Coupling device for connecting an electrical connection part for a compressor driving device, compressor driving device, and method for installing the coupling device

Abstract

To provide an arrangement for reliably, safely and electrically connecting connections for a device to drive an electric compressor of vapor fluid that can be manufactured in a system that is simple and saves time, especially an electric motor.SOLUTION: The invention relates to an arrangement for connecting electrical connections, in particular through a housing (2), for a device to drive a compressor with a connection arrangement (9) with at least one electrically conductive connecting element (13) and at least one contact device (15-1, 15-2), fixed in a circuit board (12), for mounting the connecting element (13) in an axial direction. The contact device (15-1, 15-2) exhibits at least one spring contact element with elastically deformable lamellar contact springs that are in electrically conductive contact with the connecting element (13).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3a

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for connecting an electrical connection for a compressor drive. coupling device The present invention also relates to the coupling device and a drive for a compressor, in particular an electric motor, for compressing a vapor fluid, in particular a refrigerant. The compressor can be used in the refrigerant circuit of a motor vehicle air conditioning system. [Background technology]

[0002] Compressors known in the prior art for mobile applications, particularly automotive air conditioning systems, for transporting refrigerant through a refrigerant circuit, also called refrigerant compressors, are often configured as piston or scroll compressors with variable stroke volume, and are driven via a pulley or electrically.

[0003] The electric compressor comprises an electric motor for driving a suitable compression mechanism and an inverter for driving the electric motor, the inverter being used to convert direct current from the vehicle battery into alternating current, which is supplied to the electric motor by an electrical connection.

[0004] The inverter has a plug connection for a plug-in connector formed with pins for electrically connecting to the connection of the electric motor and thereby transmitting power from the inverter to the electric motor. The connection of the inverter can be disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0005] Typically, glass-to-metal glands are used to connect plug-in connectors through housings. When manufacturing the glass-to-metal glands, the tolerances of all components to be connected are added together. Large deviations in the alignment of plug-in connectors for electrical connection with the connections of electric motors and inverters must be compensated for with high flexibility and precision.

[0006] Currently available connecting components do not adequately compensate for tolerance variations, and due to the significant mechanical tensions that occur during circuit board assembly, particularly when connecting the plug-in connector to the circuit board, plug-in connectors cannot be directly connected to the inverter circuit board. As a result, plug-in connectors must be connected to the circuit board indirectly, for example via bus bars, soldered, drilled and bent parts, rigid or flexible press-fit elements or clamps, screw-type circular eyelets, plug-fit systems, or wirelines.

[0007] Contact elements known in the prior art that are used to directly couple plug-in connectors to circuit boards either require the formation of very precise through-holes for press-fitting or must be selectively soldered in as an additional process step, either of which is very expensive and time consuming.

[0008] WO 2015 146677 A1 discloses an electrically driven compressor with a compression arrangement, an electric motor for driving such a compression arrangement, and an inverter for supplying current to the electric motor. The electric motor includes a rotor, a stator having an electrically insulating bobbin arranged at the end of a stator core and a coil arranged on the bobbin, and a connector housing having a connecting portion for electrically connecting the coil to an inverter through a pin formed as a plug-in connector. The end of the plug-in connector aligned with the inverter side is connected to the inverter through a jack connection.

[0009] As a result, the prior art has known very complex systems with numerous components and electrical transition points. Furthermore, there is a risk that elements such as screws or bolts may become detached from the system. Selective soldering and screw connections, which are known pressing techniques, require additional, time-consuming process steps during assembly and manufacturing. Furthermore, structural or thermal compensation of tolerances is often not guaranteed during assembly or operation. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide a reliable and safe electrical connection for an electric compressor of a vapor fluid, in particular for a device for driving an electric motor, which can be manufactured in an easy and time-saving manner. coupling device The object is to provide the above. coupling device In order to minimize manufacturing costs, the device should have as few individual components as possible and be structurally simple to implement. coupling device The resulting design complexity of the device must be minimized and inaccuracies eliminated. coupling device must be configured to ensure a safe and optimal electrical connection of the system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The problem of the present invention is solved by the subject matter having the features of the independent claims. Improvements are given in the dependent claims.

[0012] This problem is solved by an arrangement according to the invention for coupling electrical connections of a device used to drive a compressor, in particular through a housing or a wall of the housing, which is formed as a coupling arrangement having one or more electrically conductive coupling elements and one or more contact devices fixed in a circuit board for axially mounting the coupling elements.

[0013] According to the concept of the present invention, the contact device comprises one or more spring contact elements having elastically deformable lamella contact springs in electrically conductive contact with, preferably completely surrounding, the connecting element, whereby electrical contact is made between the contact device electrically connected to the circuit board and the connecting element.

[0014] The connecting element preferably serves to connect an electrical connection portion installed in a support element disposed in a stator of a device used to drive a compressor to an electrical connection portion disposed outside the housing, in particular an inverter. The support element may preferably be formed with a mounting element formed to have the electrical connection portion of the stator for mounting a connector housing. The connecting element may be inserted into the connector housing and the electrical connection portion disposed inside such a housing.

[0015] Both the contact device and the connecting element are preferably made of an electrically conductive material, in particular a metal.

