Configuration elements

Abstract

The present invention relates to a setting element for an electrical connection, which has a base housing in which at least one electrical plug socket is arranged and an outer housing with at least one through-opening. A rotatable closure mechanism is arranged between the outer housing and the base housing. The setting element further has a drive unit that, when activated by a control signal, moves the closure mechanism linearly and rotationally. In this way, the through-opening of the setting element can be automatically opened and preferably reclosed in a contactless manner or without mechanical actuation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a setting element for an electrical connector. This setting element has a base housing in which at least one electrical plug socket is arranged and an outer housing having at least one through-opening, and is accompanied by a rotating closure mechanism arranged between the outer housing and the base housing.

Background Art

[0002] The present invention is based on an electromechanical assembly that is mainly used in the field of power supply in offices and kitchens. These are single or multiple sockets recessed into the work surface. Preferably, the outlet portion of the plug socket in an unused socket unit is covered or closed. When the plug socket is in use, the outlet portion of the socket is released by pressing down on the electromechanical assembly device. It is also common to release the engaging portion of the plug socket by lifting or moving the cover laterally or by twisting the cover.

[0003] German Patent Application Publication No. 102014102959.3 discloses a modification in which a socket insertion portion with an insertion slot is provided so that the inner housing can be rotated at least 180° around its longitudinal axis. To release the insertion slot, the inner part of the housing has to be pressed into the assembly using the outer edge of the finger. In this case, a cardioid-type locking is provided against the pre-tensioning of a torsion spring, and the inner part can rotate into the operating position. When closing, the inner housing has to be manually pressed 180° into the locking position against the pressure of the torsion spring and a damping element and snap-locked into the cardioid-type locking mechanism.

[0004] German Patent Application Publication No. 102007063585.2 discloses an electrical plug socket with a front-mounted device, on which a closure based on the principle of a camera shutter is integrated on its surface. This closure consists of a plurality of closing elements, which are guided via fixed mounting parts and can be moved radially inward and outward. Locking and unlocking are performed by operating a swivel at the front of the plug socket housing.

[0005] German Patent Application Publication No. 102012025533.0 discloses a plug socket device having the following functions: The closure is pushed into the socket housing by a finger against the pressure of a retaining spring by a centrally located control button. This control button protrudes into the cover and disengages the cover. This control button must be held in this position by a finger. The cover, which is rotatably mounted to the base housing, can then be rotated by hand, while simultaneously pressing the closure downward, thereby opening the access portion to the socket exit. The plug socket is also closed by rotating the cover in the opposite direction.

[0006] In German Patent Application Publication No. 102018009948.3, the centrally located control button is pushed into the housing by pressing the control element downward against the pressure of a compression spring. To press it downward with a finger, it is necessary to release an inwardly positioned locking part and rotate the closure. At the same time, when the control button is pressed downward, the switching spring is pressed over the switching key, closing the circuit and then rotating the electric motor.

[0007] Another exemplary embodiment of this patent application relates to a centrally located control button, which must be inserted into the housing by a finger to release the closure.

[0008] A common thread in all technical solutions is that the mechanical elements allow access to the plug socket by turning them by hand or by pressing the actuating elements downward with a finger. Essentially, more or less skilled handling of the control elements is required to initiate the desired operation. These products are also exposed to considerable contamination due to the clearance dimensions in the placement of the control elements. Depending on the degree of contamination, this can adversely affect the operation of the control elements and lead to failure. Similarly, the various forces applied to the control elements by different operators can impair the proper operation of the mechanical sequence.

[0009] A factor that cannot be ignored is convenience, which is negatively affected by interventions in the housing. This is particularly problematic when the control element has to be pushed into the housing against spring pressure, which may damage long fingernails or cause the tightening force of the control element to be applied to the fingers. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] German Patent Application Publication No. 102014102959.3 Specification [Patent Document 2] German Patent Application Publication No. 102007063585.2 Specification [Patent Document 3] German Patent Application Publication No. 102012025533.0 Specification [Patent Document 4] German Patent Application Publication No. 102018009948.3 Specification [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0011] Therefore, the objective of the present invention is to develop a plug socket element that opens and closes a closure without the need to operate a mechanical control by hand or fingers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The present invention is disclosed by the features of the main claims. Embodiments and other developments are the subject of additional claims following the main claims.

[0013] Disclosed are setting elements for electrical connectors, specifically plug sockets of various designs, as well as for USB or other connectors. Specifically, this is a plug socket element. This plug socket element has an outer housing with an opening, and a base housing with one or more plug sockets mounted beneath the outer housing. Various options for the operating principle according to the present invention in the socket cover are described below.

[0014] The outer housing is fixedly connected to the base housing. One or more openings are provided in the outer housing to allow access to the plug sockets. These insertion holes are sized for the consumer connector or plug and are the same number as the number of plug sockets set in the socket element. Two or more plug sockets may also be assigned to a single opening.

[0015] Furthermore, the socket element has a rotatable closure that can be used to open and close the aforementioned opening in the outer housing. This rotatable closure is a rotating disk positioned between the outer housing and the base housing. As an alternative to the rotating disk, the rotatable closure can be designed in any other form, such as a rotary knob.

