Plug connector

Abstract

The present invention relates to a plug connector (1), configured for connecting to a mating plug connector (2) of a device, in particular a vehicle (3) or an energy storage system or a current storage system or an energy supply system or a wall box, for withdrawing energy from an energy source, in particular an energy store (4), of the device, the plug connector (1) comprising: -- a longitudinal axis (L); -- a transverse axis (Q) which extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis (L); -- an outer housing (8) with a base element (9), a cover element (10) and an interior (11), wherein on an outer side of the outer housing (8) a first port (12) is provided for connecting to the mating plug connector (2) of the device, wherein in the interior (11) of the outer housing (8) a second port (13) is provided for connecting to an in particular cable (14)-connected consumer plug connector (15) of a consumer (16), wherein the second port (13) is designed to be rotatable relative to the first port (12).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] title

[0003] connectors

[0004] Field of the invention

[0005] The invention relates to a connector.

[0006] State of the art

[0007] The present invention relates to a connector, in particular a connector designed as a “Vehicle-To-Load” (V2L) connector.

[0008] Connectors designed as V2L connectors or V2L connector adapters are known from the prior art. In the course of vehicle electrification, it is sometimes possible not only to charge an energy storage device (e.g. a battery) of the vehicle with energy (e.g. electrical energy), but also to draw energy from this energy storage device (e.g. up to 400V and / or up to 30A, usually from approximately 100V to 240V and / or up to 20A or even up to 25A, although these values ​​can vary from country to country), in particular via the so-called charging socket or charging connection of the vehicle. In other words: the energy can not only be used internally in the vehicle (e.g. to supply an on-board network or to drive the vehicle), but it can also be provided that external (particularly electrical) consumers can be operated using the energy storage device (“vehicle-to-load”).that this energy is transferred to another vehicle (“Vehicle-to-Vehicle”, V2V) or that this energy is fed into the power grid (“Vehicle-to-Grid”, V2G) or that this energy is fed into a residential unit or a home network (“Vehicle-to-Home”, V2H). In the following, all these and other energy extraction options will be referred to as “Vehicle-to-Load” (V2L) to make it easier to read; the other options (V2V, V2G, W2H, etc.) will be included. It is understood that standard cigarette lighter sockets (e.g. in the interior of the vehicle) are not to be understood under the term V2L, nor are the (permanently installed) sockets inside the vehicle that are available as accessories or special equipment in some vehicles and into which, for example, a EURO plug or a USB plug can be plugged.

[0009] In many cases, energy is extracted from the energy storage device within the framework of a V2L application by inserting a connector into the vehicle's charging socket or charging port (usually located on the outside of the vehicle). However, the mechanical connection of this vehicle-side charging port (e.g., TYPE 2 port) is often not compatible with standard ports (e.g., Schuko® or EURO plug) of electrical consumers (e.g., a lamp, lawnmower, grill, etc.). In order to utilize a vehicle's V2L capability, connectors designed as a type of adapter (V2L adapter or V2L connector adapter) are known. They have a connector housing with a first port that can be connected to the vehicle and, in particular, its charging port.They also have a second terminal for connecting to a consumer connector of a consumer. The second terminal is either permanently attached to the connector housing or connected to the first terminal via a longer cable that extends away from the connector housing at one end. In the latter case, the second terminal can be located on another connector housing, which in turn is connected to another end of the cable.

[0010] US 2023 / 0137396 A1 discloses a V2L cable system comprising a first connector for coupling to a vehicle and a second connector connected to it via a longer cable, or a multiple connector, for connecting one or more consumers, thus creating an adapter system for V2L applications. CN 109177778 A discloses a V2L connector adapter with two connections (a first connection on the vehicle side and a second connection on the consumer side) in a single connector housing.

[0011] Disclosure of the invention

[0012] The invention is based on the recognition that such known connectors or cable systems, particularly for V2L applications, are not particularly well suited for outdoor use under all conceivable weather conditions. In particular, use in damp conditions (rain, snow, splash water, etc.) is a major challenge with regard to operational reliability. The use of a longer cable to connect the second connection on the consumer side can help to relocate the second connection outside the influence of moisture; however, a relatively large amount of storage space is required for such a cable. Furthermore, the invention is based on the recognition that access to the second connection on the consumer side is very difficult in some cases, depending on the design of the consumer-side connector. One design can, for example, be provided by a straight connector outlet, in which, for example,the connector pins run approximately in the direction of a connected cable or line. Another design could be an angled connector outlet, for example, where the connector pins are angled to the connected cable (e.g. rotated by 90°). Furthermore, the invention is based on the realization that conventional V2L connectors can easily lead to energy theft or theft of a connected consumer. If the owner of the vehicle moves away from the vehicle with the V2L connector plugged in, an unauthorized third party can easily connect their own device (if necessary).by first disconnecting the owner's electrical consumer) and divert energy from the vehicle's energy storage device for his own consumer without authorization, or this unauthorized third party can simply steal a connected consumer belonging to the owner by unplugging its connector from the V2L adapter and then disappearing with the consumer.

