Plug connector and plug connector assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug connector (1) which is designed to be plugged together with a mating plug connector (2) in a plug-in direction (z), the plug connector having a plug connector housing (22) and a connecting device for connecting and / or locking the plug connector (1) and the mating plug connector (2), the connecting device being adjustable between a first position (K1) and a second position and comprising an engagement element which is designed to be coupled to a mating engagement element of the mating plug connector (2) in order to move the plug connector (1) toward the mating plug connector (2) when the connecting device is adjusted from the first position (K1) into the second position, wherein the connecting device comprises a blocking element (90) which is adjustable between a rest position (R1) and a deflected position, wherein the plug connector (1) is designed to block an adjustment of the connecting device from the first position (K1) into the second position when the blocking element (90) is in the rest position (R1), and to not block an adjustment of the connecting device from the first position (K1) into the second position when the blocking element (90) is in the deflected position.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] title

[0003] Connectors and connector arrangement

[0004] The present invention relates to a connector. Furthermore, the invention relates to a connector assembly comprising a connector and a mating connector.

[0005] Background of the invention

[0006] Connectors are known, for example, from the automotive sector, for connecting a control unit with a cable. A large number of individual electrical contacts or contact elements can be

[0007] Connectors are arranged. The more contacts there are in a connector, the greater the force required to connect the connector to a mating connector. Therefore, systems are known to simplify the connection, e.g.

[0008] Connecting devices that, for example, enable force transmission so that a relatively low operating force is sufficient to overcome the insertion forces.

[0009] Such connectors with such operating elements are known from the documents DE 102004 018 152 A1, DE 199 33 933 A1 and DE 19535 628 A1.

[0010] It has been shown that it is disadvantageous if the connecting device is operated before the connector is correctly positioned in relation to the mating connector, as the connecting device of the connector can then no longer interact correctly with the mating connector. It has also been shown that even the provision of a rigid projection in the operating path of a lever as a lock to prevent accidental displacement of the operating element in the event of sudden movements (e.g. when transporting a connector) or due to incorrect operation by a fitter can be overcome relatively easily with the corresponding application of force. There may therefore be a need to block operation of the connecting device as long as the two connecting partners (e.g. male and female connector) are not correctly positioned in relation to one another.

[0011] Disclosure of the invention

[0012] According to the invention, a connector and a connector assembly comprising a connector and a mating connector are proposed, having the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims and the following description.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention, a connector is proposed that is designed to be mated with a mating connector along a mating direction, which can, for example, run parallel to a z-axis or z-direction. The connector comprises a connector housing and a connecting device coupled to the connector housing, in particular attached to the connector housing, which is designed to connect and / or lock the connector and the mating connector.

[0014] The connecting device is adjustable or displaceable between a first position and a second position, wherein the connecting device has one or at least one engagement element which is arranged in particular rotatably on the connector housing, wherein the (at least) one engagement element is designed to couple to one or at least one counter-engagement element of the mating connector, in particular to engage therein, in order to displace the connector towards the mating connector, in particular parallel to the plug-in direction, when the connecting device is adjusted from the first position to the second position.

[0015] The connector in particular also has at least one contact element that can be electrically contacted with a mating contact element of the mating connector. In this case, the contact element and mating contact element are, for example, plugged together, which requires a predefined amount of force. With a large number of such pairs of contact element and mating contact element, a high level of force is required to plug the connector and mating connector together. The connecting device advantageously makes it easier to plug the connector and mating connector together. This can be achieved, for example, by reducing the operating forces when plugging the connector and mating connector together (e.g., by using leverage and / or transmission). A locking process can also be made easier, e.g., a locking process at the end of the plug-in path.In particular, the connecting device enables a smooth connection process with less operating force, but with a longer travel distance. The connecting device is thus particularly designed to support and / or facilitate a connection and / or locking process when connecting a plug and mating plug—this can be understood by the expression that the connecting device is designed for connection and / or locking.

[0016] By shifting the connector toward the mating connector, the connector and mating connector can be easily connected and disconnected with minimal force. In particular, connectors with a large number of contacts can be connected, disconnected, or removed with minimal force.

[0017] The connecting device has a locking element that is adjustable or displaceable between a rest position and a deflected position, wherein the plug connector is designed to lock an adjustment of the connecting device from the first position to the second position when the locking element is in the rest position, and not to lock an adjustment of the connecting device from the first position to the second position when the locking element is in the deflected position.

[0018] The invention thus advantageously creates a simple way of blocking adjustment of the connecting device and thus displacement of the plug connector towards the mating connector by means of a blocking element of the connecting device, i.e. on the connecting device itself, if the plug connector is not in the correct position in which the blocking element is deflected. This advantageously ensures that the connecting device is not inadvertently adjusted when, for example, the plug connector is being handled (e.g. during transport) or is already connected to a cable harness and the cable harness together with the plug connector is being installed in a device or transported to its destination. Furthermore, other components of the plug connector, in particular an operating element such as a lever or a slider, can remain unchanged, i.e. it is not necessary to attach or provide a potentially fragile blocking element to them.This advantageously enables a particularly simple and damage-resistant design of (movable) elements of the connector that are not part of the connecting device. If the locking element is separated from the operating element, the locking element can thereby still advantageously be placed in a particularly protected manner in the connector housing. Another advantage of the displaceable, pivotable, or adjustable locking element is that the connecting device does not have to be moved, for example, with increased force over a locking element designed as a stationary projection. Another advantage is that the locking element cannot be simply overcome or overridden (without causing damage or destruction) by a force impulse.

[0019] The engagement element can be designed, for example, as a bolt, pin or projection or as a link or as a gear or as a rack or the like.

[0020] The counter-engaging element can be designed to complement the engagement element, for example. It can be designed as a guide, a bolt, a pin, a projection, a rack, or another gear, or the like.

[0021] According to a second aspect of the invention, a connector assembly is proposed which comprises a connector according to the first aspect and a mating connector, wherein the mating connector comprises a mating connector housing, (at least) one or the (at least) one counter-engagement element and a counter-deflection element, wherein the counter-deflection element is designed to adjust the locking element of the connecting device from the rest position into the deflected position.

[0022] This advantageously provides a connector assembly in which the locking or blocking of the connecting device is released essentially automatically, e.g., when the connector is positioned in the correct position relative to the mating connector, e.g., in particular without further intervention by an installer (i.e., without the installer having to actuate an additional element). This advantageously facilitates the assembly of the connector assembly.

[0023] It can be provided, for example, that the counter-deflection element is designed to move the locking element of the connecting device from the rest position into the deflected position, in particular when the plug connector and the mating connector are in mechanical contact or when the plug connector is placed on the mating connector as intended or at the start of the mating process. The locking element should then preferably be deflected at this point in time in order to enable mating. In other words: it can be provided that the counter-deflection element is designed to move the locking element of the connecting device from the rest position into the deflected position depending on the mating position between the plug connector and the mating connector and / or depending on the relative position (tilt, angle, insertion depth, etc.) between the plug connector and the mating connector.

