Contact device, contact system, and method of assembling such a contact system

Abstract

To provide a contact device, a contact system having such a contact device, and a method for assembling a contact system.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to an assembly method. A contact device 15 includes a housing 45, a screw 60, screw locking means and a first contact element for contacting a second contact element of a further contact device 15. The first contact element and the screw 60 are arranged at least in part in a housing interior 50 of the housing 45. The screw 60 has a screw head 65 and a shaft 85. The shaft 85 is connected to the screw head 65 and extends along a screw axis 70, a first thread being arranged at least in part on the shaft 85. The screw locking means connects the screw head 65 to the housing 45 by force-based and / or interlocking engagement.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The invention relates to a contact device according to claim 1, a contact system according to claim 13 and a method according to claim 14. [Background technology]

[0002] A contact system is known that includes a contact device and a further contact device. The contact device includes a first contact element, and the further contact device includes a second contact element. To secure the first contact element to the second contact element, the contact device can include a screw, and the further contact device can include a threaded bushing, where the screw is threaded into the threaded bushing by a shaft and presses the first contact element against the second contact element. This configuration is particularly suitable for high-current contact devices in automobiles. However, the screw may unintentionally loosen during the life of the automobile due to vibrations of the automobile. Therefore, the screw must be secured to prevent loosening. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved contact device, an improved contact system, and an improved method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] This object is achieved by a contact device according to claim 1, a contact system according to claim 13 and a method according to claim 14. Advantageous embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

[0005] It has been recognized that an improved contact device can be provided as a result of the contact device having a housing, a screw, a thread locking means, and a first contact element. The first contact element and the screw are at least partially disposed within the housing. The screw has a screw head and a shaft, the shaft being connected to the screw head and extending along the screw axis. The shaft is at least partially threaded. The thread locking means connects the screw head to the housing by force-based engagement and / or interlocking engagement.

[0006] This configuration has the advantage that it is possible to avoid applying a liquid, e.g., a chemical thread locking agent, to the shaft, in particular to the turns of the thread, thereby avoiding possible contamination of the first contact element. Furthermore, the thread locking means prevents the screw from unintentionally loosening from the further contact device, thereby ensuring reliable contact of the first contact element with the second contact element of the further contact device.

[0007] In a further embodiment, the screw locking means comprises a retaining element having a receiving portion configured to be complementary to, and preferably correspond to, the screw head profile. The retaining element is coupled to the housing by a torque-based connection. The screw head profile at least partially engages with the receiving portion and forms an interlocking engagement with the receiving portion. As a result of the interlocking connection, the retaining element can be particularly easily attached to the screw head when attached to the head of the contact device.

[0008] In a further embodiment, the housing has a first housing opening and a second housing opening, the screw inside the housing is accessible through the first housing opening, and the second housing opening is offset from the first housing opening on the outer periphery of the housing.

[0009] In a further embodiment, the retaining element has a groove on its end face facing away from the thread, arranged to extend around the thread axis, and a catch spring of the retaining element is formed radially outside the groove, and the housing has a first housing part with a collar, the housing has a closure element, the closure element has an engagement element extending around the thread axis, the engagement element is configured to engage in the groove, the engagement element presses the catch spring radially outward, and thus the catch spring engages behind the collar in at least some parts.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the housing has at least a first housing opening and a second housing opening, the screw head of the screw is accessible through the first housing opening, the second housing opening is arranged offset relative to the first housing opening on the outer housing surface of the housing, the second housing opening opens on the inside into the housing, and the screw locking means has a further retaining element, which is arranged on the outer housing surface of the housing and passes at least partially through the second housing opening, and which contacts the screw head in some parts.

[0011] In a further embodiment, the second housing opening is slot-shaped, the screw head has a bearing surface on its outer circumferential surface arranged on its end face, and the further retaining element has at least a first shackle part of elongated shape, which is oriented tangentially to the screw axis and passes through the second housing opening.

[0012] In a further embodiment, the retaining element has internal toothing and the screw head has external toothing, the external and internal toothings engaging with each other, and the retaining element is rotationally fixedly connected to the housing, so that a particularly good and simple rotationally fixed connection can be provided between the screw and the retaining element.

[0013] In a further embodiment, the screw locking means comprises a clamping element, which is prestressed to provide a clamping force, which acts between the housing and the screw.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the clamping element has a helical spring portion in the form of a helical spring, the helical spring portion being configured to extend around the screw shaft, the helical spring portion contacting the screw head at a first axial end of the helical spring portion and the helical spring portion contacting the housing at a second axial end of the helical spring portion opposite the first axial end, and the clamping force of the clamping element axially pressing the screw head against the first contact element.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the clamping element has a spiral spring part in the form of a spiral spring, which is coupled radially inwardly to the screw head and which is connected radially outwardly to the housing, and which provides a locking torque acting around the screw axis, the locking torque being induced against a loosening torque that loosens the screw.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the housing has a first housing part and a closure element, the closure element being connected to the first housing part by a torque-based connection, the first housing part delimiting a housing interior on the inside, the closure element closing the housing interior at the end face, and the clamping element being arranged between the closure element and the retaining element.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the closure element has a plate-shaped plate portion oriented obliquely to the screw axis, preferably perpendicular to the screw axis, and the clamping element is arranged axially between the retaining element and the plate portion, and the clamping force acts axially between the plate portion and the retaining element.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the closure element has a second housing opening and the first housing part has an external projection extending radially outwards, and the screw locking means has a further retaining element having at least a first shackle part of elongated shape, which is oriented tangentially to the screw axis and passes through the second housing opening to axially connect the closure element to the first housing part.

[0019] The contact system comprises a contact device and a further contact device, the contact device being configured as described in one of the above-mentioned embodiments, the further contact device comprising a second contact element and a threaded bushing having a second thread, the shaft being at least partially screwed into the threaded sleeve, the first thread and the second thread engaging with each other, and the screw pressing the first contact element against the second contact element for electrical contact.