[0013] There may therefore be a need to provide a device, in particular a connector, in particular for V2L applications, which enables a consumer to be coupled to the charging port or an energy transfer port of a (further) device, wherein the former device, in particular the connector, is designed to be particularly space-saving, offers high operational reliability, in particular in adverse weather conditions (humidity, wetness), in which access to the second (consumer-side) port is as easy as possible, regardless of the consumer-side plug (straight cable outlet vs. angled cable outlet), and in which the unauthorized connection of consumers can be prevented and theft of a connected consumer can also be easily prevented.

[0014] Advantages of the invention

[0015] This need can be met by the subject matter of the present invention according to the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0016] According to a first aspect of the invention, a connector is proposed, configured for connection to a mating connector of a device for extracting energy from the device, in particular from an energy storage device of the device. In particular, a connector is proposed that is configured for use in V2L applications. In particular, the connector is configured to be coupled or connected to a charging port or an energy transfer port of a device, or to be connected to such a port. The device can be designed, for example, as a vehicle, energy storage system, power storage system, energy supply system (e.g., a charging station), wall box, etc., particularly one that can be operated bidirectionally with respect to an energy flow.

[0017] The connector has a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis (Q) that runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L). The connector comprises an outer housing with a base element, a cover element, and an interior space. A first terminal is provided on an outer side of the outer housing for connection to the mating connector of the device, while a second terminal is provided in the interior space of the outer housing for connection to a consumer connector of a consumer, in particular one connected to a cable. The second terminal is designed to be rotatable relative to the first terminal.

[0018] This advantageously provides a particularly compact connector that takes up little space. The second connection can be particularly well protected against external influences (e.g. mechanical influences, moisture, wetness, splash water, temperature fluctuations, etc.), and the operational reliability and service life of the connector and of a connected consumer are improved. Another advantage is that the connection of a consumer is particularly convenient and easy to implement. In particular, the connection is easy regardless of the type of cable outlet, which simplifies operation and also improves operational reliability. Finally, it is advantageous to provide protection against unauthorized use of the second connection and protection against unauthorized removal of a consumer connector connected to the second connection in a simple manner.

[0019] The longitudinal axis can, for example, be an axis that extends parallel to a plug-in direction of the first terminal into a mating terminal of the device (e.g. of a vehicle) through the first terminal and / or through the second terminal.

[0020] The cover element, together with the base element, can enclose or define the interior space, in particular enclose or define that part of the interior space in which the second connection is arranged.

[0021] The first connection can be arranged, for example, on the base element, e.g., in a first section of the outer housing or the base element. The second connection can be arranged, for example, on the base element, e.g., in a second section of the outer housing or the base element that is different from the first section.

[0022] For example, a first position (rotational position) and a second position for the second connection can be provided. In the first position, for example, a consumer connector with a straight cable outlet can be plugged in particularly easily, and in the second position, for example, a consumer connector with an angled (e.g. 90° angled) cable outlet can be plugged in particularly easily, so that the cable does not collide with the base element and / or the cover element of the outer housing or runs in a severely curved manner in the interior. It is understood that, in principle, further positions can be provided, which lie, for example, between the first position and the second position or which - starting from the first position and a specific direction of rotation - lie behind the second position. For example, the first position and the second position are rotated apart by at least 20°, preferably by at least 30°, about an axis of rotation.

[0023] For example, it can be provided that the second connection can only be rotated in a single direction from the first position to the second position (e.g., only clockwise or only counterclockwise when viewed from the second housing section). However, it can alternatively be provided, for example, that the second housing section is designed to be rotatable in opposite directions relative to the first connection, allowing, for example, a transfer from the first position to the second position in both possible directions of rotation.

