable connector assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that.

15. The cable connector assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that it has a plurality of sawtooth-shaped locking claws (14) with short side faces facing the opening direction of the screw connection between the clamp sleeve (3) and the housing (1) and uniformly distributed around the circumference.

16. The inner diameter of the housing (1) and / or the clamp sleeve (3) has a maximum value between 60 and 80% of its diameter or a minimum value between 5 and 20% of its diameter, The cable connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that.

17. A clamp portion for clamping the cable (K) within the cable connector assembly, at least one section that is radially compressible and grips the cable (K) to clamp the cable (K) in a compressed state, a front edge region (11) and a rear section that abut against the housing (1) of the cable connector assembly and / or a connector protrusion (2) inserted therein, the section being formed by a plurality of clamp tongue pieces (12) distributed around the circumference, the clamp tongue pieces being elastically compressible in the radial direction, A clamp portion (10) having a plurality of different types of clamp tongue pieces (12), The cable connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that.

18. The cable connector assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that each clamp tongue piece (12a) of the first group of clamp tongue pieces (12) is wider than the clamp tongue pieces (12b) of the second group.

19. The cable connector assembly according to claim 18, wherein the clamping tongue pieces (12a) of the first group widen as the distance from the front edge (11) in front of the clamping portion (10) increases, and the side edges thereof are cut obliquely.

20. The cable connector assembly according to claim 19, wherein the clamping tongue pieces (12a) of the first group have a section formed at the outer end with respect to the longitudinal central axis (A) of the clamping sleeve (3) so as to exert a clamping action on the cable (K) for complementary entry into the shell of the cable (K).

21. The cable connector assembly according to claim 17, wherein the clamping tongue pieces (12b) of the second group of the clamping tongue pieces (12) are formed to be slightly narrower than the clamping tongue pieces (12a) of the first group of the clamping tongue pieces (12).

22. The cable connector assembly according to claim 21, wherein the side edges of the clamping tongue pieces (12b) extend parallel to each other over the entire length of the clamping tongue pieces (12b).

23. The cable connector assembly according to claim 22, wherein a region is formed extending from the outer end of the clamping tongue pieces (12b) of the second group of the clamping tongue pieces (12) with respect to the longitudinal central axis (A) of the clamping sleeve (3) to substantially the inner end of the clamping tongue pieces (12b) with respect to the longitudinal central axis (A) of the clamping sleeve (3) so as to increase the holding action on the cable (K) by increasing friction or by complementary entry at least partially into the cable shell.

24. When the clamp tongue piece (12) extends in a straight line with the front edge region (11), the inner diameter between the ends of the clamp tongue piece (12) is between 70 and 95% of the diameter of the clamp portion (10), and when the clamp tongue piece (12) is compressed to the maximum and the first clamp tongue pieces (12a) are in contact with each other, the inner diameter between the ends of the clamp tongue piece (12) and between the second group of clamp tongue pieces (12b) is between 10 and 40% of the diameter of the clamp portion (10). The cable connector assembly according to claim 18, characterized in that.

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