[0024] In one embodiment, the connector further comprises an operating element that can be moved from a first position to a second position, which is particularly designed to reduce the operating force when connecting the connector and the mating connector. The first and second positions can be defined, in particular, by two end positions or an initial position and an end position of the operating path.

[0025] The operating element is operatively connected to the connecting device in such a way that moving the operating element from the first position to the second position causes the connecting device to be adjusted from the first position to the second position. In particular, moving the operating element from the first position to the second position is blocked if moving the connecting device from the first position to the second position is blocked. In other words, by locking the connecting device in the first position by means of the locking element, the operating element is also indirectly locked in the first position.

[0026] This has the advantageous effect that an operator (e.g. a fitter) can carry out the mating process (mating together the connector and mating connector or disassembling or disconnecting the connector and mating connector) particularly easily. The operating element provides the operator with a clearly defined, solid, shatter-proof and / or unambiguous interface by means of which the operator can carry out the mating process (they do not have to touch any undefined part of the connector in order to couple it to the mating connector). Alternatively or additionally advantageously, a force transmission (operating force to mating force) can be specifically adjusted by means of the operating element, e.g. via a length of the operating element in the case of a lever. A possible force transmission of the connecting device (which can be designed in the manner of a gear, for example) can thus be specifically changed, e.g. increased.

[0027] For example, the operating element is a slider and / or a lever. In this context, a slider is understood to be a linearly displaceable element, in particular an exclusively linearly displaceable element (e.g., displaceable in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction). In this context, a lever is understood to be a rotatable element, in particular an exclusively rotatable element.

[0028] For example, manually releasable locking means can be provided in order to lock the operating element in the first and / or the second position. By locking in the second position, the connecting device can therefore also be locked in the second position, i.e. the plug connector can be locked with a mating plug connector. In particular, the locking element is not arranged on the operating element or is not a monolithic part of the operating element. Furthermore, it is advantageously not designed as an element (e.g. as an (immovable or rigid) projection protruding from the housing or base body), over which the operating element has to be moved with increased effort. This means that the operating element can be designed to be robust, and the locking element can be better protected against external influences. Furthermore, no increased operating force is required to overcome the locking element orthe locking function of the locking element is required (as would be the case, for example, with a locking element arranged as a fixed projection in the operating path of the operating element). It is advantageous to use a relatively delicate locking element, for example, which runs the risk of being damaged when arranged on the operating element (e.g. protruding from it like a lance or a cantilevered arm) and during transport or operation. In addition, the operating element can advantageously be manufactured more simply. The plug housing can also be constructed more simply in this way, since no coupling is required between an element of the operating element and the plug housing. This advantageously increases the spatial area for providing the locking element. The locking element can, for example, act on the operating element indirectly via the connecting device, in the manner of a gear lock.

[0029] In one embodiment, the connector has three different configurations, wherein in a first configuration of the connector, the operating element is in the first position, the connecting device is in the first position, and the locking element is in the rest position. The first configuration can, for example, be the configuration in which the connector is mechanically (and electrically) completely separated from the mating connector or in which the connector is just coming into mechanical contact with the mating connector. Electrical separation means, in particular, that (electrical) contact elements of the connector and associated (electrical) mating contact elements of the mating connector are not electrically connected or have no electrical contact. It is understood that the terms "contact element" and "mating contact element" can also be understood to include optical contact elements and mating contact elements.These are also not linked to each other in the first configuration.

[0030] In a second configuration of the connector, the operating element is in the first position or in a position close to the first position, the connecting device is in the first position, and the locking element is in the deflected position. In this configuration, adjustment of the connecting device from the first position to the second position is therefore permitted, since the locking element is deflected. The deflection is caused in particular by an interaction with the mating connector, as will be explained in more detail below. In this configuration, there is therefore also mechanical contact with the mating connector. An electrical or optical contact is, for example, not yet formed or produced, or, for example, not yet formed or produced in the target state. The operating element can, for example,be slightly displaced from the first position towards the second position by the release of the connecting device by means of the locking element (e.g. by an elastic pre-tension which is released).

[0031] In a third configuration of the connector, the operating element is in the second position, the connecting device is in the second position, and the locking element is in the rest position. In this configuration, the connecting device is adjusted, shifted, or moved from the first position to the second position. The connector is, for example, mechanically and electrically connected (and / or optically in the case of optical contact elements) to the mating connector. The fact that the locking element is (again) in the rest position advantageously prevents plastic deformation or creep of the material of the locking element and the associated loss of function.

[0032] In one embodiment, the locking element is pivotally mounted between the rest position and the deflected position, in particular parallel to a Y direction perpendicular to the plug-in direction. Pivoting can advantageously be provided mechanically very easily without complex guides. Furthermore advantageously, by pivoting or displacement perpendicular to the plug-in direction, compression or axial loading of the locking element can be avoided or at least kept to a minimum, whereby the locking element can be designed to be relatively delicate with small wall thicknesses and / or dimensions (e.g. a width / depth of less than 3 mm). The high plug-in forces could lead to uncontrollable loading of the locking element in the event of an axial displacement direction. Furthermore advantageously, by deflection, in particular along orparallel to the Y-direction perpendicular to the plug-in direction - which extends in particular towards a wall of the connector housing or which extends in particular parallel to an axial direction of the engagement element or which extends in particular perpendicular to a plane of rotation of the engagement element - can advantageously ensure that the locking element can be designed in a particularly space-saving manner and / or that a very compact ensemble can be formed in conjunction with the connecting device.

[0033] In one embodiment, the locking element is pivotally mounted relative to a frame element, in particular elastically reversibly, wherein the locking element is formed monolithically with the frame element and is connected to the frame element via at least one torsion section.

[0034] This advantageously provides a particularly simple and cost-effectively manufactured and robust locking element. The frame element advantageously protects the locking element from external mechanical influences.

[0035] The frame element and locking element can be made of plastic or metal, for example. The frame element and locking element can be manufactured as a cast, injection-molded, or stamped part. With these features, a stable and robust locking element can be manufactured very easily and is suitable for mass production. The torsion section can be designed, for example, in the form of a shaft or an axle.

[0036] In one embodiment, the locking element is preloaded into the rest position, for example, by the torsion section. This allows the locking element to pivot back into the rest position very easily after deflection, and no additional spring means or the like need to be provided for this purpose. Furthermore, the locking means is advantageously immediately ready for its function and does not need to be separately moved into the rest position. Furthermore, the locking element automatically returns to the rest position or is automatically moved back to the rest position after the connector and mating connector have been unplugged. The connector is then advantageously directly prepared for the next plugging process.