[0020] This provides a particularly good method of assembling the above-mentioned contact system, in which the contact device and the further contact device are aligned with respect to each other, the shaft is screwed into the threaded bush, the screw is tightened in a first rotational direction around the screw axis with a predefined torque, and a thread locking means is attached, which connects the screw head to the housing and prevents the screw from rotating in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0021] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a contact system. [Figure 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the contact system shown in FIG. 1 taken along section AA in FIG. 1. [Figure 3]2 is a detailed view of a cross-sectional view of the structural shape of the contact system according to the first embodiment taken along section BB in FIG. 1; [Figure 4] 4 is a detail C shown in FIG. 3 of the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 3 of the contact system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 5 is a perspective view of detail C shown in FIG. 4 of the contact system, with the closure element not shown for clarity. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of detail C shown in FIG. 4 of the contact system. [Figure 7] 2 is a cross-sectional view of a contact system according to a second embodiment taken along section BB of FIG. 1; [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the clamping element shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 2 is a cross-sectional view of a contact device of a contact system according to a third embodiment taken along section AA in FIG. 1; [Figure 10] FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a clamping element of a contact system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] 2 is a cross-sectional view of a contact system according to a fourth embodiment taken along section AA in FIG. 1; [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a contact device of a contact system according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the retaining element shown in FIG. [Figure 15] 16 is a cross-sectional view of the contact device shown in FIG. 15 taken along section CC of FIG. 13. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the contact system shown in FIGS. 13 to 15. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the contact system shown in FIGS. 13 to 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a side view of a contact system according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 19]19 is a cross-sectional view of the contact system shown in FIG. 18 taken along section DD in FIG. 18. [Figure 20] 19 is a cross-sectional view of the contact system shown in FIG. 18 taken along section EE of FIG. 18. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the contact system shown in FIGS. 13 to 20. [Figure 22] 21 is a perspective view of the contact system shown in FIGS. 13 to 20, and is a perspective view of the contact system shown in FIGS. 18 to 20 during a fifth assembly step. FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the contact system shown in FIGS. 18 to 22. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a contact system according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 25] 25 is a perspective view of a retaining means of the contact system shown in FIG. 24. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a contact system 10. The contact system 10 comprises a contact device 15, which in FIG. 1 is electrically connected to an electric cable 20, by way of example. The electric cable 20 is in the form of a high-current cable and serves to transmit a current of 50 A to 500 A, for example, to drive power components in a motor vehicle. The power components may be, for example, a starter motor or an electric drive motor of the motor vehicle. For this purpose, the electric cable 20 comprises an electric conductor 25, shown in dashed lines in FIG. 1, which is preferably 25 mm long. 2 ~500mm 2 , preferably 50 mm 2 ~100mm 2 The electrical conductor 25 is electrically insulated from other components of the vehicle, such as from a terminal bus 35, by a sheath 30.

[0024] The electrical conductor 25 is preferably in the form of a thin or ultra-thin wire, so that the electrical cable 20 can be installed in a vehicle in a flexible manner. The electrical conductor 25 can also be in the form of a single wire. The electrical conductor 25 preferably comprises a conductive material, such as copper and / or aluminum. The sheath 30 comprises a non-conductive material. The sheath 30 completely covers the electrical conductor 25 around its circumferential surface.

[0025] The contact system 10 further comprises a further contact device 40, which is for example connected to the terminal bus 35. The further contact device 40 can also be connected to a further electrical cable.

[0026] 1, the contact device 15 and the further contact device 40 are shown in an exploded state. The contact device 15 has a housing 45, within which the electric cable 20 is guided, thus preventing electrical contact with the outside of the electric conductors 25. The housing 45 has a first housing part 46 and a second housing part 47.

[0027] The housing parts 46, 47 together define a housing interior 50. The first housing part 46 of the housing 45 has a first housing opening 55, which in FIG. 1 is arranged at the top, on the side remote from the further contact device 40. In FIG. 1, the housing interior 50 is accessible from above via the first housing opening 55. A screw 60 is arranged in the housing interior 50. A screw head 65 of the screw 60 is arranged on the side facing the first housing opening 55. The screw 60 is rotatable around a screw axis 70 within the housing 45.

[0028] The further contact device 40 has a further housing 75 in which a threaded bushing 80 is arranged. In FIG. 1 , the threaded bushing 80 is oriented so as to be aligned with the screw shaft 70. A shaft 85 of a screw 60, which has an external thread 90 arranged in at least some portions thereof, can be screwed into the threaded bushing 80. The screwing is performed in a first rotational direction. The screw 60 can be unscrewed from the threaded bushing 80 by rotating the screw 60 in the threaded bushing 80 in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0029] The threaded bushing 80 has internal threads 95 configured to be at least complementary to, and preferably correspond to, the external threads 90. Both the external threads 90 and the internal threads 95 extend around the threaded shaft 70.

[0030] 1 to 23, reference is made to a cylindrical coordinate system based on the screw axis 70. Axial direction is thereby understood to mean a direction parallel to the screw axis 70, circumferential direction is understood to mean a direction on a circular path around the screw axis 70, and radial direction is understood to mean a direction towards or away from the screw axis 70 in a plane perpendicular to the screw axis 70.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the contact system 10 shown in FIG. 1 taken along section AA shown in FIG.

[0032] In FIG. 2, the contact system 10 shown in FIG. 1 is shown in its general embodiment in an assembled state.

[0033] In addition to the housing 45 and the screw 60, the contact device 15 comprises a screw locking means 100 and a first contact element 105. The screw locking means 100 is shown diagrammatically in its general form in Figure 2. The screw locking means 100 is at least partially disposed in the housing interior 50.

[0034] The screw head 65 is configured, based on the screw axis 70, to be radially wider than the shaft 85 connected to it. The screw head 65 is axially adjacent to the first housing opening 55. The screw head 65 has a predefined screw head profile 110. The screw head profile 110 can be standard, for example in the shape of an external Torx profile, or for example in the shape of a hexagonal head profile. Different shapes of the screw head profile 110 are also conceivable. The screw head profile 110 serves to mount a screw head drive and to induce a torque M around the screw axis 70 that drives the screw 60.

[0035] The screw head 65 has, on the side facing the shaft 85, a clamping surface 115. The clamping surface 115 extends in a plane perpendicular to the screw axis 70.

[0036] The shaft 85 is preferably formed from a single piece of material integral with the screw head 65. External threads 90 are disposed on the shaft 85 in several sections.

[0037] The first contact element 105 has a sleeve-like shape and has a first end face 120 and a second end face 145. The first end face 120 has a planar shape, and the clamping surface 115 is in contact with the first end face 120. The first contact element 105 has a first contact surface 125 on a side axially away from the screw head 65. The first contact surface 125 is configured to extend perpendicular to the screw axis 70. The first contact surface 125 may have a planar shape.

[0038] A threaded opening 130 is formed in the first contact element 105 and extends as a through opening through the first contact element 105. The shaft 85 passes completely axially through the threaded opening 130, such that the shaft 85 protrudes beyond the first contact surface 125, for example, when the clamping surface 115 abuts the first end face 120. The first contact element 105 is generally sleeve-shaped and configured to extend axially less than the shaft 85.

[0039] In addition to the further housing 75 and the threaded bushing 80, the further contact device 40 has a second contact element 135. The second contact element 135 has a sleeve-like shape and is electrically connected to the terminal bus 35. The second contact element 135 has a second contact surface 140 on the side axially facing the screw head 65. The threaded bushing 80 engages in several parts with a collar behind the second contact element 135 at a second end surface 145 remote from the screw head 65. Both the threaded bushing 80 and the second contact element 135 are arranged in a further housing interior 150 of the further housing 75.

[0040] In the assembled state of the contact device 15 and the further contact device 40, the external thread 90 is at least partially screwed into the internal thread 95 of the threaded bushing 80, and the screw head 65 presses the first contact element 105 with a predetermined force F via the first end face 120 against the second contact surface 140 with the first contact surface 125. The predetermined force F acts in the axial direction. As a result, a particularly good electrical contact between the first contact surface 125 and the second contact surface 140 is ensured. As a result, the contact system 10 is particularly suitable for transmitting high currents. The threaded bushing 80 is supported at its rear side by a collar via the second end face 145 on the second contact element 135.

