Coupling for two plug connectors

Abstract

The present invention relates to a coupling (1) adapted to receive two plug connectors (100, 200) facing each other and connected in direct electrical contact with each other, each plug connector having at least one mounting means (110, 210) for mounting to a corresponding plug connector. The coupling (1) comprises a sleeve-like casing (2) extending along an axis (A) with a first end (3) and a second end (4) opposite the first end, an inner chamber (5), the first end (3) being provided with a first opening (6) for inserting a first plug connector (100) with the first mounting means (110), the second end (4) being provided with a second opening (7) for inserting a second plug connector (200) with the second mounting means (210), the first end (3) being provided with a first coupling mounting means (8) for inserting a second plug connector (200) with the second mounting means (210), the first end (3) being provided with a first coupling mounting means (9) for inserting a second plug connector (200) with the second mounting means (220), the second end (4) being provided with a first coupling mounting means (10) for inserting a second plug connector (200) with the second mounting means (230), the first end (3) being provided with a first coupling mounting means (110), the second end (4) being provided with a second opening (7) for inserting a second plug connector (200) with the second mounting means (210), the first end (3) being provided with a first coupling mounting means (120), the second end (4) being provided with a second opening (7) for inserting a second plug connector (200) with the second mounting means (220), the second end (4) being provided with a first coupling mounting means (130), the first coupling mounting means (140), the second end (4) being provided with a second opening (7) for inserting a second plug connector (200) with the second mounting means (230), the second end (4) being provided with a first coupling mounting means (150), the second end (4) being A first coupling mounting means is arranged at the second end (4), the first coupling mounting means being configured to cooperate with the first mounting means (110) of the first plug connector (100) such that the first plug connector (100) can be connected to the coupling (1) in a loss-preventing manner, and a second coupling mounting means (9) is arranged at the second end (4), the second coupling mounting means being configured to cooperate with the second mounting means (210) of the second plug connector (200) such that the second plug connector (200) can be connected to the coupling (1) in a loss-preventing manner.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a coupling adapted to receive two plug connectors facing each other and in direct electrical contact with each other, each plug connector having at least one mounting means for mounting to a corresponding plug connector. The invention further relates to such a coupling and to a plug connector assembly comprising a first plug connector and a second plug connector.

[0002] Background technology Wiring harnesses for motor vehicles are known from the prior art. These wiring harnesses can have a plug connector or wiring harness plug at one end, which has a housing with contact chambers in which contact elements are installed. Some or all of these contact elements can be configured as female contact elements, for example as socket contact elements. The plug connector can be connected to a counterpart plug connector, for example, to an interface of a control device. The counterpart plug connector has counterpart contact elements that are configured complementary to the contact elements of the plug connector. If the plug connector has female contact elements, the counterpart plug connector has male contact elements, for example contact blades or contact pins.

[0003] A wiring harness plug or plug connector of this type is known from DE 10 2004 030 991 A1.

[0004] Furthermore, the prior art also knows that plug connectors often have at least one mounting means for preventing loss and mechanically connecting them to a complementary counter-plug connector. This is important, for example, for plug connectors in automobiles to prevent unintentional disconnection of the electrical connection. Furthermore, the prior art also knows plug connectors with a large number of contact elements (e.g., more than five, more than ten, or even more than 50 contact elements). Even with a large number of contact elements, a conversion mechanism, for example in the form of a lever element and / or a sliding element, can be provided to ensure that the assembly worker only exerts a small force when connecting the plug connector and the counter-plug connector. These elements have mounting means, for example in the form of a sliding guideway or a gear. In this case, these mounting means cooperate with corresponding counter-plug connector mounting means, for example in the form of a bolt, pin, or lug, or in the form of a rack, during connection. In this way, for example, by suitable lever and / or slider guideway design, the plug connector can be connected to a counter plug connector, for example to a multi-point connector of a control device, with reduced operating forces. At the same time, the attachment means can, in its end position, produce a loss-proof connection between the plug connector and the counter plug connector.

[0005] A plug connector known from DE 10 2013 212 914 A1 has an attachment means in the form of a lever element with a single-tooth gear which meshes with a counter-plug connector attachment means in the form of a rack, and in the final connected state the plug connector and the counter-plug connector are connected to one another in a loss-proof manner by cooperation of the attachment means and the counter-plug connector attachment means.

[0006] The plug connector known from DE 195 11 225 A1 has mounting means in the form of a sliding element with a number of sliding guideways which cooperate with pins, bolts or protrusions as mounting means on the counter-plug connector, and in the final connected state the plug connector and the counter-plug connector are connected to one another in a loss-proof manner by cooperation of the mounting means and the mounting means on the counter-plug connector.

[0007] The plug connector known from DE 10 2005 047 349 A1 has a lever element as mounting means, which has two slider guide tracks that cooperate with pins as mounting means of a corresponding plug connector.

[0008] A plug connector known from German Utility Model No. 29702999 has as mounting means a sliding element with a rack and a toothed wheel, the rack meshing with the toothed wheel, which on the opposite side to the rack meshes with another rack which serves as mounting means for the counter-plug connector, in which female contact elements of the plug connector are inserted into male contact elements of the counter-plug connector during mating.

[0009] Disclosure of the Invention The present invention is based on the recognition that situations may exist in which a plug connector or a wiring harness plug must be connected to a corresponding plug connector having at least one female contact element, whereby the female contact element of the plug connector must be abutted against the female contact element of the corresponding plug connector. This situation may arise, for example, when two identical wiring harness plugs must be connected to each other, for example, to extend a wiring harness section. Another example of use would be a corresponding interface that is reconfigured from male contact elements to female contact elements. Electrical contact is not readily possible in such cases. In this case, the plug connector must be provided with a male contact element (or at least one male contact element) that can be connected to a corresponding female contact element of the corresponding plug connector and thus be electrically contacted.

[0010] Plug connectors of this type, which must be provided with male contact elements, are required in relatively small numbers, for example in motor vehicles, since most control devices and other components usually have multi-point connectors with male contact elements as electrical interfaces or provide for only one male contact element for contact connection.

[0011] The production of a counter plug connector casing with complementary contact elements (i.e. usually male contact elements) for a plug connector (e.g. for the purpose of the above-mentioned wire extension) has proven to be costly, since specially manufactured tools are required to produce such counter plug connector casings, which are only required in small numbers, with corresponding counter plug connector mounting means that allow a loss-proof connection between the plug connector and such counter plug connector casing.