[0016] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the contact device comprises one or more components formed as a hollow cylindrical contact sleeve, which is to be understood as a form that can be closed at least at the end faces of the cylinder, and also as hollow cylindrical.

[0017] The contact device component in the form of the hollow cylindrical contact sleeve is preferably formed to have first and second axially extending segments connected to one another by a collar. The first segment preferably extends from a first end face to the collar, and the second segment preferably extends from a second end face to the collar. The collar is preferably formed to project radially beyond the outer surface of each segment and to completely surround the component. The diameter of the outer surfaces of the segments is preferably constant.

[0018] The collar is preferably aligned in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the axially disposed component.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a segment of the contact device component in the form of a hollow cylindrical contact sleeve is inserted, in particular press-fitted, into a through-opening formed in the circuit board up to the collar and then soldered to the circuit board.

[0020] Another advantage of the present invention is that the lamellar contact springs of the spring contact element are formed in the form of strips in the axial direction of the contact device. The lamellar contact springs are preferably connected to each other at their ends, which are arranged opposite each other. The connecting portions of the lamellar contact springs are each formed in the form of a circular ring at the end face or end region of the hollow cylindrical component.

[0021] In the initial state of the component, the lamellar contact springs are formed radially in the region between the ends, in particular uniformly outwardly or inwardly over their length, the initial state being understood as the state in which the arrangement or device is not assembled.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting element is formed as a cylindrical pin-type plug-in connector, preferably having a straight pin shape, and may have a circular cylindrical shape with a substantially constant outer diameter at least in the region of connection with the contact device.

[0023] The contact device and the connecting element are preferably coaxially aligned with each other.

[0024] According to a first alternative embodiment of the invention, the contact device not only has a first contact element but also a second contact element formed separately from the first contact element. Advantageously, the first contact element, formed as a hollow cylindrical contact sleeve, in particular with a closed end face, is radially arranged on the outer surface of the second contact element so that the second contact element is completely surrounded, so that the second contact element is located completely inside the first contact element, and the contact elements are arranged coaxially aligned with one another.

[0025] The first contact element formed as a hollow cylindrical contact sleeve has an opening, preferably with a constant inner diameter over its length, extending from a first end face to a second end face formed as a closed end face in particular for mounting the second contact element.

[0026] The second contact elements are preferably formed as spring contact elements with elastically deformable lamellar contact springs and are arranged to surround the connecting element, preferably completely, and establish electrical contact. The second contact elements have an inner diameter in the region of each end face that is substantially slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the plug-in connector, so that when the arrangement is assembled, the inner surface of each lamellar contact spring is in spring contact with the outer surface of the plug-in connector. The lamellar contact springs are connected to one another at their ends arranged opposite one another, whereby each connection is preferably formed in the form of a circular ring. The circular rings are preferably formed with slot-type openings, in particular extending in the axial direction, so that the diameter of the circular rings can be varied.

[0027] It is also particularly advantageous that in the initial state of the second contact element, or when the arrangement is not assembled, the lamellar contact springs are formed to bulge radially outwards, and the second contact element has a maximum outer diameter in the area where the lamellar contact springs are formed, the maximum outer diameter in the section formed by the lamellar contact springs being greater than the inner diameter of the first contact element formed as a hollow cylindrical contact sleeve, so that when the arrangement is assembled, the lamellar contact springs are each elastically deformed and contact the inner surface of the first contact element through their outer surfaces.

[0028] The second contact element is formed with an axially outwardly facing end face, preferably with a radially inwardly facing locking device, which serves as a stop when placing the second contact element in the plug-in connector.

[0029] According to a refinement of the invention, the first contact element of the contact device formed as a hollow cylindrical contact sleeve has a first section and a second section each extending axially and connected to one another by a collar, the first section extending from a first end face to the collar and in particular having a longer axial length than the second section extending from a second end face to the collar.

[0030] A first section of the first contact element, preferably up to said collar, is preferably inserted, in particular press-fitted, into a through-opening formed in the circuit board and is subsequently soldered to the circuit board.

[0031] According to a second alternative embodiment of the invention, the contact device is formed in one piece with the first and second contact areas, the contact areas being formed as circular hollow cylindrical sleeves with openings, in particular through openings, extending from the first end face to the second end face of the contact device for mounting a connecting element.

[0032] The second contact area is preferably formed as a spring contact element with the lamellar contact springs being elastically deformable and preferably arranged to completely surround the connecting element to establish electrical contact. In the initial state of the contact device, the lamellar contact springs are formed to bulge radially inwards, and the contact device has a minimum diameter at the second contact area with the lamellar contact springs, which is smaller than the outer diameter of the connecting element, so that when the arrangement is assembled, the inner surface of each lamellar contact spring is in contact with the outer surface of the connecting element.

[0033] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the contact areas formed as circular hollow cylindrical sleeves each extend axially and are connected to one another by a collar, the first contact area extending from the first end face to the collar and having a shorter axial length than the second contact area extending from the second end face to the collar.

[0034] The first contact area of ​​the contact device, in particular up to the collar, is preferably inserted, in particular press-fitted, into a through-opening formed in the circuit board and subsequently soldered to the circuit board.