[0024] It can be provided, for example, that the first connection and the second connection are formed directly adjacent to one another. It can be provided, for example, that the first connection and the second connection are not connected to one another by a long, flexible cable which runs outside the housing, i.e. not by a cable or such a line which runs freely between the two connections. It can be provided, for example, that the outer housing is rigid and that the first connection and the second connection are arranged in a stationary manner on the outer housing or are firmly connected to the outer housing (with the exception of the twistability or rotatability of the second connection). It can be provided, for example, that the first connection and the second connection have a substantially defined or fixed distance from one another, in particular when viewed along a longitudinal axis of the plug connector.along a connecting line from the first connection to the second connection. The outer housing can, for example, be designed as a single piece or in one piece. It can, for example, be designed to be rigid (with the exception of the rotatability of the second connection relative to the first connection) (opening the cover element does not conflict with the rigidity of the outer housing). It can be designed such that the first connection is captively coupled to the outer housing and the second connection is also captively coupled to the outer housing. In particular, it can be provided that the outer housing and / or its base element does not consist of two elements that can be rotated relative to one another.

[0025] For example, it can be provided that the outer housing has means with which opening of the interior (e.g., by opening the cover element) can be prevented. Such means can, for example, be selected from the group: a lock, at least one eyelet on the base element and on the cover element (a padlock or the like can be passed through these eyelets), and a bolt. This advantageously prevents unauthorized coupling of a load to the connector or its second terminal. Likewise, unauthorized removal of a connected load and thus theft of the connected load are advantageously prevented.

[0026] The outer housing can, for example, comprise or include a metal, in particular predominantly. Alternatively or additionally, it can comprise plastic. Particularly advantageously, the outer housing can be manufactured as an injection-molded part or assembled from a plurality of injection-molded parts.

[0027] The outer housing may, for example, comprise, in addition to the base element and the cover element, further elements that, in particular, define an outer contour. The outer housing may, for example, comprise an additional cover element. For example, the additional cover element may be firmly connected to the base element (e.g., screwed) when the connector is assembled and may not be movable relative to it.

[0028] The term "have" is used synonymously with the term "comprise," unless otherwise stated. In a further development, the second terminal 13 is designed to be rotatable relative to the first terminal 12 about the longitudinal axis L of the connector 1.

[0029] This advantageously provides a particularly high degree of flexibility for finding a convenient insertion position for a consumer connector. Another advantage is that both a consumer connector with a straight cable outlet and a consumer connector with an angled cable outlet can be easily inserted and housed safely and securely inside the outer housing, while maintaining compact dimensions.

[0030] The rotatability about the longitudinal axis of the second connection relative to the first connection can be, for example, at least 90°, preferably at least 180°.

[0031] The second connection can, for example, be rotated in the second position relative to the first position by an angle of rotation in the range of 165° to 195°, preferably by 180°.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the second connection is designed to be rotatable relative to the first connection about the transverse axis of the connector.

[0033] This advantageously provides particularly great flexibility for finding a convenient insertion position for a consumer connector. Another advantage is that both a consumer connector with a straight cable outlet and a consumer connector with an angled cable outlet can be inserted particularly easily. Another advantage is that a particularly simple electrical connection can be made between the first and second terminals. Another advantage is that a particularly compact connector can be provided.

[0034] The second connector can be configured to be rotatable about the transverse axis, for example, by at least 30°, preferably by at least 45°, relative to the first connector. In a further development, the second connector can be rotated relative to the first connector in such a way that, when the consumer connector is plugged into the second connector, the cover element can be mounted on the base element without a gap, particularly with a straight cable outlet of the consumer connector and with an angled cable outlet of the consumer connector.

[0035] This advantageously provides particularly good protection for the second connection against external influences and against misuse of the connector. Furthermore, it allows for a particularly compact design of the connector. This also prevents unauthorized uncoupling of a connected consumer connector. Furthermore, these advantages can be achieved regardless of the selected cable outlet of the consumer connector.

[0036] In a further development, it is provided that when the consumer connector is plugged into the second connection, the consumer connector is arranged completely in the interior of the outer housing.

[0037] This advantageously provides particularly good protection for the second connection and the consumer connector against external influences, which increases the service life of these components and operational reliability. Furthermore, it makes it more difficult for unauthorized third parties to tamper with the second connection and / or the consumer connector.

[0038] In a further development, it is provided that the outer housing has a first outer housing section and a second outer housing section, wherein the first outer housing section faces the first connection, wherein the second outer housing section faces away from the first connection, wherein the second outer housing section is angled relative to the first outer housing section, wherein a first angle between the first outer housing section and the second outer angle section lies in a range from 15° to 60°, preferably from 20° to 50°. This advantageously has the effect of making it more difficult for moisture to penetrate into the interior of the outer housing. For example, a cable of the consumer plug-in connector can be led out of the interior through the angled second outer housing section.Particularly advantageously, the second outer housing section points towards the ground (geodetically downwards), in particular when the connector is coupled to the mating connector of the device (e.g. of a vehicle, etc.). Furthermore, moisture or liquid that has accumulated in the outer housing can be guided in a defined manner to a lowest point - viewed from the direction of gravity - which increases operational reliability. Such a lowest point can, for example, be located as far away from the second connection as possible, e.g. in the second outer housing section. For example, an opening for draining moisture or liquid can be provided in the region of the lowest point.Another advantage of the angulation is that a cable from the consumer connector always leaves the outer housing in approximately the same direction, regardless of the cable outlet direction (straight cable outlet or angled cable outlet), and does not need to be bent within the interior, but rather runs largely straight. The angulation also allows the consumer cable to be routed into the interior through a defined opening in the second outer housing section. If this second outer housing section and this opening point, this prevents moisture from penetrating the interior along the cable due to gravity in humid or wet environments (e.g. rain).