[0037] In one embodiment, the locking means can, for example, have a plurality of ends facing away from one another, e.g. two ends. The locking means can, for example, have an elongated shape in the manner of a beam or in the manner of a rod. It can, for example, be provided that both ends are designed as cantilevered ends. It can, for example, be provided that the torsion section is arranged at a distance from the ends of the locking element, wherein the distance from each end can in particular be at least 10% based on the length of the locking element. In other words: the locking element can be designed in the manner of a rocker or a rocker beam, wherein the torsion section forms the axis or shaft of the rocker. The greater the distance, the smaller the torsion angle required to achieve a desired pivoting angle of the end of the locking element.This allows the torsion section to be made more robust and more rigid, which has a positive effect on its durability and resistance. Furthermore, it can advantageously be ensured that the locking element is triggered on one side of the locking element (e.g. on a side facing the inside of the connector housing) and the locking or unlocking of the connecting device takes place on the other side (in this example, on a side facing away from the interior of the connector housing). This advantageously allows the necessary movement space of the locking element to be kept particularly small, particularly with a torsion section arranged approximately centrally (e.g. when the torsion section is arranged between 30% and 70% of the length of the locking element), which leads to smaller dimensions for the connector.

[0038] In one embodiment, the frame element has a stop, e.g., in the form of a web or a bracket, which limits the extent, e.g., the angle of rotation or pivoting, of an adjustment of the locking element in the direction of the deflected position or into the deflected position. This advantageously allows damage to the locking element caused by excessive deflection to be easily and reliably prevented.

[0039] In one embodiment, the locking element has a locking section, e.g. in the form of a projection, a hook, a nose or a recess, which engages with a latching section, e.g. also in the form of a projection, a hook, a nose or a recess, of the plug connector when the connecting device is in the first position and the locking element is in the rest position. Through the interaction or engagement or coupling of the locking section and the latching section, the adjustment of the connecting element or the connecting device from the first position to the second position can be easily and reliably prevented. The engagement can, for example, take the form of a positive fit. Such an engagement is very easy to produce and release. Furthermore, the locking section of the locking element does not engage with the latching section of the plug connector when the locking element is in the deflected position.In this deflected position, the locking section, in particular, can be moved relative to the locking section. Advantageously, the adjustment of the connecting element from the first position to the second position is not prevented.

[0040] In one embodiment, the locking section is provided on the connector housing. It is particularly easy to manufacture there, for example, using an injection molding process, especially if the connector housing is made of plastic.

[0041] In one embodiment, the locking element has a deflection section, e.g. in the form of a projection, a cam or a nose, which is designed to come into operative connection with a counter-deflection section, e.g. also in the form of a projection, a cam or a nose, of the mating connector when the plug connector is plugged together with the mating connector, wherein the locking element is designed such that it is adjusted from the rest position into the deflected position, in particular only when the deflection section is in operative connection with the counter-deflection section of the mating connector. This advantageously makes it possible to unlock the connecting device automatically when the plug connector and mating connector are plugged together. Separate manual intervention by the operator is advantageously not required to trigger the locking element (into the unlocked position or the deflected position).Another advantage is that the locking element and the mating connector can be manufactured particularly easily. Only mechanical, non-movable elements (deflection section and counter-deflection section) are required to trigger the locking element.

[0042] It is particularly advantageous if the deflection of the locking element into the unlocked position occurs only briefly, namely only when the deflection section is operatively connected to the counter-deflection section. This can be the case, for example, during the plugging process along a short section of the plugging path, e.g., a few millimeters. This prevents permanent deflection of the locking element and possible plastic deformation. It also advantageously reduces the risk of damage to a part of the locking element protruding from a wall.

[0043] The deflection section and / or the counter-deflection section preferably point in a direction transverse to the insertion direction, preferably in the Y direction or in a direction parallel to an axial direction of the operating element or the first and / or second engagement element, or in a direction perpendicular to a rotational plane of the operating element and / or the first and / or second engagement element. This advantageously enables a particularly space-saving and damage-resistant design.

[0044] In one embodiment, the counter-deflection section is provided or arranged on the mating connector housing and / or on the counter-deflection element of the mating connector. The counter-deflection section can be designed to operatively connect or couple with the deflection section of the locking element of the connector.

[0045] At this location, the counter-deflection section can be manufactured particularly easily, for example, by means of an injection molding process, especially if the mating connector housing is made of plastic. For example, the counter-deflection section can be arranged on a collar of the mating connector housing.

[0046] In one embodiment, the torsion section is located, for example, between the locking section and the deflection section. The positioning makes it very easy to define a ratio between a movement of the deflection section and a movement of the locking section. In particular, the locking section and the deflection section are located at the two ends of the locking hook or the locking element. The locking element can be designed, for example, in the form of a rocker or a rocker beam. The torsion section can represent, for example, a shaft or an axis of the rocker.

[0047] In one embodiment, a deflection of the deflection section in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction leads to a deflection of the locking section in the opposite direction perpendicular to the insertion direction. This can, for example, correspond to the movement of a rocker.

[0048] In one embodiment, the connecting device has a first engagement element and a second engagement element (and optionally an intermediate element), wherein the first engagement element and the second engagement element are rotatably coupled to the connector housing, in particular are rotatably arranged on the connector housing. The first engagement element and the second engagement element are designed to couple to respective counter-engagement elements of the mating connector, in particular to engage therein, in order to effect a relative movement of the connector and the mating connector parallel to the plugging direction upon a rotational movement of the first engagement element and the second engagement element, wherein the locking element is arranged on the first engagement element or the second engagement element, or the optional intermediate element. It can, for example,It can be provided that a rotation of the first and / or second engagement element causes a displacement of the connecting device from the first position to the second position or corresponds to this displacement. This advantageously provides a particularly easy-to-manufacture, compact, and well-protected locking element that allows great flexibility in the spatial arrangement relative to the connector housing, which advantageously simplifies the design and / or manufacture of the connector. The locking element can advantageously prevent a displacement of the connecting device and / or an (optional) operating element, e.g., in the manner of a gear lock.

[0049] It should be emphasized that the locking element is preferably not arranged on the (optional) operating element, e.g. not on a lever arm and / or a part of the operating element located or arranged outside the plug housing.

[0050] In the case that an intermediate element is part of the connecting device, the intermediate element can be designed, for example, to transmit a rotational movement of the first engagement element to the second engagement element.

[0051] In the event that no intermediate element is provided, it can be provided, for example, that the first engagement element is (directly) coupled to the second engagement element, e.g. meshes with the second engagement element, so that a rotational movement of the first engagement element is transmitted to the second engagement element or that a rotation of the first engagement element causes a rotation, in particular in the opposite direction, of the second engagement element.