[0041] To prevent the screw 60 from unintentionally rotating around the screw shaft 70, a thread locking means 100 is arranged in the housing interior 50. The thread locking means 100 couples the screw head 65 to the housing 45 by interlocking and / or force-based engagement, thus preventing unintentional loosening of the screw 60 (i.e., unintentional rotation of the screw in the second rotational direction) and thus unintentional removal of the first contact element 105 from the further contact device 40. In particular, poor electrical contact between the first contact surface 125 and the second contact surface 140 is also avoided. As a result, localized heating of the first contact element 105 and the second contact element 135 when transmitting high currents is avoided. As a result, the risk of fire, particularly vehicle fires, can be avoided.

[0042] The predefined force F is the predefined tightening torque M at which the screw 60 is tightened in the threaded sleeve 85. A It is specified by

[0043] The screw locking means 100 couples the screw head 65 to the housing 45 by force-based and / or frictional and / or interlocking engagement, thereby preventing unintentional loosening of the screw 60. Furthermore, the housing 45 and the further housing 75 are engaged such that the housing 45 and the further housing 75 are rotationally fixedly connected together about the screw axis 70.

[0044] FIG. 3 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the structural configuration of the contact system 10 according to the first embodiment taken along the cross section BB shown in FIG.

[0045] The description given in FIGS. 1 and 2 applies to the contact system 10 according to the first embodiment illustrated in FIG.

[0046] The screw locking means 100 is in a two-part configuration. It has a retaining element 155 and a closure element 160. The retaining element 155 is configured to extend annularly around the screw shaft 70. The retaining element 155 is arranged, for example, in the housing interior 50, axially adjacent to the first housing opening 55. The retaining element 155 has a groove 170 on a third end face 165 remote from the screw 60, which is configured to extend around the screw shaft 70. The retaining element 155 has a catch spring 175 radially outward of the groove 170.

[0047] In addition to the screw head profile 110, the screw head 65 has an enlarged portion 180. The enlarged portion 180 is configured to be radially wider than the screw head profile 110 and protrudes radially beyond the screw head profile 110. A first clamping surface 115 is arranged on the end face of the enlarged portion 180 facing away from the screw head profile 110. The enlarged portion 180 has a first bearing surface 185 on the side facing axially away from the shaft 85 and thus axially toward the screw head profile 110. The first bearing surface 185 is conically oriented based on the screw axis 70. It is also conceivable that the first bearing surface 185 is formed in a plane perpendicular to the screw axis 70. At least one compression rib 186 can be arranged on the first bearing surface 185.

[0048] FIG. 4 shows a detail C shown in FIG. 3 of the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 3 of the contact system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0049] The retaining element 155 has, on its side facing away from the third end face 165 and thus axially toward the shaft 85, a second bearing surface 190 that is configured to correspond at least in part to the first bearing surface 185. The first bearing surface 185 and the second bearing surface 190 abut each other, thereby allowing the compression rib 186 to be compressed by the second bearing surface 190.

[0050] The housing 45 has a collar 195 at the first housing opening 55. The collar 195 is formed radially inward in the direction of the screw axis 70 and defines the first housing opening 55 radially inward by a free end 200. The collar 195 may be configured to extend in a plane perpendicular to the screw axis 70. The collar 195 may have a catch protrusion 205 formed radially inward. The catch protrusion 205 radially reduces the first housing opening 55 as the distance from the shaft 85 decreases.

[0051] The retaining element 155 has a catch receiver 215 on its outer peripheral surface 210, which is configured to correspond to the shape of the catch protrusion 205. The catch receiver 215 adjoins, substantially at its end surface, the third end surface 165 of the retaining element 155. The catch receiver 215 is configured to overlap, in the axial direction, with the groove 170. Axial overlap is thereby understood to mean that when at least two components project radially into a projection plane in which the screw shaft 70 extends, these two components, e.g., the catch protrusion 205, the catch receiver 215, and the groove 170, overlap in the projection plane.

[0052] The groove 170 is configured to be axially wider than the catch receiving portion 215. The groove 170 is thereby axially adjacent to the third end face 165 and has a first groove portion 220 and a second groove portion 225 connected to the first groove portion 220.

[0053] The first groove 220 is generally V-shaped and tapers from the third end face 165 toward the second bearing surface 190. The second groove 225 is connected to the first groove 220 and has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. The second groove 225 forms the groove bottom surface of the groove 170. The groove 170 terminates axially spaced from the second bearing surface 190.

[0054] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of detail C shown in FIG. 4 of contact system 10, with closure element 160 not shown for clarity.

[0055] The grooves 170 are configured to extend around the threaded shaft 70. The grooves 170 can also be partially interrupted in the circumferential direction. For example, the grooves 170 extend at a fixed distance around the threaded shaft 70. The distance of the grooves 170 from the threaded shaft 70 can also be varied.

[0056] The outer peripheral surface 210 is configured to extend in a substantially circular path around the screw axis 70. In Fig. 5 it can be clearly seen that the screw head profile 110 is, for example, in the shape of an external Torx profile. The screw head profile 110 has, for example, at least a third bearing surface 230, which is configured to introduce a torque M into the screw head profile 110. Thereby, the third bearing surface 230 is oriented obliquely with respect to the circular path around the screw axis 70. The third bearing surface 230 extends in a direction substantially along the screw axis 70.

[0057] The receiving portion 240 of the retaining element 155 is configured to be at least complementary to, and preferably correspond to, the screw head profile 110. For example, as shown in FIG. 5 , if the screw head profile 110 has an external Torx profile, the receiving portion 240 will have the shape of an internal Torx profile. The receiving portion 240 extends axially between the second bearing surface 190 and the third end face 165. The receiving portion 240 is substantially completely axially passed by the screw head profile 110.

[0058] The receiving part 240 rests tightly against the third bearing surface 230 by at least the fourth bearing surface 245 , so that the retaining element is connected to the screw head profile 110 in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0059] FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of detail C shown in FIG. 4 of contact system 10.

[0060] The closure element 160 has a plate portion 250 and an engaging element 255. The plate portion 250 is plate-shaped and extends in a plane perpendicular to the screw axis 70. The engaging element 255 and the plate portion 250 are preferably integrally formed from a single material, for example from a plastic material, for example a thermoplastic, for example by an injection molding process.

[0061] By way of example, plate portion 250 is circular. In the assembled state, plate portion 250 abuts radially outward against collar 195 via fourth end face 260. Furthermore, fourth end face 260 abuts radially inward against third end face 165 of retaining element 155 in the assembled state.

[0062] The engaging element 255 can be configured to be complementary to the groove 170, preferably to correspond to the groove 170. The engaging element 255 has, for example, a first engaging portion 265 and a second engaging portion 270, and the second engaging portion 270 is arranged on the side of the first engaging portion 265 that is axially away from the fourth end surface 260. The first engaging portion 265 is connected to the plate portion 250 at the fourth end surface 260.

[0063] The first engagement portion 265 tapers from the fourth end face 260 as the axial distance from the fourth end face 260 increases. The second engagement portion 270 has a spherical cross-sectional shape. In an assembled state (see FIG. 4 ), the first engagement portion 265 engages with the first groove portion 220. The second engagement portion 270 engages with the second groove portion 225. The second engagement portion 270 is, for example, in the form of a thickened portion compared to the end of the first engagement portion 265 axially away from the fourth end face 260, which prevents the engagement element 255 from slipping out of engagement with the groove 170 in the assembled state (see FIG. 4 ). Thus, the second engagement portion 270 and the second groove portion 225 serve as a loss prevention device or interlocking connection of the retention element 155 to the closure element 160.