[0016] The closure can rotate within the base housing so that individual plug socket devices are positioned in the fixed base housing so that they precisely correspond to the corresponding openings in the outer housing. This allows the consumer's corresponding plug or connector to be inserted into the socket after the closure is released. The outer housing and the base housing are fixed together so that only the locking mechanism can rotate.

[0017] In the closed state of the socket element, the closure is embossed complementary to the opening in the outer housing to create a flat surface. In the closed state, the closure penetrates the outer housing from the inside out using the embossed portion. Thus, the opening in the outer housing is covered flatly.

[0018] The rotational function of the closure mechanism can be initiated by a separately generated control signal and can be implemented by various rotational mechanisms. This invention is based on the operating principle sequence of electromechanical dynamics. It ensures that the closure can be rotated without the need for manual mechanical action.

[0019] In a first exemplary embodiment, the control signal can be generated by a touch sensor according to the following principle. This sensor is located on a circuit board and connected to a metal outer housing by a cable connection. A change in the field is introduced by touching the metal surface of the outer casing with a finger or palm at any point. This change in the field is detected by an IC circuit on the circuit board and converted into a control signal.

[0020] A second exemplary embodiment uses an electric field sensor positioned at a defined point on the base housing, accompanied by complementary markings on the outer housing above the electric field sensor. This allows for the generation of a non-contact field change simply by moving a hand a short distance over the field. This field change is also converted into a control signal, as in the first exemplary embodiment. The difference from the first exemplary embodiment is that it does not require a hand to touch the outer housing, but simply requires bringing the hand close to the defined area.

[0021] The control signal can also be generated optically. For this purpose, an aperture is formed in the outer housing and closed using a light-transmissive material. The aperture can also be a damping part of the material that allows light to pass through it. Below this aperture, a light sensor is installed that records a sudden change in brightness and generates a control signal via an IC element. The sudden change in brightness is generated by a finger passing over the closed aperture. It is also possible to have a spherical lens cap that divides the aperture of the outer housing into a light path, records the change in brightness of the light, and generates a control signal by means of evaluation electronics.

[0022] It is also possible to generate a control signal by means of a given acoustic system. In this case, a circuit board with a voice module equipped with a microphone and an IC processor stores an acoustic signal representing the voice image of words such as "open" or "closed" and assigns a digital value to the analog voice image by comparison. It forms a control signal by means of an IC circuit.

[0023] In a modified version, "smart home technology" can also be used by integrating an actuator that can be connected to a smart home system in the base housing and by receiving a smart home command, which is generally an infrared signal or a wireless signal, and converting it into a control signal. This also means that the plug socket element can be integrated into the smart home system.

[0024] All of the above elements that are not mechanically actuated have the common feature that a control signal is generated and this signal can be transmitted to the control electronics of the drive unit and used there.

[0025] The function of the drive unit is to move the closure linearly under the outer housing until the surface of the recess of the closure sinks below the inner surface of the outer housing, and then to rotate the closure out of the effective range of the opening of the plug guide by a rotational movement. This means that the closure opens the access part with respect to the plug socket. In the reverse application of the closure, the drive unit rotates the closure by a rotational movement to a complementary position in the recess of the closure with respect to the opening of the outer housing, and then by a linear movement, inserts the recess into the opening of the outer housing and pushes the closure upward until the flat overall surface of the outer housing is created. This closes the opening again for the plug socket.

[0026] The combination of the linear and rotational movements of the drive unit can be implemented in various ways.

[0027] One possible option for the drive unit is composed of a DC electric motor, which is powered from an electric circuit inside the plug socket element. The electric motor is fixed to the base housing and has a motion gear system between the drive shaft and the rotatable closure element. The motion gear system is composed of a drive swivel fixed to the shaft of the electric motor and a moving sleeve fixed to the closure. The drive swivel is shaped with a diametrically arranged pin protruding beyond the cylindrical surface of the drive swivel. The moving sleeve is provided with a spiral structure that penetrates the wall of the moving sleeve from the outer cylindrical surface towards the center of the shaft. The pin of the drive swivel is arranged complementary to the spiral structure of the moving sleeve and engages with the spiral structure to create an axially movable connection with respect to the closure.

[0028] In its closed position, the closure rests in contact with the support wall and prevents the closure from rotating when rotation is applied.

[0029] As the shaft of the electric motor rotates, the drive part rotates by the same amount in the moving sleeve along with its shaped pins. These pins press against the helical track of the moving sleeve, pulling the closure linearly into the plug socket element. The support wall and helical structure are adapted so that the closure reaches the guide end of the support wall when it has descended sufficiently linearly, and then the moving sleeve can similarly rotate by the rotating pins of the drive swivel. This rotates the closure out of the effective range of the opening for plug guidance. This means that the closure opens its access part to the plug socket. When the closure reaches its open position, a restraining rib stops the rotation of the closure. Next, an increase in current occurs in the electric motor, switching off the power supply for the motor and initiating a reversal of the electric motor's polarity.