[0035] According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the connecting arrangement is formed with one or more electrically conductive connecting elements and a mounting element, wherein the connecting elements are completely surrounded by the mounting elements and are connected in a rigid and fluid-tight manner to the retaining element through a structural element such that the connecting elements protrude beyond the retaining element, the retaining element having a first region and a second region, and the first region of the connecting element can be arranged to be connected to a device used to drive the compressor.

[0036] The mounting elements are preferably plate-shaped with opposing surfaces and one or more through-openings for mounting one or more connecting elements, with first and second regions of the connecting elements protruding beyond the opposing surfaces of the mounting elements and with third regions of the connecting elements being positioned within the through-openings, the connecting element regions being aligned along a common axis, in particular the longitudinal axis.

[0037] Another advantage of the present invention is that the slot formed between the connecting element, in particular the third region of the connecting element, and the mounting element, in particular between the connecting element and the wall of the mounting element surrounding the through opening, is filled with a structural element, preferably formed as a glass structural element.

[0038] The object of the present invention is also achieved by an apparatus, in particular an electric motor, according to the invention, used to drive a compressor of a vapor fluid, said apparatus comprising a rotor and a fixed stator extending along a common longitudinal axis, and a housing.

[0039] The stator is preferably positioned radially from the outer surface of the rotor and surrounds the rotor.

[0040] According to the concept of the present invention, a support element having mounting elements for mounting one or more connecting elements and an arrangement for connecting an electrical connection is formed on a first end face of the axially aligned stator.

[0041] The term "axial direction" here should be understood as the direction of the longitudinal axis of the stator, which also corresponds to the longitudinal axis and axis of rotation of the rotor. The axially aligned end faces are disposed in a plane extending perpendicular to said longitudinal axis.

[0042] The object of the present invention is also achieved by a method according to the invention for installing an arrangement for connecting electrical connections of a device used to drive a compressor, said method comprising the following steps: - connecting one or more contact devices to a circuit board, wherein the contact devices are always inserted through through openings in the circuit board with a first end face first until the contact devices together with the collar contact the circuit board; - soldering the contact device to the circuit board; - by attaching a spring contact element having an elastically deformable lamella contact spring of the contact device to a connecting element, the contact device having the spring contact element makes electrically conductive contact with the connecting element, thereby establishing an electrical connection between the circuit board and the connecting element.

[0043] According to a first alternative embodiment of the present invention, one or more first contact elements of the contact device are connected to the circuit board, one or more second contact elements are attached onto the connecting element, and the circuit board having the one or more first contact elements firmly connected to the circuit board itself is pressed onto a plug-in connector having the one or more second contact elements attached to the plug-in connector itself, such that the second contact elements of the plug-in connector are positioned inside the first contact elements.

[0044] When the second contact element is inserted into the opening of the first contact element, the individual lamellar contact springs of the spring contact element are elastically deformed against the inner surface of the first contact element so as to establish an electrical connection between the contact elements of the contact device.

[0045] According to a second alternative embodiment of the invention, the one or more contact devices are connected to the circuit board at first contact areas, and the circuit board, with the contact devices themselves firmly connected to the circuit board, is pressed onto the plug-in connector with a second contact area, such that the plug-in connector is located at least within the second contact area of ​​the contact device.

[0046] When a contact device with the second contact area is pressed onto the plug-in connector, preferably the individual lamellar contact springs of the spring contact elements come into contact with the outer surface of the plug-in connector and are elastically deformed so that an electrical connection is made between the contact device and the plug-in connector.

[0047] A preferred embodiment of the present invention allows for the use of a compressor drive, particularly an electric motor, to compress vapor fluid for a refrigerant compressor in the refrigerant circuit of a motor vehicle air conditioning system. [Effects of the Invention]