[0012] Therefore, there may be a need to provide an inexpensive way to mechanically connect two such plug connectors that are not directly mechanically connectable to one another. Furthermore, there may be a need to provide one of these two plug connectors in a simple form for mechanical connection as a counterpart plug connector, for example, as one end of an extension line connected to the other plug connector. Therefore, there may be a need to reliably and reliably connect two such plug connectors that are inexpensively made and cannot be easily connected to one another electrically and mechanically, particularly in a way that prevents loss. Furthermore, there may be a need to form a direct electrical connection between the two plug connectors without electrical intermediate lines in order to save construction space and to avoid multiple contact transitions as much as possible, since multiple contact transitions each have contact resistance and the risk of contact breakage. In other words, it is desirable not to use an adapter intermediate element that is longer in longitudinal extension and, in some cases, has additional lines inside it.

[0013] Advantages of the invention This requirement can be covered by the subject matter of the invention according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the invention, a coupling is proposed.

[0015] The coupling is configured to receive two plug connectors facing each other and in direct electrical contact with each other, each plug connector having at least one mounting means for mounting to a corresponding plug connector. The coupling has a casing extending along an axial direction. The casing has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The coupling further has an internal chamber. The internal chamber may be, for example, an internal chamber of the casing. The first end of the casing has a first opening for receiving the first plug connector, and the first plug connector has the first mounting means. The first opening may be formed for receiving the first plug connector. The second end of the casing has a second opening for receiving the second plug connector, and the second plug connector has the second mounting means. The second opening may be formed for receiving the second plug connector. The first coupling mounting means is disposed at the first end. The first coupling attachment means is configured to cooperate with the first attachment means of the first plug connector so that the first plug connector can be or is coupled to the coupling in a loss-proof manner when the first plug connector is inserted into or coupled to the coupling in a predetermined position. Second coupling attachment means is disposed on the second end. The second coupling attachment means is configured to cooperate with the second attachment means of the second plug connector so that the second plug connector can or is coupled to the coupling in a loss-proof manner when the second plug connector is inserted into or coupled to the coupling in a predetermined position.

[0016] This advantageously provides a very simple and inexpensive device with which two plug connectors can be securely, reliably and permanently connected to one another, even if a direct connection between the two plug connectors to be connected to one another is not possible (for example because the mounting elements or mounting means of the two plug connectors to be connected to one another are both configured, for example, as lever elements or both as sliding elements (hereinafter referred to as female), or both as pins, lugs, bolts or racks for cooperating with lever or sliding elements (hereinafter referred to as male)). The loss-proof connection of the two plug connectors to one another is therefore achieved indirectly because the coupling provides two coupling mounting means by which each one of the plug connectors can be connected to the coupling in a loss-proof manner (for example in this case the coupling has two male coupling mounting means complementary to the female mounting means of the plug connectors, or vice versa; a mixed form is also possible: one coupling mounting means is female and the other is male). Advantageously, this coupling provides a device or component that can significantly reduce the cost of providing the above-mentioned uses (e.g., with extension wires or multi-pole connectors for wire harnesses).

[0017] This is because the coupling advantageously allows the creation of a matching counterpart, i.e., a second plug connector, with the same (first) plug connector casing, for connecting, for example, a conventional (first) plug connector, simply by providing the second plug connector with contact elements complementary to those of the first plug connector. In contrast, it is not necessary to manufacture an entirely new casing for the second plug connector, e.g., with a second mounting means complementary to the first plug connector. In other words, because the mechanical interface function is provided by the coupling, the coupling reduces the cost of the laborious production of second plug connectors, the number of which is only required for such extension lines. The coupling functions, for example, like a kind of adapter, but preferably does not have electrical functions and / or electrical lines. The coupling can be configured so that its casing merely provides a mechanical mating interface for the plug connectors, allowing direct contact between the two plug connectors within its interior.

[0018] The radial direction extends perpendicular to the axial direction, and the circumferential direction extends around the axial direction.

[0019] The coupling itself can be produced very simply and inexpensively, for example from insulating plastic. It can be produced, for example, by injection molding. In principle, however, the coupling can also be produced from sheet metal or other materials with good electrical conductivity. In this case, the coupling can additionally advantageously produce a shielding effect for the electrical connection formed in the interior of the plug connector when it is plugged in. Furthermore, the coupling can be constructed as a composite component. For example, such a coupling can be made partially from a plastic that allows electrical insulation (for example, in the area of ​​the direct electrical contact of the two plug connectors). The coupling can also contain metal parts, for example, to provide shielding.

[0020] The casing may be formed, for example, in the shape of a sleeve. The casing may have, for example, a first plug collar at a first end. A first coupling attachment means may be attached or arranged on the first plug collar. The first plug collar may be configured in shape similar to the plug collar or plug interface of a corresponding plug connector that corresponds to the first plug connector. This allows for problem-free loss-proof coupling of the first plug connector to the coupling at the first end. The casing may have, for example, a second plug collar at a second end. A second coupling attachment means may be attached or arranged on the second plug collar. The second plug collar may be configured in shape similar to the plug collar or plug interface of a corresponding plug connector that corresponds to the second plug connector. This allows for problem-free loss-proof coupling of the second plug connector to the coupling at the second end.

[0021] Of course, a coupling can have only one first coupling attachment means or only one second coupling attachment means. However, a coupling can also have a plurality of first and / or second coupling attachment means, for example, two, three, four or more. If a plurality of first and / or second coupling attachment means are provided, they can all be configured similarly or can be different from one another, for example to cooperate with different first and / or second attachment means of the first or second plug connector. They can also produce various retention features (radial, axial, etc.) to separate the functions.

[0022] The first and second openings may, for example, be oriented parallel to the axial direction, respectively—opposite to each other—but may also be arranged at an angle to one another, provided that direct interconnection of the contact elements arranged in both plug connectors is possible.

[0023] Particularly advantageously, it may be provided that the loss-proof connection is non-destructively detachable again.

[0024] Within the scope of this application, unless otherwise specified, the term "having" is used synonymously with the term "including."

[0025] In one development, it is provided that the casing is flexibly and / or rigidly configured, i.e., it is not, for example, merely an elastic silicone sleeve or an insulating strip ("tape") that covers the connecting portions of the two plug connectors.

[0026] This advantageously ensures that the first and / or second plug connector is connected to the coupling in a particularly secure and loss-proof manner, and further advantageously ensures that the electrical or contact connection between the two plug connectors is particularly well protected, for example against external mechanical influences, when the two plug connectors are connected to the coupling.