[0030] During the closing operation, the moving sleeve is first set to rotate by the drive swivel, then it rotates in the opposite direction, causing the closure to rotate in the opposite direction and contact the restraining rib. The electric motor continues to rotate along with its drive swivel, pushing the closure linearly outward through the helical pin and moving sleeve, thereby causing the closure to come to rest in contact with the inside of the outer housing. Upon reaching the restraining point, the current consumption increases again, the current is switched off by the control electronics, and the polarity of the electric motor is reversed.

[0031] Another exemplary embodiment is similar to the above-described exemplary embodiment, where the drive swivel and the moving sleeve are similarly arranged. In contrast to the first exemplary embodiment, the pin structure of the drive swivel and the helical structure of the moving sleeve are omitted. These are replaced by the male thread of the drive swivel and the female thread of the moving sleeve.

[0032] Next, by rotating the drive shaft of the electric motor, the drive swivel is screwed into the moving sleeve, where the closure is initially unable to rotate due to the support wall, and the moving sleeve pulls the closure inward into the housing. When the closure has made sufficient linear descent and reached the guide end of the support wall, the moving sleeve then begins to rotate. As in the first exemplary embodiment described above, the rotation of the closure is restrained by the restraining rib, the power supply to the electric motor is similarly cut off, and the polarity of the electric motor is reversed. Due to the high current supplied, the moving sleeve is tightened onto the drive swivel with a holding torque.

[0033] During the closing operation, the closure rotates in the opposite direction and moves toward the stopping rib. This stopping results in high current consumption, the holding torque is released, and the drive rotating part rotates away from the moving sleeve. This causes the moving sleeve, together with the closure, to be pressed linearly upward against the inside of the outer housing. Upon reaching the stopping point, current consumption increases again, the current is switched off by the control electronics, and the polarity of the electric motor is reversed.

[0034] Alternatively, the following drive unit can be implemented: an electric motor having an axially movable steel shaft surrounded by the motor's windings. This shaft is fitted with a spring in the electric motor and is fixedly connected at the outer end of the closure. When the motor is switched on via a control signal, the magnetic action of the windings on the electric motor's steel shaft causes the steel shaft to move linearly into the motor against the spring action, thereby pulling the fixedly connected closure linearly into the base housing. When the shaft reaches its bottom dead center, the electric motor begins to rotate the shaft, and the closure rotates into its open end position. As already mentioned above, the braking increases the current, which switches the motor off and reverses its polarity. Similarly, when the closure is closed, the electric motor rotates the closure so that the closure enters the closed end position relative to the braking rib. The increase in current switches the electric motor off and reverses its polarity. This switch also cuts off the magnetic field, and the closure is linearly pressed into the outer housing by the compression spring of the electric motor via a steel shaft, thereby closing the plug socket element.

[0035] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the solution method according to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0036] [Figure 1] This is an isometric view of the closed-state setting element or plug socket element. [Figure 2] This is an isometric view of the closed-state setting element or plug socket element. [Figure 3] This is an isometric view of the outer housing, including both openings. [Figure 4] This is an isometric view of the base housing. [Figure 5] This is a plan view of the base housing, excluding the outer housing, with the closure in the closed position. [Figure 6] This is a plan view of the base housing, excluding the outer housing, with the closure in the closed position. [Figure 7] This is a side view of a closure assembly, with examples of a moving sleeve, drive swivel, and drive element. [Figure 8] This is an isometric view of the sensor circuit board alone. [Figure 9] This is an isometric view of the closure unit alone. [Figure 10] This is a side view of a closure assembly, with examples of a moving sleeve, drive swivel, and drive element. [Figure 11] This is a side view of a movable sleeve with screw threads. [Figure 12] This is a side view of a drive swivel with screw threads. [Figure 13] This is a side view of a closure assembly including a helical structure, with examples of a moving sleeve, drive swivel, and drive element. [Figure 14] This is a side view of a movable sleeve with a spiral structure. [Figure 15] This is a side view of a drive swivel with a helical structure. [Figure 16] This is a side view of a locking assembly, an example of a combination of a solenoid and a rotating electromagnet. [Figure 17] This is an exploded assembly diagram of the closure assembly for the solenoid and rotating electromagnet. [Figure 18] This is an exploded assembly diagram of an example of a plug socket element. [Figure 19] This is a semi-cross-sectional view of the plug socket element in a closed configuration, with the central portion passing through it. [Figure 20] This is a half-cross-section showing the closure lowered and passing through the center of the plug socket element. [Figure 21] This is a semi-cross-sectional view showing the center of a plug socket element with two plugs inserted. [Figure 22] This is a half-cross-sectional view of the plug socket insertion area. [Figure 23] This is an isometric view of the pre-assembled outer housing with four mounting brackets. [Figure 24] This is a detailed cross-sectional view of the outer housing mounting area. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0037] Examples of individual parts and assemblies are described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0038] Figure 1 shows an isometric view of the completed assembly of the setting element or plug socket element. The socket element shows the closure 1 in the closed state, and the recesses 7(a, b) of the closure 1 form a flat surface with respect to the surface of the outer housing 60. The outer housing 60 is fixed immovably to the base housing 10 and is closed from below by the housing bottom 70. The entire assembly does not have a mechanical actuator to initiate opening and closing of the socket element by pushing down or pulling the actuator by hand.