[0064] The first engagement portion 265 substantially completely fills the first groove 220, thereby preventing the catch spring 175 from being forced radially inward, thereby securing the engagement of the catch protrusion 205 in the catch receiver 215.

[0065] The simultaneous bearing of the first bearing surface 185 against the second bearing surface 190 prevents the screw 60 from rotating about the screw axis 70 and loosening the screw 60, because this would cause the screw head 65 to move axially away from the first contact element 105 and press the retaining element 155 axially upwards. Such movement of the retaining element 155 is prevented by the engagement of the catch spring 15 in the catch receiver 215. As a result, the screw locking means 100 provides an interlocking screw locking device.

[0066] In addition, in Figures 1 to 6, when the engagement element 255 presses the catch spring 175 radially outward to the extent that the catch protrusion 205 is pressed against the catch receiver 215, thereby forming a frictional engagement, the screw locking means 100 acts as a frictional connection due to the bearing of the first bearing surface 185 and the second bearing surface 190 and the third bearing surface 230 and the fourth bearing surface 245 and the engagement of the catch protrusion 205 in the catch receiver 215.

[0067] As a result of the interlocking and optionally frictional connection of the screw head 65 to the housing 45, the screw 60 is effectively prevented from unintentionally loosening from the threaded bushing 80. As a result, reliable long-term contact is ensured between the first contact element 105 at the first contact surface 125 and the second contact element 135 at the second contact surface 140. This prevents overheating or overheating of the contact system 10 at the contact surfaces 125, 140.

[0068] The configuration shown in FIGS. 1-6 provides a stable contact that ensures that electrical contact between the two contact surfaces 125, 140 is maintained throughout the life of the contact system 10.

[0069] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the contact system 10 according to the second embodiment taken along section line BB shown in FIG.

[0070] The contact system 10 is configured substantially identically to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6. Only the differences in the second embodiment of the contact system 10 shown in Figure 7 compared to the configuration of the contact system 10 shown in Figures 1 to 6 will be discussed below.

[0071] The closure element 160 has a cup-like shape. The closure element 160 contacts an outer housing surface 280 of the first housing part 46 by an axial portion 275 extending parallel to the screw axis 70. The axial portion 275 is configured to correspond to the outer housing surface 280 on the inside, and thus the axial portion 275 is rotationally fixedly connected to the first housing part 46 by an interlocking engagement. Furthermore, the axial portion 275 can also be axially connected to the first housing part 46 by a catch means, which is hidden in FIG. 7 . The engagement element 255 is omitted in FIG. 7 . Instead, the axial portion 275 is connected to the plate part 250.

[0072] The retaining element 155 is cup-shaped and is attached at its upper part to the screw head profile 110. An outer peripheral surface 210 of the retaining element 155 is spaced apart from the free end 200 of the collar 195. The retaining element 155 passes through the first housing opening 55.

[0073] The retaining element 155 has a radial portion 285 axially between the plate portion 250 and the screw head profile 110, which radial portion 285 delimits the receiving portion 240 at an end face. The radial portion 285 abuts the fourth end face 260 on the side facing away from the screw head profile 110. The screw head profile 110 can abut the radial portion 285 in the axial direction at the receiving portion 240.

[0074] The screw locking means 100 further comprises a clamping element 290, which in this embodiment comprises, for example, a spiral spring portion 295 in the shape of a spiral around the screw shaft 70. A detailed configuration of the clamping element 290 is discussed in Fig. 8. The spiral spring portion 295 is preloaded when the contact system 10 is in an assembled state.

[0075] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the fastening element 290 shown in FIG.

[0076] The tightening element 290 has a first retaining portion 300 and a second retaining portion 305 in addition to the spiral spring portion 295. The first retaining portion 300 is, for example, U-shaped and engages with the axial portion 275 of the closure element 160. The second retaining portion 305 extends radially inward and is plate-shaped. The second retaining portion 305 engages with the radial portion 285. Preferably, the tightening element 290 is integrally formed from a single material. This allows the spiral spring portion 295 to have a plurality of turns 330 configured to extend spirally around the screw shaft 70.

[0077] Preferably, the spiral spring portion 295 is preloaded, whereby the preload force is equal to the locking torque M G generates a locking torque M G The torque required to loosen the screw is 60 M. L (See FIG. 7) and acts around the screw shaft 70. G acts on the first housing part 46 via the closure element 160. As a result, unintentional loosening of the screw 60 and therefore loosening of the contact between the contact surfaces 125, 140 is prevented.

[0078] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a contact device 15 of a contact system 10 according to a third embodiment taken along section AA shown in FIG.

[0079] The contact system 10 is configured substantially identically to the embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 8. Only the differences in the contact system 10 shown in Figure 9 compared to the contact system 10 shown in Figures 7 and 8 will be discussed below.

[0080] The clamping element 290, in this embodiment, is in the form of a helical spring and has a helical spring portion 310. The helical spring portion 310 extends around the screw shaft 70. The helical spring portion 310 has a first helical spring end face 315 at a first axial end 311 of the helical spring portion 310. The first helical spring end face 315 abuts the collar 195 on the side that axially faces toward the housing interior 50.

[0081] 9, the first bearing surface 185 of the screw head 65 is disposed radially outward on the wide portion 180 and extends in a plane perpendicular to the screw axis 70. The first bearing surface 185 is annular and positioned radially outward compared to the arrangement of the first bearing surface 185 shown in FIGS. 1 to 6. The first bearing surface 185 is disposed axially opposite the collar 195.

[0082] The helical spring portion 310 has a second helical spring end face 320 at a second axial end 316 of the helical spring portion 310. The second helical spring end face 320 abuts the first bearing surface 185 of the screw head 65.

[0083] The spiral spring portion 310 is preloaded when the screw 60 is assembled in the threaded bushing 80, and applies a clamping force F acting in the axial direction. S It provides a clamping force F S presses the first helical spring end face 315 against the collar 195 and the second helical spring end face 320 against the first bearing surface 185 .

[0084] The spiral spring portion 310 can abut radially outwardly and internally against the first housing portion 46. As a result of the preloaded arrangement, if the screw 60 unintentionally loosens spontaneously, the screw 60 will exert more tension on the clamping element 290, making it more difficult for the screw 60 to loosen from the threaded bushing 80.

[0085] Furthermore, the clamping force F S As a result, frictional engagement is formed between the first bearing surface 185 and the second helical spring end surface 320 and between the first helical spring end surface 315 and the collar 195 .

[0086] As the screw 60 loosens, the frictional engagement between the first bearing surface 185 and the second helical spring end face 320 of the helical spring portion 310 results in an additional circumferential tension being applied to the helical spring portion 310, further preventing the screw 60 from loosening spontaneously and therefore from rotating about the screw axis 70. This causes the helical spring portion 310 to expand radially and contact the first housing portion 46 radially outward.

[0087] To assemble the contact device 15 to a further contact device 40, the screw 60 can be screwed in, whereby the second helical spring end face 320 slides on the first bearing surface 185. Optionally, when the screw 60 rotates about the screw axis 70, the clamping element 290 also undergoes a rotational movement therewith. A tool 325 (schematically shown by a dashed line) can thereby be applied to the screw head profile 110 in order to rotate the screw 60 about the screw axis 70.