[0039] In a further development, it is provided that an insertion direction of the second connection is angled relative to the longitudinal axis by a second angle, wherein the second angle, in particular an absolute value of the second angle, lies in a range from 15° to 60°, preferably from 20° to 50°.

[0040] This has the advantage that, regardless of the cable outlet of a consumer connector, its cable can be led away from the connector without any major bending or curvature. When the connector is coupled to the mating connector of the device (e.g. of the vehicle, etc.) or plugged together with it, the second connection can point diagonally downwards, for example in the first position. In this position, a consumer connector with a straight cable outlet can be plugged in particularly easily, and the cable runs diagonally downwards. If the second housing section is rotated into the second position (e.g. by approx. 160° to 200° around the longitudinal axis and / or e.g. by approx. 45° to 110° around the transverse axis), in this example the second connection points diagonally upwards. In this second position, a consumer connector with an angled cable outlet can now be plugged in easily.In this case, too, the cable of the consumer connector runs diagonally downwards. This advantageously enables a well-defined cable routing direction for the consumer, independent of the cable outlet of the consumer connector. This advantageously enables a high degree of flexibility for connecting consumers.

[0041] In a further development, a seal is provided between the base element and the cover element.

[0042] This provides particularly good protection for the interior and thus the second connection from external influences (e.g., the ingress of moisture, wetness, splash water, dirt, grime, insects, etc.). Operational reliability and service life are advantageously increased.

[0043] In a further development, it is provided that the cover element is arranged foldably on the base element and / or that the cover element 10 is arranged foldably relative to the base element 9.

[0044] This advantageously enables particularly easy operation of the outer casing. Furthermore, it prevents the cover element from being accidentally lost. Furthermore, it also makes it particularly easy to prevent unauthorized access by third parties.

[0045] In the second alternative, the cover element can be arranged, for example, on another cover element. In this case, a hinge can be provided between the cover element and the other cover element, purely by way of example. The hinge can be designed as a hinge with at least one pivot and at least one axis, e.g., a plug-in axis. Alternatively or additionally, a film hinge can be provided.

[0046] In a further development, a hinge is provided between the cover element and the base element.

[0047] This advantageously enables particularly safe and easy operation of the lid. The outer casing is then particularly robust and durable, as the lid closes along a defined trajectory (determined by the hinge). This also advantageously prevents accidental loss of the lid element. Furthermore, it also makes it particularly easy to prevent unauthorized access by third parties.

[0048] The hinge can be designed as a hinge with at least one pivot and at least one axle, e.g., a plug-in axle. Alternatively or additionally, a film hinge can be provided.

[0049] In a further development, it is provided that a slot is provided in the base element and / or in the cover element for passing through a cable of the consumer connector.

[0050] This advantageously increases operational reliability. Crushing of the cable as it exits the outer housing is prevented, as is deformation of the base element and / or the cover element in the area where the cable exits.

[0051] A slot seal, for example, can be installed in the slot. This provides particularly good protection for the interior against the ingress of fluids, dirt, grime, insects, etc. Operational reliability and service life are significantly improved.

[0052] In a further development, the first connection is designed for connection to a high-voltage energy system of the device (e.g., the vehicle, etc.). This advantageously enables the extraction of high power (several kW) from the device or the energy storage device of the device without compromising the operational reliability of the connector or the loads connected to it.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the first connector is selected from the group comprising: Type 1 connector, Type 2 connector, Type 3A connector, Type 3C connector, CHADEMO connector, CCS-COMBO-TYPE1 connector, CCS-COMBO-TYPE2 connector, GB / T connector, Supercharger connector.

[0054] This advantageously enables connection to all common device connections or mating connectors of a device (e.g. a vehicle, an energy storage system, a power storage system, an energy supply system, a wall box, etc.) that are common in 2023.

[0055] It is understood that the first connection may also be a type of connection that only becomes relevant after the filing of this application.

[0056] In a further development, it is provided that the second connection is designed for connecting a consumer connector for a low-voltage network, in particular for voltages from 90V to 440V.