[0027] In one development, it is provided that the first coupling mounting means or the coupling mounting element is configured to couple with the first mounting means in a form-locking, force-locking, and / or friction-locking manner. This advantageously allows for a particularly simple and reliably configurable connection between the coupling and the first plug connector. Preferably, this type of connection can be non-destructively released, for example for maintenance purposes.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the second coupling mounting means or the coupling mounting element is configured to couple with the second mounting means in a form-locking, force-locking, and / or friction-locking manner. This advantageously allows for a particularly simple and reliably formable connection between the coupling and the second plug connector. Preferably, this type of connection can be non-destructively released, for example for maintenance purposes.

[0029] In one development, it is envisaged that the first coupling mounting means is formed as a bolt, pin or protrusion protruding outwards or inwards. Alternatively, the first coupling mounting means may be formed as a rack. The bolt, pin, protrusion or rack is formed to cooperate with the first mounting means formed as a lever element or a sliding element to provide a loss-proof connection between the coupling and the first plug connector.

[0030] "Externally projecting" may be understood to mean, for example, a projection away from the interior chamber in a radial direction, e.g., from the outer surface of the casing into the outer space of the coupling. "Internally projecting" may be understood to mean, for example, a projection radially inward, e.g., from the inner surface of the casing into the interior chamber.

[0031] It will be appreciated that more than one of the above elements (bolts, pins, lugs, racks) may be provided as coupling attachment means so as to interact with one another, and different first coupling attachment means may be provided at different locations on the first end.

[0032] Furthermore, of course, there may be just one first coupling attachment means (e.g. just one bolt or the like). However, there may be a plurality (e.g. two, three, four or more) first coupling attachment means, e.g. bolts or the like, which may be located on different faces of the casing or all located on the same face.

[0033] This advantageously allows for a particularly simple and secure connection between the first plug connector and the coupling, and also advantageously allows for low actuation forces when mating the first plug connector with the second plug connector, as well as a reduction in actuation forces when mating the first plug connector with a counter-plug actually provided for it (e.g. a control device interface with a plug collar).

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, it is envisaged that the second coupling mounting means is formed as a separate bolt, pin or protrusion projecting outwards or inwards. Alternatively, the second coupling mounting means may be formed as a separate rack. The separate bolt, pin, protrusion or rack is configured to cooperate with the second mounting means formed as a separate lever element or slide element to provide a loss-proof connection between the coupling and the second plug connector.

[0035] It will be appreciated that more than one of the above elements (separate bolts, separate pins, separate protrusions, separate racks) may be provided as coupling attachment means to interact with one another. Different second coupling attachment means may be provided at different locations on the second end.

[0036] Furthermore, of course, there may be just one second coupling attachment means (e.g. just one separate bolt, etc.), but there may also be a plurality (e.g. two, three, four or more) second coupling attachment means, e.g. separate bolts, etc., which may be located on different faces of the casing or all located on the same face.

[0037] This advantageously allows for a particularly simple and secure connection between the second plug connector and the coupling, and also advantageously allows for low actuation forces when mating the first and second plug connectors, as well as a reduction in the actuation forces when mating the actual counterpart provided for the second plug connector (e.g. a control device interface with a plug collar).

[0038] In one development, it is envisaged that a stopper is provided in the interior of the casing, and that the stopper is configured to block movement of the first plug connector and / or the second plug connector along the respective insertion direction beyond the stopper.

[0039] This advantageously ensures that when the first and / or second plug connectors are plugged in, the first plug connector is plugged in at a precise axial position and / or the second plug connector is plugged in to a precise axial position. In this way, a secure and reliable electrical contact between the first and second plug connectors is ensured within the interior of the coupling. This also ensures precise positioning of the plug connector mounting means, including the associated coupling mounting means. The stop also advantageously provides tactile feedback to the installer that the correct position has been reached. It is also conceivable that the stop is configured to be movable within the interior. That is, the stop can initially hold the plug connector in a pre-assembly position. For example, during final connection by moving an operating element (e.g., a lever element or a sliding element) on the plug connector, the stop can move along with it, allowing the corresponding plug connector to move deeper into the interior. Such (movable) stops may for example be formed to define end stop positions that block or prevent further movement of each plug connector along its respective plug-in direction.

[0040] For example, it may be possible for only one stopper to be provided in the interior chamber. However, multiple stoppers may also be provided in the interior chamber. For example, each plug connector may have its own stopper in the interior chamber, or each plug connector may have one or more stoppers in the interior chamber.

[0041] Certainly, the coupling mounting means or the walls of the coupling casing or the end faces of the coupling can also be used in the form of stops, but these elements are often not located in the interior space or can not be assigned to the interior space (end faces, etc.).

[0042] In one development, a bottom plate is provided within the interior chamber, the bottom plate extending substantially along a radial direction extending perpendicular to the axial direction, and the bottom plate is assumed to be spaced apart from the first opening and the second opening, respectively, by at least 20% of the length of the interior chamber as viewed along the axial direction.

[0043] This advantageously stabilizes the casing, making it more torsionally rigid and stable against mechanical influences in the radial direction. Furthermore, the bottom plate can be used, for example, as a stop indicating the maximum end position for the first plug connector and / or the second plug connector. Furthermore, the bottom plate can advantageously form a sort of separating wall or seal between the first end and the second end. For example, the bottom plate can form a substantially closed surface within the interior of the casing. For example, the bottom plate can divide the interior into a first section (from the first end to the bottom plate) and a second section (from the second end to the bottom plate). The penetration of contaminants, dust, or fluid media from the first section to the second section, or vice versa, is made difficult or even prevented by the bottom plate. This can be extremely advantageous when using the coupling, for example, as a penetration between two different clean spaces (e.g., separating the engine compartment from the vehicle passenger compartment).

[0044] In one development, it is envisaged that the bottom plate has at least one through-opening for guiding through the contact portion of a male contact element, in particular a pin or contact blade, of the first plug connector and / or for guiding through the contact portion of a male contact element, in particular a pin or contact blade, of the second plug connector.

[0045] This advantageously enables an electrical connection between the male contact elements and the female contact elements arranged on the opposite side of the bottom plate. Furthermore, the through-openings advantageously allow the male contact elements to have a radial guide, or, when a plug connector having male contact elements is inserted, it is possible to detect tactilely (and possibly also visually through a further opening in the coupling) whether the plug connector is installed in the correct radial position so that the male contact elements have actually abutted against the corresponding female contact elements. The bottom plate with the through-openings therefore advantageously functions as a kind of positioning aid.