[0052] For example, it can be provided that the first engagement element and the second engagement element (and the optional intermediate element) are all arranged on the same side of the connector housing. A further connecting device can then be arranged, for example, on an opposite side. It can be provided, for example, that the engagement elements (and the optional intermediate element) are arranged in one plane.

[0053] As already explained above, in this context, "transmitting" means in particular that, as a result of the transmission, the second engagement element also performs a rotational movement. Thus, for example, driving the first engagement element can lead to a rotation of the first engagement element relative to the connector housing, through the optional intermediate element or even without the intermediate element, but also to a rotation of the second engagement element relative to the connector housing. For example, the first engagement element and the second engagement element preferably always rotate simultaneously and / or together. The direction of rotation of the first engagement element and the second engagement element is in particular always opposite, although - depending on the design of the optional intermediate element, e.g., as an intermediate gear - a co-rotation is also possible.Preferably, the first engagement element and the second engagement element rotate about mutually parallel and in particular spaced axes.

[0054] In particular, the locking element and the frame element are part of or form the first engagement element and / or the second engagement element and / or the optional intermediate element. This allows the number of required components to be kept to a minimum.

[0055] In one embodiment, the intermediate element is arranged on the connector housing so that it can be displaced, in particular linearly, preferably along or parallel to the plugging direction. This can be, for example, a linear displacement or a rotational displacement (e.g., rotation about a, in particular, fixed, axis).

[0056] The expression "the intermediate element is arranged on the connector housing" is to be understood in particular as meaning that the intermediate element is in contact with the connector housing and is coupled thereto, in particular is fastened thereto, in particular displaceably fastened. As a result, the intermediate element can be moved, in particular relative to the connector housing, wherein the intermediate element preferably always remains connected or coupled to the connector housing throughout its entire movement.

[0057] The provision of the intermediate element advantageously enables the bridging of a larger distance between the two engagement elements (e.g., due to widely spaced counter-engagement elements) in a simple manner, without having to change the diameter or dimensions of the engagement elements. By varying the width or dimensions of the intermediate element, different distances between counter-engagement elements or engagement elements can be advantageously bridged without having to change the geometry of the engagement elements or counter-engagement elements.

[0058] The intermediate element can, for example, be designed to be displaceable, in particular linearly displaceable and / or non-rotatable, such that a direction of rotation of the first engagement element is always opposite to a direction of rotation of the second engagement element.

[0059] In other words, the connecting device of this embodiment functions like a gear mechanism, with rotation of the first engagement element being translated into a linear displacement of the intermediate element, and the linear displacement of the intermediate element being translated into rotation of the second engagement element in the opposite direction. By blocking the movement of at least one element of this gear mechanism, the adjustment of the connecting device can be very easily blocked.

[0060] In one embodiment, the intermediate element is rotatably arranged on the connector housing, wherein a further rotatable gear element can also be arranged between the intermediate element and either the first or the second engagement element, such that a direction of rotation of the first engagement element corresponds to that of the first engagement element or is opposite to a direction of rotation of the second engagement element. In other words, the connecting device of this embodiment functions like a multi-stage gear transmission, wherein a rotation of the first engagement element is translated into a rotation of the second engagement element with the same or opposite direction of rotation. By blocking the movement of at least one element of this gear transmission, the adjustment of the connecting device can be blocked very easily. This embodiment is very simple to provide in terms of construction.

[0061] In one embodiment, the first engagement element is operatively connected to the operating element in such a way that a displacement of the operating element from the first position to the second position leads to a rotation of the first engagement element, wherein in particular a connection process of the plug connector with the mating connector begins in the first position and ends in the second position. The mating process can thus be very effectively supported or brought about by operating the operating element. To mating the plug connector and mating connector together, it is therefore advantageous for only the operating element to be operated manually, for example by a fitter, which leads to simplified and reliable handling of the plug connector. Another advantageous feature is that the operating force can be further reduced depending on the design of the transmission ratios or, for example, the length of an arm of the operating element.

[0062] In one embodiment, the connector housing has a guide element, wherein the intermediate element has a counter-guide element complementary to the guide element and coupled to the guide element, wherein in particular the intermediate element can be displaced relative to the connector housing along a defined trajectory by means of the interaction of the guide element and counter-guide element. The trajectory can be a straight line, for example, although it can also be a differently designed trajectory depending on the design of the engagement elements. This advantageously ensures that the transmission of the rotational movement from the first engagement element to the second engagement element takes place in a well-defined and reproducible manner. Furthermore, in this way, even large forces or torques can advantageously be transmitted safely and reliably by means of the intermediate element.Furthermore, this advantageously prevents the intermediate element from jamming. Furthermore, this advantageously ensures a particularly low-friction and thus efficient transmission of torque from the first engagement element to the second engagement element. Furthermore, this advantageously ensures that the intermediate element does not disengage from the two engagement elements. Overall, this makes it very easy to prevent jamming or other incorrect mating of the connector and mating connector.

[0063] In particular, the locking element and the counter-guide element are arranged on different sides of a center plane extending between the first and second engagement elements, with the center plane running parallel to the insertion direction, and the center plane being perpendicular to a main extension plane of the intermediate element. This allows the surface of the guide element to be used very effectively to accommodate the locking element and the counter-guide element.

[0064] In one embodiment, the first engagement element and the operating element are formed integrally or monolithically. This advantageously enables particularly simple production. Furthermore, the number of different components is advantageously minimized. In addition, force can be reliably transmitted between the operating element and the first engagement element. If a plurality of first engagement elements are present, all of the first engagement elements are preferably formed integrally with the operating element. It can be provided, for example, that the first engagement element and the operating element are connected to one another via a shaft and / or are spaced apart from one another (e.g. a lever arm of the operating element is formed at a distance from the first engagement element). It can be provided, for example, that the operating element and the first engagement element are arranged on different sides of the connector housing.This allows the acting forces to be distributed more evenly into the connector housing.

[0065] In one embodiment, the connector housing is frame-shaped with a plurality of legs, wherein a connecting device is attached to each of the opposite legs. The legs are alternatively also referred to as walls. For example, four legs or walls can be provided. In such a case, it can be provided purely by way of example that a connecting device is provided on each of the walls and no connecting device is provided on the other two walls. Furthermore, for example, a common bow-shaped operating element can be provided which is operatively connected to all of the first engagement elements. This achieves a symmetrical structure. The engagement elements thus allow the connector and mating connector to be plugged together reliably, wherein the risk of tilting during plugging together is advantageously prevented or reduced.Furthermore, mechanical stress on the individual engagement elements during mating is advantageously minimized. In one embodiment, the connector housing, in the mated state, encompasses the mating connector housing, or the connector housing is designed to receive a collar of the mating connector or the mating connector housing. In other words, an insertion opening in the connector housing is large enough to accommodate the mating connector housing. The connector can thus be designed, for example, as an external connector. The connector arrangement can be designed as a sealed connector arrangement.