[0057] This advantageously enables the connection of devices that can also be plugged into household sockets or three-phase sockets in the home. This advantageously enables the transmission of high power (several kW) to the device without compromising the operational reliability of the connector or the devices connected to it.

[0058] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the second connection, in particular designed as a socket, is selected from the group comprising: Type A, Type B, Type C, Type D, Type E, Type F, Type G, Type H, Type I, Type J, Type K, Type L, Type M, Type N, CEE, USB-A, USB-C. This advantageously enables the connection of all common consumer connectors that are common in various countries in 2023.

[0059] It is understood that the second connection may also be a type of connection that only becomes relevant after the filing of this application.

[0060] In a further development, it is provided that the connector is designed to transmit currents of at least 1 A or of at least 5 A or of at least 10 A or of at least 16 A or of at least 20 A.

[0061] This advantageously enables the connector to be used for transmitting high power. This advantageously enables the widest possible and reliable use of the connector, for example, from operating low-power LED lighting to operating high-performance devices such as electric grills, heaters, hair dryers, power tools, etc.

[0062] Drawings

[0063] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of exemplary embodiments, which, however, are not to be construed as limiting the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0064] They show:

[0065] Fig. 1 schematic representation of a connector,

[0066] Fig. 2a is a perspective view of a connector with the cover element open and with a second terminal located in a first position,

[0067] Fig. 2b shows the connector of Fig. 2a, in which the second terminal is in a second position rotated by 180° about a longitudinal axis relative to the first position, Fig. 3a shows a first perspective view of a connector with a closed cover element,

[0068] Fig. 3b a second perspective view of the connector from Fig. 3a with the cover element closed,

[0069] Fig. 4 schematic representation of another connector,

[0070] Fig. 5a is a schematic side view of a detail of the connector from Fig.4 with a plugged-in consumer connector with straight cable outlet,

[0071] Fig. 5b is a schematic side view of a detail of the connector from Fig.4 with an inserted consumer connector with angled cable outlet.

[0072] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a plug connector 1. This is designed to be connected to a mating plug connector 2 of a device, which is designed here as a vehicle 3 by way of example, for extracting energy from the device, in particular from an energy storage device 4 of the device (here, for example, of the vehicle 3). The plug connector 1 comprises or has a longitudinal axis L and a transverse axis Q which runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. The plug connector 1 further comprises or includes an outer housing 8 with a base element 9, a cover element 10 and an interior space 11, wherein on an outer side of the outer housing 8, here by way of example in a first section 6 of the outer housing 8, a first connection 12 is provided for connecting to the mating plug connector 2 of the device (here, for example, of the vehicle 3).A second terminal 13 is provided in the interior 11 of the outer housing 8 (here, for example, arranged in a second section 7 of the outer housing 8) for connection to a consumer connector 15 of a consumer 16, in particular connected to a cable 14. The second terminal 13 is designed to be rotatable relative to the first terminal 12 (see Figs. 2a, 2b, 4, 5a, and 5b). In Figs. 2a to 3, the second terminal 13 is designed to be rotatable relative to the first terminal 12 about the longitudinal axis L of the connector 1, here by at least 180°.

[0073] In Figs. 4 to 5b, the second terminal 13 is designed to be rotatable relative to the first terminal 12 about the transverse axis Q of the connector 1, here, for example, by at least 30°, preferably by at least 45°.

[0074] The longitudinal axis L here is an axis that extends through the first connection 12 parallel to a plugging direction of the first connection 12 into a mating connection of the device (e.g., of the vehicle 3). It can also extend through the second connection 13.

[0075] In Fig. 1, for reasons of clarity, the connector 1 is not yet coupled or connected to the device (here: the vehicle 3) and not yet to the consumer 16, shown here as a hairdryer by way of example.

[0076] Connector 1 can be viewed as a type of connector adapter that enables the electrical connection of the consumer connector 15 to the mating connector 2 of the vehicle 3. Connector 1 can therefore be used for V2L applications in which energy is drawn from the (high-voltage) energy storage device of the device (here: the vehicle 3). In principle, V2G ("Vehicle-to-Grid") applications, V2V ("Vehicle-to-Vehicle") applications, V2H ("Vehicle-to-Home") applications, etc., can also be implemented using connector 1.

[0077] Advantageously, the plug connector 1 has only small external dimensions, e.g. when connected or plugged together or coupled to the mating connector 2 of the device (here: the vehicle 3), it protrudes from the device (here, for example, the vehicle 3) by a maximum of 35 cm, preferably by a maximum of 30 cm, particularly preferably by a maximum of 25 cm and most particularly preferably by a maximum of 20 cm.