[0046] Of course, the bottom plate can have just one through-opening, but it may also have several through-openings, for example, one through-opening for each male contact element.

[0047] For example, it may be advantageous for the through opening to have a diameter that is only slightly larger (e.g., at most 20% larger or at most 10% larger) than the contact portion of the male contact element, such that the contact portion passes through the through opening and contacts a corresponding female contact element on the opposite side of the bottom plate.

[0048] It is furthermore possible for the through-opening to have, for example, a lead-in bevel or a lead-in funnel on the side facing the male contact element, so that the contact is "captured" when the plug connector is inserted into the first opening and then directed into the through-opening by the lead-in bevel or the lead-in funnel. In this way, even if the plug connector is slightly tilted radially, the male contact element can easily and reliably contact the corresponding female contact element without damage. It is also possible for the through-opening to have one lead-in bevel on each side of the bottom plate. This advantageously allows the coupling to be used for any insertion direction of the male contact element. In this case, the narrowing of the through-opening between these two lead-in bevels advantageously ensures radial positioning of the inserted male contact element.

[0049] Furthermore, it is advantageous to provide, for example, a sealing element in the through-opening or on the bottom plate, i.e., before and after the through-opening in the axial direction, which advantageously further improves the sealing effect of the bottom plate between the first and second sections.

[0050] Of course, both plug connectors can each have at least one male contact element that can be connected to a corresponding female contact element of the other plug connector, but it is also conceivable, for example, that only the second plug connector has male contact elements and the first plug connector has only female contact elements.

[0051] In one development, it is envisaged that the first end is provided with a first sealing member configured to cooperate with the first plug connector to seal the interior chamber from the environment external to the coupling through the first opening.

[0052] This advantageously protects the electrical contacts from contaminants, dust, and / or fluid media that may enter the interior from the exterior space through the first opening, thereby preventing them from entering the second opening as well. This can be particularly advantageous, for example, when the first opening is exposed to an environment that is not particularly clean or dry. Such an environment can be, for example, the engine compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0053] Of course, the first sealing element may also alternatively or additionally be arranged on the first plug connector, in which case the first sealing element is inserted together with the first plug connector into the interior of the coupling or casing, thereby ensuring a seal.

[0054] Alternatively or additionally, the second end is provided with a second sealing member configured to cooperate with the second plug connector to seal the interior chamber from the environment external to the coupling through the second opening.

[0055] This advantageously protects the electrical contacts from contaminants, dust, and / or fluid media that may enter the interior from the exterior space through the second opening, thereby preventing them from entering the interior through the first opening. This can be particularly advantageous, for example, if the second opening is exposed to an environment that is not particularly clean or dry. Such an environment can be, for example, the engine compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0056] Of course, the second sealing element may also alternatively or additionally be arranged on the second plug connector, in which case the second sealing element is inserted into the interior of the coupling or casing together with the second plug connector, thereby ensuring a seal.

[0057] In one development, it is provided that the casing is provided with at least one mounting device for mounting the coupling to another element, in particular to a wall surface or in a wall.

[0058] This advantageously stabilizes the coupling: the electrical connection formed by the insertion of the first and second plug connectors in the interior of the coupling and / or the loss-proof connection of the plug connectors in the coupling are advantageously protected against unintended movement (e.g., when the coupling is positioned or dropped onto an external element) and the ingress of contaminants, dust, and moisture by mounting the coupling on an external element. Furthermore, advantageously, a mounting device is provided on a defined element for mounting the coupling. This advantageously prevents, for example, improvised assembly of the coupling on another element, which could damage or conceal one of the coupling mounting means.

[0059] In one development, it is envisaged that a first section of the interior chamber capable of accommodating a first plug connector has a first cross-section, and a second section of the interior chamber capable of accommodating a second plug connector has a second cross-section, the first and second cross-sections having the same shape or having shapes that are mirror images of each other.

[0060] This advantageously allows the coupling to be manufactured particularly simply and inexpensively. It is further advantageous that this allows the coupling to be used equally from both openings. For example, incorrect orientations that occur during automated connection of plug connectors or during assembly under conditions of poor visibility (e.g., in the engine compartment) can be advantageously avoided as a result. The assembly quality is advantageously improved. The assembly time is advantageously reduced. It is further advantageous that this allows two identical plug connector casings to be used for the first and second plug connectors. This advantageously allows for significant cost savings.

[0061] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a plug connector assembly is proposed.

[0062] The plug connector assembly includes a first plug connector, a second plug connector, and a coupling as described above, wherein the first plug connector includes a first plug connector casing with a first contact chamber and a female contact element disposed in the first contact chamber.

[0063] The first plug connector has a first mounting means, which may be configured or formed, by way of example only, as a lever element and / or a sliding element. The second plug connector has a second plug connector casing with a second contact chamber and a male contact element disposed in the second contact chamber. The second plug connector has a second mounting means, which may be configured or formed, by way of example only, as another lever element and / or another sliding element. The first plug connector is inserted into the interior chamber through the first opening and is coupled to the coupling in a loss-proof manner by the connection between the first mounting means and the first coupling mounting means. The second plug connector is inserted into the interior chamber through the second opening and is coupled to the coupling in a loss-proof manner by the connection between the second mounting means and the second coupling mounting means. The male contact elements of the second plug connector are electrically connected to the female contact elements of the first plug connector. The male contact elements of the second plug connector may, for example, be mated to the female contact elements.

[0064] This advantageously provides a simple and inexpensive device for constructing, for example, an extension line for a wire harness or a wire harness plug. For example, such an extension wire may have two identical plug connectors at both ends, thereby allowing for inexpensive use of standardized components. Advantageously, it allows for the use of identical plug connector casings, or allows for inexpensive electrical and mechanical loss-proof connection of two plug connectors that are not connectable to each other due to their geometric shape. This advantageously eliminates the need for costly production of corresponding plug connector casings for the first and / or second plug connectors. At the same time, the direct electrical contact between the first and second plug connectors (or between their female and male contact elements) advantageously avoids the need for additional contact points, for example, in an adapter part with dedicated electrical lines. Thus, the plug connector assembly advantageously saves space and provides a secure, reliable, and low-resistance electrical contact. At the same time, the plug connector assembly is mechanically loss-proof and therefore robust, even if two plug connector casings that are normally not mechanically compatible or loss-proof and directly connectable to each other are components of the plug connector assembly.