[0066] In one embodiment, the counter-deflection section is arranged on an outer side of the mating connector housing, in particular a collar of the mating connector housing, and the deflection section of the locking element is arranged relatively on an inner side of the connector housing or on an inner side of a pocket-shaped recess in the connector housing, into which the mating connector housing or a collar of the mating connector housing is inserted during mating. This applies in particular when the connector is designed as an external connector.

[0067] In a connector designed as an internal connector, in which the connector housing is received in the mating connector housing, the situation can be exactly the opposite. The counter-deflection section can be formed or arranged on an inner side of the mating connector housing, in particular a collar of the mating connector housing. The deflection section of the locking element can be arranged on an outer side of the connector housing, viewed relative to the connector housing.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment (particularly as an external connector), the connector has a cavity, e.g., in the form of a pocket-shaped bulge, into which the collar of the mating connector is inserted. A radial seal is expediently arranged on the inner wall of the cavity or the connector housing cavity, which seal faces into the cavity or the connector housing cavity and prevents the penetration of fluid media into the electrical contact area. The locking section, which faces into the cavity or the connector housing cavity, is formed on the inner side of the outer wall of the cavity or the connector housing cavity, and to which the locking section of the locking element locks. The mating connector slides with the mating connector housing or its collar into the cavity or the connector housing cavity, and the locking element is deflected (e.g.,through the interaction of the deflection section and the counter-deflection section), so that the locking element is transferred from the rest position or rest position into the unlocked position or the deflected position.

[0069] Further advantages and embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the description and the accompanying drawings.

[0070] The invention is illustrated schematically in the drawing using an embodiment and is described below with reference to the drawing.

[0071] Short description of the drawings

[0072] The figures show

[0073] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a connector arrangement,

[0074] Figure 2 is a schematic view of a connector used for

[0075] suitable for use in the connector arrangement shown in Figure 1,

[0076] Figure 3 is a schematic sectional view of the connector in a first state during mating with a mating connector of the connector assembly,

[0077] Figure 4 is a spatial representation of a part of the connector, Figures 5a to e are different views of a locking element of the connector,

[0078] Figure 6 shows a part of the connector housing of the connector in a perspective cut-away view.

[0079] Figure 7a is a schematic sectional view of the connector in a first configuration.

[0080] Figure 7b is a schematic sectional view of the connector in a second configuration during mating with the mating connector of the connector assembly.

[0081] Embodiment(s) of the invention

[0082] Figure 1 schematically shows a side view of an exemplary connector assembly 100. The connector assembly 100 comprises a connector 1 and a mating connector 2. The connector 1 is designed to be mated with the mating connector 2 along a mating direction z. The mating direction z, together with a width direction x and a transverse direction y, forms a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0083] The plug connector 1 has a plug connector housing 22. In this exemplary embodiment, the plug connector housing 22 has a base body 3 for receiving at least one contact element 4. The mating plug connector 2 has a mating plug connector housing 2c with at least one mating contact element 4a, wherein the mating contact element 4a is electrically connected to the at least one contact element 4 of the plug connector 1, in particular when the plug connector 1 and the mating plug connector 2 are plugged together. The electrical connection of the contact element 4 and the mating contact element 4a is achieved in particular by plugging them into one another. In this process, predefined insertion forces must be overcome. The plug connector 1 has, in particular, a plurality of contact elements 4, which are to be connected to corresponding mating contact elements 4a.The resulting insertion forces then make it difficult to plug together connector 1 and mating connector 2 or make this impossible using normal human forces or can lead to jamming when the insertion force is applied.

[0084] The connector 1 therefore has a connecting device 5 coupled to the connector housing 22, here, for example, to the base body 3 of the connector housing 22, and in particular attached to the base body 3. The connecting device 5 is designed to connect and / or lock the connector 1 and the mating connector 2. This is to be understood in particular that the connecting device 5 facilitates, enables, or simplifies the mating and / or locking of the connector 1 and the mating connector 2.

[0085] In addition, the connector 1 or the connector housing 22 here has, by way of example, an optional cover element 17 or cover that covers the contact elements 4 and electrical lines. In this exemplary embodiment, this cover element 17 or cover is designed to enable a defined cable outlet (here to the left), whereby it can also be arranged offset by 180° on the base body 3 in order to enable a cable outlet in the other direction. It can, for example, be clipped onto the base body 3 or arranged or fastened in some other way. The cover or cover element 17 can further provide a latching structure for an operating element 6, provided here by way of example, in its end position. The cover or cover element 17 is not shown further in the following figures for reasons of clarity.

[0086] It is understood that the connecting device 5 or individual components thereof can also be arranged on the cover or cover element 17 or coupled thereto in other embodiments or with further connector housing parts (e.g. an intermediate body not shown here).

[0087] The connector 1 is embodied here, for example, as an external connector. It, or the connector housing 22, or the base body 3, is embodied here, for example, to accommodate, in particular to accommodate, the mating connector 2, or the mating connector housing 2c, or a collar of the mating connector housing 2c.

[0088] Figure 2 schematically shows a side view of the connector 1 from the outside. The base body 3 of the connector 1 is frame-shaped with a plurality of legs 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d or walls or walls (side walls). On opposite legs 16a (front in Fig. 2) and 16b (rear in Fig. 2), which extend, for example, along the width direction x, an arrangement of a first engagement element 7, a (basically optional) second engagement element 8, and a (basically optional) intermediate element 9 are each attached. In this exemplary embodiment, an optional common operating element 6, which is merely exemplary in the form of a bow, is provided, which is operatively connected to all first engagement elements 7. The first engagement element 7, the second engagement element 8, and the intermediate element 9 form, for example, the connecting device 5.The legs 16a, 16b along the x-direction x are connected by transverse legs 16c, 16d, which extend along the y-direction y. Thus, the frame-shaped base body 3 is formed with a quadrangular contour. The operating element 6, designed here as a lever, can be rotated about a shaft, which, for example, runs parallel to the y-direction y. The operating element 6 is thus rotatable in the xz-plane.