[0078] It can be seen (see also Figs. 2a to 5b) that the second connection 13 is well protected by the outer housing 8, e.g., from external influences (mechanical but also from fluid media, splash water, dirt, grime, insects, etc.). Furthermore, a consumer connector 15, regardless of its cable outlet (straight or angled), can be easily arranged in the interior 11 and coupled to the second connection 13 without any cable kinking. Finally, unauthorized access to the second connection 13 can be prevented in a simple manner (not shown in Figs. 1 to 5b) and / or theft of a consumer 16 connected to the second connection 13 can be prevented (to prevent theft, it is sufficient that the consumer connector 15 is arranged in the interior 11 and is larger than an opening in the outer housing 8).

[0079] Figures 2a and 2b show a perspective view of a connector 1 with the cover element 10 open and with a second terminal 13 which is located in a first position P1 (Fig. 2a) or which is located in a second position P2 rotated by approximately 180° about the longitudinal axis L relative to the first position P1 (Fig. 2b).

[0080] Figures 3a and 3b show a first perspective view of a connector 1 with a closed cover element 10 with a front end facing the viewer (Fig. 3a) and a rear end facing the viewer (Fig. 3b). Fig. 3b shows two cables 14. These are intended to represent the cable outlet from the outer housing 8 for the two different positions, the first position P1 and the second position P2, which can be selected for different cable outlets (straight cable outlet, see Fig. 2a and angled cable outlet, see Fig. 2b). In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 2a to 3b, there is usually only a single cable 14 exiting the outer housing 8.

[0081] Figures 2a to 5b are described together below.

[0082] The second connection 13 can be rotated relative to the first connection 12 in such a way that when the consumer connector 15 is plugged into the second connection 13, the cover element 10 can be mounted on the base element 9 without a gap (see Figs. 3a, 3b, 5a, 5b), in particular with a straight cable outlet of the consumer connector 15 (see Figs. 2a, 5a) and with an angled cable outlet of the consumer connector 15 (see Figs. 2b, 5b).

[0083] The second connection 13 is located in the first position P1 in Figs. 2a, 5a and in the second housing position P2 in Figs. 2b, 4, 5b. The rotatability of the second connection 13 relative to the first connection 13 (in particular from the first position P1 to the second position P2 or vice versa) is represented by the double arrow (see Figs. 2a, 2b, 4).

[0084] In Figs. 2a and 2b, it can be seen that at the rear end (distal end) of the second connection 13, the housing tapers to a point and, for example, has a first bevel 71 or a first bevel section and a second bevel 72 or a second bevel section. Here, for example, the second connection 13 is arranged in the first bevel section (in Fig. 2a, this points downward, in Fig. 2b, upward). The first bevel 71 or the first bevel section and the second bevel 72 or the second bevel section advantageously also facilitate a gap-free closing of the cover element 10 on the base element 10 with a particularly compact design in terms of length and height of the outer housing 8 or the cover element 10.In particular, the first chamfer 71 with the second terminal 13 arranged in this (first) chamfer section enables a very compact design in height and length, since even in the second position P2 (with angled cable outlet of the consumer connector 15), a cable outlet area 31 (see Fig. 2b) of the consumer connector 15 does not protrude, or only protrudes very slightly, beyond an upper edge 32 of an element arranged in the interior 11, which has the second terminal 13, in the second section 7 of the outer housing 8.

[0085] When the consumer connector 15 is plugged into the second connection 13, the consumer connector 15 is arranged here, for example, completely in the interior 11 of the outer housing 8, see Figs. 2a, 2b, 5a and 5b.

[0086] The outer housing 8 here has, for example, a first outer housing section 81 and a second outer housing section 82, wherein the first outer housing section 81 faces the first connection 12 and wherein the second outer housing section 82 faces away from the first connection 12. The second outer housing section 82 is, for example, angled relative to the first outer housing section 81 (here it is angled downwards; in particular, gravity also points downwards). A first angle W1 between the first outer housing section 81 and the second outer angle section 82 can, for example, lie in a range from 15° to 60°, preferably from 20° to 50°. This can advantageously prevent splash water or rain from above into the interior 11.In addition, the cable routing is approximately the same for both positions P1, P2 of the second connection 12, regardless of whether an angled consumer connector 15 (in particular with an approximately 90° cable outlet) is arranged in the second position P2 or a straight consumer connector 15 is arranged in the first position P1.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiments of Figs. 1 to 5b, it is provided by way of example that the bending on a bottom side 84 of the outer housing 8, viewed along the longitudinal axis L, starts earlier from the first connection 12 than on a top side 83 of the outer housing 8.