[0088] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the fastening element 290.

[0089] The helical spring portion 310 can have a number of turns 330 that are arranged axially spaced apart from one another in the assembled state of the contact device 15 and the further contact device 40. At the first helical spring end face 315 and the second helical spring end face 320, the helical spring portion 310, which is made, for example, from a round material, can be flattened, in particular planar, so that in each case the helical spring end faces 315, 320 lie flush against the collar 195 and / or the first bearing surface 185.

[0090] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a clamping element 290 of a contact system 10 according to a fourth embodiment.

[0091] The contact system 10 is configured substantially identically to the contact system 10 shown in Figures 1-10, particularly as compared to the contact system 10 illustrated in Figures 9 and 10. Only the differences in the contact system 10 shown in Figure 11 as compared to the contact system 10 shown in Figures 9 and 10 will be discussed below.

[0092] The clamping element 290 is configured substantially identically to the clamping element 290 shown in Figures 8 and 9. The clamping element 290 further includes a first mounting portion 335 and a second mounting portion 340. The first mounting portion 335 and the second mounting portion 340 extend substantially axially such that the first mounting portion 335 is connected to the first axial end 311 and the second mounting portion 340 is connected to the second axial end 316.

[0093] The first mounting portion 335 is connected to the first axial end 311, and the second mounting portion 340 is connected to the second axial end 316. The second mounting portion 340 and the first mounting portion 335 are oriented to extend parallel to the screw axis 70, and the second mounting portion 340 is formed inside the helical spring portion 310.

[0094] Additionally, the mounting portions 335, 340 are preferably formed integrally with the helical spring portion 310 from a single material and may have an eye on the side axially facing the first axial end 311 or the second axial end 316, respectively, which eye serves to receive pliers, for example, tapered pliers.

[0095] When the distance a between the first attachment portion 335 and the second attachment portion 340 is reduced, for example by pressing the two attachment portions 335, 340 together at the eye with a pair of pointed pliers, tension is applied to the helical spring portion 310, which in turn reduces the maximum outer diameter d of the helical spring portion 310. MAX When the distance a between the first mounting portion 335 and the second mounting portion 340 increases, the maximum outer diameter d MAX also increases.

[0096] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the contact system 10 according to the fourth embodiment taken along section AA shown in FIG.

[0097] The clamping element 290 is axially arranged between the first bearing surface 185 of the screw head 65 and the collar 195, as also shown in Figures 9 and 10. The first helical spring end face 315 thereby abuts the collar 195. In Figure 12, the second helical spring end face 320 abuts the first bearing surface 185, for example, on the underside.

[0098] In the assembled state, the spiral spring portion 310 exerts, for example, a further clamping force F acting radially outward. SR As a result, the spiral spring portion 310 contacts the housing inner peripheral surface 350 of the first housing portion 46 with the spiral spring outer peripheral surface 345. As a result, an additional clamping force F SR presses the spiral spring outer surface 345 against the housing inner surface 350 of the first housing part 46, and the first housing part 46 applies a further clamping force F SR Reaction force F against G provides a reaction force F G and additional clamping force F SR This ensures that the helical spring outer surface 345 and the housing inner surface 350 form a frictional engagement which has the effect that the helical spring part 310 is axially connected to the first housing part 46 of the housing 45 in an axially fixed manner.

[0099] The second helical spring end face 320 contacts the first bearing surface 185 on its underside. When loosened, the clamping element 290 is further tensioned in the axial direction, which prevents the screw 60 from loosening spontaneously and thus from rotating relative to the threaded bushing 80. As a result, a reliable electrical contact between the two contact elements 105, 135 is ensured.

[0100] The assembly of the contact device 15 and the further contact device 40 can be achieved by screwing the screw 60 into the threaded bushing 80, thereby pressing the first contact element 105 onto the second contact element 135. The two mounting portions 335, 340 are then pulled together, for example with pliers, thereby reducing the distance a. This allows the two mounting portions 335, 340 to also come into contact with each other. As a result, the tightening element 290 can be introduced into the housing interior 50 through the first housing opening 55.

[0101] The clamping element 290 is thereby forced axially downwards towards the screw head 65 to such an extent that the second helical spring end face 320 contacts the first bearing surface 185. The attachment portions 335, 340 are then released and the helical spring portion 310 applies a further clamping force F SR The first spiral spring end surface 315 presses against the housing inner peripheral surface 350, forming a frictional engagement. The first spiral spring end surface 315 further presses against the collar 195, creating a clamping force F S to provide.

[0102] As a result, the contact system 10 can be particularly quickly and easily assembled in the embodiment shown in Figures 11 and 12. In particular, the contact system 10 can also be reversibly disassembled without damage.

[0103] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a contact device 15 of a contact system 10 according to a fifth embodiment.

[0104] The contact system 10 is configured substantially identically to the contact system 10 depicted in Figures 1 to 12. Only the differences in the contact system 10 depicted in Figure 13 compared to the contact system 10 depicted in Figures 1 to 12 will be discussed below.

[0105] The first housing portion 46 has a second housing opening 360 in the outer housing surface 280. The second housing opening 360 is slot-like in shape and extends from the outer housing surface 280 through the first housing portion 46 all the way to the inner housing surface 350. The second housing opening 360 is configured to be significantly narrower in the axial direction than its width in the circumferential or tangential direction, for example, based on the threaded axis 70.

[0106] Preferably, two second housing openings 360 are arranged diametrically opposite each other in the first housing part 46 (hidden in FIG. 13 ) of the housing 45, and are configured to be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The second housing openings 360 are arranged axially offset relative to the first housing opening 55 based on the screw axis 70, and the first housing opening 55 is arranged on the end face, or on the top face in FIG. 13 , based on the screw axis 70. The first housing openings 55 can also be configured to be open in the fully assembled state of the contact system 10, so that the screws 60, particularly the screw heads 65, are accessible from above, for example, with a tool 325. The second housing openings 360 open internally into the housing interior 50.

[0107] 13 has a shackle-shaped retaining element 155. The retaining element 155 is partially disposed on the housing outer periphery 280 outside the housing 45 and partially engages the second housing opening 360.

[0108] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of the retaining element 155 shown in FIG.

[0109] The retaining element 155 has a first shackle portion 365, a second shackle portion 370, and a third shackle portion 375. In FIG. 14 , the basic shape of the retaining element 155 is shackle-shaped, in particular U-shaped. The first shackle portion 365 and the third shackle portion 375 are arranged on a common side of the second shackle portion 370 and each have, for example, the shape of a linearly extending rod. The second shackle portion 370 connects the first shackle portion 365 to the third shackle portion 375. At the rear side, away from the first shackle portion 365 and the third shackle portion 375, the second shackle portion 370 can be provided with a gripping portion 380 to allow particularly easy positioning of the retaining element 155. For example, a gripping surface having a longitudinal groove 385 can be arranged on the wide portion 380.

[0110] In addition, a further catch protrusion 390 may be provided on the side of the first shackle part 365 facing the third shackle part 375 and / or on the side of the third shackle part 375 facing the first shackle part 365, which in Figure 14 is, for example, in the form of a hemispherical protrusion. Different shapes of the further catch protrusion 390 would also be possible. The spherical shape of the further catch protrusion 390 makes it possible to pass over the further catch protrusion 390 in a tangential direction based on the screw axis 70.