[0048] To sum up, the arrangement according to the invention for connecting electrical connections or the device according to the invention for driving a compressor of a vapor fluid comprising said arrangement further has various advantages: a minimum number of components, with reduced requirements in relation to the precision and tolerances for mechanical and thermal stresses of connecting elements, for example within the structural elements, so that the compensation of large tolerances can be guaranteed; and -Low space requirements for the inverter and large available construction space; - easy installation of the arrangement through direct electrical contact of the connecting elements to the circuit board without the use of busbars, in particular in conjunction with selective or manual soldering, for example allowing automatic assembly of the circuit board together with other electronic components with minimal connecting forces, in which case the contact device is provided with an axial locking device which also serves as an axial soldering surface, so that the pre-tinned contact device can be soldered directly to the circuit board, eliminating the need for press-fitting, screw-coupling or selective soldering of the individual contact elements of the circuit board, and also allowing wave soldering using the reflow method; - A minimum number of electrical contacts arranged in series, resulting in maximum heat dissipation and, at the same time, minimum electrical losses, especially with thermally conductive plug-in connectors; and -Minimum manufacturing costs. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0049] Further details, features and advantages of the present invention are set forth in the following description of the preferred embodiments, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1a] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a device for driving a compression mechanism, in particular an electric compressor comprising an electric motor and an inverter arrangement; [Figure 1b] 1 is a perspective view of a circuit board of an inverter known in the prior art, including switching elements and a coupling arrangement; [Figure 1c] FIG. 1c is a plan view of the circuit board of FIG. 1b with a press-fit contact sleeve. [Figure 2a] 1 is a perspective view of a coupling arrangement comprising a coupling element, a mounting element and a first contact device having first and second contact elements for electrically coupling an electrical connection of the electric motor with an electrical connection of the inverter; [Figure 2b] 2b is a perspective view of the inverter showing the coupling arrangement with the first contact device of FIG. 2a when the inverter is mounted on a circuit board; FIG. [Figure 2c] 2b is a cross-sectional view of the inverter showing the coupling arrangement with the first contact device of FIG. 2a when the inverter is mounted on a circuit board; [Figure 2d] 2b shows a perspective view of the coupling arrangement with the first contact device of FIG. 2a with the inverter mounted on the circuit board; FIG. [Figure 2e] FIG. 3 is a general perspective view of the second contact element of the first contact device of FIGS. 2a to 2d; [Figure 2f] FIG. 2c is a detailed view showing the second contact element of the first contact device of FIGS. 2a to 2d. [Figure 2g] FIG. 3 is a general perspective view of the second contact element of the first contact device of FIGS. 2a to 2d; [Figure 2h] FIG. 2c is a detailed view showing the second contact element of the first contact device of FIGS. 2a to 2d. [Figure 3a] 10 is a perspective view of a coupling element of a coupling arrangement having a second contact device with an inverter mounted on a circuit board; FIG. [Figure 3b]4 is a cross-sectional view of a coupling element of a coupling arrangement having a second contact device with an inverter mounted on a circuit board; FIG. [Figure 3c] FIG. 2 is a side view of a second contact device having a first contact area and a second contact area. [Figure 3d] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second contact device having a first contact area and a second contact area. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] 1a shows a cross-sectional view of a vapor-flow electric compressor (1) for an automotive air conditioning system for transporting refrigerant through a refrigerant circuit, comprising an arrangement of an electric motor (3) and an inverter (5) disposed within a housing (2) as a device for driving a compression mechanism (4). The electric motor (3) receives electrical energy through a switching device (6) of the inverter (5).

[0051] The electric motor (3) comprises a stator (7) having a substantially hollow cylindrical stator core and coils wound on the stator core, and a rotor (8) disposed within the stator (7). The rotor (8) is set into rotational motion when electrical energy is supplied to the coils of the stator (7) through a coupling arrangement (9). The coupling arrangement (9) is formed on an end face of the stator (7) and has a number of electrical connections.

[0052] The rotor 8 is coaxially disposed within the stator 7 and can be rotated around the rotation axis. The drive shaft 10 can be formed integrally with the rotor 8 or as a separate element.

[0053] The electric motor (3) and the compression mechanism (4) formed by a scroll compressor with fixed and revolving spirals are arranged in a volume enclosed by a housing (2), which in this case consists of a first housing element for mounting the electric motor (3) and a second housing element for mounting the compression mechanism (4), and is preferably made of metal, in particular aluminum.

[0054] The spiral of the compression mechanism 4, in which the vapor fluid, in particular the refrigerant, is compressed, is driven through a drive shaft 10 connected to the rotor 8 of the electric motor 3. According to an embodiment not shown, the compression mechanism may also be formed, for example, with a wobble plate.

[0055] The switching device 6 for controlling the operation of the electric motor 3 has a printed circuit board (PCB) 12 formed with various switching elements 11. Different control circuits and components are mounted on the printed circuit board 12 and electrically connected to receive electrical energy from an external power source.

[0056] A support element having mounting elements with connecting passages for a connector housing having connecting terminals is disposed on the end face of the stator (7). The connecting terminals of the connector housing serve as components for electrical connections between the coils of the electric motor and the inverter, particularly electrically conductive pin-type connecting elements, which are inserted through the connecting passages of the mounting elements of the support element and plugged into the connecting terminals of the connector housing.

[0057] In Figure 1b, the inverter circuit board 12' is shown in a perspective view with switching elements 11 as known in the prior art and a coupling arrangement 9' with contact sleeves 15' pressed into the circuit board 12'. In Figure 1c, the circuit board 12' of Figure 1b is shown in a plan view with the contact sleeves 15' pressed into the circuit board 12'.

[0058] The electrically conductive pin-type connecting elements (13') of the connecting arrangement (9'), intended for connection to the electrical connections of an electric motor (not shown), are connected to the inverter through contact sleeves (15') pressed into the circuit board (12'). The connecting elements (13'), also called plug-in connectors, are fixed parallel to one another inside the mounting element (14'). The contact sleeves (15') are also parallel to one another and spaced at the same intervals as the plug-in connectors (13') of the connecting arrangement (9') for which they are mounted. The contact sleeves (15') are pressed directly into the circuit board (12').

[0059] The bus bars 16 are selectively soldered onto the circuit board 12' to electrically connect the individual components to one another, for example, each contact sleeve 15' is electrically and mechanically connected to the bus bar 16 at one end of the bus bar 16.

[0060] When the arrangement is assembled, the plug-in connectors (13') are inserted into the respective contact sleeves (15'), which are shaped such that the outer surface of each plug-in connector (13') makes contact with the inner surface of the hollow cylindrical contact sleeve (15') in such a way that the electrical contact of each plug-in connector (13') is established.

[0061] The purpose of the indirect contact created by the busbar 16 is to compensate for the tolerances that occur when placing the individual components of the electrical connection, and this indirect contact can only be achieved by combining the busbar 16 with a relatively long and flexible length.

