Cable, plug-in connector, connection system, electrical circuit and data network

Abstract

The invention relates to a cable (10) having at least two conductors (15), wherein the relative positions of the conductors (15) change along the direction of extent (19) of the cable (10), wherein the conductors (15) are arranged in a first plane (12a), transverse to the direction of extent (19) of the cable (10), and a second plane (12b), transverse to the direction of extent (19) of the cable (10), with respect to their relative positions to the respective contour (16a, 16b) of the cable (10) in such a way that in each case an identical coding for connecting the cable (10) to an electrical plug-in connector (30) is provided. The invention further relates to a plug-in connector (30), a connection system (40), an electrical circuit (60b) and a data network (60a).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Cables, connectors, connection system, electrical circuitry and data network

[0003] The present invention relates to a cable, a connector for the cable, a connection system, an electrical circuit and a data network.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] Cables comprising several twisted electrical conductors, as well as connectors for such cables, are known in the prior art. However, it is often complex to connect the cable to the connector in such a way that the cable conductors are reliably made electrical contact with their respective designated conductors in the connector. Incorrect connections between the cable conductors and the connector conductors can also occur, leading to costly defects and even malfunctions in electrical systems.

[0006] Disclosure of the invention

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome the disadvantages described above. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to further simplify the connection between the cable and the connector and to provide, in an improved manner, the correct contact of the respective conductors intended for this purpose. Specifically, it aims to provide an improved, more flexible and / or simpler connection technology suitable for field use.

[0008] The problem is solved in each case by the subject matter of the independent patent claims.

[0009] The invention therefore relates in particular to a cable according to claim 1, a connector according to claim 17, a connection system according to connection 23, as well as an electrical circuit and a data network according to claim 26.

[0010] Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the respective dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the cable according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the connector, the connection system, the electrical circuit, and the data network according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosure regarding the individual aspects of the invention always refers to, or can refer to, each other.

[0011] The invention relates in particular to a cable, preferably an electrical and / or a power and / or data cable.

[0012] Furthermore, the cable can optionally be designed to transport at least one fluid and / or transmit at least one non-electrical signal. The transport of the fluid can also be provided in addition to the transmission of electrical and / or other signals on the cable. An example of this is a hybrid cable. Such a cable can, for example, transmit electrical and / or optical signals and / or transport liquids and / or gases. An example of this is cables used in medical technology, which can transport liquids such as medications in addition to electrical signals. Another possibility is cables for industrial plants, which, in addition to electrical signals, can also transport fluids such as water, air, oil, or gas, or even coolants.

[0013] They can transport antifreeze. These cables can also be called cable conduits.

[0014] The cable can comprise at least two conductors extending along the cable's direction of travel. In other words, the conductors and the cable can have the same longitudinal direction, so that the conductors extend in the direction of the cable's length. The conductors can be twisted. Furthermore, each conductor can be a single strand. The cable can have at least two, but optionally also at least three, four, or five conductors.

[0015] Furthermore, the cable may include an electrically insulating sheath that surrounds the conductors. This sheath can be made of various materials, such as PVC, rubber, or silicone. It may also be multi-layered to provide additional protection or insulation.

[0016] A first cable cross-section can have a first contour at a first location on the cable in a first plane, which in particular extends transversely (i.e., perpendicular or orthogonal) to the direction of extension of the cable. A second and / or at least one further cable cross-section can have a second contour or at least one further contour at a second and / or further location(s) on the cable, which is / are spaced apart in the direction of extension of the cable from the first and / or second and / or the other further location(s), in a second plane or at least one further plane, which in particular extends transversely to the direction of extension of the cable. The first and / or the second and / or, if applicable, the at least one further contour can be uniform and / or rotationally symmetry-free.Furthermore, the conductors in the first layer and in the second / at least one further layer can be arranged with respect to their relative positions to the respective contour such that an identical coding is provided for connecting the cable to a connector, preferably a plug connector. The relative positions of the conductors to the respective contour can change along the cable's direction of extension, preferably at locations / positions between the first and second layers and / or at least one further location, or optionally, in an alternative configuration, remain constant. In other words, it is optionally possible for the relative position of the conductors to the respective contour in cable cross-sections to remain constant or change at the respective locations between the first and second layers and / or at least one further location along the cable's direction of extension.

[0017] Optionally, these measures can each achieve the advantage of creating a consistent, recurring and / or (at least sectionally) continuous coding of the cable.

[0018] The term coding can refer to the fact that the connection of the connector or plug connector with the conductors is designed and, in particular, restricted in such a way that only a clear and / or positionally correct and / or functionally correct (especially electrical) contact of the conductors is enabled, thereby preferably excluding a faulty connection, for example by twisting or reverse polarity.

[0019] Optionally, according to a first variant, it may be possible for the relative positions of the conductors in cross-sectional planes (cable cross-sections) to change at respective points / planes on the cable, at least between the first and second point / plane along the cable's direction of extension, relative to the cable's contour at that specific point / plane. This is possible, for example, if the cable's contour is uniformly formed and oriented along its direction of extension, but the conductors change their positions, e.g., due to twisting. At the first, second, and / or at least one further point, which are preferably provided at regular intervals, the relative positions of the conductors to the contour can then be identical again, thus enabling a reliable cut and / or termination of the cable with secure contact and / or coding via the contour.

[0020] According to an optional further development, a second variant, the relative positions of the conductors in cross-sectional planes (cable cross-sections) at respective points / planes on the cable can remain constant at least between the first and second points / planes along the cable's direction of travel, relative to the cable's contour at each point / plane. This is possible, for example, if the cable's contour also changes along its direction of travel, e.g., if the contour shape remains the same but its orientation changes, preferably "rotating" with the conductors' positions. This has the advantage that the relative positions of the conductors to the contour are identical not only at the first, second, and / or at least one further point, which are preferably provided at regular intervals, but also in between.This has the advantage that reliable cutting and / or cable termination with secure contact and / or coding via the contour is possible not only at these points, but also in between. Each of the contours can be designed without rotational symmetry to enable coding.

[0021] In this context, "same" or "identical" naturally refers to essentially the same / identical training, taking into account standard industry tolerances and, from a practical perspective, without any restriction of the intended functionality.

[0022] It is optionally possible, either alternatively or additionally, for the conductors to exhibit a periodic change in position perpendicular to the cable's direction of extension, so that the relative positions of the conductors to the contour in the first and / or second plane continuously change. This arrangement ensures, in particular, that the conductors do not extend exclusively parallel to the cable's direction of extension, but also undergo a recurring change in position in a transverse direction. This periodic change in position can, for example, take the form of a helical arrangement, in which the conductors are guided along a helix around the cable's direction of extension. Furthermore, the periodic change in position can be achieved by twisting the conductors, whereby several conductor strands are twisted around a common axis, resulting in a uniform distribution of the conductors within the cable's cross-section.The common axis may correspond to the cable's direction of extension. This geometric arrangement causes the relative position of the conductors to the cable's contour to change continuously in the first and / or second plane. This change is not solely due to the longitudinal extension of the conductors, but also results from the additional lateral movement caused by the periodic structure. The other respective contours of the cable between the first and second planes, along the cable's direction of extension, preferably at points / positions between the first and second planes and / or at least one further point, can be identical to each other or, alternatively, follow the arrangement and / or periodic positional change of the conductors (i.e., "rotate"), so that in the latter case the relative position of the conductors to the contour remains constant in every section plane.Therefore, a design according to the first or second variant described above is also possible here, with the advantages described therein. The coding can optionally be achieved by means of a rotationally symmetrical or rotationally symmetrical cross-section of the cable, in particular by a rotationally symmetrical or rotationally symmetrical inner and / or outer contour of the cable. This ensures that the cable can only be electrically connected to the connector and / or the component in a position that corresponds to a unique assignment of the conductors of the connector, in particular contact elements, to the electrical conductors of the cable.

[0023] The respective contour, preferably inner and / or outer contour, optionally refers to the contour of the cable cross-section at a point between the first and second point or spaced apart from the first and / or second point, preferably in a plane transverse to the direction of extension of the cable, preferably at this point.

[0024] The rotationally symmetric or non-rotationally symmetric outer contour can optionally be formed by means of a cable sheath or the outer circumference of the cable, preferably by the cable having a cross-section with a circular base shape and at least one recess, in particular a groove, and / or at least one raised area, in particular a bead. Preferably, the recess or raised area, in particular the bead, is the coding. Alternatively, the outer contour can be a freeform or polygonal shape. Alternatively or additionally, the inner contour of the cable can be rotationally symmetric or non-rotationally symmetric, in particular by the inner contour having a circular base shape.

[0025] The inner contour can optionally be formed by a circular fluid channel, which, due to its position and / or shape within the cable's cross-section, provides the coding. Alternatively, the fluid channel can have a freeform shape or a polygon. The component bearing the coding can be considered a key, and the component bearing the corresponding counter-coding a lock. This ensures the intended specific contact between the conductors and the contact elements. In addition to the first and second coding points, the cable can optionally have at least one further coding point. At each of these points, as described, a cross-section of the cable can have a contour in a plane that runs perpendicular to the cable's direction of travel.The points can be spaced apart from each other in the direction of the cable's extension, preferably at a fixed / regular distance. This distance can be at least 1 cm, 2 cm, 5 cm, or 10 cm. The respective contour can be uniform and / or rotationally symmetrical. However, the contour of a cable cross-section at the cable positions between the points can differ from the contour of the cable cross-section at those points, for example, by having a different shape. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that a uniform cross-sectional shape is provided at the points, formed by the constant relative positions of the conductors to the respective contour, which differs from the cross-sectional shape between the points. The cross-sectional shape of the cable at these points can therefore be used as a code for a connector.