[0039] Figure 2 shows an isometric view of the completed assembly of the setting element or plug socket element. The plug socket element is shown in the open position, and the opening 61(a, b) of the outer housing 60 provides free access to the plug socket insertion portion 65(a, b). The surface edge 62(a, b) is the boundary facing the outer upper side of the socket outer shape, and in particular defines the height of the recess 7(a, b) of the closure 1, so that a flat overall surface is obtained when the socket is closed.

[0040] Figure 3 shows the outer housing 60 as a standalone unit, with the opening 61(a, b) and the opening edge 62(a, b).

[0041] Figure 4 shows the base housing 10 in isometric view. The upper base surface shows a restraining rib for restricting the rotation of the closure 1. The restraining surface 11(a, b) is the side of the guide rib 14(a, b) and guides the closure 1 during linear downward movement. The restraining ribs 12(a, b) and 13(a, b) restrict the rotation of the closure 1; the rotation of the closure while open is restricted by the pair of ribs 13(a, b), and the rotation of the closure 1 while closed is restricted by the pair of ribs 12(a, b). The guide recess 15 to which the moving sleeve is attached is located in the center. The through hole 16(a, b) is provided to set up a cable route to the outer housing 60.

[0042] Figure 5 shows a plan view of a plug socket element in the closed position, with a closure 1 but without the outer housing 60. The closure 1 is stationary when its restraining surface 4(a,b) contacts the restraining rib 12(a,b), thereby positioning the restraining surface 2(a,b) of the closure 1 opposite the restraining surface 11(a,b) of the base housing 10 with a small gap. The guide surface 3(a,b) of the closure 1 is exposed in the base housing 10. An example of a sensor circuit board 52 is positioned in the center of the closure.

[0043] Figure 6 shows a plan view of the plug socket element in the open position, with closure 1 but without the outer housing 60. Here, the restraining surface 5(a,b) of closure 1 is restrained by the restraining rib 13(a,b) of the base housing 10, and the guide surface 3(a,b) of closure 1 is partially covered by the guide rib 14(a,b) of the base housing 10. As a result, the socket insertion portion 65(a,b) is freely accessible within the assembly.

[0044] Figure 7 shows a side view of an example of a pre-assembled drive mechanism. This pre-assembled unit consists of a closure 1, which is fixed in place and securely connected to a movable sleeve 20. A drive swivel 24 protrudes into the movable sleeve 20 so as to be connected to an electric drive unit 50 via an axial connection.

[0045] Figure 8 shows the sensor circuit board 52. The sensor circuit board 52 can be implemented with a wide range of designs and can occupy various positions throughout the module of plug socket elements.

[0046] Figure 9 shows the closure 1 with its functional elements as a standalone isometric view. The contour of the closure 1 is derived from complementary restraining surfaces 4(a,b) and 5(a,b), as well as guiding surfaces 2(a,b) and 3(a,b), and from a recess 7(a,b) for a flat overall surface. The body 8, shaped for the sensor circuit board 52, is centrally located where two mounting tabs 6(a,b) are formed.

[0047] Figures 10 to 12 show in half cross-section the individual components and module assignments of a possible drive mechanism using the operating principle of screw connections. The movable sleeve 20 is connected to the closure 1 by connecting pins 23 (a, b) and mounting tabs 6 (a, b). A female thread 21 is formed inside the movable sleeve 20. The restraining surface 22 of the movable sleeve 20 is located at the inner end of the female thread 21. Complementary to the female thread 21, the drive swivel 24 has a male thread 25, and further has a restraining surface 26 at its upper end and an opening formed inside. This opening is designed as a receiving hole 27 for the rotating shaft 51 in the electric drive unit 50.

[0048] Figures 13 to 15 show a side view of the individual components of a possible drive mechanism and the assignment of the assembly, using the operating principle of the helical structures 31(a, b) in the moving sleeve 30. The closure 1 is also mounted via its mounting tabs 6(a, b) and the connecting pins 35(a, b) of the moving sleeve 30. Each helical structure 31(a, b) has a top dead center 33 and a bottom dead center 32. The moving sleeve 30 is shaped into a cylinder internally, thereby forming a guide surface 34 for the drive swivel 36. The drive swivel has a cylindrical outer shape 3 and is designed with two cylindrical pins 38(a, b) arranged diametrically, which engage with the helical structures 31(a, b) of the drive mechanism assembly. The drive swivel 36 also has an opening formed internally, designed as a receiving hole 27 for the rotating shaft 51 of the electric drive unit 50.

[0049] Figures 16 and 17 illustrate alternative drive mechanisms based on a combined solenoid / rotating electromagnet in side and exploded views. The side view shows a possible design in which a closure 1, with mounting tabs 6(a, b) and a connecting pin 42 for the tension rod 41 in the solenoid 40, forms a secure locking fit. The rotating electromagnet 45 is located below the solenoid 40. The exploded view shows the schematic structure of this drive mechanism in more detail. In this case, the solenoid basically consists of a coil body 40, with the tension rod 41 located in the center. When current is applied, the tension rod 41 is pulled into the coil body 40 against a compression spring 43. The solenoid 40 is secured to a connecting plate 47 by a clamping element 48, which is then fixedly connected to a rotating body 46. The rotating body 45 is positioned in the center of the outer body 45 of the rotating electromagnet so that it can rotate. Mounting tabs 49(a, b) are formed on the outer body 45 of the rotating electromagnet, which secure the outer body 45 of the rotating electromagnet to the base housing 10.