[0062] Figure 2a shows a perspective view of a connection arrangement (9), in particular a glass-metal gland, comprising a connection element (13), a mounting element (14), and a structural element (17) for electrically connecting a connection portion arranged in a connector housing of an electric motor with a connection portion of an inverter, and a first contact device (15-1) having a first contact element (15-1a) and a second contact element (15-1b).

[0063] The connecting elements 13 are inserted through the plate-shaped mounting elements 14. Each connecting element 13, in the form of a straight pin, also referred to below as plug-in connectors 13, is arranged to form three different regions aligned along a common axis, in particular a longitudinal axis. The first and second regions respectively protrude beyond the surface of the plate-shaped mounting element 14, which are arranged opposite each other. The third region of the plug-in connector 13 is in each case arranged inside the mounting element 14.

[0064] The plug connectors 13, preferably formed as rectilinear circular cylinders with a constant diameter over their entire length, are each placed in a through-opening intended for the mounting element 14 with the third region. The inner diameter of the through-opening corresponds to the outer diameter of the plug connector 13, plus a clearance for mounting and fixing the plug connector 13 inside the through-opening. The slot formed between the wall surrounding the plug connector 13 and the mounting element 14 is filled with a structural element 17, in particular a glass structural element. The structural element 17, preferably made of glass, filling the slot serves, on the one hand, to fix the plug connector 13 to the mounting element 14 in the through-opening, and, on the other hand, to separate the electrically conductive plug connector 13 from the mounting element 14, in which case the structural element 17 protrudes toward the plug connector 13 beyond the corresponding plane of the mounting element 14. Each protrusion of the structural element 17 has a substantially conical or frusto-conical shape.

[0065] The arrangement of the plug-in connector (13) inside the mounting element (14) is difficult to set up and produce, especially since all tooling tolerances are added during production, and these deviations must be compensated for with great flexibility and precision.

[0066] For a secure electrical connection while compensating for any tolerances that may occur, the first embodiment of the contact device (15-1) comprises two contact elements (15-1a, 15-1b) arranged coaxially with one another and extending along a common longitudinal axis when the contact device (15-1) is assembled. The first contact element (15-1a), formed as a substantially hollow cylindrical contact sleeve with a closed end face, is positioned radially on the outer surface of the second contact element (15-1b) in such a way as to completely surround the second contact element (15-1b), the second contact element (15-1b) being formed as a spring contact element, in particular with an elastically deformable lamellar contact spring.

[0067] 2a shows the first contact element 15-1a of the contact device 15-1 and the second contact element 15-1b of the contact device 15-1 pressed against the area of ​​the plug-connector 13 that protrudes beyond the mounting element 14. The second contact element 15-1b is completely disposed within the first contact element 15-1a and is thereby hidden by the first contact element 15-1a.

[0068] The first contact element (15-1a) has substantially the shape of a circular hollow cylindrical sleeve with a closed end face, having a first section and a second section, each extending in the axial direction of the sleeve and connected to each other through a collar (15a), specifically a section formed as a seat or flange, which collar (15a) is formed around the entire outer surface of the sleeve.

[0069] Thus, the first section extends from the first end face of the sleeve to the collar (15a) and is formed to a greater axial length than the second section, which then extends from the second closed end face of the sleeve to the collar (15a).

[0070] The sleeve also has an opening extending from the first end face to the second closed end face of the sleeve, in particular formed as a closed hole, preferably with a constant inner diameter over its length, for receiving the second contact element (15-1b). The closed end face of the first contact element (15-1a) serves as a stop for the second contact element (15-1b) and for fixing the second contact element (15-1b) between the plug-in connector (13) and the first contact element (15-1a) when the contact device (15-1) is mounted, in which case the closed end face of the first contact element (15-1a) prevents undesired displacement of the second contact element (15-1b) along the plug-in connector (13).

[0071] In both the first and second sections, the hollow cylindrical first contact element (15-1 a) is formed with a substantially constant wall thickness, and the collar (15 a) is aligned in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first contact element (15-1 a) and projects radially beyond the outer surface of the segment such that in the region of the collar (15 a) the first contact element (15-1 a) is formed with a greater wall thickness.

[0072] The extension of the first contact element (15-1a) in the axial direction of its opening, which is specifically formed as a blocked hole, preferably corresponds substantially to the maximum length of the area of ​​the plug-in connector (13) that protrudes beyond the mounting element (14) or the structural element (17).

[0073] 2b to 2d show a coupling arrangement (9) with the contact device (15-1) of FIG. 2a in a side view, a cross-sectional view and a perspective view of an inverter (12) with the inverter mounted on a circuit board (12).

[0074] The first contact element 15-1 a is disposed directly within the circuit board 12 and soldered to the circuit board 12, and in this case, the contact sleeve is inserted through a through-hole in the circuit board 12, always with the first end face leading, until the flange- or bulge-like collar 15 a contacts the surface of the circuit board 12. Thus, the collar 15 a serves as an axial stop and support during installation. On the one hand, the first contact element 15-1 a protrudes beyond the circuit board 12 together with its first section and the collar 15 a on the first surface of the circuit board 12. On the other hand, the first contact element 15-1 a protrudes beyond the circuit board 12 together with a portion of the first section on the second surface of the circuit board 12.