[0026] The electrical conductors of the cable can optionally be twisted together, in particular in the form of one or more pair strandings, triple strandings or quadruple strandings.

[0027] In a further optional embodiment, a further contour, in particular an inner and / or outer contour, can extend continuously from the first to the second point of the cable, being uniform with respect to the first and second contours and free of rotational symmetry. Furthermore, the conductors of the cable can be arranged transversely to the direction of extension of the cable to the further contour such that, at every further point between the first and second points of the cable, the same coding for connecting the cable to a connector is provided as at the first and second points of the cable. In other words, the cable can be cut to the required length at any point between the first and second points, thus providing a contact surface with the same coding.In this embodiment, it is therefore preferred if the relative positions of the conductors to the respective contour do not change along the direction of extension of the cable, i.e., if they are constant.

[0028] In other words, the electrical conductors of the cable can optionally be twisted together, particularly in the form of one or more pairs, triples, or quadruples, wherein the at least one coding along the cable's length from the first to the second position has a continuous path and is adapted to the twist such that at every point along the cable between the first and second positions, the at least one coding and the electrical conductors have the same relative position to each other, particularly in a plane transverse, preferably perpendicular, to the cable's direction of extension. In this embodiment, it is therefore preferred that the relative positions of the conductors to the respective contour along the cable's direction of extension do not change, i.e., remain constant.

[0029] In other words, the contour, in particular the coding, optionally on the cable jacket, can have a continuous helical or helical shape in the direction of the cable's extension, preferably with a constant pitch that is specifically adapted to the twisting. The coding can be designed as a recess, in particular a notch or groove, or a raised section, in particular a shoulder or bead. The twisting reduces electromagnetic interference. By twisting the conductors, induced electromagnetic fields largely cancel each other out, thus reducing susceptibility to interference. However, this changes the position of the conductors along the cable's extension, making contact between the connector conductors and the cable conductors more difficult.By means of coding and the defined, constant relative position of the coding to the conductors along the cable, this problem can be solved and the intended contact between the conductors of the connector and the corresponding conductors of the cable can be made possible at any point on the cable between the first and second points, since the coding can have a continuous course that is adapted to the twisting.

[0030] The various strands can optionally be spaced apart from each other within the cable's cross-section and / or evenly distributed. If the cable has a fluid line, it is preferred that the strands are arranged evenly around the fluid line, preferably to achieve uniform cooling of the conductors or the strands.

[0031] The cable can optionally have several contours, particularly strain relief contours, along its outer circumference, preferably at regular intervals. These contours are particularly preferably in the form of circumferential recesses, especially grooves or notches, or raised areas, especially ridges or shoulders, preferably for heat shrink tubing or strain relief. The strain relief contour prevents accidental pulling on the cable from unintentionally disconnecting the electrical connection between the cable and the connector. Alternatively, the coding on the outer circumference of the cable or cable sheath can form the strain relief contour. In other words, the strain relief contour could extend along the entire length of the cable or be repeating.

[0032] The strain relief can optionally be designed using heat-shrink tubing or gripping arms, wherein the strain relief is preferably attached to and / or formed on the component or connector, the heat-shrink tubing or gripping arms interacting with the cable's strain relief contour in such a way that the cable is strain-relieved by the strain relief forming a positive connection with the cable's strain relief contour, preferably by the strain relief engaging behind or within the strain relief contour. Preferably, the strain relief is designed such that it pre-tensions the cable against the component or connector, preferably in the cable's extension direction and / or in the contact direction.Furthermore, it may be preferred that the strain relief is designed to engage in the recess or to grip behind the raised section, particularly from the perspective of the component or connector. In other words, the strain relief can engage behind the raised section. The strain relief can also include gripping arms for engaging or gripping behind the raised section. The strain relief can be made of plastic and / or be integral with the component or connector. The strain relief can also be adjustable so that a preload of the cable against the component or connector can be set. The preload can be adjustable in steps or continuously.Preferably, the strain relief can be designed such that it creates a strain-relieving connection with the strain relief contour during a contacting movement to establish the electrical connection between cable and component or connector.

[0033] The contacting movement can optionally be understood as a movement between cable and connector that causes electrical contact between the conductors of the cable and the conductors of the connector.

[0034] The electrical conductors of the cable can optionally extend only and / or directly to a contact surface of the cable, particularly the end face, and / or be adjacent to it, preferably to allow the conductors of the connector, in particular in the form of contact means or contact tips and / or insertion means, to be inserted into the electrical conductors of the cable at the contact surface, wherein the contact surface can preferably run transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the direction of extension of the cable, and wherein in particular the contact surface can form a cut surface of the cable, at which the cable has preferably been shortened to a target length, and / or a cable end of the cable.Preferably, the contact surface can be formed by a cut at any point between the first and second points along the cable's length, particularly if the coding extends over the entire length of the cable. Preferably, the contact means are designed such that they only require piercing, and in particular without cutting, the electrical conductors of the cable.

[0035] The following statements regarding the second position, the second contour and / or the second cable cross-section also apply accordingly to the optional at least one further position, the optional at least one further contour and / or the optional at least one further cable cross-section.

[0036] The described cable design overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a cable end at the first and / or second location and / or, optionally, a further location, particularly between the first and second locations, which can be connected to the designated connector, preferably a plug connector. Such a connection preferably establishes a correct and unambiguous connection between the cable conductors and the respective designated conductors of the connector. For this purpose, the connector preferably has a counter-coding and / or counter-contour that interacts with the coding and / or contour at the first or second location of the cable, where a cable end can optionally be formed with an end-face contact surface.In other words, it is preferred that a connection can be established between a cable end, if it is formed at the first or second position, and the connector / plug connector according to the key-lock principle, whereby conductors of the cable are conductively contacted with the intended conductors and in particular contacts of the connector / plug connector.

[0037] In principle, two interacting encodings, in particular contours, can optionally be referred to as an encoding, in particular contour, and a counter-encoding, in particular counter-contour, which preferably fit together and interact like a key with a matching lock.

[0038] Although a connector is a preferred design variant of a connector, the following statements regarding connectors also apply more generally to connectors. The connector can be designed as a connector as described above, or alternatively or additionally as a clamp connector, screw connector, or solder connector. Crimp connectors or spring-loaded connectors are also possible designs of a connector and / or connector. Furthermore, the connector can be designed as a plug or socket, or include both.

[0039] The cable is preferably an electrical cable, particularly for connection to a connector, preferably electrical. For example, a component, device, sensor, actuator, or fieldbus module, especially an electrical component, can have such a connector. This greatly simplifies the connection of a cable to such a device. Preferably, the same cross-sectional view results at the first and second positions in the respective planes if a cable end is formed at each of these two positions.

[0040] The fact that the relative positions of the conductors to the respective contour change along the cable's direction of extension means, in particular, that the conductors can have different relative positions to the respective contour at different points along the cable. This is caused by the fact that the conductors do not extend in a straight line and parallel to the cable's direction of extension.

[0041] Furthermore, it is preferred that the conductors are electrical conductors, and preferably stranded wires. Electrical energy, in particular electric current, and / or data can be transmitted by means of the electrical conductors.

[0042] Furthermore, it is preferred that the cable be designed as an optical data line or optical data cable. It is particularly preferred that the conductors are optical conductors.

[0043] The cable conductors are preferably optical or electrical. Optical data signals are preferably transmitted via the optical conductors, while electrical conductors are preferably used to transmit data signals and / or electrical energy, i.e., electric current. It is preferred that the cable has at least two, three, four, or more, or a maximum of 10, 15, or 20 conductors, particularly electrical ones. Each electrical conductor can preferably be configured as a stranded wire. A stranded wire is understood to be, in particular, a thin electrical conductor comprising individual wires and therefore easily bendable, which is, for example, predominantly made of copper.The individual wires can be enclosed by a common insulating sheath (insulation), particularly for electrical insulation, in which case this conductor is also referred to as a stranded wire. These insulating sheaths prevent short circuits between the individual conductors or strands. Preferably, the electrical conductors or stranded wires are, optionally, electrically insulated from the surroundings of the cable by the cable sheath.

[0044] The electrical conductors are either made of electrically conductive foam or they are electrical conductors, in particular stranded wires or stranded cables, which have additional electrically conductive foam to facilitate contact with the connector conductors. In other words, it is conceivable that the electrically conductive foam fills any voids that occur on or in the stranded wires or stranded cables. Such foam is particularly easy for the connector's electrical conductors to penetrate and thus make electrical contact.

[0045] Furthermore, it is preferable if the electrical conductors are alternatively made of electrically conductive gel, fleece, or another suitable electrically conductive and appropriate material. Depending on the application, this can reduce costs.

[0046] Furthermore, it is preferred if the conductors in the first and second levels are arranged with respect to their respective relative positions to the respective contour in such a way that an identical coding is provided for connecting the cable to a connector.

[0047] Regardless of the cable type, it is preferred that the cable has a shield made of an electrically conductive material to protect the conductors from electromagnetic interference, for example. Therefore, the shield can preferably also be referred to as a barrier. The shield can be made of an electrically conductive material to, for example, block electromagnetic interference. The shield can include or consist of copper or aluminum. In contrast, the insulating sheath, i.e., the cable's outer casing, which also provides electrical insulation from the surroundings, can be made of an electrically insulating material. Materials such as ceramics, glass, or plastics can be used for this purpose. Preferably, the shield completely or at least partially surrounds the conductors.Furthermore, it is preferred that the shielding extends over at least 90%, 95%, 99%, or completely over the entire length of the cable. The shielding optionally shields multiple conductors or all conductors of the cable, particularly from the environment.