[0065] The female contact elements may be configured, for example, as socket contact elements. The male contact elements may be configured, for example, as contact pins or contact blades. Preferably, the male contact elements are configured complementary to the female contact elements. For example, an electrical connection may be established between the male and female contact elements by inserting or sliding the male contact element into the female contact element or by snapping the male contact element onto the female contact element.

[0066] Of course, the first plug connector casing is provided with exactly one first contact chamber, but it may also be provided with several first contact chambers.

[0067] Of course, the first plug connector can also have exactly one female contact element (and no other contact elements at all). However, the first plug connector can also have several female contact elements, for example, arranged in corresponding first contact chambers. Furthermore, the first plug connector can additionally have only one or several male contact elements, which can also be assembled or arranged, for example, in corresponding first contact chambers.

[0068] Of course, the first plug connector can have exactly one first mounting element or mounting means. However, it is also conceivable that the first plug connector has several first mounting means. These may all be configured the same or may be designed in different ways. For example, a lever element may cooperate with a sliding element.

[0069] The above considerations regarding the type and number of first contact chambers, female contact elements and / or first mounting means also apply to the second plug connector (in which case the second contact chambers, male contact elements and possibly at least one female contact element are also provided, as well as the second mounting means).

[0070] In one development, it is provided for the first plug connector casing to be formed mirror-symmetrically, in particular along the first longitudinal axis.

[0071] This advantageously allows the first plug connector casing to also be used for the second plug connector (and therefore as the second plug connector casing), for which it is only necessary to provide contact elements that are configured complementary to the contact elements of the first plug connector. The use of mirror-symmetrical casings also allows for an accurate alignment of the contact elements when the two plug connectors are placed one on top of the other at their connector faces, since the mirror symmetry prevents handedness.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, it is envisaged that the second plug connector casing is formed mirror-symmetrically, in particular along the second longitudinal axis.

[0073] One development provides for the first plug connector casing and the second plug connector casing to be formed as one and the same part.

[0074] This advantageously results in a particularly inexpensive plug connector assembly. For example, a mass-produced first plug connector housing can be used, eliminating the need to purchase separate tools for its manufacture. The second plug connector housing only needs to be provided with contact elements in its contact chambers that are complementary to the contact elements of the first plug connector.

[0075] Alternatively, it is provided that the first plug connector casing and the second plug connector casing are formed as mirror images of each other.

[0076] Advantageously, this allows the two plug connector casings to fit together when placed one on top of the other inside the coupling.

[0077] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which should not be construed as limiting the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0078] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic longitudinal section of a coupling having a coupled first plug connector and a second plug connector immediately prior to coupling with the coupling; FIG. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic perspective view of the coupling of FIG. 1 shown without the plug connector.

[0079] FIG. 1 shows a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of a coupling 1 having a coupled first plug connector 100 and a second plug connector 200 in a state immediately prior to coupling with the coupling 1.

[0080] In a fully mated state in which the first plug connector 100 and the second plug connector 200 are loss-proofed and connected to the coupling 1, a plug connector assembly 500 is formed.

[0081] The coupling 1 is configured to receive two plug connectors 100, 200 facing each other and in direct electrical contact with each other, each of which has at least one attachment means 110, 210 for attachment to a corresponding plug connector (not shown here), for example a multipoint connector of a control device or a contact pin of a sensor.

[0082] Coupling 1 has a casing 2 extending along an axis A, the casing having a first end 3 and a second end 4 opposite the first end. Coupling further has an internal chamber 5, which may be, for example, the internal chamber of casing 2 as shown here.

[0083] The radial direction R extends perpendicular to the axial direction A, and the circumferential direction U extends around the axial direction A.

[0084] The first end 3 of the casing 2 is provided with a first opening 6 for receiving a first plug connector 100, the first plug connector having first mounting means 110. The second end 4 of the casing 2 is provided with a second opening 7 for receiving a second plug connector 200, the second plug connector having second mounting means 210. The first end 3 is provided with first coupling mounting means 8, which is configured to cooperate with the first mounting means 110 of the first plug connector 100 so that the first plug connector 100 can be connected to the coupling 1 in a loss-proof manner, and the second end 4 is provided with second coupling mounting means 9, which is configured to cooperate with the second mounting means 210 of the second plug connector 200 so that the second plug connector 200 can be connected to the coupling 1 in a loss-proof manner.

[0085] In a fully mated state (not shown here), a plug connector assembly 500 is formed - as already described above - comprising a first plug connector 100, a second plug connector 200 and a coupling 1.

[0086] The first plug connector 100 has a first plug connector casing 101, which in this case has, for example, two first contact chambers 102, which can be seen in the longitudinal section of Fig. 1. Each of the first contact chambers 102 is equipped with a female contact element 103. The first plug connector 100 has first mounting means 110, which in this case are formed, for example, as lever elements 111.

[0087] The second plug connector 200 has a second plug connector casing 201, which in this case has, for example, two second contact chambers 202, which can be seen in the longitudinal section of Fig. 1. Each of the second contact chambers 202 is equipped with a male contact element 203. The second plug connector 200 has second mounting means 210, which in this case is formed, for example, as a further lever element 211.

[0088] The first plug connector 100 is inserted into the inner chamber 5 through the first opening 6 and is connected to the coupling 1 in a loss-proof manner by the connection between the lever element 111 and both bolts 18, shown in this figure, as the first coupling mounting means 8.

[0089] The second plug connector 200 is inserted into the inner chamber 5 through the second opening 7 and can be connected to the coupling 1 in a loss-proof manner by means of a connection between a further lever element 211 and two further bolts 19 shown in this figure as second coupling attachment means 9. Although in FIG. 1 the connection of the second plug connector 200 has not yet been finalized, the completed connected state in this case is considered to be the same as that of the first plug connector 100, for example, shown on the left side of FIG. 1.

[0090] In the fully assembled state forming the plug connector assembly 500, both male contact elements 203 of the second plug connector 200 are directly electrically connected to both female contact elements 103 of the first plug connector 100. The male contact elements 203 are in this case plugged into or joined to the female contact elements 103.

[0091] The female contact elements 103 in this case, for example, have a first crimping section 104 on the side facing away from the inner chamber 5, in which a first insulating crimping section 107 and a first conductor crimping section 108 are arranged. The male contact elements 203 likewise have a second crimping section 204 on the side facing away from the inner chamber 5, in which a second insulating crimping section 208 and a second conductor crimping section 208 are arranged. In the first crimping section 104 or the second crimping section 204, a cable 60 is attached to each female contact element 103 or each male contact element 203, respectively, and is electrically connected to the respective contact element 103, 203. Each cable 60 in this case, for example, has an insulator 61 and a conductor 62. The insulators 61 are attached by respective insulation crimps 107, 207 and the conductors 62 are attached by respective conductor crimps 108, 208. In principle, other types of attachment are also conceivable, such as for example welding, brazing, bonding, insulation displacement, etc.