[0111] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the contact device 15 shown in FIG. 13 taken along section CC shown in FIG.

[0112] In Figure 15, the screw 60 is shown in its completed screwed-in state in the threaded bushing 80. Furthermore, the retaining element 155 is pressed laterally towards the housing 45. When the two contact devices 15, 40 are assembled together, the first bearing surface 185 configured as shown in Figures 7 to 12 is arranged axially at the same height relative to the second housing opening 360. Here, it is particularly advantageous if the lower first opening surface 391 of the second housing opening 360, which is arranged on the side facing the second housing part 47, is arranged in a common plane with the first bearing surface 185.

[0113] When the retaining element 155 is attached to the housing 45, the first shackle portion 365 passes through the second housing opening 360, and the third shackle portion 375, located opposite the first shackle portion 365, passes radially through the second housing opening 360 located on the opposite side. The first shackle portion 365 and the third shackle portion 375 extend tangentially to the screw axis 70. As a result, the first shackle portion 365 and the third shackle portion 375 each contact the first support surface 185 at their lower surfaces. The first shackle portion 365 and the third shackle portion 375 each support, at their upper surfaces, a second opening surface 392 located axially opposite the first opening surface 391. Preferably, second housing opening 360 is configured to be substantially equally axially wide as first shackle portion 365 and / or third shackle portion 375. Second shackle portion 370 is disposed outside first housing portion 46 (see FIG. 13).

[0114] FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the contact system 10 shown in FIGS. 13-15, in which the additional contact device 40 is not shown.

[0115] After the contact device 15 has been attached to the further contact device 40 in an assembly direction extending parallel to the screw axis 70, the screw 60 is rotated in a first rotational direction around the screw axis 70 and screwed into the threaded bushing 80. For this purpose, a tool 325, for example a Torx key, in particular a Torx nut, can be introduced into the housing interior 50 via the first housing opening 55 and fitted onto the screw head profile 110.

[0116] After the screw 60 is screwed in, the retaining element 155 is introduced laterally into the second housing opening 360 by the first shackle portion 365 and the third shackle portion 375. This causes a tangential force F acting tangentially to the screw shaft 70. T can be introduced into the retaining element 155 via the second shackle part 370, in particular via the gripping part 380. When the retaining element 155 is pressed against the screw head 65, the further catch protrusions 390 slide tangentially circumferentially over the screw head 65 and optionally spread the retaining element 155 radially.

[0117] FIG. 17 shows the contact system 10 shown in FIGS. 13-16, with the retaining element 155 only partially shown for clarity.

[0118] After the screw head 65 has slid over the further catch protrusion 390, the retaining element 155 can be pushed until the second shackle portion 370 contacts the housing outer peripheral surface 280, as shown in Fig. 13. The first shackle portion 365 and the third shackle portion 375 each pass through the associated second housing opening 360 and block the axial movement space of the screw 60 towards the first housing opening 55, thus simply preventing the screw 60 from unintentionally loosening. The contact of the further catch protrusion 390 with the outer peripheral surface 210 of the screw head 65 prevents the retaining element 155 from being unintentionally removed.

[0119] FIG. 18 is a side view of the contact system 10 according to the sixth embodiment.

[0120] The contact system 10 has substantially the same configuration as the contact system 10 shown in the previous figures. In particular, the contact system 10 shown in Fig. 18 is a combination of the embodiments shown in Figs. 7 to 10 and 13 to 17.

[0121] 18 is cup-shaped and circumferentially engages around the first housing portion 46, adjacent in some portions to the first housing opening 55. The second housing opening 360 is located in the closure element 160 rather than in the first housing portion 46.

[0122] 19 is a cross-sectional view of the contact system 10 shown in FIG. 18 taken along section DD shown in FIG.

[0123] In FIG. 19 , no additional contact devices 40 are shown. The closure element 160 in the form of a cover has at least one recess 395 on its inner side. Preferably, a plurality of recesses 395, circumferentially offset relative to one another, are provided on the outer housing surface. The first housing part 46 has at least one nose-shaped protrusion 400 on the outer housing surface 280. The protrusion 400 is configured to be axially shorter than the recess 395 based on the threaded axis 70. In the assembled state, the second housing opening 360 is axially disposed between the second housing part 47 and the protrusion 400. In the assembled state, the protrusion 400 engages with the recess 395, and the protrusion 400 and the recess 395 are configured to correspond to one another in the radial and circumferential directions. As a result, the closure element 160 is rotationally fixedly connected to the first housing part 46.

[0124] In the assembled state, the retaining element 155 passes through the second housing opening 360, whereby the retaining element 155 engages axially behind the projection 400 on the side axially remote from the plate portion 250.

[0125] The screw locking means 100 further comprises a further retaining element 405, which is a further development of the retaining element 155 shown in Figures 3 to 6. The further retaining element 405 has a receiving portion 240. The further retaining element 405 has an edge 410 on its upper surface, which edge 410 is preferably configured to extend around the further retaining element 405. The edge 410 abuts the collar 195 on the side remote from the first contact element 105. The further retaining element 405 passes through the first housing opening 55 and receives the screw head profile 110 in the receiving portion 240.

[0126] The clamping element 290 is arranged between the plate 250 and the further retaining element 405. The clamping element 290 is configured as shown in Figure 10, with the first helical spring end face 315 abutting the plate 250 and the second helical spring end face 320 abutting the further retaining element 405. The clamping element 290 is preloaded and is subjected to an axially acting clamping force F S The clamping element 290 thereby clamps the closure element 160 against the first housing part 46 via the engagement of the retaining element 155 and the second housing opening 360. Furthermore, a clamping force F S acts on the collar 195 via a further retaining element 405 and its edge 410 .

[0127] The clamping element 290 is supported on its underside by the further retaining element 405 and presses the further retaining element 405 against the collar 195 by means of an edge 410. As a result, the further retaining element 405 is connected to the first housing part 46 by frictional engagement. At the same time, the screw head profile 110 engages in the receiving part 240. As a result of the frictional engagement between the first housing part 46 and the further retaining element 405, the screw 60 is prevented from loosening spontaneously. On the other hand, a clamping force F acting axially from above on the screw head 65 via the further retaining element 405 S prevents the screw head 65 from moving axially towards the clamping element 290 .

[0128] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the contact system 10 shown in Figure 18 taken along cross section EE shown in Figure 18 during a third assembly step of the assembly of the contact system 10 shown in Figures 13-19. Figures 21 and 22 show perspective views of the contact device 15 during a fourth assembly step of the assembly of the contact system 10. Figure 23 shows a perspective view of the contact device 15 during the fourth assembly step of the assembly of the contact system 10.

[0129] During assembly of the contact system 10 , the retaining element 155 is only partially pressed into the second housing opening 360 so that the second shackle portion 370 is spaced apart from the housing outer periphery 280 .

[0130] In a first assembly step, the housing 45 together with the first contact element 105 is assembled and attached to the further contact device 40 .