[0048] Furthermore, it is preferred that the cable shielding be electrically connectable to, or in contact with, a designated electrical shield conductor of the connector, particularly when the cable is fully, i.e., properly, connected to the connector. This designated electrical shield conductor is preferably electrically connected to a ground potential. Independently of this, this electrical shield conductor is preferably designed as a pin that engages, in particular, in an opening or recess when the cable is fully connected to the connector, in order to establish an electrical connection between the pin and the shielding. Preferably, the shielding is arranged in an accessible manner within this recess or opening so that the pin, upon insertion into the opening or recess, is able to make electrical contact with the shielding.

[0049] Furthermore, it is preferred if the shielding is made of an electrically conductive foam or foam material. Alternatively, it is preferred if the shielding is made of an electrically conductive gel, fleece, or another suitable electrically conductive and appropriate material. Depending on the application, this can reduce costs.

[0050] Optionally, the cable, particularly on its outer circumference and / or at the contact surface, can have microencapsulation to form a seal. The contents of the microencapsulation can be released, in particular, by the application of heat, radiation (especially light, preferably ultraviolet light), contact with an activating substance, or light in combination with moisture. Alternatively, the cable, particularly on its outer circumference and / or at the contact surface, can have an activating substance for microencapsulation to release its contents upon contact, thus forming a seal. If the cable has the activating substance, it is preferred that the component or connector also has the microencapsulation, and vice versa. Such microencapsulation eliminates a manufacturing step involving the external application of a sealant.The microencapsulation can comprise a sealant or adhesive, particularly for electrical insulation. Alternatively, the microencapsulation can comprise a chemical substance that, upon release, forms a metallurgical bond for sealing. Alternatively or additionally, the seal can be formed at the end face of the cable, preferably at the contact surface. For this purpose, the microencapsulation and / or the activation substance can be arranged accordingly, preferably at the contact surface and / or at a point on the component or connector that comes into contact with the contact surface. To allow light or radiation to reach the microencapsulation, the component or connector can be made of a material that is permeable, particularly transparent, to light or radiation.Preferably, the component or connector can be manufactured using a two-component injection molding process. The first material component of the injection molding process can be a plastic that is transparent to light or radiation. The second material component of the injection molding process can be a different plastic, for example, an electrically insulating material or a material that provides the component or connector with its strength. The respective data line can be designed as an electrical or optical data line and preferably as a fieldbus and / or Ethernet line.

[0051] Furthermore, the cable can be configured as a power cable, a data cable, or a hybrid cable. As a hybrid cable, a single cable can, for example, serve for both power and data transmission. For this purpose, one or more data lines and one or more power lines are provided. The respective line, in particular the data and / or power line, can have electrical conductors, each or all of which are surrounded by a sheath, in particular an insulating sheath and / or shielding. The common insulating sheath is formed, in particular, by the cable jacket.

[0052] The cable according to the invention can furthermore be configured as an Ethernet cable, preferably a Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) cable. The cable can also be configured as a power and / or signal and / or data cable and / or fieldbus cable and / or hybrid cable, preferably also as a combination of the aforementioned cables. In particular, it is possible for the cable to be a combination of data and power cables, in which both data and electrical energy can be transmitted. For example, the hybrid cable can combine at least fieldbus lines and power lines (for example, 24 volts). It is conceivable that, in addition to electrical signals such as energy and data, other media such as air or liquid can also be transmitted through the cable.

[0053] The cable can be used, for example, in industrial automation, such as for controlling clamping devices or as a cable for cable carriers, or it can be designed for such applications. In particular, cables suitable for withstanding high mechanical loads and exhibiting high flexibility to meet the requirements of industrial automation are suitable. Furthermore, it is preferable if the cable has high resistance to environmental influences such as moisture, oil, UV radiation, high temperatures, and / or chemicals to ensure reliable control of pneumatic clamping devices or as a cable for cable carriers. Examples include cables made of polyurethane (PUR), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), or polyolefin (PO).In particular, the sheathing is made from these materials, especially regardless of the cable type or the area of ​​application of the cable.

[0054] Furthermore, the maximum cable length can exceed 1 meter, 10 meters, 50 meters, or 100 meters. The cable can utilize a simple, field-applicable connection technology, where the cable can be unwound from a cable drum and cut to the required length. Due to the described structure and, in particular, the coding, the cable can be directly connected to a connector at the first, second, or subsequent point after the cable end has been formed, without further measures such as crimping. An automatic seal and strain relief can also be achieved through the use of a sealing compound.The strain relief can optionally also be achieved by a mechanical locking mechanism which, when closing, for example, cuts into the sheathing, especially at a cable end section, in a form-fitting manner and / or has or forms a force-fit clamping connection.

[0055] Furthermore, at least one coding element can be provided on the cable. The coding is formed, in particular, by the cable's contour, preferably at the first and / or second location and / or subsequent locations, as well as by the relative positions of the conductors at the location(s) to the respective contour. The coding can be spatially, i.e., particularly three-dimensionally, formed on the cable, preferably by the cable cross-section, the contour, the sheathing, or a fluid channel. Furthermore, the coding can be provided at a cable end, which is formed or can be formed at the first or second location. It is also possible for the coding to be provided at more than two locations along the cable in order to form cable ends at these additional locations. This is the case, for example, if the coding repeats itself in the cable's direction of travel, particularly at regular intervals.In this way, cables of varying lengths can be provided by forming, or creating, a cable end at one of the more than two points along the cable. Preferably, the point chosen for forming the cable end is the one that most closely approximates the required cable length and / or results in a cable that is only slightly longer than necessary. Regardless of this, the sheathing is preferably made of an electrically insulating and / or flexible material, such as a plastic or an elastomer.

[0056] The cable may optionally include a fluid line, in particular a liquid or gas line, preferably an air or compressed air line, wherein the at least one coding element may be formed partially or entirely by means of the fluid line, wherein the electrical conductors, in particular the stranding or strandings, surround the fluid line along the length of the cable, preferably uniformly, in order to ensure uniform cooling of the conductors by means of the fluid conducting through the fluid line, for example, air, compressed air, coolant, oil, or lubricant. Preferably, the fluid line contributes to the coding by means of the shape of its cross-section, in particular transverse or perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cable, and / or by its position within the cable cross-section, in particular transverse or perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cable.Contributing to the coding can mean, for example, that the geometry of the cable sheath or the outer contour of the cable also contributes to the coding. In other words, the geometry of the cable sheath or the outer contour of the cable, together with the fluid line, in particular the shape and / or position of the fluid line, can constitute the coding. Alternatively, preferably only the fluid line, through the shape of its cross-section, in particular transverse or perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cable, and / or through its position within the cable cross-section, in particular transverse or perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cable, constitutes the coding.

[0057] The coding can serve to specify a particular arrangement and / or, in particular, the intended assignment of, especially electrical or optical, conductors of the connector to the, especially electrical or optical, conductors of the cable, preferably specifying and / or guiding this connection. A coding can preferably be understood as a systematic shaping and / or a systematic arrangement of contacts and / or mechanical elements to ensure a specific connection configuration. The coding can thus serve to prevent incorrect connections and to ensure the correct alignment of the connector with respect to the cable, in particular by means of a counter contour of the connector formed to the contour of the cable, during the connection process. The coding thus advantageously defines a correct alignment of the conductors of the cable to the corresponding conductors of the connector, i.e.,The correct orientation of the cable enables optimized signal transmission and power supply by ensuring compatibility. The arrangement of the connector conductors with the cable conductors can, for example, define the spatial arrangement, e.g., according to a predefined assignment, so that the connector conductors, especially during contacting, preferably exclusively, are in contact with or can be contacted with the designated cable conductors. The coding can optionally also be referred to as a coding or connection structure or as a coding or connection contour.

[0058] The special design of the cable according to the invention has the advantage that, when connecting the cable to a connector, it is unnecessary to first strip the cable in a complex process and, for example, use crimp connectors to connect the connector to the cable. Instead, it may be possible to connect the connector directly to the cable, since the cable end, if formed at one of the two locations, has a contour, preferably a structure or plug-in structure and / or coding for mechanical and / or electrical contact. The conductors of the cable can also be designed such that they provide a contact surface at the cable end, particularly for contact with the connector, if the cable end is formed at one of the locations.This is preferably achieved by conductors, in particular strands, of the cable, which are designed such that a conductor of the connector, specifically one designated for this purpose, can be inserted and / or pierced into each conductor, in particular strands, of the cable. Preferably, the conductors of the connector are designed as contact elements, which preferably have pointed ends to pierce the conductors of the cable in order to establish an electrical contact or connection between the conductors of the cable and the conductors of the connector. In this way, a complex contacting process is avoided. Preferably, the conductors of the connector have contact points, in particular for piercing the corresponding conductors of the cable, in order to preferably establish an electrical contact.Piercing or pushing through occurs during the insertion or insertion of the cable end into the connector, particularly into the cable entry opening of the connector.

[0059] Optionally, the conductors of the connector are designed as contact elements and / or insertion elements.

[0060] It is preferred if the respective contour extends in the direction of the cable's length, in particular at least so far that, if a cable end is formed at one of the locations, the cable end can be inserted into a connector provided for this purpose, in particular a cable entry opening of a connector, which preferably has a counter contour, until the conductors of the cable are sufficiently or completely in contact with the conductors of the connector. Preferably, the respective contour forms the corresponding structure, in particular a connection structure.

[0061] Furthermore, it is preferred if the cable entry opening and / or the fluid connection is designed as a guide for the cable.