[0050] Figure 18 shows an exploded assembly view of the overall structure of the plug socket element based on an exemplary embodiment. When the base housing 10 and the outer housing 60 are assembled, they form a cavity in which the closure 1 can perform its linear upward and rotational motion by means of the moving sleeve 20 and the drive swivel 24. The sensor circuit board 52 can be located in the center. Inside the base housing 10 are the socket insertion section 65(a, b), the electric drive unit 50, another sensor circuit board 53, and the motor control circuit board 54. The end of the module is formed by the bottom of the housing 70.

[0051] Figures 19 and 20 illustrate the plug socket elements in half cross-section, with Figure 19 illustrating the plug socket elements in the closed position of the closure 1. In this case, the surface of the recess 7(a, b) is planar parallel to the surface of the outer housing 60. A gap exists between the restraining surface 22 of the movable sleeve 20 and the restraining surface 26 of the drive swivel 24. Figure 20 shows the position where the closure 1 is linearly lowered. Here, the surface of the recess 7(a, b) is lowered below the inner level in the outer housing 60. The restraining surface of the movable sleeve 22 and the restraining surface 26 of the drive swivel 24 move together.

[0052] Figure 21 illustrates a plug socket element in half section with two inserted plugs 75(a, b) engaging with the socket insertion section 65(a, b) at different heights. Plug 75a makes tight contact with the pressure surface 78(a, b) of the switching plunger 77a, thereby causing the compression spring 79a to rest on the microswitch 76 with slight pre-tension. Plug 75b indicates the end position of the plug 75b when fully inserted in the socket insertion section 65, and represents the end position of the switching plunger 77b when pressed. The switching spring 79b is also shown in its compressed position.

[0053] Figure 22 is a half-section showing the socket insertion portion 65, illustrating the arrangement of the microswitch with the switching plunger 77, the pressure surfaces 78(a, b) of the switching plunger, and the assembled compression spring 79.

[0054] Figure 23 shows an isometric view of the outer housing 60, before assembly, viewed from below, with four mounting brackets 63. The four mounting brackets 63 are fixed to the inside of the outer housing 60 and have openings for receiving latch elements.

[0055] Figure 24 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing the mounting of the outer housing when connected to the base housing 10. The latch hook 17 engages with the opening in the mounting bracket 63.

[0056] The operating principle will be explained in more detail below, based on the solutions of the listed inventions.

[0057] In essence, all types of signal generation without mechanical control elements can be used, including changes in electric field, changes in capacitance, optical changes due to light-dark comparison, acoustic input, wireless, and infrared input. Exemplary embodiments of sensor circuit boards 52 and 53 are used here as examples. Sensor circuit boards 52 and 53 are located inside the base housing 10 and connected to the motor control circuit board 54 via cables (cable connections are omitted throughout the examples and drawings).

[0058] The sensor circuit board 53 corresponds to the receiving part in a smart home controlled system. Commands to open and close the plug socket element can be input via a smartphone app or via the smart speaker of the smart home system. The sensor circuit board 53 can be addressed via an intranet or bus connection, or, for example, via a smart speaker. The smart speaker transmits a wireless signal or an infrared signal to the sensor circuit board 53. The sensor circuit board 53 then converts the input signal and transmits a control signal to the motor control circuit board 54.

[0059] Similar to a smart speaker, but with a simpler structure, the sensor board 53 can also be designed as a standalone audio module. In this case, for example, one or two microphones can be inserted into the through-holes 16 of the base housing 10, and analog commands can be stored and converted into digital signals via a programming button (not shown) at the bottom of the housing, which are then transmitted as control signals to the motor control circuit board 54.

[0060] In this way, different audio images such as "open" and "closed" can be stored for each individual plug socket element before it is configured. This means that the opening and closing of the plug socket element can be assigned to a specific group of people, thereby eliminating the need for additional mechanical, child-safe devices for the plug socket. The motor control circuit board 54 and the sensor circuit board 53 can be configured as separate circuit boards, but it is also possible to combine both circuits on a single board, which saves additional wiring.

[0061] When photoelectron signal generation is used, the sensor circuit board 52 can be integrated into the center of the closure 1. The shaped body 8 is provided on the closure 1 for this purpose. When using a photoelectron circuit, a reflective light barrier, or a photoelectric photosensor, the outer housing 60 must have a central opening in which the photoelectron circuit is installed (the opening is not shown as an example or mentioned in the description of the drawings). If the emitted light beam is blocked or the light field detects a shadow, the sensor detects the change and transmits a control signal to the motor control circuit board 54. As with the sensor technology described above, this mode of operation allows the plug socket element to operate in a completely non-contact manner.