[0131] In a second assembly step, the screw 60 is screwed into the threaded bushing 80 and tightened to a predefined tightening torque M A As a result, the first contact element 105 is pressed against the second contact element 135, and good electrical contact is established between the first contact element 105 and the second contact element 135.

[0132] In a third assembly step (see FIG. 20 ), which follows the second assembly step, the further retaining element 405 is attached to the screw head 65, after which the edge 410 abuts the collar 195. To enable attachment, the further retaining element 405 can be rotated around the screw axis 70 until the screw head profile 110 and the receiving part 240 are oriented in correspondence with one another.

[0133] In a fourth assembly step (see FIG. 21 ), the recess 395 and the protrusion 400 are arranged to overlap axially after the closure element 160 is rotated circumferentially around the threaded axis 70 relative to the first housing part 46. Axial overlap is thereby understood to mean that when two components, for example the recess 395 and the protrusion 400, are axially projected into a projection plane extending perpendicular to the threaded axis 70, these two components, for example the recess 395 and the protrusion 400 in FIG. 21 , overlap in the projection plane.

[0134] In a fifth assembly step (see FIG. 23), the closure element 160 is pushed towards the first housing part 46, after which the projection 400 is axially positioned between the plate part 250 and the second housing opening 360. This places the clamping element 290 under tension.

[0135] In a sixth assembly step, the retaining element 155 is pushed tangentially, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 22, so that the first shackle portion 365 and the third shackle portion 375 are guided through their associated second housing openings 360.

[0136] In a seventh assembly step following the sixth assembly step, the closure element 160 is released, so that after the clamping element 290 has pushed the closure element 160 away from the first housing part 46, the protrusion 400 comes into contact with the retaining element 155, in particular the first shackle part 365 or the third shackle part 375, thereby preventing the closure element 160 from moving further axially relative to the first housing part 46.

[0137] As a result, the contact system 10 shown in Figures 13 to 23 can be assembled particularly easily and can also be disassembled reversibly without damage.

[0138] FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of a contact system 10 according to a seventh embodiment.

[0139] The contact system 10 is configured substantially identically to the contact system 10 shown in Figures 13 to 17. Only the differences in the contact system 10 shown in Figure 24 compared to the contact system 10 shown in Figures 13 to 17 will be discussed below.

[0140] In FIG. 24, the first housing portion 46 is not shown for clarity.

[0141] The screw 60 has external toothing 415 on the screw head 65. The external toothing 415 is, for example, straight-edged and, for example, in the form of a spur gear. The external toothing 415 adjoins a first bearing surface 185 radially inward. The first bearing surface 185 extends in a plane of rotation relative to the screw axis 70. The first bearing surface 185 is arranged radially outward and adjoins a further outer peripheral surface. The screw head profile 110 is arranged radially inward relative to the external toothing 415.

[0142] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the retaining element 155 of the contact system 15 shown in FIG.

[0143] The retaining element 155 has a web portion 420 on the radially inner side based on the screw axis 70. The web portion 420 is arranged on the radially opposite side of the second shackle portion 370 from the gripping portion 380. The web portion 420 extends radially inward. An internal toothing 425 is arranged on the web portion 420. The internal toothing 425 and the external toothing 415 are configured to correspond to each other. The internal toothing 425 extends in an arcuate portion around the screw axis 70.

[0144] In the assembled state of the contact system 10, the retaining element 155 is pressed onto the screw 60 until the inner toothing 425 and the outer toothing 415 engage with one another. As a result, the screw head 65 of the screw 60 is rotationally fixedly connected to the retaining element 155. The retaining element 155 is rotationally fixedly connected to the first housing part 46 by the engagement of the first shackle part 365 and the third shackle part 375 with the second housing opening 360. As a result, the screw 60 is interlockedly prevented from rotating. [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] 10 Contact System 15 Contact Devices 20 Electrical Cables 25 Electrical Conductors 30 Sheath 35-Terminal Bus 40 Further Contact Devices 45 Housing 46 First housing part 47 Second housing part 50 Inside the housing 55 first housing opening 60 screws 65 screw head 70 screw shaft 75 More Housing 80 Threaded Bush 85 shaft 90 Male thread 95 female thread 100 Screw locking means 105 first contact element 110 screw head profile 115 Fastening surface 120 first end face 125 First Contact Surface 130 screw opening 135 second contact element 140 Second Contact Surface 145 Second end face 150 More inside the housing 155 Holding Element 160 Closure Elements 165 Third End Face 170 Groove 175 Catch spring 180 wide part 185 First bearing surface 190 Second bearing surface 195 Color 200 free end 205 Catch protrusion 210 Outer surface 215 Catch receiving part 220 First groove 225 Second groove 230 Third bearing surface 235 Inner surface 240 Receiving Department 245 Fourth bearing surface 250 Board part 255 Engagement element 260 Fourth End Face 265 first engagement portion 270 Second engagement portion 275 Axial section 280 Exterior 285 Radial section 290 Clamping Element 295 Spiral spring part 300 First holding part 305 Second holding part 310 Spiral spring part 311 first axial end 315 First spiral spring end face 316 second axial end 320 Second spiral spring end face 325 Tools 330 rolls 335 First Mounting Part 340 Second mounting part 345 Spiral spring outer surface 350 Housing inner surface 355 Housing outer surface 360 second housing opening 365 First shackle part 370 Second shackle part 375 Third Shackle 380 Gripping part 385 Vertical groove 390 Additional catch protrusion 395 recess 400 protrusions 405 Further Retention Elements 410 Edge 415 Outer teeth 420 Web Department 425 Inner teeth F force F G reaction force F T tangential force F S Clamping force F SR More clamping force a distance d MAX Outer diameter M Torque M A Tightening torque M G Reverse torque M L Loosening torque

Claims

1. A contact device (15), a housing (45), a screw (60), a screw locking means (100) and a first contact element (105) for contacting a second contact element (135) of a further contact device (40), the first contact element (105) and the screw (60) are at least partially disposed within the housing (45); The screw (60) has a screw head (65) and a shaft (85), the shaft (85) being connected to the screw head (65) and extending along the screw axis (70); a first thread (90) disposed on at least some portions of the shaft (85); the screw locking means (100) connects the screw head (65) to the housing (45) by force-based and / or interlocking engagement; the screw locking means (100) comprises a retaining element (155) having a receiving portion (240) in which the screw head profile (110) of the screw head (65) at least partially engages, The housing (45) has a closure element (160) having an engagement element (255) extending around the threaded shaft (70); The retaining element (155) has a groove (170) arranged to extend around the screw shaft (70) and a catch spring (175) formed radially outward of the groove (170); The engaging element (255) is configured to engage with the groove (170) and to push the catch spring (175) radially outward, thereby causing at least some portions of the catch spring (175) to engage with the housing (45). A contact device (15).

2. The screw head (65) has the screw head profile (110) for mounting a screw head drive and inducing a torque (M) around the screw shaft (70); said receiving portion (240) being configured to be at least complementary to said screw head profile (110), preferably corresponding to said screw head profile (110); The retaining element (155) is coupled to the housing (45). A contact device (15) according to claim 1.