[0062] Furthermore, it is preferred if the cable entry opening and / or the contour of the fluid connection have a contour that is negatively formed relative to the contour of the cable cross-section at one of the locations. In other words, the contour of the cable entry opening and / or the contour of the fluid connection is formed to match the contour of the cable cross-section at one of the locations. Alternatively or additionally, the contour of the cable cross-section on the one hand and the contour of the fluid connection and / or the cable entry opening on the other hand are formed such that rotation of the cable about the direction of extension of the cable or the insertion direction of the cable end in the connector is prevented or prevented when the contour of the cable at the cable end is in engagement with the contour of the fluid connection and / or the cable entry opening.Regardless of the above, it is preferred if the contour of the cable at the points and the contour of the cable entry opening and / or the fluid connection are designed in such a way that it is possible to insert the cable end first into the connector.

[0063] Furthermore, it is preferred if the first level and the second level, and in particular each of the subsequent levels, are perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cable. Alternatively or additionally, it is preferred if the first level and the second level, and in particular each of the subsequent levels, are parallel to each other, provided that the cable is aligned or arranged in a straight line between the first level and the second level, and each of the subsequent levels, and preferably perpendicular to each of the levels. This arrangement of the cable serves only to specify the levels, which is why the cable can, of course, also be curved in its intended use.

[0064] In principle, it is preferred if the cable has further, i.e. more than two, such locations, wherein the cable cross-section also has a contour and / or coding at each further such location in a further plane that runs transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the direction of extension of the cable, as at the first two locations.

[0065] Preferably, the first and second junctions, as well as each subsequent junction of the cable, are spaced apart from each other, particularly preferably in the direction of the cable's extension. Furthermore, it is preferred that no other junctions with the same coding are formed between these junctions. In other words, it is preferred that the same coding is present or formed only at these junctions and / or that the same codings are formed only at junctions spaced apart from each other. "Same codings" preferably refers to essentially identical codings.

[0066] In principle, it is preferred if every embodiment that applies to the first and / or second position can also apply to or be transferable to every further position. The same applies to every further level in relation to the first and second levels, as well as to every associated contour in relation to the first and second contours.

[0067] The requirement that the first and second contours are uniformly formed preferably means that the first and second contours, particularly in their respective planes, have the same shape. Furthermore, it is preferred that the first and second contours have the same dimensions. In other words, it is preferred that the two contours are essentially congruent to each other. Preferably, the relative positions of the conductors to the respective contours are also essentially the same, whereby, together with the essentially identical contours and the essentially identical relative positions of the conductors to the respective contours at both locations, the same encodings are preferably formed at both locations.

[0068] The fact that the first and second contours are each designed without rotational symmetry preferably means that a cable end with such a rotationally symmetric contour can only be inserted into the insertion opening of a connector with a counter contour matching the contour of the cable end in one orientation. Assuming the cable end had a rotationally symmetric contour, for example in the form of a square, the cable could be inserted into a corresponding square insertion opening in four different orientations, namely at 90° to each other in four orientations around the direction of extension of the cable. This is precisely what is prevented by the rotationally symmetric contour in order to ensure unambiguous orientation and coding.

[0069] The rotationally symmetry-free outer contour can optionally be formed by means of a cable sheath or the outer circumference of the cable, preferably by the cable having a cross-section with a circular base shape and at least one recess, in particular a groove, and / or at least one raised area, in particular a bead. Preferably, the recess or raised area, in particular the bead, is the coding. Alternatively, the outer contour can be a freeform or a polygonal shape.

[0070] The inner contour can optionally be formed by a circular fluid channel, which, due to its position and / or shape within the cable's cross-section, provides the coding. Alternatively, the fluid channel can have a freeform shape or be a polygon. The component bearing the coding can be considered a key, and the component bearing the corresponding counter-coding a lock. This ensures the intended specific contact between the conductors and the contact elements.

[0071] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the first and second points on the cable are marked, particularly to form a cable end at one of the marked points, optionally with a contact surface on the end face. The marking is preferably provided on the sheathing. Furthermore, it is particularly an optical and / or tactile marking. The tactile marking is, for example, in the form of a protrusion, a recess, or a notch on the sheathing and / or is preferably identifiable by touch. Preferably, the marking, especially the optical marking, is an optical symbol or a colored marking that is preferably color-distinct from the rest of the cable, particularly the sheathing. In this way, one of the points where the cable can be formed can be identified very easily.

[0072] Furthermore, it is preferred if a designated cutting point is formed at the first and second locations. This designated cutting point can be a weakening of the sheathing, in particular a circumferential notch in the sheathing. This facilitates the application of a cutting tool, such as a blade or crimping tool, and prevents the cutting tool from accidentally slipping off the designated cutting point. The circumferential notch preferably extends in the first and / or second plane, particularly around the cable or the sheathing. The notch or the weakening of the sheathing is preferably designed in such a way that the electrical insulation provided by the sheathing remains intact.

[0073] Furthermore, the connector may be provided with recurring markings indicating the penetration depth of the electrical conductors, preferably in the form of contact elements, insertion points, or contact tips. It is optionally preferred that the marking(s) interact with or are aligned with the connector to indicate the penetration depth. Such penetration depth markings preferably differ from the markings used to form a cable end in their feel, appearance, shape, or color. The penetration depth marking may, for example, be provided on or printed with the cable sheath. The marking may repeat at fixed intervals along the length of the cable to indicate, after the cable end has been formed, the correct insertion depth of the contact elements.This further simplifies and ensures a reliable connection. The marking can also aid in cable orientation for connection by coordinating with or being aligned to a marking on the connector.

[0074] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the respective contour comprises an outer contour, which is formed in particular by the sheathing, and / or that the respective contour comprises an inner contour, which is formed in particular by a fluid channel running in the cable in the direction of extension. Such a fluid channel can be designed as a cooling channel to cool the conductors, especially the electrical ones. For this purpose, it is preferred if a coolant can be conveyed through such a cooling channel. It is particularly preferred if the cable is a fast-charging cable capable of transmitting an electrical power of approximately 500 kW.

[0075] In the preferred case that the respective contour includes an outer contour formed by or through the sheathing, it is optionally advantageous for the sheathing to electrically insulate the conductors and / or tubes surrounding and / or electrically insulating them from each other, from the cable's environment, particularly completely. Preferably, the sheathing has a groove and / or notch and / or recess and / or bead and / or projection, which forms the contour, particularly the outer contour. The groove and / or notch and / or recess and / or bead and / or projection are preferably spaced apart from each other or adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the cable.Preferably, the contour, in particular the outer contour, is designed without rotational symmetry and / or rotational symmetry, preferably such that two formed cable ends facing away from each other have different outer contours to avoid incorrect contact, by ensuring that only one of the two cable ends can be electrically connected to the connector due to its outer contour. Preferably, these two cable ends are designed accordingly at the first and second positions.

[0076] Optionally, the casing is formed in one piece. It is particularly preferred if the groove and / or notch and / or recess and / or bead and / or projection is formed integrally and / or in one piece by means of the casing.

[0077] Furthermore, the fluid channel can be designed as a liquid channel through which a liquid can be conveyed. It is particularly preferred if the liquid is a coolant or oil that supplies a device to which the cable is connected, in particular by means of a connector. Alternatively, the fluid channel can be an air or pneumatic channel for conveying a gas, in particular air or compressed air, to a device to which the cable is connected, in particular by means of a connector. In addition, it is preferred if the cable conductors are spaced apart from the fluid channel and / or electrically insulated, preferably over the entire length of the cable. This prevents a short circuit.

[0078] A particularly preferred embodiment comprises two electrical conductors, preferably two strands or stranded wires, which are twisted together. Alternatively, five electrical conductors, preferably strands or stranded wires, which are twisted together, are also conceivable. Regardless of the number or configuration of the conductors, it is preferred if each or the combined conductor has a cross-section of 1.5 mm². 2 (square millimeters). Alternatively, it is conceivable that the cable has a cross-section of 1.5 mm. 2(square millimeters). Furthermore, it is preferred if the outer contour, in particular the sheathing, includes a notch or recess that defines the contour of the cable at the first and / or second location, i.e., in the first and / or second plane. These embodiments are characterized by their particularly simple manufacturability. Preferably, the first and second locations, and thus also the corresponding planes, are spaced approximately 4 cm apart in the direction of extension of the cable.

[0079] In the case that the contour includes an inner contour formed by a fluid channel, it is preferred that the shielding extends to the fluid channel, where it is electrically contacted by a designated shield conductor of the connector when the cable is fully, i.e., properly, connected to the connector. Preferably, the designated shield conductor is a fluid channel connection of the connector. This designated electrical shield conductor is preferably electrically connected to a ground potential. Preferably, the shielding is arranged in an accessible manner within the fluid channel of the cable so that the fluid connection, upon its insertion into the fluid channel, is able to electrically contact the shielding.It is preferred if the shielding surrounds the conductors of the cable circumferentially to at least 80%, 90%, 95%, 99% or completely, in particular over at least 80%, 90%, 95%, 99% of the length of the cable or over the entire length of the cable.

[0080] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the same coding, particularly at further locations and / or in further planes transverse to the direction of extension of the cable, is provided only at certain intervals along the direction of extension of the cable, in particular at intervals of approximately 4 cm. This makes it possible to provide a cable which can be cut to the required length at one of the further locations and which has the same coding at the resulting cable end as at the first and second locations.

[0081] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the conductors in the first plane, and in particular substantially, have the same relative positions to the first contour as in the second plane relative to the second contour. This ensures that the same coding is formed in the second plane. In other words, each conductor, and in particular substantially, has the same relative position to the contour in the second plane as in the first plane.