[0062] Using capacitive sensor technology, an electric field is generated by the sensor and its changes are monitored. Here again, a sensor 52 designed as a capacitive sensor can be integrated into the closure 1. In the case of conductive materials, the capacitive sensor 52 can be designed as a touch sensor and / or used as a non-contact sensor with non-conductive materials. In the touch version, the metal outer housing 60 is connected to the sensor using a pair of wires. When the outer housing is touched at any point, the electric field changes, the sensor generates a control signal, and transmits it to the motor control circuit board 54. Using non-contact capacitive sensor technology, only a swipe through the electric field with a finger or the entire hand is required. In this case, the capacitance of the electric field changes, a control signal is generated, and it is transmitted to the motor control circuit board 54.

[0063] Possible sensor technologies and connections to smart home systems do not require mechanical control units, as illustrated in the example solution given in the prior art at the beginning of this text.

[0064] After a control signal is input from the sensor circuit board 52 or 53, the motor control circuit board 54 supplies energy to the electric drive unit 50, causing the rotation of the rotating shaft of the electric drive unit 51 to begin. On the rotating shaft of the electric drive unit 51, the drive swivel 24 is fixedly connected to the rotating shaft 51 by a receiving hole 27. The rotation of the male screw 25 of the drive swivel 24 pulls the moving sleeve 20 axially into the plug socket element via the female screw 21.

[0065] The closure 1 is securely fitted and connected to the movable sleeve 20 by the mounting tabs 6(a, b) of the closure 1 and the connecting pins 23(a, b) of the movable sleeve 20, and is in contact with the restraining surface 11(a, b) of the base housing 10 and restrained against the restraining surface 2(a, b) of the closure 1, and this pair of surfaces prevents the movable sleeve 20 from rotating. The closure 1 is then linearly inserted into the plug socket element by the movable sleeve 20. The dimensions are determined so that the recess 7(a, b) of the closure 1 is reliably lowered below the inner level of the outer housing 60 in order to match the height of the restraining surface 11(a, b) of the base housing 10 and the restraining surface 2(a, b) of the closure 1. If the depth of the ribs on the restraining surface 11(a, b) of the base housing 10 is exceeded by the closure 1, the closure 1 with the movable sleeve 20 can rotate into an open position below the guide ribs 14(a, b) of the base housing 10 until the restraining surface 5(a, b) of the closure 1 touches the restraining ribs 13(a, b) of the base housing 10. In this way, the closure 1 is rotated out of the effective range of the socket insertion portion 65(a, b), and the socket insertion portion 65(a, b) can be used without restriction. The guide surface 3(a, b) of the closure 1 slides below the guide ribs 14(a, b) of the base housing, thereby preventing the surface of the recess 7(a, b) of the closure 1 from being scratched.

[0066] When the closure 1 touches the retaining ribs 13(a, b), the rotation of the electric drive unit 50 stops, and the screw connections 21 and 25 generate a slight holding torque, causing the current amplitude to increase to a predetermined value. Once this value is reached, the electric drive unit 50 is switched off, and its polarity is reversed in the IC circuit of the motor control circuit board 54. The plug socket element opens.

[0067] When a new control signal is input, the electric drive unit 50 begins to rotate in the reverse direction until the restraining surface 4(a, b) of the closure 1 touches the restraining rib 12(a, b) of the base housing 10. As the electric drive unit 50 continues to rotate, the closure 1 is prevented from rotating by the restraining rib 12(a, b) of the base housing 10, so the male thread 25 of the drive swivel 24 pushes the closure 1 linearly into the moving sleeve 20 via the female thread 21 toward the outer housing 60. In this way, the recess 7(a, b) of the closure 1 is inserted linearly from bottom to top into the opening 61(a, b) of the outer housing, forming a flat overall surface with the surface of the outer housing 60. When the closure 1 touches the outer housing 60, the current amplitude increases again to a predetermined value. When this value is reached, the electric drive unit 50 is switched off, and its polarity is reversed in the IC circuit of the motor control circuit board 54. The plug socket element is closed.

[0068] In another exemplary embodiment, the sensor, the motion sequence of the closure 1, and the electric drive unit 50 are the same, except that the drive swivel 36 and the moving sleeve 30 are designed differently. The moving sleeve 30 is a cylindrical rotating body, the center of which is a drilled hole 34 used to guide the drive swivel 36. Two connecting pins 35 are formed externally in the upper region of the moving sleeve 30, which form a secure mating connection when assembled using the mounting tabs 6(a, b) of the closure 1.

[0069] Two spiral structures 31(a, b) arranged in the diametrical direction are positioned on the sleeve wall and are constrained by an upper dead center 33 and a lower dead center 32.

[0070] The drive swivel 36 is also a cylindrical rotating body, with two cylindrical pins 38(a, b) formed at its upper end, and a receiving hole 27 for the rotating shaft of the electric drive unit 50 is formed from below towards the center.

[0071] When assembled, the drive swivel 36, along with its cylindrical outer wall 37, protrudes into the moving sleeve 30 and is guided axially through an internal bore with a guide surface 34.

[0072] Here, the cylindrical pins 38(a, b) of the drive swivel 36 are positioned on the helical structure 31(a, b) of the moving sleeve 30. The drive swivel is also fixedly connected to the electric drive unit.