[0088] In the embodiment illustrated here by way of example, the underside 83 and the top side 84 of the outer housing 8 run approximately parallel to one another only in the first outer housing section 81. In the second outer housing section 82, the top side 84 runs toward the underside 83 in the direction of the distal end of the outer housing 8. In other words, the bend angle at the top side 83 is greater than the first angle W1 at the underside 84. The first angle W1 refers to the underside 84. However, there may also be embodiments in which the underside 83 and the top side 84 run approximately parallel to one another or away from one another in the second outer housing section 82.

[0089] As can be seen particularly clearly in Figs. 2a, 2b, 5a and 5b, here, for example, an insertion direction E of the second terminal 13 is angled relative to the longitudinal axis L by a second angle W2. The second angle W2, in particular its absolute value, can, for example, be in a range from 15° to 60°, preferably from 20° to 50°. In Figs. 2a and 5a, the second angle W2 lies below the longitudinal axis L; in Figs. 2b and 5b, it lies above the longitudinal axis L. Therefore, the angle specifications preferably refer to the absolute value of the second angle W2.

[0090] In the exemplary embodiment of Figs. 2a and 2b, this angled arrangement of the second connection 13 is achieved particularly easily by arranging the second connection 13 in or on the first chamfer section of the first chamfer 71, wherein an angled arrangement is of course also conceivable without this chamfer 71.

[0091] In the exemplary embodiment of Figs. 4 to 5b, the angled arrangement is effected by a suitable rotation of the second connection 13 about the transverse axis Q.

[0092] The insertion direction E can be defined, for example, as the insertion direction of the consumer connector 15 into the second terminal 13.

[0093] A seal 17 is provided here, for example, between the base element 9 and the cover element 10 (see Figs. 2a, 2b, and 4). This seal 17 can be designed, for example, as a sealing cord. It can be arranged or mounted on the base element 9 and / or the cover element 10 (e.g., non-destructively removable). In other embodiments, it can also be attached to the base element 9 and / or the cover element 10 in a non-destructively removable manner, e.g., by being molded on. The seal 17 enables particularly good sealing of the interior 11 against moisture, wetness, splash water, dirt, debris, insects, etc.

[0094] In Figs. 1 to 3b, the cover element 10 is arranged on the base element 9 in a foldable or pivotable manner. Here, the cover element 10 can be pivoted upwards, for example, in the direction of the first connection 12.

[0095] In the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 5b, the cover element 10 is arranged so as to be foldable relative to the base element 9. Here, the cover element 10 is coupled to a further cover element 85. In this case, the further cover element 85 does not contribute to the enclosure of the interior space 11 or that part of the interior space 11 in which the second connection 13 is arranged. This interior space 11 (or part of the interior space 11) is, for example, delimited, enclosed, or defined here—as in Figs. 1 to 3b—only by the base element 9 and the cover element 10.

[0096] A hinge 18 is provided, for example, between the cover element 10 and the base element 9 in Figs. 1 to 2b. This hinge 18 can be designed as a hinge 18, for example, with a pin axis and hinges, or as a film hinge, or in the form of another hinge design or another joint design.

[0097] The hinge 18 is arranged here, for example, on an upper side 83 of the outer housing 8, approximately halfway along the longitudinal extent of the first outer housing section 81.

[0098] In the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 5b, the hinge 18 is arranged between the cover element 10 and the further cover element 85.

[0099] In the embodiment shown here in Figs. 1 to 3b, a slot 19 is provided in each of the base element 9 and the cover element 10 for the passage of a cable 14 of the consumer connector 15. The two slots are aligned when the cover element 10 is closed (see Fig. 3b). It is understood that in other embodiments, only the base element 9 or only the cover element 10 can have a slot 19 for the passage of the cable 14. In principle, the slot 19 can even be omitted.

[0100] A slotted seal 20 is provided in each of the two slots 19. The slotted seal 20 can be formed integrally with the seal 17, which enables particularly simple, secure, and durable installation. However, such a one-piece design is not mandatory.

[0101] In the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 5b, an opening or recess is provided at the rear end of the base element 9, here, for example, in the deepest part, through which the cable 14 can be passed. This opening is not completely closed by the cover element 10.

[0102] The first connector 12 is designed here, for example, for connection to a high-voltage energy system of the device (here, for example, the vehicle 3). It is designed here, for example, as a Type 2 connector. In other embodiments, the first connector 12 can be selected from the group comprising: Type 1 connector, Type 3A connector, Type 3C connector, CHADEMO connector, CCS COMBO TYPE 1 connector, CCS COMBO TYPE 2 connector, GB / T connector, and supercharger connector. Other connector types are, of course, also conceivable.