3. The groove (170) is disposed on an end face away from the screw (60), The housing (45) has a first housing portion (46) having a collar (195); The catch spring (175) is configured to engage at least in part behind the collar (195); A contact device (15) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A contact device (15), a housing (45), a screw (60), a screw locking means (100) and a first contact element (105) for contacting a second contact element (135) of a further contact device (40), the first contact element (105) and the screw (60) are at least partially disposed within the housing (45); The screw (60) has a screw head (65) and a shaft (85), the shaft (85) being connected to the screw head (65) and extending along the screw axis (70); a first thread (90) disposed on at least some portions of the shaft (85); the screw locking means (100) connects the screw head (65) to the housing (45) by force-based and / or interlocking engagement; The housing (45) has at least a first housing opening (55) and a second housing opening (360); the screw head (65) of the screw (60) is accessible through the first housing opening (55); The second housing opening (360) is disposed offset relative to the first housing opening (55) on the outer circumferential surface (280) of the housing (45); The second housing opening (360) is provided with a predetermined length along at least a portion of the housing outer circumferential surface (280), The second housing opening (360) opens internally into the housing interior (50); The screw locking means (100) has a retaining element (155), the retaining element (155) is disposed on the outer circumferential surface (280) of the housing (45) and passes at least partially through the second housing opening (360); The retaining element (155) abuts the screw head (65) in several parts. A contact device (15).

5. the second housing opening (360) is slot-shaped, and the screw head (65) has a bearing surface (185) disposed on an end face thereof; The retaining element (155) has at least a first shackle portion (365) of elongated shape, The first shackle portion (365) is oriented tangentially to the screw axis (70) and passes through the second housing opening. A contact device (15) according to claim 4.

6. The retaining element (155) has internal toothing (425) and the screw head (65) has external toothing (415), said outer toothing (415) and said inner toothing (425) engage with each other; The retaining element (155) is rotationally fixedly connected to the housing (45). A contact device (15) according to claim 4 or 5.

7. A contact device (15), a housing (45), a screw (60), a screw locking means (100) and a first contact element (105) for contacting a second contact element (135) of a further contact device (40), the first contact element (105) and the screw (60) are at least partially disposed within the housing (45); The screw (60) has a screw head (65) and a shaft (85), the shaft (85) being connected to the screw head (65) and extending along the screw axis (70); a first thread (90) disposed on at least some portions of the shaft (85); the screw locking means (100) connects the screw head (65) to the housing (45) by force-based and / or interlocking engagement; The screw locking means (100) comprises a clamping element (290), The clamping element (290) is preloaded to apply a clamping force (F Ｓ ) and The tightening force (F Ｓ ) acting between said housing (45) and said screw (60), The clamping element (290) has a helical spring portion (310) in the form of a helical spring; The spiral spring portion (310) is configured to extend around the screw shaft (70) and surround the screw head (65). A contact device (15).

8. The spiral spring portion (310) contacts the housing (45) at a first axial end (311) of the spiral spring portion (310), the helical spring portion (310) contacts the screw head (65) at a second axial end (316) of the helical spring portion (310) opposite the first axial end (311); The clamping force (F Ｓ ) axially presses the screw head (65) against the first contact element (105), A contact device (15) according to claim 7.

9. A contact device (15), a housing (45), a screw (60), a screw locking means (100) and a first contact element (105) for contacting a second contact element (135) of a further contact device (40), the first contact element (105) and the screw (60) are at least partially disposed within the housing (45); The screw (60) has a screw head (65) and a shaft (85), the shaft (85) being connected to the screw head (65) and extending along the screw axis (70); a first thread (90) disposed on at least some portions of the shaft (85); the screw locking means (100) connects the screw head (65) to the housing (45) by force-based and / or interlocking engagement; The screw locking means (100) comprises a clamping element (290), said clamping element (290) being preloaded to provide a clamping force (F S ); The clamping force (F S ) acts between the housing (45) and the screw (60), The clamping element (290) has a spiral spring portion (295) in the shape of a spiral, The spiral spring portion (295) is connected to the screw head (65) radially inward, The spiral spring portion (295) is connected to the housing (45) at its radially outer side, The spiral spring portion (295) is configured to reduce the lock torque (M Ｇ ) and The lock torque (M Ｇ ) is the loosening torque (M Ｌ ) and is being led against The screw locking means (100) comprises a retaining element (155) having a receiving portion (240), The housing (45) has a first housing part (46) and a closure element (160), the closure element (160) is connected to the first housing part (46) by a torque-based connection; The first housing portion (46) internally defines a housing interior (50); The closure element (160) closes the housing interior (50) at an end face, The fastening element (290) is disposed between the closure element (160) and the retaining element (155). A contact device (15).

10. A contact device (15), comprising: a housing (45), a screw (60), a screw locking means (100) and a first contact element (105) for contacting a second contact element (135) of a further contact device (40), the first contact element (105) and the screw (60) are at least partially disposed within the housing (45); The screw (60) has a screw head (65) and a shaft (85), the shaft (85) being connected to the screw head (65) and extending along the screw axis (70); a first thread (90) disposed on at least some portions of the shaft (85); the screw locking means (100) connects the screw head (65) to the housing (45) by force-based and / or interlocking engagement; The screw locking means (100) comprises a clamping element (290), said clamping element (290) being preloaded to provide a clamping force (F S ); The clamping force (F S ) acts between the housing (45) and the screw (60), The housing (45) a first housing portion (46) having a first housing opening (55) and internally defining a housing interior (50); a second housing opening (360) and a closure element (160) connected to the first housing portion (46) to close the housing interior (50); the screw head (65) is accessible through the first housing opening (55); The screw locking means (100) a retaining element (155) passing through the second housing opening (360) and connecting the closure element (160) to the first housing part (46); a further retaining element (405) having a receiving portion (240) for receiving the screw head profile (110) of the screw head (65), the clamping element (290) is arranged between the closure element (160) and the further holding element (405); A contact device (15).

11. The first housing portion (46) has a protrusion (400) extending radially outward on the outside, The retaining element (155) has at least a first shackle portion (365) of elongated shape; the first shackle part (365) is oriented tangentially to the screw axis (70) and passes through the second housing opening (360) to axially connect the closure element (160) to the first housing part (46); A contact device (15) according to claim 10.

12. the closure element (160) has a plate-like plate portion (250) oriented obliquely to the screw axis (70), preferably transversely to the screw axis (70); the clamping element (290) is arranged axially between the further holding element (405) and the plate (250), The tightening force (F Ｓ ) acting in the axial direction between the plate (250) and the further retaining element (405), A contact device (15) according to claim 10 or 11.

13. having a contact device (15) and a further contact device (40), The contact device (15) is configured as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, the further contact device (40) comprises a second contact element (135) and a threaded bush (80) having a second thread (95); the shaft (85) is at least partially threaded into the threaded bushing (80), and the first thread (90) and the second thread (95) engage with each other; The screw (60) presses the first contact element (105) against the second contact element (135) for electrical contact. Contact system (10).

14. 14. A method of assembling a contact system (10) according to claim 13, comprising the steps of: the contact device (15) and the further contact device (40) are aligned with respect to each other, the shaft (85) is screwed into the threaded bushing (80) and the screw (60) is tightened in a first rotational direction around the threaded axis (70) with a predefined torque (M); The screw locking means (100) is attached, The thread locking means (100) couples the screw head (65) to the housing (45) and prevents the screw (60) from rotating in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.

Images