[0082] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the at least two conductors are twisted relative to each other in the direction of extension of the cable, which in particular results in a change in the relative positions of the conductors to the respective contour along the direction of extension of the cable. This reduces the mutual interference of the electrical conductors, making the doubling an effective measure for reducing inductively coupled differential-mode interference.

[0083] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the first and second contours differ from a rotationally symmetrical, in particular circular, contour by at least one recess and / or at least one projection. In other words, the coding can be a structure specifically provided on the cable, which is provided on the cable specifically for the purpose of enabling the specific arrangement and / or assignment of the cable conductors to a connector. The projection is preferably a projection that is convex in the respective plane compared to the rotationally symmetrical, in particular circular, contour or basic shape. The recess is preferably a concave, notch-shaped, or groove-shaped recess that is concave in the respective plane compared to the rotationally symmetrical, in particular circular, contour or basic shape.As an alternative to the recess, in any embodiment relating to a recess of the contour, it can be a recess of the contour, in particular compared to its basic shape.

[0084] Furthermore, it is preferable if the cable conductors are located only within the basic shape of the contour, i.e., not in any projections or protrusions. This provides better protection for the conductors from the environment.

[0085] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the first and second contours, in particular the outer contour, are designed to form a positive-locking connection with a contour, in particular the inner contour, of a cable entry opening of a connector, and / or that the first and second contours, in particular the inner contour, are designed to form a positive-locking connection with a fluid port of a connector. This ensures a clear orientation of the cable relative to the connector. Furthermore, it is preferred that the positive-locking connection of the cable entry opening or the positive-locking connection of the fluid port, or the positive-locking connections, are designed to be fluid-tight, airtight, or liquid-tight. This contributes to functional reliability.The fluid connection is preferably designed as a nozzle which is inserted into the fluid channel when connecting it to the fluid channel.

[0086] Furthermore, it is preferred if a cable guide is formed within the connector by means of the positive locking connection, one of the positive locking connections, or the positive locking connections, such that the cable end, if formed at any point on the cable, is initially guided during insertion of the cable end into the cable entry opening before a data, current, or fluid-transmitting connection is established between the cable and the connector or a device containing the connector. Preferably, the marking indicating the insertion depth is adapted to the guide in such a way that the marking is not visible outside the connector once a data, current, and / or fluid-transmitting connection has been established between the cable and the connector or a device containing the connector.In this way, it can be optically ensured that such a connection has been reliably established.

[0087] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the first contour, in particular the outer contour and / or inner contour, is designed to interact with the contour, in particular the inner contour, of the cable entry opening of the connector and / or the fluid connection of the connector in such a way that the cable is positioned so that the conductors of the cable are in conductive contact with conductors of the connector provided for this purpose when a cable end of the cable is formed on the first plane and the cable end is inserted into the cable entry opening of the connector, and / or that the second contour, in particular the outer contour and / or inner contour, is designed to interact with the contour, in particular the inner contour, of the cable entry opening of the connector and / or the fluid connection of the connector in such a way that the cable is positionedthat the cable conductors are in conductive contact with their respective designated conductors in the connector when a cable end is formed at the second level and the cable end is inserted into the cable entry opening of the connector. If the cable has a marking indicating an insertion depth, the corresponding conductors preferably only make full conductive contact with each other when this is indicated by the marking, for example, when the cable end is inserted so deeply into the connector that the marking is no longer visible outside the connector. "Conductive contact" refers in particular to a data and / or power-transmitting connection. For this purpose, the conductors are preferably electrical or optical conductors.

[0088] It is generally preferred if the contour of the connector's cable entry opening is designed as a counter contour, particularly as a counter contour to the cable at the cable end, which is to be inserted into the cable entry opening. Alternatively or additionally, the connector, and in particular the cable entry opening, may optionally also have at least one flexible and / or elastic element and / or a seal, preferably in the form of a molded seal, to accommodate more complex and varying cable cross-sections. In this case, the element or seal may be designed to surround the cable's contour.

[0089] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that a cable end is formed on one of the planes. This creates a cable end with the intended coding. The cable end is preferably designed as a cut surface and / or connection surface and / or contact surface. Preferably, the conductors extend only to the cable end, the cut surface and / or the connection surface and / or contact surface. The cable end and / or the cut surface and / or the connection surface and / or contact surface is, in particular, perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cable. The cable end is preferably formed by means of a cut, which is made, in particular, at one of the locations on the cable.

[0090] The coding can optionally be spatially, and in particular three-dimensionally, formed on the cable. Furthermore, the coding can be provided on a contact surface, and in particular on the cut surface of the cable. The coding can serve to specify, and / or guide, a specific arrangement and / or assignment of, in particular electrical, conductors of the component or connector with the, in particular electrical, conductors of the cable. A coding can preferably be understood as a systematic shaping and / or a systematic arrangement of contacts and / or mechanical elements to ensure a specific connection configuration. The coding can thus serve to prevent incorrect connections and / or to ensure the correct orientation of the component (e.g., in the form of a connector) relative to the cable during the connection process.The coding thus advantageously defines a correct alignment of the component, i.e. the correct orientation of the cable, and enables optimized signal transmission and power supply by ensuring compatibility between the different components.

[0091] The cable can be designed, preferably after being cut to form a cable end, such that the respective conductor of the cable is or becomes accessible for contact with a corresponding conductor of the connector. This means, in particular, that the respective conductor is or becomes accessible from the outside, i.e., outside the cable, and can be electrically contacted from the outside without further measures such as stripping. This is made possible, in particular, by the fact that the respective conductor has an exposed cross-section, especially for contact purposes, particularly once the cable has been cut to form a cable end. Alternatively or additionally, the cable can also have the contact surface and / or the accessible conductor in its original state, i.e., in the delivered state without being cut.

[0092] At the cable end, or on the corresponding surface formed at the cable end, the conductor(s) can extend from the interior of the cable to the outside or protrude outwards and be visible from the outside. Furthermore, the respective conductor is preferably positioned opposite the cable end, either protruding from the surface formed at the cable end or recessed within the cable. This provides an easily connectable structure, allowing the cable to inherently function as a plug or socket.

[0093] Another aspect of the invention relates to a cable drum with a cable according to the invention. Preferably, the cable is wound onto the cable drum. In this way, the cable can be easily transported and connected to the connector at its place of use, particularly after a cable end has been formed at one of the points on the cable.

[0094] Another aspect of the invention relates to a connector for a cable according to the invention. The connector according to the invention thus offers the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to a cable according to the invention. It is preferably an electrical connector.

[0095] For example, a component, particularly an electrical one, a device, particularly an electrical one, a sensor, an actuator, or a fieldbus module may optionally have such a connector. This allows for particularly easy connection of a cable to one of the aforementioned devices. The component may alternatively be the connector, and vice versa.

[0096] The connector can optionally be configured as a Single Pair Ethernet connector (SPE connector), in particular according to the IEC 63171 standard, preferably the version dated September 27, 2024, especially applicable in Germany. Preferably, the connector or circular connector can be configured with an M8 or M12 thread. The plug or socket assembly of such a connector can have a thread for mounting, in particular to an electrical device or sensor. Furthermore, the cable and / or component and / or connector and / or connection system can be designed for transmitting a maximum power of 50 or 60 watts.

[0097] The cable and / or component and / or connector and / or connection system can optionally be configured for Single Pair Ethernet (SPE). Unlike conventional Ethernet, which typically uses four pairs of wires or conductors per cable, SPE reduces the cable requirement, resulting in compact and cost-effective connections. Such a cable preferably has only one pair of wires or conductors. The cable may preferably incorporate a twisted pair of wires or conductors. This single pair of wires or conductors can be designed to transmit data as well as electrical current or voltage, preferably over distances of up to 1000 meters and / or at a maximum data transmission rate of 10 Mbit / s, 100 Mbit / s, or 1 Gbit / s.Furthermore, the cable can be configured to supply an end device with electrical current or voltage according to Power over Data Line (PoDL) and simultaneously transmit data. Preferably, the cable and / or component and / or connector and / or connection system can be used or suitable for application in Industry 4.0, the Internet of Things (IoT), the automotive industry, or building automation. The conductor pair or wire pair preferably comprises or consists of copper or a copper alloy. Preferably, the cable conforms to a Single Pair Ethernet cable according to IEEE 802.3bw, preferably in the version of this standard valid on September 27, 2024, particularly in the Federal Republic of Germany. Preferably, the cable can be configured for full-duplex communication.The connector can serve to establish a reliable and secure connection with the cable, particularly for applications in automation technology. This can enable the cable to receive electrical current for power transmission and / or signals for data transmission and / or at least one other medium, such as a fluid like air, oil, or coolant, and / or transmit it to one of the aforementioned devices.

[0098] The multiple conductors of the connector, in particular contact means, preferably the design and / or arrangement and / or dimensioning of the conductors of the connector, can optionally be designed in such a way as to the electrical conductors of the cable, in particular the dimensioning and / or the routing of the electrical conductors of the cable and / or the arrangement of the electrical conductors of the cable on the contact surface, that electrical contacting of multiple electrical conductors of the cable by means of only one of the conductors of the connector, in particular by one of the conductors of the connector electrically contacting a first electrical conductor of the cable in the contact surface and a further electrical conductor of the cable in the direction of extension of the cable behind or next to the first electrical conductor of the cable, preferably due to the twisting of the electrical conductors of the cable, is excluded.This prevents incorrect contact, i.e., an unintentional contact of several conductors of the cable by means of a single conductor of the connector.