[0103] The second connection 13 is designed for connecting a consumer connector 15 for a low-voltage network, in particular for voltages from 90V to 440V. The second connection 13, in particular designed as a socket, can be selected, for example, from the group comprising: Type A, Type B, Type C, Type D, Type E, Type F, Type G, Type H, Type I, Type J, Type K, Type L, Type M, Type N, CEE, USB-A, USB-C. Here, it is designed, by way of example, for connecting a SchukoO plug commonly used in Germany.

[0104] The connector 1 is designed to transmit currents of at least 1 A, or at least 5 A, or at least 10 A, or at least 16 A, or at least 20 A, particularly at a voltage between 90 V and 440 V. In this way, even high-power consumers, such as heaters, a hairdryer, a kettle, electrical power tools, etc., can be operated safely and reliably in V2L mode using the connector 1.

Claims

Claims 1 . A connector (1) configured for connection to a mating connector (2) of a device, in particular a vehicle (3) or an energy storage system or a power storage system or an energy supply system or a wall box, for extracting energy from an energy source, in particular an energy storage device (4), of the device, the connector (1) comprising: - a longitudinal axis (L); - a transverse axis (Q) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L); - an outer housing (8) with a base element (9), a cover element (10) and an interior space (11), wherein a first connection (12) for connection to the mating connector (2) of the device is provided on an outer space of the outer housing (8), wherein a second connection (13) for connection to a consumer plug connector (15), in particular connected to a cable (14), of a consumer (16) is provided in the interior space (11) of the outer housing (8), wherein the second connection (13) is designed to be rotatable relative to the first connection (12).

2. Connector according to the preceding claim, wherein the second terminal (13) is designed to be rotatable relative to the first terminal (12) about the longitudinal axis (L) of the connector (1), in particular rotatable by at least 90°, preferably by at least 180°, and / or wherein the second terminal (13) is designed to be rotatable relative to the first terminal (12) about the transverse axis (Q) of the connector (1), in particular rotatable by at least 30°, preferably by at least 45°.

3. Connector according to the preceding claim, wherein the second terminal (13) can be rotated relative to the first terminal (6) in such a way that when the consumer connector (15) is plugged into the second terminal (13), the cover element (10) can be mounted on the base element (9) without a gap, in particular with a straight cable outlet of the consumer connector (15) and with an angled cable outlet of the consumer connector (15).

4. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein when the consumer connector (15) is plugged into the second terminal (13), the consumer connector (15) is arranged completely in the interior (11) of the outer housing (8).

5. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer housing (8) has a first outer housing section (81) and a second outer housing section (82), wherein the first outer housing section (81) faces the first terminal (12), wherein the second outer housing section (82) faces away from the first terminal (12), wherein the second outer housing section (82) is angled relative to the first outer housing section (81), wherein a first angle (W1) between the first outer housing section (81) and the second outer angle section (82) is in a range from 15° to 60°, preferably from 20° to 50°.

6. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an insertion direction (E) of the second terminal (13) is angled relative to the longitudinal axis (L) by a second angle (W2), wherein the second angle (W2), in particular an absolute value of the second angle (W2), lies in a range from 15° to 60°, preferably from 20° to 50°.

7. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a seal (17) is provided between the base element (9) and the cover element (10).

8. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover element (10) is arranged foldably on the base element (9) and / or wherein the cover element (10) is arranged foldably relative to the base element (9).

9. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a hinge (18) is provided between the cover element (10) and the base element (9).

10. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a slot (19) for the passage of a cable (14) of the consumer connector (15) is provided in the base element (9) and / or in the cover element (10), wherein in particular a slot seal (20) is provided in the slot (19).

11. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first terminal (12) is designed for connection to a high-voltage energy system of the vehicle (3), and / or wherein the first terminal (12) is selected from the group comprising: Type 1 terminal, Type 2 terminal, Type 3A terminal, Type 3C terminal, CHADEMO terminal, CCS-COMBO-TYPE1 terminal, CCS-COMBO-TYPE2 terminal, GB / T terminal, Supercharger terminal.

12. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second terminal (13) is designed for connecting a consumer connector (15) for a low-voltage network, in particular for voltages from 90V to 440V, and / or wherein the second connection (13), in particular designed as a socket, is selected from the group comprising: Type A, Type B, Type C, Type D, Type E, Type F, Type G, Type H, Type I, Type J, Type K, Type L, Type M, Type N, CEE, USB-A, USB-C.

13. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector (1) is designed to transmit currents of at least 1 A or of at least 5 A or of at least 10 A or of at least 16 A or of at least 20 A.

Images