[0092] The female contact elements 103, which may be configured, for example, as socket contact elements, in this case further have female contact sections 105 facing the interior chamber 5, which may be configured, for example, as a kind of contact box. Contact foils (at least one contact foil in each case) not shown here may be provided inside the female contact sections 105. A resiliently reversibly deflectable first locking lance 106, which protrudes obliquely outward, is arranged in the female contact sections 105; this locking lance may also be called a primary locking lance or primary locking lance. When the female contact elements 103 are inserted into the first contact chamber 102, each first locking lance 106 can engage from behind in a first undercut 130 of the first plug connector casing 101.

[0093] The male contact elements 203, which may be configured, for example, as pin contacts or contact blades, in this case have, for example, male contact portions 205 facing the inner chamber 5. In this embodiment, the male contact elements further have—by way of example only—a box portion 209 located in the axial direction A between the contact portion 205 and the crimping portion 204. Arranged in the box portion 209 are elastically reversibly displaceable second locking lances 206 that protrude obliquely outward, which may also be referred to as primary locking lances or primary locking lances. When the male contact elements 203 are inserted into the second contact chamber 202, each second locking lance 206 can engage from behind in a second undercut 230 of the second plug connector casing 201.

[0094] For example, it may be assumed that the male contact element 203 is actually originally formed as a female contact element. In this case, a male contact element 203 can be produced simply and inexpensively from a mass-produced female contact element by means of an adapter bolt inserted into a front opening, which acts like a contact blade or pin contact. This increases the use of the same part, thereby further reducing the costs for manufacturing specially manufactured male contact elements and thus the costs for the plug connector assembly 500. In this case, the male contact portion 205 is a part of such an adapter bolt that protrudes from the female contact element, which was originally formed, for example, as a socket contact element. The adapter bolt may have, for example, a contact body extending along the adapter bolt longitudinal axis, with a first adapter bolt end facing the (original) female contact element and a second adapter bolt end opposite the first adapter bolt end, as well as at least one means for removably connecting the adapter bolt to the (original) female contact element in an anti-loss and, in particular, non-destructive manner.

[0095] For example, the adapter bolt is firmly clamped in the (original) female contact element by a press element arranged at the first adapter bolt end, for example by pressing the contact foils flat. Alternatively or additionally, the adapter bolt may have locking lances (not shown here) which engage in the front ends (contact openings) of the (original) female contact elements. At least one such locking lance can then lock, for example, in a recess in the wall of the (original) female contact element, thereby connecting the adapter bolt to the (original) female contact element in a loss-proof manner and converting this (original) female contact element into a male contact element.

[0096] For each of the contact chambers 102 shown here, the first plug connector casing 101 is provided with a first casing through-opening 131, through which the contact areas 205 of the male contact elements 203 of the second plug connector 200 can make electrical contact with the respective female contact elements 103. The first casing through-opening 131 can be provided with, for example, an inlet funnel on the side facing the male contact elements 203.

[0097] Similarly, in the second plug connector 200, each contact chamber 202 shown here has a second casing through opening 231 through which the male contact portion 205 can protrude outward from the contact chamber 202.

[0098] The first lever element 111 is pivotally supported and connected to the first connector housing 101 by two first lever shafts 113. The first lever element 111 has, on each side, a first guideway 112 facing the first connector housing 101, into which a bolt 18 can engage. By pivoting the first lever element 111, the first connector 100 can be pulled into the interior space 5 of the coupling 1. In the state shown on the left side of FIG. 1 , the first lever element 111 is in its end position, whereby the first connector 100 is securely connected to the coupling 1. The first connector 100 can thus be securely attached to the coupling 1, while at the same time being removably attached in a non-destructive manner. The first end 3 of the coupling 1 thus functions as a plug collar of a complementary plug connector.

[0099] The further lever element 211 is pivotally supported and connected to the second connector housing 201 by two second lever shafts 213. The further lever element 211 has, on each side, a second guideway 212 facing the second connector housing 201, into which one further bolt 19 can engage. By pivoting the further lever element 211, the second connector 200 can be pulled into the inner chamber 5 of the coupling 1. In the state shown on the right side of FIG. 1 , the second lever element 211 is still shown in its initial position. Since the further lever element 211 partially protrudes from the drawing or cross-sectional plane, this part of the further lever element 211, as well as the front part of the further lever element 211 adjacent to the guideway, are shown with dashed lines. When the second connector is further inserted into the inner chamber 5, the further bolt 19 engages the second guideway 212. In this case, upon further rotation of the further lever element 211, the second plug connector 200 is pulled into the inner chamber 5 by the cooperation of the further bolt 19 and the further or second slider guideway 212, so that at the end position of the further lever element 211, the male contact element 203 is brought into direct electrical contact with the female contact element 103. In this case, the second plug connector 200 is attached to the coupling 1 in a loss-proof manner, but at the same time in a non-destructively removable manner. The second end 4 of the coupling 1 therefore functions in the form of a plug collar of a complementary counterpart plug connector for the second plug connector 100.

[0100] The casing 2 of the coupling 1 is flexurally rigid and / or rigid in this embodiment. It may be, for example, injection-molded from an (electrically insulating) thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic. However, it may also be made from sheet metal (or other electrically conductive material), in which case it may have an electrical shielding effect. The wall thickness of the casing may be, for example, in the range of 0.5 mm to 10 mm, preferably 1 mm to 4 mm. It is also possible for the casing 2 to be made partly from (electrically insulating) plastic and partly from metal. In this way, electrical insulation can be provided in the area of ​​the direct electrical connection between the first plug connector 100 and the second plug connector 200, while metal components (e.g., outer sheet metal) can form a shield against the environment or shield the electrical contact points from the environment.

[0101] The first coupling mounting element 8 is formed in this case, by way of example only, as described above, as a bolt 18 or pin projecting radially outward, and in the illustrated longitudinal section one bolt 18 is shown on each of the upper and lower outer walls of the casing 2, as viewed in the radial direction R. The second coupling mounting element 9 is formed in this case, by way of example only, as described above, as a further bolt 19 or pin projecting radially outward. As in the case of the first coupling mounting element or coupling mounting means 8, two further bolts 19 are shown on the upper and lower outer walls of the casing 2, also in the case of the second coupling mounting element or coupling mounting means 9. It should be understood that the type and number of the coupling mounting means 8, 9 may differ in other embodiments from those illustrated here.