[0099] A connector of type M8, M12, or RJ45 can be used, for example. Furthermore, the connector can be designed as a substantially cylindrical (like M8, M12) or rectangular (e.g., RJ45) connector. The connector can also have a diameter, particularly a maximum diameter, in the range of 1 mm to 30 mm, preferably 2 mm to 20 mm, and more preferably 5 mm to 14 mm. Specifically, the diameter can be substantially 8 mm for M8 and substantially 12 mm for M12. The diameter can refer, in particular, to the outer diameter of a thread on the connector, which serves for attachment to a device. The cable, in turn, can have an outer diameter in the range of 1 mm to 30 mm, preferably 2 mm to 20 mm, and more preferably 3 mm to 10 mm. For example, with M12 cables, the diameters can vary in the range of 4 mm to 6 mm.

[0100] The electrical conductors of the connector, in particular contact elements, can optionally lead electrically to electrical contact conductors of a plug or socket arrangement of the connector or the component, wherein the position, arrangement, configuration, and / or dimensioning of the electrical contact conductors differs from that of the electrical conductors of the connector, particularly at the contact surface. Preferably, the component can be configured as a plug with such a plug arrangement or as a socket with such a socket arrangement.The path of the guide from the contact means to the contact conductors of the plug or socket is preferably not straight, but angled, preferably perpendicular, or curved at least at one point along its path, whereby the plug or socket is formed on a side of the component that runs transversely or perpendicular to the insertion direction of the cable or to the contact direction. The plug can be configured to establish an electrical and / or positive connection with a socket. The socket can be configured to establish an electrical and / or positive connection with a plug. Alternatively, the plug or socket can be formed on a side of the component that faces away from the side of the component on which the cable can be electrically contacted with the contact means.Furthermore, the routing of the conductors from the contact elements to the contact conductors of the plug or socket is designed such that the arrangement and / or configuration of the electrical conductors of the plug or socket differs from that of the contact elements. For example, an electrical connection can be established from a small cable cross-section to a large plug or socket assembly.

[0101] Preferably, at least two contact conductors of the socket arrangement or the plug arrangement have a greater or smaller distance between them than the electrical conductors of the cable in the cable cross-section.

[0102] The component and / or connector may optionally have a fluid channel for fluid transfer to the fluid line of the cable, in particular to form a preferably fluid-tight connection from the fluid line of the cable to the fluid channel of the component. The fluid channel of the component may be configured as a counter-coding to the cable's coding, which is preferably designed as a fluid line. This eliminates the need for further coding.

[0103] The component or connector may optionally, particularly in areas of contact with the outer circumference and / or the contact surface of the cable, have a microencapsulation to form a seal, wherein the contents of the microencapsulation can be released, in particular by the application of heat, radiation, especially light, preferably in the form of ultraviolet light or ultraviolet radiation, contact with an activating substance, or light in combination with moisture, or wherein the component or connector, particularly in areas of contact with the outer circumference and / or the contact surface of the cable, may have an activating substance for a microencapsulation in order to release its contents upon contact with a microencapsulation.Alternatively, or conversely, the component or connector, particularly in areas of contact with the outer circumference and / or the contact surface of the cable, may contain an activation substance for the microencapsulation in order to release its contents upon contact with the microencapsulation. The details provided for the cable in this regard, particularly concerning the microencapsulation and the activation substance, may also apply to the component or connector.

[0104] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that at least partially or exclusively, a fluidic seal, particularly against air or liquids, is also created between the cable and the connector by the connection itself. For this purpose, the component can include a sealing element which is directly moved into the correct position for the seal by the mechanical connection without any further measures. The sealing element for creating the seal can, for example, comprise a wall and / or a sealing lip. The sealing element can comprise a wall and / or a sealing lip and is moved directly into the correct position for the seal by the mechanical connection without any further measures in order to reliably seal a contact surface of the cable. For this purpose, the sealing element surrounds the cable at a cable end section, i.e., near the cable end, along the circumference of the cable.It is also conceivable that a compression seal can be achieved using a nut or cap nut, whereby the connector has a thread for the nut or cap nut and the inner diameter of the nut or cap nut is larger than the outer diameter of the cable. During the tightening of the nut or cap nut to the thread of the connector, the inner diameter of the cable entry opening decreases to such an extent that the cable end or cable end section inserted into the cable entry opening is clamped, creating a seal between the cable and the connector.

[0105] Alternatively, it is preferred that the tightness of the connection between the cable and the connector be achieved by means of a heat-shrink tube or a rubber grommet arranged on the end face of the cable, particularly if the outer contour is circular. It is also conceivable that the tightness is achieved by means of an elastomer seal located in the cable entry opening of the connector, wherein the inner diameter of the elastomer seal has an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the cable, the outer contour of which is preferably circular, and wherein the elastomer seal is preferably designed as a rubber lip or O-ring arranged in an inner groove of the cable entry opening. When the cable is inserted into the cable entry opening and through the elastomer seal, a seal is created due to the difference in diameter.Furthermore, a molded seal may be provided between the cable and the connector, especially if the contour of the cable is not circular.

[0106] Preferably, the cable is attached to the connector or sealed using a clamping lever.

[0107] The connector can have at least one or more conductors, in particular electrical and / or optical conductors, each of which can be electrically and / or mechanically contacted with an associated, in particular related or designated, conductor of the cable, preferably to establish the connection between the cable and the connector. For a reliable and complete connection, if there are multiple conductors in the cable, multiple conductors of the connector can or should be provided, and the conductors of the connector must be electrically and / or mechanically connected or connectable to the conductors of the cable. In other words, for each conductor of the cable to be contacted, an associated conductor of the connector can be provided, which is connected or connectable to the corresponding conductor. The assignment between the respective conductors can, for example, be made according to a predefined pinout.It may be provided that only one conductor of the connector is ever connected, i.e., contacted, or connectable, i.e., contactable, to exactly one corresponding conductor of the cable, until, in particular, all conductors of the connector have each been contacted with a corresponding conductor of the cable in order to fully establish the connection.

[0108] The individual conductor of the connector can be designed as an electrical conductor, specifically as an electrical contact element. When connecting the cable to the connector, it may be necessary to observe the pin assignment of the connector conductors, meaning that the connector conductors are connected to the corresponding conductors of the cable. The pin assignment thus defines which conductors of the cable are assigned to which conductors of the connector. In other words, it depends on the specific arrangement and / or assignment of the connector conductors relative to the cable conductors.

[0109] Furthermore, it is advantageous if each conductor of the connector is designed to be inserted, preferably pierced, into the corresponding conductor at and / or through the cable end or through the surface formed at the cable end. In other words, if the cable has multiple conductors, each conductor of the connector can be inserted or pierced into a designated conductor of the cable. Furthermore, each conductor of the cable, with its exposed conductor and the inserted, preferably pierced, conductor of the connector, can be at least partially enclosed by an insulating sheath. Thus, stripping—i.e., removing the insulating sheath—of the conductors is unnecessary to make the connection. This simplifies and speeds up cable installation.

[0110] Furthermore, it is preferred if the connector conductors, in particular each conductor, are pointed and / or more stable and / or stiffer than the corresponding cable conductors. To be as stable and / or stiff as possible, the connector conductors may have a corresponding dimension, shape, or geometry and / or be made of a suitable material that imparts this property or properties. This improves the insertion of the connector conductors into the cable conductors, i.e., for contact. Preferably, the connector conductors have contact points, particularly for piercing the corresponding cable conductors, to preferably establish an electrical connection.

[0111] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the connector comprises a cable entry opening for inserting the cable end, that in particular the contour, especially the inner contour, of the cable entry opening is designed to form a positive-locking connection with the contour, especially the outer contour, at the cable end, that the contour, especially the outer contour, at the cable end and the contour, especially the inner contour, of the cable entry opening interact in such a way that the cable is positioned so that the conductors of the cable are in conductive contact with the respective conductors of the connector when the cable end is inserted into the cable entry opening of the connector, and / or that the connector comprises a fluid connection to form a fluidic connection with the fluid channel of the cable, that in particular the contour of the fluid connection is designed to form a positive-locking connection with the contour, especially the inner contour,To form a positive-locking connection at the cable end, such that the contour, in particular the inner contour, at the cable end and the contour of the fluid connection interact in such a way that the cable is positioned so that the conductors of the cable are in conductive contact with the respective conductors of the connector when the cable end is inserted into the cable entry opening of the connector and / or the fluidic connection is established. Positioning of the cable preferably refers to positioning relative to the connector.

[0112] "Conductive contact" refers in particular to a data and / or power transmission connection. The conductors used for this purpose are preferably electrical or optical conductors. The contour of the connector's cable entry opening preferably refers to a counter contour that is matched to the contour at the cable end, ensuring unambiguous cable positioning.

[0113] Another aspect of the invention relates to a connection system with a connector and a cable according to the invention, wherein the cable end is inserted into the cable entry opening and the cable is electrically and / or data-transmitting connected to the connector. The connection system according to the invention thus offers the same advantages as those described in detail with reference to a cable and a plug connection according to the invention. The electrical and / or data-transmitting connection refers in particular to a conductive connection or contact between the conductors of the cable intended for each other and the conductors of the connector.

[0114] The connection system or connector according to the invention can have strain relief that ensures the connection between the cable and the component is not accidentally disconnected, and in particular, that the component is not accidentally pulled out of the cable. The strain relief can be achieved by a mechanical locking mechanism that, during connection, engages the cable sheath in a form-fitting manner and / or creates a force-fit clamping connection with the cable sheath and / or the conductors of the cable. This holds the cable firmly to the component and prevents unintentional disconnection. Accordingly, the strain relief can be provided as a function or device of the connection system that serves to fix and protect the cable to the connector and to prevent damage to the cable connection from tensile stress.Furthermore, the strain relief ensures that a tensile force on the cable is absorbed exclusively by the strain relief, without affecting or loosening the contact between the respective conductors.