[0089] The structure of the connecting device 5 is described below with reference to Figures 3 and 4. These figures show a leg 16a of the base body 3 from a view from inside the plug connector 1, i.e., from a position where the contact elements 4 are provided (viewing direction from an interior space 4d of the base body 3 to the outside). The first engagement element 7 is, for example, merely rotatably coupled to the base body 3 of the plug connector housing 22, by being arranged or mounted on the base body 3 in a rotatable manner (the rotational axis of the first engagement element 7 runs, for example, parallel to the Y-direction y). The optional intermediate element 9 present here is designed to transmit a rotational movement of the first engagement element 7 to the optional second engagement element 8 present here (the rotational axis of the second engagement element 8 runs, for example, parallel to the Y-direction y).The optional intermediate element 9 present here is arranged, here for example linearly, displaceably on the base body 3 (the displacement takes place here for example along the plug-in direction z). In particular, the intermediate element 9 does not perform a rotational movement in this exemplary embodiment. A direction of rotation of the first engagement element 7 is always converted by means of the intermediate element 9 into an opposite direction of rotation of the second engagement element 8. If, for example, the first engagement element 7 rotates clockwise, the second engagement element 8 rotates counterclockwise (when viewed in the same direction). The flat intermediate element 9 extends for example in the xz plane.

[0090] In particular, the intermediate element 9 is designed here, for example, as a toothed rack. It has - purely by way of example - a first, here by way of example straight, tooth arrangement 9a, which engages or meshes with (first) drive teeth 7a of the first engagement element 7. In addition, the intermediate element 9 also has, by way of example, a second, here also by way of example straight, tooth arrangement 9b, which engages or meshes with (second or further) drive teeth 8a of the second engagement element 8. The teeth of the first and second tooth arrangements 9a, 9b point, for example, parallel to the x-direction x. If the first engagement element 8 rotates, the interaction of the (first) drive teeth 7a of the first engagement element 7 and the first tooth arrangement 9a displaces the intermediate element 9 linearly (here parallel to the plug-in direction z), whereby the interaction of the second tooth arrangement 9b and (second or further) drive teeth 8a of the second engagement element 8further) drive teeth 8a of the second engagement element 8 leads to a rotation of the second engagement element 8. This ensures that the first engagement element 7 and the second engagement element 8 always rotate in opposite directions, particularly since the intermediate element 9, for example, does not rotate about an axis here, but is displaced along a trajectory (at least the displacement component outweighs the rotational component).

[0091] In other embodiments, the intermediate element 9 can be designed as a gear (the rotation axis can, for example, also point parallel to the Y-direction y). It can then be provided, for example, that the first engagement element 7 and the second engagement element 8 rotate in the same direction. In yet other embodiments, the intermediate element 9 can be omitted, for example. It can be provided, for example, that the first engagement element 7 and the second engagement element 8 are coupled to one another, in particular directly coupled to one another. They can, for example, mesh with one another.

[0092] In still other embodiments, it can be provided that the intermediate element 9 and the second engagement element 8 are omitted and thus only a first engagement element 7 is provided (e.g. on a wall or a leg 16a or e.g. a first engagement element 7 on opposite walls or legs 16a, 16b).

[0093] As shown in Figure 3, the first engagement element 7 and the second engagement element 8 are designed to couple with respective (first and second) counter-engagement elements 2a, 2b of the mating connector 2. The mating connector 2 has a first counter-engagement element 2a, which is designed to couple with the first engagement element 7. In addition, the mating connector 2 has a second counter-engagement element 2b, which is designed to couple with the second engagement element 8, in particular to engage therein, in order to bring about a relative movement of the connector 1 and the mating connector 2 parallel to the plugging direction z upon a rotational movement of the first engagement element 7 and the second engagement element 8.

[0094] The connecting device 5 is adjustable or displaceable between a first position K1 shown in Figure 2 and a second position K2 shown in Figure 1. At the same time, the operating element 6 provided here as an example is displaceable from a first position P1 shown in Figure 2 to a second position P2 shown in Figure 1.

[0095] Details of the intermediate element 9 of the connecting device 5 are explained below with reference to Figures 5a to 5e, in which an intermediate element 9 is shown in different views. Figures 5a to 5c show different perspective views, and Figures 5d and e show two different perspective sectional views. In addition, the mounting of the intermediate element 9 on the base body 3 is shown in Figures 3 and 4. The base body 3 (or, here, for example, the leg 16a) has, for example, a guide element 10, 12, wherein the intermediate element 9 has a counter-guide element 11, 13 complementary to the guide element 10, 12, which is coupled or can be coupled to the guide element 10, 12. The intermediate element 9 can be displaced along a defined trajectory T relative to the base body 3 by means of the interaction of the guide element 10, 12 and the counter-guide element 11, 13.

[0096] The base body 3 here has, for example, a slot-shaped recess 10 as a guide element 10, 12, in which a projection 11 is guided or can be guided or moved as a counter-guide element of the intermediate element 9. Furthermore, the base body 3 has, as a guide element 10, 12, a guide rail 12 (here, for example, with a T-shaped cross-section or profile), which engages in a guide groove 13 of the intermediate element 9 as a counter-guide element 11, 13.

[0097] The connecting device 5 further comprises a locking element 90, which is adjustable between a rest position R1 shown in Figures 5d and 7a, respectively, and a deflected position R2 shown in Figures 5e and 7b, respectively. Figure 7a shows a schematic sectional view of the connector 1 in a first configuration, in which the operating element 6 is in the first position P1, the connecting device 5 is in the first position K1, and the locking element 90 is in the rest position R1, and Figure 7b shows a schematic sectional view of the connector 1 in a second configuration during mating with the mating connector 2 of the connector assembly 100, wherein in the second configuration of the connector 1, the operating element 6 is in the first position P1 (or is located close to the first position P1), the connecting device 5 is in the first position K1, and the locking element 90 is in the deflected position R2.In a third configuration of the connector 1 (not shown), the operating element 6 is in the second position P2, the connecting device 5 is in the second position K2 and the locking element 90 is again in the rest position R1.

[0098] The connector 1 is designed to block a movement of the connecting device 5 from the first position K1 to the second position K2 when the locking element 90 is in the rest position R1. This is shown, for example, in Fig. 7a. Furthermore, the connector 1 is designed not to block a movement of the connecting device 5 from the first position K1 to the second position K2 when the locking element 90 is in the deflected position R2. This is shown, for example, in Fig. 7b.

[0099] The locking element 90 is not formed on the operating element 6, in particular not on a lever arm of the operating element 6, which allows for a simpler design and cheaper production of the operating element 6 and also allows the operating element 6 to be used for different connectors. Furthermore, there is a lower risk of damage to the locking element 90, since the connecting device 5 is better protected than the operating element 6, which is located outside here, or than the operating element if it is delivered and / or transported, for example, as a single part for assembly on the connector 1 or the connector housing 22.

[0100] The locking element 90 is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis that runs parallel to the x-axis x, between the rest position R1 and the deflected position R2, in particular relative to a frame element 91. A pivoting direction thus runs perpendicular to the pivot axis, in particular parallel to the y-direction y and perpendicular to the insertion direction z. This allows for automatic resetting to the rest position R1.