[0102] As already mentioned above, the bolt 18 is configured to cooperate with the first attachment means 110 of the first plug connector 100, here configured as a lever element 111 by way of example, to provide a loss-proof connection between the coupling 1 and the first plug connector 100. Similarly, the further bolt 19 is configured for a loss-proof connection of the second plug connector 200 to the coupling 1 by means of a second lever element 211.

[0103] In this case, a power transmission device may additionally be provided in the first lever element 111 and / or the second lever element 211, thereby reducing the operating force required to connect the first plug connector 100 to the coupling 1 or the second plug connector 200. In principle, the first mounting means 110 and / or the second mounting means 210 can also be, for example, a sliding element or the like.

[0104] The bolt 18 and the further bolt 19 are in this case configured, for example, to connect with the first lever element 111 or the second lever element 211 in a form-locking and / or force-locking and / or friction-locking manner.

[0105] A stopper 10 is provided in the inner chamber 5 of the casing 2, and is configured to block movement of the first plug connector 100 and / or the second plug connector 200 beyond the stopper 10 along the respective insertion direction (in Figure 1: the first plug connector 100 from left to right, and the second plug connector 200 from right to left, i.e., each parallel to the axial direction A).

[0106] The inner chamber 5 is provided with a bottom plate 11, which extends substantially along a radial direction R. The bottom plate 11 is spaced apart from the first opening 6 and the second opening 7, respectively, along the axial direction A by at least 20% of the length L of the inner chamber 5.

[0107] The bottom plate 11 in this case divides the coupling 1 into a first section 16 and a second section 17. The bottom plate in this case, for example, also serves simultaneously as a stopper 10 for both plug connectors 100, 200. However, the (at least one) stopper 10 can also be formed separately from the bottom plate 11 in other embodiments. It is also possible to dispense with the bottom plate 11.

[0108] The bottom plate 11 has two through-openings 12, as shown in the figure, which are provided for the through-guiding of contact areas 205 of male contact elements 203 associated with the second plug connector 200. Each through-opening 12 has a lead-in bevel 20 or a lead-in funnel facing the male contact areas 205. A lead-in bevel 20 may also be provided on each side of the through-opening 12. This ensures that the contact areas 205 can be easily guided through the bottom plate 11 without damage, even if the second plug connector 200 is mounted with slight radial misalignment into the inner chamber 5 of the coupling 1. The through-openings 12, together with the bottom plate, also provide a kind of centering or positioning of the male contact areas relative to the corresponding female contact elements 103, ensuring easy and damage-free connection of the two plug connectors 100, 200. The bottom plate may, for example, have a thickness of 0.5 mm to 10 mm, preferably 0.7 mm to 4 mm.

[0109] A first seal 13 is provided at the first end 3 of the coupling 1, which in this case extends along the circumferential direction U over the inner wall of the casing 2. The first seal may be arranged on the first plug connector 100. The first seal is configured to cooperate with the first plug connector 100 to seal the inner chamber 5 from the first opening 6 and the environment 50 outside the coupling 1. Furthermore, a second seal 14 is provided at the second end 7, which may essentially be arranged on the second plug connector 200. The second seal also extends along the circumferential direction U over the inner wall of the casing 2. The second seal 14 is configured to cooperate with the second plug connector 200 to seal the inner chamber 5 from the second opening 7 and the environment 50 outside the coupling 1. This protects the inner chamber, and in particular the electrical contacts located therein, against moisture, contaminants, and dust.

[0110] The casing 2 of the coupling 1 is further provided with a mounting device 15, in this case in the form of a collar, which has a through-hole for receiving, for example, a screw 82. The mounting device 15 is designed for mounting the coupling 1 to another element, in this case, for example, a wall 80. For this purpose, the screw 82 is inserted into the through-hole and then into a wall through-hole or wall mounting opening 81 and is fixed, in this case, for example, by means of a nut 83 to the rear side of the wall 80 (in this case, on the left side of the wall 80). In this exemplary embodiment, as viewed in the axial direction A, a sealing element 84, for example a cord seal or an O-ring, is arranged between the collar or mounting device 15 and the wall 80. This allows, for example, a dirty and / or humid environment (e.g., an engine compartment) located to the left of the wall 80 to be sealed against contaminants and fluids from a clean and / or dry environment (e.g., a vehicle interior) located to the right of the wall 80.

[0111] In the illustrated embodiment, the first section 16 of the interior chamber 5, which can accommodate (or accommodates) the first plug connector 100, has a first cross-section Q1, and the second section 17 of the interior chamber 5, which can accommodate (or accommodates) the second plug connector 200, has a second cross-section Q2. The first cross-section Q1 and the second cross-section Q2 in this case have the same shape or at least have shapes that are mirror images of each other.

[0112] 1, it is assumed that the first plug connector casing 101 is formed in a mirror-symmetrical manner, in particular along a first longitudinal axis LA1. Furthermore, it is assumed that the second plug connector casing 200 is formed in a mirror-symmetrical manner, in particular along a second longitudinal axis LA2. Both longitudinal axes LA1, LA2 are formed in this case parallel to the axial direction A.

[0113] 1, it is further assumed (although only a longitudinal section is shown) that the first plug connector casing 100 and the second plug connector casing 200 are formed as one and the same part, and in this example, the first plug connector casing 100 and the second plug connector casing 200 are preferably formed as mirror images of each other.

[0114] Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of the coupling of Figure 1 without the plug connectors 100, 200. The bottom plate 11 with the through opening 12 can be clearly seen, as can the first sealing member 13.

[0115] It can be seen that the first cross section Q1 is identical to the second cross section Q2, so it is irrelevant from which end 3, 4 the first plug connector 100 or the second plug connector 200 is plugged in. This is all the more true since the coupling mounting means 8, 9, 18, 19 as well as the mounting device 15 are also formed with mirror or rotational symmetry.

[0116] The coupling 1 or plug connector assembly 500 can be used, for example, for plug connectors with at least one contact chamber or at least one receptacle for accommodating a female contact element or contact element assembly. In particular, its use in miniaturized contact element (sheet metal thickness significantly less than 1 mm) or multi-pole plug connectors or wire harness plug connectors is envisaged. It is particularly advantageously envisaged for use in wire harness plug connectors for control devices and / or for motor vehicles.