[0115] If the connection needs to be released, this can be done via a release mechanism – preferably tool-free. The necessary connection technology on the connector or device side can, for example, be integrated directly into the device containing the connector. It is also possible for the tool-free release mechanism to be actuated by a simple hand movement, further simplifying the operation of the component. For this purpose, the tool-free release mechanism can, for example, have a release tab or a release button formed on the device housing to enable easy, tool-free release. The locking mechanism can be implemented by a detent device that is activated by a rotation or by pressing on a specific area of ​​the component.The locking device can have one or more locking lugs that engage in corresponding recesses or indentations. The release mechanism can then be implemented by a release button or lever, which, with a simple actuation, releases the locking device and frees the connection. Alternatively, the release mechanism can be implemented by a strain relief, which is released by a simple twist or by pressing on a specific point on the cable or device. This releases the connection and allows the cable to be removed.

[0116] Furthermore, the connection system, and in particular the connector, can have a multitude of conductors that establish an electrical connection between the cable conductors and the electrical conductors of the device comprising the connector. The electrical conductors of the connector serve, for example, to transmit power and / or data to a device such as a sensor or actuator, to which the connector can be attached. The conductors of the connector can be designed as plug contacts and / or pins or other suitable connecting elements. The connection system can also include a protective device that protects the contact elements from damage caused by external influences such as dust, dirt, or moisture. This can be achieved using a protective cap, a seal, or another suitable protective device that shields the contact elements from harmful environmental influences.

[0117] Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the cable is positioned by the contour, in particular the inner contour and / or outer contour, at the cable end and the contour, in particular the inner contour of the cable entry opening and / or the contour of the fluid connection, such that the conductors of the cable are in electrical contact with the conductors of the connector provided for this purpose, wherein in particular the conductors of the connector are designed as contact tips that partially penetrate the conductors of the cable in order to establish the electrical contact.

[0118] The connection system may optionally include an insertion mechanism, in particular a screw mechanism, a lever mechanism or a plug-in mechanism, to perform a contacting movement for contacting between the conductors of the connector and the cable, wherein the insertion mechanism is preferably configured to move the cable towards the connector during the contacting movement, wherein the connection system or the insertion mechanism preferably includes an adjustment mechanism to set a predetermined penetration depth of the contact means into the conductors during the insertion mechanism, preferably depending on a cable type and / or continuously and / or in several predefined steps, wherein the connection system or the insertion mechanism preferably has an indexing or indexing device configured toto indicate the current penetration depth for a user during the contacting movement.

[0119] Optionally, the screw mechanism is designed as a cap nut or includes a cap nut that establishes the electrical connection when tightened onto the component. A lever of the lever mechanism can preferably be mounted on the component. Actuation of the lever can effect the contacting movement. Preferably, the component or connector includes a thread, for example an M8 or M12 thread, preferably an external thread, and the cap nut has a corresponding mating thread, preferably an internal thread.

[0120] The insertion mechanism may optionally include a gripper. The insertion mechanism or the gripper may be part of the component or connector, attached to the component or connector, or separate from the component or connector. The gripper may include gripping arms and / or grasp the cable or a cable end section, preferably by clamping or holding the cable or cable end section with the gripper. Preferably, the gripper interacts with the strain relief contour and / or the cable coding, preferably by engaging behind the raised section or engaging in the recess. Preferably, the gripper includes the corresponding coding.In other words, the cable can only be gripped in the intended orientation using the gripper in order to establish an intended electrical connection between the cable and the component or connector, in particular between the electrical conductors of the cable and conductors of the connector or component.

[0121] Optionally, the insertion mechanism can be used not only to establish the electrical connection, but also to create the necessary surface pressure for a sealing element, in particular an elastomer seal, on the component or connector. The seal can be positioned so that it is in physical contact with the contact surface when the electrical connection is established. The seal can be manufactured using a multi-component injection molding process during the production of the component or connector. The seal can seal the conductor and / or fluid line and / or fluid channel from the contact points between the electrical conductors of the cable and the connector or component, and / or seal the contact surface from the surrounding environment of the connection system.The insertion mechanism allows the cable, which is held and / or secured by the gripper, to be moved towards the component, preferably to establish the electrical connection between the cable and the component or connector, in particular between the electrical conductors of the cable and the conductors of the component or connector. The insertion mechanism is designed such that the conductors of the connector or component can be contacted simply by piercing the electrical conductors of the cable at the contact surface.

[0122] The indexing can optionally be designed as a scale or as acoustic and / or haptic feedback for the user. For example, the clicking sound of a locking mechanism during contact movement can trigger such acoustic feedback. It is also conceivable that the locking mechanism itself engages during contact movement, generating haptic feedback. The scale can be integrated into the component or connector, while preferably the insertion mechanism, in particular a screw mechanism, lever mechanism, or plug-in mechanism, can act as the scale pointer.

[0123] The adjustment mechanism can optionally be designed as an adjustable movement limiter for the insertion mechanism, in particular a screw mechanism, lever mechanism, or plug-in mechanism, which preferably limits the maximum penetration depth or maximum insertion depth of the contact means into the conductors. The adjustment mechanism can be adjustable, for example, by means of a screw or a cap nut and / or a rotary movement.

[0124] Optionally, the insertion mechanism includes a motion converter which can be designed in such a way that an actuating movement, in particular a pushing movement, rotary movement or pivoting movement, is converted or can be converted into a contacting movement.

[0125] The cable and the connector can optionally be electrically and / or mechanically connected to each other, in particular by the contact means or conductors of the connector being inserted into the electrical conductors of the cable at the contact surface. An electrical connection can optionally be established between the cable and the connector, in particular by the conductors of the connector being inserted into corresponding conductors of the cable. The connection system comprises a seal, in particular a material-bonded and / or force-fit and / or form-fit seal, which seals the connection and in particular a cable section adjacent to the connection from an environment of the connection system, in particular according to IP20 or IP67. The seal can preferably be formed, in particular in the case of a form-fit seal, by means of a heat-shrink tube or the heat-shrink tube that forms the strain relief.Such a form-fitting seal can be achieved, for example, using heat-shrink tubing. IP20 can refer to a protection and / or certification stating that the ingress of foreign objects is prevented. IP67 can refer to a protection and / or certification stating that there is protection against dust and immersion in water up to a maximum depth of 1 meter for a maximum of 30 minutes. Preferably, IP20 and IP67 refer to the protection classes and / or certifications as they were valid on September 27, 2024, particularly in the Federal Republic of Germany.

[0126] Optionally, only one electrical conductor of the connector, in particular contact means, is inserted into only one conductor of the cable provided for this purpose.

[0127] The seal can optionally provide a fluid-tight seal and / or electrical insulation for the transition from the fluid line to the fluid channel at the contact points formed by contacting the cable conductors with the connector conductors on the contact surface, and / or the seal can electrically insulate and / or seal the contact points formed by contacting the cable conductors with the connector conductors from each other. This prevents fluid leakage or malfunction.

[0128] The seal, particularly a positive-locking seal, can optionally be formed by means of a heat-shrink tube, wherein the heat-shrink tube preferably serves as a strain relief for the cable by forming a positive fit with a strain relief contour of the cable, preferably by the heat-shrink tube engaging behind or within the strain relief contour, and is attached to the component or connector by means of a fastening, in particular a fastening contour of the component or connector, and thus preferably creates a preload of the cable against the component or connector. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the heat-shrink tube serves only as a seal.

[0129] The component or connector may optionally have a strain relief for the cable, configured to interact with one of the contours, in particular one of the strain relief contours, of the cable, preferably in the form of a circumferential recess, in particular a groove or notch, or a raised section, in particular a bead or shoulder, such that the cable is strain-relieved and / or that the component or connector may have a heat-shrink tube and a fastening, preferably in the form of a fastening contour, for the heat-shrink tube, in order to form the strain relief for the cable, in particular by means of the heat-shrink tube. Preferably, the strain relief is configured such that it pre-tensions the cable against the component or connector, preferably in the direction of cable extension and / or in the contact direction.Furthermore, it may be preferred that the strain relief is designed to engage in the recess or to grip behind the raised section, particularly from the perspective of the component or connector. In other words, the strain relief can engage behind the raised section. The strain relief can also include gripping arms for engaging or gripping behind the raised section. The strain relief can be made of plastic and / or be integral with the component or connector. The strain relief can also be adjustable so that a preload of the cable against the component or connector can be set. The preload can be adjustable in steps or continuously. Preferably, the strain relief can be designed such that it forms a strain-relieving connection with the strain relief contour during the contacting movement to establish the electrical connection between the cable and the component or connector.

[0130] The seal can optionally be formed by means of a sealant, in particular an adhesive or potting compound, wherein, in particular in the direction of extension of the cable and / or perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cable, a sealing chamber for receiving the sealant can be formed between the cable, in particular the contact surface of the cable, and the component or the connector, in which the sealant is located and preferably completely fills the sealing chamber, wherein the sealing chamber can preferably have a filling opening for the sealant, which can in particular be closed by the sealant, wherein the sealing chamber can preferably have an outlet opening for the sealant, which can in particular be closed by the sealant, wherein in particular a section of the component or the connector delimiting the sealing chamber can be formed from a transparent material.This allows the fill level of the sealing chamber with sealant to be visually determined. The sealant, in liquid form, can be poured into the sealing chamber through the filling opening. Excess sealant, also in liquid form, can be drained from the sealing chamber through the outlet opening, allowing verification of even distribution of the sealant. The sealant is preferably curable and / or electrically insulating. Sealing the openings with the sealant prevents foreign matter or moisture from entering the sealing chamber.