[0075] The diameter of the through opening created in the circuit board 12 corresponds substantially to the outer diameter of the first section of the first contact element 15-1 a, in addition to clearances for mounting and soldering components. In the case of reflow soldering, for example, the surface of the first contact element 15-1 a, made of metal, is processed, in particular coated, in particular tinned.

[0076] The shape and design of the first contact element 15-1a are suitable for automated assembly of the circuit board 12. After automated placement of the first contact element 15-1a into the through-hole of the circuit board 12, the first contact element 15-1a is connected to the circuit board 12 by soft soldering. Additionally, the collar 15a, formed as an axial stop, provides a sufficient soldering slot during the soldering process to bear all loads during installation and operation.

[0077] During the mounting process, the second contact element (15-1b), which may in particular be formed as a sleeve-type spring contact element with elastically deformable lamellar contact springs, is attached to one of the plug-in connectors (13) of the connecting arrangement (9) via the mounting element (14). The wall of the second contact element (15-1b) is formed in the form of a circular ring in the region of the end face and is formed to bulge outward uniformly in the radial direction from the region of the lamellar contact springs. The lamellar contact springs, formed in the form of strips, are connected to each other at the end face. Figures 2e to 2h show the second contact element (15-1b) of the first contact device (15-1) in a detailed view as well as in a partial view and an overall perspective view.

[0078] The second contact elements (15-1b) have an inner diameter slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the plug-in connector (13) in the region of each end face, and when the arrangement is assembled, the inner surface of each of the lamellar contact springs contacts the outer surface of the plug-in connector (13) so that electrical contact is established with the plug-in connector (13). To be able to apply a spring force during installation and when the arrangement is assembled, the circular ring is preferably formed with slot-type openings (18) in the region of the end faces of the wall of the second contact elements (15-1b), in particular fully slotted in the axial direction. The openings (18) allow at least a slight expansion of the diameter of the circular ring so that the required spring force can be generated.

[0079] The second contact element (15-1b) has a maximum outer diameter greater than the inner diameter of the first contact element (15-1a) in the area created by the lamellar contact spring. When the second contact element (15-1b) is inserted into the opening of the first contact element (15-1a), the individual lamellar contacts contact the inner surface of the first contact element (15-1a) and are elastically deformed in such a way that an electrical connection is established between the contact elements (15-1a, 15b) of the contact device (15-1).

[0080] Depending on the mounting sequence, the second contact element (15-1b) is fixed by elastic deformation in the region of the end face of the plug-in connector (13) or in the region of the lamellar contact spring in the first contact element (15-1a), respectively, so as not to be lost.

[0081] When the arrangement is assembled, the circuit board (12) having the first contact element (15-1a) firmly connected to the circuit board (12) is attached to the plug connector (13) of the connecting arrangement (9) with the second contact element (15-1b) connected to the plug connector (13) in such a way that the second contact element (15-1b) is disposed within the first contact element (15-1a) with the plug connector (13).

[0082] When the arrangement is assembled, the second contact elements (15-1b) are fixed in a gap formed between the outer surface of one of the plug-in connectors (13) and the inner surface of the first contact element (15-1a) by a slot, in particular a substantially circular slot.

[0083] The second contact element 15-1b is formed on one of its axially outwardly facing annular end faces with a radially inwardly facing locking device 19. The locking device 19 acts as a stop when mounted on the plug-in connector 13 and secures the second contact element 15-1b between the first contact element 15-1a and the plug-in connector 13. The locking device 19 ensures that the second contact element 15-1b is only coupled to the plug-in connector 13 up to a specific position and is secured in place. The locking device 19 can be formed, for example, as a completely encircling collar facing radially inward in FIGS. 2e and 2f, or as a single element in the form of a hook or finger in FIGS. 2g and 2h. Also contemplated are embodiments of the locking device with two or more single elements, preferably arranged opposite each other.

[0084] When mounted, the first contact element (15-1a), the second contact element (15-1b) and the plug-in connector (13) are aligned and positioned so that any tolerances that may occur are sufficiently compensated for, allowing the plug-in connector (13) to be mounted and establish an electrical connection between the circuit board (12) and the plug-in connector (13) even under extreme tolerance conditions.

[0085] Figures 3a and 3b show the plug-in connector 13 of the coupling arrangement 9 in a perspective view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, together with the second contact device 15-2, with the inverter mounted on the circuit board 12. Figures 3c and 3d show the second contact device 15-2 in a side view and a detailed perspective view, with a first contact area 15-2a and a second contact area 15-2b.

[0086] The second contact device (15-2), which is also formed as a substantially hollow cylindrical contact sleeve for a secure electrical connection while compensating for tolerances occurring between the plug-in connector (13) and the circuit board (12), has a first contact area (15-2a) and a second contact area (15-2b), which extend along a common longitudinal axis. The contact device (15-2) and the contact areas (15-2a, 15-2b) are formed as a single component.

[0087] The first contact area (15-2a) and the second contact area (15-2b) are connected to each other through a collar (15a), particularly a section formed as a seat or flange. The collar (15a) is formed around the entire outer surface of the sleeve. Thus, the first contact area (15-2a) extends from the first end face of the sleeve to the collar (15a) and has a shorter axial length than the second contact area (15-2b), which extends from the second end face of the sleeve to the collar (15a). The sleeve also has an opening, particularly a through opening, for receiving the plug-in connector (13), which extends from the first end face of the sleeve opening to the second end face.