[0073] Once the rotating shaft 51 of the electric drive unit 50 begins to rotate, the rotation of the closure 1 is initially hindered by the pair of surfaces 2(a, b) of the closure 1 and surfaces 11(a, b) of the base housing 10. The rotation of the drive swivel 36, by the cylindrical pin 38(a, b), linearly lowers the moving sleeve 30 into the base housing 10, which moves along the helical structure 31(a, b) of the moving sleeve 30 from bottom dead center 32 to top dead center 33. When the closure 1 reaches its full depth, the rotational behavior is the same as in the exemplary embodiment described above. Here the plug socket element is open.

[0074] The closing operation is as in the exemplary embodiment described above until the closure 1 touches the retaining rib 13(a, b). The drive swivel 36 then continues to rotate, pressing the moving sleeve 30 linearly upward over the side walls of the helical structure 31(a, b) by the cylindrical pin 38(a, b) until the closure 1 touches the outer housing 60. At this point, the closure 1 has reached its end position, as in the exemplary embodiment described above. The plug socket element is closed.

[0075] Another exemplary embodiment described above relates to another possible realization of the drive unit.

[0076] As shown in Figures 16 and 17, this is formed by a combination of a solenoid and a rotating electromagnet. The closure 1 can also be fastened to the tension rod 41 of the solenoid 40 using connecting pins 42 via mounting tabs 6(a, b). The solenoid 40 is fixedly connected via connecting bolts 48 by a connecting plate 47 on the rotating body 46 of the rotating electromagnet. The outer body 45 of the rotating electromagnet is fixed to the base housing 10 by lateral mounting tabs 49.

[0077] When a control signal is input, the motor control circuit board 54 first supplies energy to the solenoid, pulling the closure downward toward the base housing 10 against the compression spring 43 using the tension rod 41. This lowers the recess 7(a, b) below the lower level in the outer housing 60. The rotation of the rotating electromagnet 46 then begins after a time delay, rotating the closure 1 into the "open" position so as to touch the restraining ribs 13(a, b), and the motor control circuit board 54 reverses the direction of rotation of the rotating electromagnet 45 by stopping the energy supply to the magnets 40 and 45 at the end position. The plug socket element is open.

[0078] When a control signal is next input via the sensor, the solenoid 40 is again supplied with energy, and the rotating electromagnet 45 rotates the closure 1 to a position where it comes to rest in contact with the restraining ribs 12(a, b) of the base housing 10. Next, the motor control circuit board 54 stops supplying energy to the magnets 40 and 45 at the end position, and the return spring 43 of the solenoid 40 presses the closure 1 linearly against the outer housing 60 by the tension rod 41, thereby causing the recesses 7(a, b) to form a flat surface with the outer housing 60.

[0079] To prevent incorrect operation of the closure 1 when the plug 75 is inserted, a microswitch 76 is positioned at the bottom of the socket insertion section 65. The microswitch 76 is designed as a break point and is inserted into the circuit between the sensor 53 and the motor control circuit board 54. The engagement of the plug 75 in the socket insertion section 65 applies force to the pressure surface 78(a, b) of the switching plunger 77 by the plug pin of the plug 75, causing the switching plunger 77 to move toward the microswitch 76. This compresses a compression spring 79 located between the switching plunger 77 and the pressure point of the microswitch 76, causing the microswitch 76 to open and switch the sensor 53 off. Thus, as long as the plug 75 is inserted, it is not possible to generate a control signal. When the plug 75 is pulled out, the compression spring 79 is released, and the switch 76 closes the circuit of the sensor 53 and the motor control circuit 54.

[0080] The outer housing 60 is connected to the base housing 10 via clamping hooks 63. When mated, the clamping hooks 63 of the outer housing 60 form a secure mating connection with the latch hooks 17 of the base housing 10. For inspection purposes and for easier disassembly during recycling, four inspection holes 18 are located on the cylindrical outside of the base housing 10. By inserting a suitable tool, the four latch hooks of the base housing 10 are pressed inward, and the secure mating connection with the outer housing 60 is released. The outer housing can then also be removed.