[0101] The locking element 90 is formed monolithically or integrally with the frame element 91, in particular as an injection-molded part, and is connected or attached to the frame element 91 via at least one torsion section 92, here, for example, via two torsion sections 92. The locking element 90 here represents, for example, a rocker beam or a rocker that can be pivoted about an axis defined by the torsion sections 92. The torsion sections 92, which serve as axes or shafts, extend, for example, parallel to the x-direction x. Pivoting of the locking element 90 thus takes place, for example, in the yz-plane or in the y-direction Y or, for example, essentially along the axes of rotation of the first and second engagement elements 7, 8 or the operating element 6.

[0102] The torsion sections 92 of the locking element 90 are relaxed when the locking element 90 is in the rest position R1. Accordingly, the locking element 90 is pretensioned into the rest position R1 by the torsion sections 92 when it is deflected or pivoted from the rest position R1. This causes the automatic return to the rest position R1. The torsion sections 92 are arranged at a distance from ends 90a, 90b of the locking element 90, an upper or first end 90a and a lower or second end 90b, shown here as an example in the figures. As can be seen in the various views of Figs. 5a to 5e, the torsion section 92 is arranged here, for example, approximately midway between the (distal) ends 90a, 90b of the locking element 90, wherein the two ends 90a, 90b are designed as cantilevered, for example. This allows for a very flexible design and a smaller deflection path.Thus, even in the deflected position R2, the locking element 90 can remain essentially in the cross-sectional area of ​​the frame or frame element 91 or protrude only slightly beyond the plane of the frame element 91 or the intermediate element 9, so that the mechanism does not require any increased space, but essentially manages with a conventional thickness of the intermediate element 9.

[0103] Furthermore, the torsion sections 92 are only slightly loaded because they do not have to twist or rotate strongly to achieve the same Cartesian distance between the ends 90a, 90b as if they were arranged close to one of the two ends 90a, 90b.

[0104] The frame element 91 has a stop 95a in the form of a web 95, which limits the extent of adjustment of the locking element 90, here the extent of rotation, in the direction of the deflected position R2 or into the deflected position R2. This can provide overpressure protection. Furthermore, the frame element 91 has a further web 96 in order to ensure the stability of the frame element 91 or of the intermediate element 9 as a whole. The two webs 95, 96 here, for example, together with the torsion sections 92 and the locking element 90, connect the two tooth arrangements 9a, 9b to one another, here along the x-direction x. The web 95 thus fulfills a dual function: on the one hand, it holds the intermediate element 9 together and, at the same time, it serves as overpressure protection for the locking element 90. The locking element 90 has a deflection section 94 on the (here: lower orsecond) end 90b, which is designed to enter into operative connection with a counter-deflection section 201 (cf. Fig. 7b) of the mating connector 2 when the plug-in connector 1 is mated with the mating connector 2, or to couple with it or to come into mechanical contact with it. For this purpose, the mating connector 2 has, on its mating connector housing 2c, here on a collar 202 of the mating connector housing 2c, a counter-deflection element 201a having the counter-deflection section 201, which is designed to move the locking element 90 of the connecting device 5 from the rest position R1 into the deflected position R2. The locking element 90 is designed such that it is adjusted from the rest position R1 into the deflected position R2, in particular only when the deflection section 94 is in operative connection with the counter-deflection section 201 of the mating connector 2.

[0105] The locking element 90 has a locking portion 93 at the (here: upper or first) end 90a, which engages with a locking portion 3a of the connector 1 shown in Figure 6 when the connecting device 5 is in the first position K1 and the locking element 90 is in the rest position R1. This is shown in Figure 7a. The locking portion 3a is formed here on the (opposite) walls or legs 16a and 16b of the base body 3 of the connector housing 22, in particular using an injection molding process.

[0106] Furthermore, the locking portion 93 of the locking element 90 is not engaged with the locking portion 3a of the connector 1 when the locking element 90 is in the deflected position R2. This is shown in Fig. 7b.

[0107] It should be pointed out merely for the sake of clarity that in this exemplary embodiment the locking section 93 is in particular only engaged with the latching section 3a of the plug connector 1 (the engagement takes place here, for example, in a form-fitting manner, in particular along or parallel to the Y-direction y) when both prerequisites are met, i.e. when the connecting device 5 is in the first position K1 and when the locking element 90 is in the rest position R1. When the connecting device 5 is in the second position K2, the locking element 90 is also in the rest position R1, since then, starting from the position shown in Fig. 7b, the plug connector 1 is plugged together with the mating plug connector 2 in the z-direction and the deflection section 94 has slid along the counter-deflection section 201 in the plugging direction z (z-direction) and has left the engagement region of the counter-deflection section 201 again.

[0108] In this exemplary embodiment, the plug connector 1 has a pocket-shaped bulge or a cavity 23 or gap between an outer wall 4b of the base body 3 (outside) and an inner wall 4c of the base body 3 (inside), into which the collar 202 of the mating connector housing 2c is inserted. A radial seal 20, pointing into the cavity 23, is arranged on an outer side 4e of the inner wall 4b of the base body 3 and preventing the penetration of fluid media. It is understood that a contact body or a contact carrier can be or is arranged in an interior space 4c (between inner sides 4f of the inner wall 4c), which is shown here as empty or hollow for reasons of clarity, in which at least one contact element 4, preferably a plurality of contact elements 4, can be or can be arranged.On the base body 3, here for example on a further inner side 4g of the outer wall 4b of the base body 3, the locking section 3a - pointing into the cavity 23 - is formed (see Fig. 6, 7a), on which the locking section 93 of the locking element 90 locks or can lock. When plugged together with the plug connector 1, the mating connector 2 slides with its mating connector housing 2c or its collar 202 into the cavity 23. The (inwardly directed) deflection section 94 comes into mechanical contact or operative connection with the (outwardly directed) counter-deflection section 201 at a defined insertion depth. This leads to the (here: lower or second) end 90b of the locking element 90 being displaced radially outwards (here: parallel to the Y-direction y) and the locking section 93 (pointing outwards from the interior 4d of the base body 3) at the (here: upper orfirst) end 90a of the locking element 90 is displaced or pivoted inwards (towards the interior space 4d of the base body 3) parallel to the Y direction y. This allows the positive connection between the locking section 3a and the locking section 93 to be released and the locking of the connecting device 5 is cancelled. The connecting device 5 can now be displaced from the first position K1 to the second position K2, e.g. by displacing the operating element 6 from its first position P1 to the second position P2. During this displacement, the locking section 93 slides past the locking section 3a (parallel to the plug-in direction z) and the locking element 90 is displaced back into its rest position R1 by means of the torsion sections 92.