[0088] In the first contact region (15-2a), the hollow cylindrical contact device (15-2) has a substantially constant wall thickness, and the collar (15a) is aligned in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical first contact region (15-2a) and projects radially beyond the outer surfaces of the contact regions (15-2a, 15-2b), thereby forming the contact device (15-2) with a greater wall thickness in the region of the collar (15a).

[0089] The first contact area 15-2a is directly disposed within the circuit board 12 and soldered to the circuit board 12, in which case the contact sleeve is inserted through a through-hole formed in the circuit board 12, always with the first end face first, and contacts the surface of the circuit board 12 together with a flange- or bulge-like collar 15a provided as an axial stop and support. The contact device 15-2, in particular, protrudes beyond the circuit board 12 together with the second contact area 15-2b and the collar 15a on the surface of the circuit board 12. The first contact area 15-2a, together with at least the main portion, is disposed within the through-hole of the circuit board 12.

[0090] The diameter of the through openings created in the circuit board 12 corresponds substantially to the outer diameter of the first contact area 15-2a, in addition to clearances for mounting and soldering components. The surface of the contact device 15-2 made of metal is prepared, in particular coated, for example for reflow soldering, but in particular tinned.

[0091] After preferably automatic insertion of the contact device 15-2 into the through-opening of the circuit board 12, the contact device 15-2 is connected to the circuit board 12 by soldering, and the collar 15a formed as an axial stop provides a sufficient soldering slot during the soldering process to bear all the load during installation and operation.

[0092] During assembly, a contact device (15-2) with a second contact area (15-2b) formed as a spring contact element with elastically deformable lamellar contact springs is connected to the plug-in connector (13). The wall of the second contact area (15-2b) is formed in the form of a circular ring in the area of ​​its end face and is uniformly radially convex inward in the area of ​​the lamellar contact springs. The lamellar contact springs, formed in strip form, are connected to one another at their end faces, while one end face of the second contact area (15-2b) is connected to the collar (15a).

[0093] The lamellar contact spring is an essential part of the contact device (15-2). The lamellar contact spring is produced in the original form of a cylindrical sleeve, in which the wall of the sleeve in the second contact area (15-2b) is slotted several times in the axial or longitudinal direction. The strips thus formed, which are uniform in the circumferential direction, preferably of the same width and axial length, are bent towards the inner surface of the sleeve, resulting in the lamellar contact spring. The lamellar contact spring is arranged in a circular pattern.

[0094] The length of the second contact area (15-2b) in the axial direction preferably corresponds substantially to the maximum length of the area of ​​the plug-in connector (13) that protrudes beyond the circuit board (12).

[0095] The contact device (15-2) has an inner diameter corresponding to or larger than the outer diameter of the plug-in connector (13) at either end of the entire first contact area (15-2a) or second contact area (15-2b) so that when the device is assembled, the inner surface contacts the inner surface of the plug-in connector (13), thereby establishing an electrical connection to the plug-in connector (13).

[0096] The second contact area (15-2b) of the contact device (15-2) having radially deflected lamellar contact springs has a minimum inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the plug-in connector (13). When the plug-in connector (13) is inserted into the opening of the contact device (15-2), the individual lamellar contacts are elastically deformed into contact with the outer surface of the plug-in connector (13) in such a way that an electrical connection is established between the plug-in connector (13) and the contact device (15-2).

[0097] When the arrangement is assembled, the circuit boards (12) are coupled to plug-in connectors (13) that are disposed within and rigidly fixed to the circuit boards (12) such that the plug-in connectors (13) are disposed within the contact devices (15-2), each of the plug-in connectors (13) being completely surrounded by the contact devices (15-2).

[0098] In the assembled state, the contact device (15-2) and the plug-in connector (13) are aligned and positioned so that any tolerances that may occur are sufficiently compensated for, allowing the plug-in connector (13) to be mounted even under extreme tolerance conditions, and establishing an electrical connection between the circuit board (12) and the plug-in connector (13). [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 1 Compressor 2. Housing 3. Device, electric motor 4. Compression mechanism 5 inverters 6 Switching Device 7 Stator 8 rotors 9,9' Connected Arrangement 10 Drive shaft 11 Switching element 12, 12' circuit board 13, 13' coupling element, plug-in connector 14, 14' Mounting element 15, 15': Contact sleeve 15-1, 15-2 Contact device 15-1a: first contact element of contact device (15-1) 15-1b second contact element of the contact device (15-1) 15-2a: first contact area of ​​the contact device (15-2) 15-2b: second contact area of ​​the contact device (15-2) 15a color 16 Busbar 17 Structural elements 18 Aperture 19 Locking device

Claims

1. A coupling device (9) having one or more electrically conductive coupling elements (13) and one or more contact devices (15-1) fixed in a circuit board (12) for axially mounting said coupling elements (13), the contact device (15-1) comprises one or more spring contact elements having elastically deformable lamellar contact springs, the lamellar contact springs being in electrically conductive contact with the connecting element (13); The contact device (15-1) has a first contact element (15-1a) and a second contact element (15-1b) formed separately from the first contact element (15-1a), the first contact element (15-1a), formed as a hollow cylindrical contact sleeve, is arranged radially on the outer surface of the second contact element (15-1b) in such a way that the second contact element (15-1b) is completely surrounded by the first contact element (15-1a); the second contact element (15-1b) is formed of a spring contact element having an elastically deformable lamellar contact spring and is arranged to surround the connecting element (13) and establish electrical contact; said second contact element (15-1b) is formed with a locking device (19) directed radially inwards on its axially outwardly facing end face, The second contact element (15-1b) is attached to the connecting element (13) before being placed in the first contact element (15-1a), and the locking device (19) acts as a stopper when the second contact element (15-1b) is attached to the connecting element (13), and the locking device (19) ensures that the second contact element (15-1b) is connected and fixed on the connecting element (13) only up to a specific position.