[0081] In summary, it should be noted that the disclosure of the present invention describes a plug socket element that does not require any mechanical control elements and can be easily opened by, for example, moving a hand near the plug or socket element, and automatically closes the plug socket element again when the plug is removed. The linear and rotational motion of the closure is achieved entirely automatically by a logical sequence. Thus, the operator-side surface is made to resist dirt, operation is considerably simplified, and the mechanism is protected from human error. The risk of injury during operation is eliminated, and the possibility of automation and integration into smart home systems is realized. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 1 Closure 2. Retaining surfaces (a, b) for linear motion in the closure. 3. Guiding surfaces (a, b) in the closure 4. Retaining parts (a, b) for the "closing" rotational movement in the closure. 5. Retaining parts (a, b) for the "opening" rotational movement in the closure. 6. Mounting tabs (a, b) in the closure 7. Recesses (a, b) 8. Body formed in the center of the closure 10 Base Housing 11. Retaining surfaces (a, b) for linear motion in the base housing. 12. Retaining ribs (a, b) for "closing" rotational movement in the base housing. 13. Retaining ribs (a, b) for "open" rotational movement in the base housing. 14 Guide ribs (a, b) for the moving sleeve in the base housing 15 Guide opening for the moving sleeve in the base housing 16 through holes 17. Four latch hooks 18. Four inspection holes 20. Moving sleeve with female threads 21 Female thread 22 Retaining surface of the moving sleeve 23 Connection pins (a, b) 24 Drive swivel with male thread 25 Male screw 26. Stopping surface of drive swivel 27 Receiving holes for the rotating shaft 30. Moving sleeve with spiral structure 31 Spiral structure (a, b) 32. Bottom dead center of a spiral structure 33. Top dead center of a spiral structure 34 Guide surface for drive swivel 35 connection pins 36. Drive swivel with cylindrical pin 37. Guide surface of drive swivel 38 Cylindrical pins (a, b) 40. Solenoid outer body (coil body) 41. Tensile rod 42 connection pins 43 Compression spring 45. Outer body of a rotating electromagnet 46. ​​Rotating body of a rotating electromagnet 47 Connection Plate 48 connecting bolts 49 Mounting tabs 50 Electric drive units 51 Rotation axis of the electric drive unit 52 Sensor circuit board (Hall, optoelectronic circuits) 53 Sensor circuit boards (capacitive, infrared, wireless) 54 Motor control board 60 Outer Housing 61. Openings for socket access (a, b) 62 Surface edges of the opening (a, b) 63 Latch brackets (4 pieces) 65 Plug socket insertion section (a, b) 70 Housing bottom 75 Plugs (a, b) 76 Microswitch break point 77 Switching plungers (a, b) 78 Pressure surfaces of the switching plunger (a, b) 79 Switching Compression Spring

Claims

1. A setting element for an electrical connector having a base housing (10) on which at least one electrical plug socket is disposed, and an outer housing (60) with at least one through-opening, A rotating closure (1) is positioned between the outer housing (60) and the base housing (10), The setting element has a drive unit (50) that moves the closure (1) linearly and rotationally when activated by a control signal. A setting element characterized in that when a plug is inserted, the startup of the drive unit (50) is interrupted by a control signal.

2. The setting element according to claim 1, characterized in that, in order to open the through-opening, the drive unit (50) moves the closure (1) first linearly and then rotationally.

3. The setting element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the drive unit (50) moves the closure (1) first rotationally and then linearly in order to close the through opening.

4. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that when the closure (1) is released, the drive unit (50) having a spring pulls the closure (1) linearly into the base housing against the pressing force of the spring.

5. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the drive unit (50) moves the closure (1) linearly and rotationally by rotational motion.

6. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the drive unit (50) has an electromagnet that moves the closure (1) in a linear manner.

7. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the outer housing (60) is reversibly connected to the base housing.

8. A setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a plurality of electrical plug sockets are arranged in the base housing, the outer housing (60) has a plurality of through openings, and the drive unit (50) is arranged between the plug sockets.

9. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the control signal is generated by a change in the electric field.

10. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the control signal is generated by simply touching the outer housing (60).

11. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the control signal is generated by an acoustic input.

12. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the control signal is generated by an optical sensor.

13. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the control signal is generated by connecting to a smart home application.

14. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the closure (1) has a restraining surface (2a, b) and a guide surface (3a, b), and the base housing (10) has a restraining surface (11a, b) and a guide rib (14a, b), and when the closure (1) is opened, the restraining surface (2a, b) of the closure (1) performs a downward translational motion complementary to the restraining surface (11a, b) of the base housing (10) until the guide surface (3a, b) of the closure (1) can protrude below the guide rib (14a, b) of the base housing (10).

15. The setting element according to claim 14, characterized in that during the rotational motion of the closure (1), the guide surfaces (3a, b) of the closure (1) slide along the guide ribs (14a, b) of the base housing (10).

16. The setting element according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the closure (1) has recesses (7a, b), and the height of the recesses (7a, b) is less than the thickness of the guide ribs (14a, b) of the base housing (10).

17. The setting element according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the base housing (10) has restraining ribs (13a, b), and the restraining ribs (13a, b) restrict the rotational movement of the closure (1) when it is open.

18. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the base housing (10) has restraining ribs (12a, b), and the restraining ribs (12a, b) restrict the rotational movement of the closure (1) while closed.

19. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the closure (1) has a restraining surface (4a, b) and a guide surface (3a, b), the base housing (10) has a restraining surface (12a, b), and when closing the closure (1), the restraining surfaces (4a, b) of the closure (1) are in complementary contact with the restraining surfaces (12a, b) of the base housing (10), and the closure (1) performs a downward translational motion until the guide surface (3a, b) of the closure (1) is in contact with the inside of the outer housing (60).

20. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the base housing (10) has a through hole (16) and a sensor circuit board (53), and the sensor circuit board (53) is positioned in the base housing (10) in the region of the through hole (16) outside the active circle of the movable closure (1).

21. The setting element according to claim 20, characterized in that the outer housing (60) is made of metal and is electrically connected to the sensor circuit board (53).

22. The setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the closure (1) has an electronic timer element that closes automatically after a specific time without being operated.

23. A setting element according to any one of claims 1 to 22, comprising a microswitch (76), wherein the outer housing (60) has a plug socket insertion portion (65) for a plug (75), and inserting the plug (75) into one of the plug socket insertion portions (65) opens the microswitch (76), which in turn shuts off the control circuit of the electronics, thereby preventing the closure (1) from closing when the plug (75) is inserted.

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