Claims

1. A coupling configured to receive two plug connectors (100, 200) facing each other and in direct electrical contact with each other, each of said plug connectors having at least one attachment means (110, 210) for attachment to a corresponding plug connector; The coupling (1) has a casing (2) extending along an axis (A) and having a first end (3) and a second end (4) opposite to the first end, and an internal chamber (5), The first end (3) is provided with a first opening (6) for receiving a first plug connector (100) having a first mounting means (110), and the second end (4) is provided with a second opening (7) for receiving a second plug connector (200) having a second mounting means (210); a first coupling mounting means (8) disposed at the first end (3), the first coupling mounting means being configured to cooperate with the first mounting means (110) of the first plug connector (100) so that the first plug connector (100) can be connected to the coupling (1) in a loss-proof manner; a second coupling mounting means (9) arranged at the second end (4), the second coupling mounting means being configured to cooperate with the second mounting means (210) of the second plug connector (200) so that the second plug connector (200) can be connected to the coupling (1) in a loss-proof manner; A bottom plate (11) is provided in the inner chamber (5), The bottom plate (11) extends substantially along a radial direction (R) that extends perpendicular to the axial direction (A), the bottom plate (11) is spaced apart from the first opening (6) and from the second opening (7) by at least 20% of the length (L) of the inner chamber (5) along the axial direction (A); The bottom plate (11) for guiding through the contact portions of the male contact elements of the first plug connector (100), and / or for guiding through the contact portion (205) of the male contact element (203) of the second plug connector (200), having at least one through opening (12); Coupling.

2. A coupling as described in claim 1, wherein the casing (2) is sleeve-shaped.

3. The through opening (12) is through which the contact portions of the pins or contact blades of the male contact elements of the first plug connector (100) are guided; and / or 3. The coupling according to claim 1, wherein the male contact element (203) of the second plug connector (200) has a through-guide for a contact portion (205) of a pin or contact blade.

4. 2. The coupling according to claim 1, wherein the housing (2) is flexurally rigid and / or rigid.

5. the first coupling mounting means (8) is configured to couple with the first mounting means (110) in a form-locking and / or force-locking and / or friction-locking manner; and / or the second coupling mounting means (9) is configured to couple with the second mounting means (210) in a form-locking and / or force-locking and / or friction-locking manner; 3. The coupling according to claim 1 or 2.

6. the first coupling attachment means (8) being formed as an outwardly or inwardly projecting bolt (18) or a protrusion or a pin or as a rack; the bolt (18) or lug (110) or pin (111) or rack (110) is configured to cooperate with a first attachment means (110) configured as a lever element (111) or as a slide element to provide a loss-proof connection between the coupling (1) and the first plug connector (100); and / or the second coupling mounting means (9) is formed as a separate bolt (19) or a separate protrusion or a separate pin or a separate rack projecting outwards or inwards, the separate bolt (19) or separate protrusion or separate pin or separate rack is configured to cooperate with a second attachment means (210) configured as a separate lever element (211) or as a separate slide element to provide a loss-proof connection between the coupling (1) and the second plug connector (200).

3. The coupling according to claim 1 or 2.

7. 3. The coupling according to claim 1, wherein the inner chamber (5) of the casing (2) is provided with a stopper (10), which is configured to block movement of the first plug connector (100) and / or the second plug connector (200) along the insertion direction beyond the stopper (10).

8. The first end (3) is provided with a first sealing member (13) configured to cooperate with the first plug connector (100) to seal the inner chamber (5) from the first opening (6) against an environment (50) external to the coupling (1); and / or The second end (4) is provided with a second sealing member (14) configured to cooperate with the second plug connector (200) to seal the inner chamber (5) from the second opening (7) against an environment (50) external to the coupling (1).

3. The coupling according to claim 1 or 2.

9. 3. Coupling according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the casing (2) is provided with at least one attachment device (15) for attaching the coupling (1) to another element.

10. A coupling as described in Claim 9, wherein the coupling (1) is mounted by the mounting device (15) such that the other element is mounted on the surface of or within a wall (80).

11. 3. The coupling according to claim 1, wherein a first section (16) of the inner chamber (5) capable of accommodating the first plug connector (100) has a first cross-section (Q1), and a second section (17) of the inner chamber (5) capable of accommodating the second plug connector (200) has a second cross-section (Q2), and the first cross-section (Q1) and the second cross-section (Q2) have the same shape or have shapes that are mirror images of each other.

12. 1. A plug connector assembly comprising: The plug connector assembly (500) comprises: a first plug connector (100); a second plug connector (200); A coupling (1) according to claim 1 and It has The first plug connector (100) comprises a first plug connector casing (101) with a first contact chamber (102) and a female contact element (103) arranged in the first contact chamber (102), The first plug connector (100) has a first attachment means (110), The second plug connector (200) comprises a second plug connector casing (201) with a second contact chamber (202) and a male contact element (203) arranged in the second contact chamber (202), The second plug connector (200) has a second attachment means (210); The first plug connector (100) is inserted into the inner chamber (5) through the first opening (6) and is connected to the coupling (1) in a loss-proof manner by the connection between the first attachment means (110) and the first coupling attachment means (8); The second plug connector (200) is inserted into the inner chamber (5) through the second opening (7) and is connected to the coupling (1) in a loss-proof manner by the connection between the second mounting means (210) and the second coupling mounting means (9); A plug connector assembly, wherein the male contact elements (203) of the second plug connector (200) are electrically connected to the female contact elements (103) of the first plug connector (100).

13. A plug connector assembly as described in claim 12, wherein the first mounting means (110) is a lever element (111) and / or a slide element.

14. A plug connector assembly as described in claim 12 or 13, wherein the second mounting means (210) is another lever element (211) and / or another slide element.

15. A plug connector assembly as described in claim 12 or 13, wherein the male contact element (203) of the second plug connector (200) is joined to the female contact element (103) of the first plug connector (100).

16. The first plug connector casing (101) is formed mirror-symmetrically, and / or The second plug connector casing (200) is formed in a mirror symmetrical manner.

14. A plug connector assembly according to claim 12 or 13.

17. The first plug connector casing (101) is formed mirror-symmetrically along a first longitudinal axis (LA1), and / or The second plug connector casing (200) is formed mirror-symmetrically along a second longitudinal axis (LA2).

14. A plug connector assembly according to claim 12 or 13.

18. The first plug connector casing (100) and the second plug connector casing (200) are formed as the same part, or The first plug connector casing (100) and the second plug connector casing (200) are formed as mirror images of each other.

14. A plug connector assembly according to claim 12 or 13.

Images