2. 2. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein the first contact element (15-1a) has a first section and a second section each extending axially and connected to each other by a collar (15a).

3. 3. A coupling device according to claim 2, characterized in that the first section extends from a first end face to the collar (15a) and the second section extends from a second end face to the collar (15a).

4. 4. A coupling device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the collar (15a) is formed so as to project radially beyond the outer surface of each section and to completely surround the first contact element (15-1a).

5. 5. A coupling device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the collar (15a) is aligned in a plane extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the axially arranged first contact element (15-1a).

6. A coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the lamellar contact springs of the spring contact elements are formed in the shape of strips in the axial direction of the contact device (15-1).

7. 7. The coupling device according to claim 6, wherein the lamellar contact springs are connected to each other at their ends disposed opposite each other, and the connecting portions are each formed in the shape of a circular ring.

8. 8. A coupling device according to claim 7, wherein in an initial state of the components, the lamellar contact springs are formed to bulge radially inwards or outwards from the region between the ends.

9. 9. A coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the coupling element (13) is formed as a cylindrical pin-type plug-in connector.

10. 10. A coupling device according to claim 9, characterized in that the coupling element (13) is formed in the shape of a circular cylinder.

11. 11. A coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the contact device (15-1) and the coupling element (13) are arranged coaxially aligned with each other.

12. A coupling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the first contact element (15-1a) formed by the hollow cylindrical contact sleeve has an opening extending from a first end face to a second end face for mounting the second contact element (15-1b).

13. 13. A coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the lamellar contact springs are connected to each other at their ends arranged opposite each other, the connecting portions each having the form of a circular ring, the circular rings being formed with slot-type openings (18).

14. 14. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein in an initial state of the second contact element (15-1b), the lamellar contact spring is formed to bulge outward in the radial direction, and the second contact element (15-1b) has a maximum outer diameter in the section formed by the lamellar contact spring that is greater than the inner diameter of the first contact element (15-1a) formed of a hollow cylindrical contact sleeve, and when the coupling device is assembled, the lamellar contact springs are each elastically deformed to contact the inner surface of the first contact element (15-1a) through their outer surfaces.

15. 15. A coupling device according to any one of claims 2 to 14, characterized in that the first section of the first contact element (15-1a) formed by the hollow cylindrical contact sleeve is inserted into a through opening formed in the circuit board (12) and then soldered to the circuit board (12).

16. An apparatus for driving a vapor fluid compressor including a rotor (8) and a stator (7) arranged along a common longitudinal axis and a housing (2), 16. A compressor drive device, characterized in that a support element having mounting elements for mounting one or more connecting elements (13) and a connecting device for connecting an electrical connection according to any one of claims 1 to 15 is formed on a first end face aligned in the axial direction of the stator (7).

17. A method for installing a coupling device for connecting an electrical connection part of a device for driving a compressor according to any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising the steps of: - connecting one or more contact devices (15-1) to the circuit board (12), the contact devices (15-1) being inserted through through-openings formed in the circuit board (12) with the first end face always leading until the contact devices (15-1) together with the collars (15a) contact the circuit board (12); - soldering said contact device (15-1) to said circuit board (12), - a method for mounting a connecting device, characterized in that a spring contact element having an elastically deformable lamellar contact spring of the contact device (15-1) is attached to a connecting element (13), whereby the contact device (15-1) having the spring contact element is brought into electrically conductive contact with the connecting element (13), thereby establishing an electrical connection between the circuit board (12) and the connecting element (13).

18. 18. The method for attaching a connecting device according to claim 17, wherein one or more first contact elements (15-1a) of the contact device (15-1) are connected to the circuit board (12), one or more second contact elements (15-1b) are attached to the connecting element (13), and the circuit board (12) having one or more first contact elements (15-1a) firmly connected to the circuit board (12) is pressed onto the plug-in connector (13) having one or more second contact elements (15-1b) attached to the connecting element (13) so that the second contact elements (15-1b) are disposed inside the first contact elements (15-1a).

19. 19. The method for mounting a connecting device according to claim 18, wherein when the second contact element (15-1b) is inserted into the opening of the first contact element (15-1a), the individual lamellar contact springs of the spring contact elements are elastically deformed against the inner surface of the first contact element (15-1a) so that an electrical connection is established between the contact elements (15-1a, 15-1b) of the contact device (15-1).

20. 16. A compressor driver for compressing vapor fluids, equipped with a coupling device according to any one of claims 1 to 15 for a refrigerant compressor in a refrigerant circuit of a motor vehicle air conditioning system.

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