[0109] It can be seen that the locking section 93 and the deflection section 94 protrude from the locking element 90 perpendicular to the insertion direction z, whereby, for example, on the left side of Figs. 7a, 7b, the locking section 93 protrudes in the y-direction Y and the deflection section 94 protrudes in the opposite direction in the -y-direction Y (on the opposite right side of Figs. 7a, 7b, the locking section protrudes in the -y-direction Y and the deflection section 94 protrudes in the positive y-direction Y from the locking element 90). This separates the functional levels. In other words: the triggering of the locking element 90 by the mating connector 2 and the unlocking of the connecting device 5 take place on different sides of the locking element 90 (once facing inwards, once facing outwards). This advantageously enables a design in which the individual functions do not come into mechanical conflict with one another.

[0110] In Figs. 5a-5c, the locking element 90 is arranged on the intermediate element 9. However, it can also be arranged on the first engagement element 7 or the second engagement element 8 with the same functional effect.

Claims

Claims 1. Connector (1) designed to be mated with a mating connector (2) along a mating direction (z), the connector (1) comprising: -- a connector housing (22), -- a connecting device (5) coupled to the connector housing (22), in particular attached to the connector housing (22), designed to connect and / or lock the connector (1) and the mating connector (2), -- wherein the connecting device (5) is adjustable between a first position (K1) and a second position (K2), wherein the connecting device (5) has an engagement element (7, 8) which is arranged in particular rotatably on the connector housing (22), wherein the engagement element (7, 8) is designed to couple to a counter-engagement element (2a, 2b) of the mating connector (2), in particular to engage therein, in order to displace the connector (1) towards the mating connector (2) when the connecting device (5) is adjusted from the first position (K1) to the second position (K2), in particular parallel to the plug-in direction (z), -- wherein the connecting device (5) has a locking element (90) which is adjustable between a rest position (R1) and a deflected position (R2), -- wherein the plug connector (1) is designed to block an adjustment of the connecting device (5) from the first position (K1) to the second position (K2) when the blocking element (90) is in the rest position (R1), and not to block an adjustment of the connecting device (5) from the first position (K1) to the second position (K2) when the blocking element (90) is in the deflected position (R2).

2. Connector (1) according to claim 1, the connector (1) further comprising: -- a from a first position (P1) to a second position (P2) displaceable operating element (6), which is designed in particular to reduce the operating force when connecting the plug connector (1) and the mating plug connector (2), -- wherein the operating element (6) is operatively connected to the connecting device (5) in such a way that a displacement of the operating element (6) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) causes an adjustment of the connecting device (5) from the first position (K1) to the second position (K2), wherein in particular a displacement of the operating element (6) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) is blocked if an adjustment of the connecting device (5) from the first position (K1) to the second position (K2) is blocked.

3. Connector (1) according to claim 2, wherein the connector (1) has three different configurations, wherein in a first configuration of the connector (1) -- the control element (6) is in the first position (P1), -- the connecting device (5) is in the first position (K1), and -- the locking element (90) is in the rest position (R1), wherein in a second configuration of the connector (1) -- the control element is in the first position (P1), -- the connecting device (5) is in the first position (K1), and -- the locking element (90) is in the deflected position (R1), and wherein in a third configuration of the connector (1) -- the operating element is in the second position (P2), -- the connecting device (5) is in the second position (K2), and -- the locking element (90) is in the rest position (R1).

4. Plug connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking element (90) is pivotally mounted between the rest position (R1) and the deflected position (R2), in particular parallel to a Y direction (y) perpendicular to the plugging direction (z).

5. Connector according to claim 4, wherein the locking element (90) is pivotally mounted relative to a frame element (91), in particular elastically reversibly, wherein the The locking element (90) is formed monolithically with the frame element (91) and is connected to the frame element (91) via a torsion section (92), wherein in particular the locking element (90) is prestressed into the rest position (R1) by the torsion section (92), wherein in particular the torsion section (92) is arranged at a distance from ends (90a, 90b) of the locking element (90).

6. Connector according to claim 5, wherein the frame element (91) has a stop (95a), in particular a web (95), which limits an extent of adjustment of the locking element (90) in the direction of the deflected position (R2).

7. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking element (90) has a locking portion (93) which engages with a latching portion (3a) of the connector (1) when the connecting device (5) is in the first position (K1) and the locking element (90) is in the rest position (R1), wherein the locking portion (93) of the locking element (90) is not engaged with the latching portion (3a) of the connector (1) when the locking element (90) is in the deflected position (R2).

8. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking element (90) has a deflection section (94) which is designed to come into operative connection with a counter-deflection section (201) of the counter-connector (2) when the connector (1) is plugged together with the mating connector (2), wherein the locking element (90) is designed such that it is adjusted from the rest position (R1) into the deflected position (R2), in particular only when the deflection section (94) is in operative connection with the counter-deflection section (201) of the mating connector (2).

9. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting device (5) comprises: — - a first engagement element (7), — - a second engagement element (8) and — - in particular an intermediate element (9), -- wherein the first engagement element (7) and the second engagement element (8) are rotatably coupled to the connector housing (22), in particular are rotatably arranged on the connector housing (22), -- wherein in particular the intermediate element (9) is designed to transmit a rotational movement of the first engagement element (7) to the second engagement element (8), -- wherein the first engagement element (7) and the second engagement element (8) are designed to couple to respective counter-engagement elements (2a, 2b) of the mating connector (2), in particular to engage therein, in order to bring about a relative movement of the plug connector (1) and the mating connector (2) parallel to the plug-in direction (z) during a rotational movement of the first engagement element (7) and the second engagement element (8), -- wherein the locking element (90) is arranged on the first engagement element (7) or the second engagement element (8) or in particular the intermediate element (9).

10. Connector (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the intermediate element (9) is arranged, in particular linearly, displaceably on the connector housing (22), in particular so that a direction of rotation of the first engagement element (7) is always opposite to a direction of rotation of the second engagement element (8).

11. Plug connector (1) according to one of the two preceding claims and according to claim 2, wherein the first engagement element (7) is operatively connected to the operating element (6) in such a way that a displacement of the operating element (6) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) leads to a rotation of the first engagement element (7), wherein in particular a connection process of the plug connector (1) with the mating plug connector (2) begins in the first position (P1) and is ended in the second position (P2).

12. Connector assembly (100), the connector assembly (100) comprising: -- a connector (1) according to one of the preceding claims, -- a mating connector (2), the mating connector (2) comprising - - a mating connector housing (2c), — - a counter-engagement element (2a, 2b), — - a counter-deflection element (201a) which is designed to To adjust the locking element (90) of the connecting device (5) from the rest position (R1) to the deflected position (R2).

13. Connector assembly according to claim 12, when dependent on claim 5, wherein the counter-deflection element (201a) has the counter-deflection section (201) which is designed to come into operative connection with the deflection section (94) of the locking element (90) of the connector (1).

Images