[0131] The seal can optionally be formed by means of a released contents of the microencapsulation, in particular of the cable, component, or connector. The contents of the microencapsulation can preferably be released by the application of heat, radiation, in particular light, preferably in the form of ultraviolet light, contact with an activating substance, or light in combination with moisture.

[0132] The cable can optionally be attached to the component or connector by means of a force-fit, form-fit, and / or material-fit connection. For this purpose, a screw connection, a clamp connection, or a snap-fit ​​connection can be provided, for example. Strain relief can also be provided, dimensioned, and / or designed for this purpose. A further aspect of the invention relates to an electrical circuit or a data network with a cable, connector, or connection system according to the invention. Thus, the electrical circuit and the data network according to the invention each offer the same advantages as those described in detail with regard to a cable, connector, and connection system according to the invention.

[0133] Character description

[0134] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can each be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. The drawings show:

[0135] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of the cable according to the invention,

[0136] Fig. 2a shows a sectional view of the section path AA from Figure 1,

[0137] Fig. 2b is a sectional view of the section path BB from Figure 1, Fig. 3a is a sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the cable from Figure 1,

[0138] Fig. 3b shows a sectional view of another alternative embodiment of the cable from Figure 1.

[0139] Fig. 3c shows a sectional view of another cable,

[0140] Fig. 4a shows a sectional view of a connection system according to the invention,

[0141] Fig. 4b shows a sectional view of the section path CC from figure 4a.

[0142] Fig. 5a shows a data network according to the invention,

[0143] Fig. 5b shows an electrical circuit according to the invention,

[0144] Fig. 6 shows a connector according to the invention,

[0145] Fig. 7a shows a connection system according to the invention,

[0146] Fig. 7b shows a connection system according to the invention,

[0147] Fig. 7c shows a connection system according to the invention, and

[0148] Fig. 8 shows a connection system according to the invention.

[0149] In the following figures, identical reference numerals are used for the same technical features even for different embodiments.

[0150] Figure 1 shows a cable 10 according to the invention, which extends in the direction 19. The cable 10 is designed as a flexible electrical cable with two twisted electrical conductors. In the direction 19, a first, a second, and further locations 11a, 11b, 11c are marked at equal intervals on the cable 10 by means of markings 13a to form a cable end. According to the invention, cable ends with the same coding can be produced at these locations 11a, 11b, 11c by cutting the cable 10 at one of the locations 11a, 11b, 11c. The cable 10 can be electrically connected to an electrical connector according to the invention. Furthermore, the cable 10 has a marking 13b to indicate the insertion depth of the connector conductors into the cable end.This allows it to be determined whether the corresponding cable end is inserted deeply enough into the corresponding insertion opening of the connector to establish an electrically conductive connection between the conductors of cable 10 and the conductors of the connector. For example, the marking 13b, which indicates the insertion depth, could be aligned with the insertion opening in such a way that the marking 13b is not visible from the outside when the cable end of cable 10 is inserted deeply enough into the insertion opening of the connector to establish electrical contact between the respective conductors. Contact between the conductors of the connector and the conductors of the cable is established by the connector conductors being designed as contact points, which, when the cable end is inserted into the cable insertion opening of the connector, establish electrical contact between the respective conductors.Furthermore, a section path AA, which runs perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cable 10 in a first plane 12a, is visible. The plane 12a is located at the first position 11a. However, the section path AA could also have been located at one of the other positions 11b, 11c, since the same coding is present in the planes 12b, 12c as in the first plane 12a. In addition, another section is shown in a comparison plane 12d, which is spaced apart from the positions 11a, 11b, 11c and is neither marked nor suitable for forming a cable end.

[0151] Figure 2a shows a sectional view of section AA from Figure 1. The cable cross-section is shown with an outer contour 16a that includes a projection 17a and a recess 17b. The two electrical conductors 15, twisted together along the cable's direction of extension, are also visible. Due to the projection 17a and the recess 17b, the cable cross-section lacks rotational symmetry. The outer contour 16a is formed and defined by a cable sheath that electrically insulates the two conductors 15 from the environment. The relative position of the electrical conductors 15 to the outer contour 16a constitutes a code. At each marked point on the cable forming a cable end, the relative position of the electrical conductors 15 to the outer contour 16a would be the same, and therefore form the same code.If a cable entry opening of a connector has a counter contour in the form of an inner contour that matches the outer contour 16a, it can be ensured what orientation the electrical conductors 15 will have in the connector when the cable end is inserted into the connector. In this way, the corresponding electrical conductors of the cable can be clearly and reliably electrically connected to the designated conductors of the connector as intended.

[0152] Figure 2b shows a sectional view of section BB from Figure 1. The cable cross-section in this section is shown, which has the same outer contour 16a as in the sectional view of Figure 2a. However, the two electrical conductors 15 have a different relative position to the outer contour 16a than in Figure 2a, which is why correct contact with the electrical conductors of the connector designed for the coding shown in Figure 2a is not possible. In other words, it is necessary to form the cable end for contact with the connector at one of the points on the cable where the same coding is present. The same coding, i.e., the same relative position of the conductors 15 to the outer contour 16a, is present on the cable in Figure 1 at every marked point for forming the cable end. However, section BB is not located at such a point, which is why the desired coding from Figure 2a is not present here.

[0153] It also becomes clear, according to an optional further development, that the conductors 15 exhibit a periodic change in position transverse to the direction of extension 19 of the cable 10, such that the relative positions of the conductors 15 to the contour in the first and / or second plane 12a, 12b can change continuously. The variant shown in Figure 2b can optionally also be understood as a first variant in which the relative positions of the conductors 15, in section planes BB (cable cross-section) at respective locations / planes 12d on the cable, change at least between the first and second locations 11a, 11b along the direction of extension 19 of the cable, with respect to the respective contour of the cable at that respective location.According to a further alternative development, a second variant, the relative positions of the conductors 15, even in the section planes BB (cable cross-sections) at respective locations / planes 12d on the cable, can remain constant at least between the first and second locations 11a, 11b along the extension direction 19 of the cable, with respect to the respective contour of the cable at that location. This means that not only are the relative positions of the conductors 15 in the section planes AA or in the planes 12a, 12b with respect to the contour in these planes the same, but they would also correspond to the relative positions of the conductors 15 in the section planes BB in between with respect to the contour in these planes. In this case, the outer contour 16a shown in Figure 2b would be rotated a few degrees counterclockwise, in contrast to the representation shown, i.e., the projection 17a or the recess 17b would have "rotated" with the conductors 15 relative to Figure 2a.In this context, one can also speak of a "concurrent" coding. In other words, it is provided that the relative positions of the conductors 15 to the respective contour in cable cross-sections remain constant at points between the first and second and / or at least one further point 11a, 11b along the extension direction 19 of the cable 10.

[0154] Figure 3a shows a sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the cable from Figure 1. It depicts a cable cross-section with an outer contour 16a that includes a recess into which a pin 35 of a connector is inserted. The pin is electrically conductive and is in electrical contact with an electrically conductive shield 18b of the cable, which is made of copper and shields the five electrical conductors from electromagnetic interference. The pin 35 of the connector is electrically connected to a ground potential. Figure 3b shows a sectional view of another alternative embodiment of the cable from Figure 1. While the outer contour 16a is rotationally symmetrical, unlike the previous embodiments, the inner contour 16b is rotationally symmetrical, resulting in a unique coding. For the sake of simplicity, the conductors are not shown in this figure.Furthermore, the inner contour 16b forms a fluid channel 18a through which a coolant can be conveyed to cool the electrical conductors of the cable. A shield 18b is also disclosed, which likewise surrounds the conductors of the cable and protects them from electromagnetic interference. The shield 18b is electrically coupled to the fluid channel, so that a fluid connection of a connector can interact electrically with the shield 18b. In such a case, the electrically conductive fluid connection of the connector is electrically connected to a ground potential.

[0155] Figure 3c shows a sectional view of another cable, which is depicted schematically for simplicity. The electrical conductors 15 are made of electrically conductive foam or are strands additionally filled with electrically conductive foam to facilitate contact with the connector conductors. Such conductors made of or containing electrically conductive foam can be used in all embodiments.

[0156] Figure 4a shows a sectional view of a connection system 40 according to the invention, which comprises a cable and a connector according to the invention. The section is perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cable. Five electrical conductors 15 and a fluid channel 18a are visible. Furthermore, a section CC through the cable and two associated conductors is shown.

[0157] Figure 4b shows a sectional view of the section path CC with the connection system according to the invention from Figure 4a. The connection system comprises a cable 10 according to the invention and a connector 30 according to the invention, which is electrically connected to the cable 10. For this purpose, a cable end 14 was formed by a cutting operation at a point on the cable 10 that was marked for the formation of the cable end 14. Furthermore, the cable 10 was inserted into the connector 34 with the cable end 14 leading until a marking 13b for indicating a piercing depth on a sheath 20 of the cable 10 was no longer visible from the outside.This, and the fact that the coding of the cable end 14, defined by the inner contour of the cable cross-section at the cable end 14, is designed to match the coding of the fluid connection of the connector 30, ensures that the conductors 31 of the connector 30 pierce the corresponding conductors 15 of the cable 10 when the cable end 14 is inserted into the cable entry opening 36 of the connector 30, thus making electrical contact. For this purpose, the conductors 31 of the connector 30 have contact points 32 and are designed to be stiffer than the conductors 15 of the cable. Furthermore, the connector 30 has a housing 34 made of an electrically insulating plastic. The housing can already be part of a device that includes the connector.Furthermore, the connector 30 has an external thread for a nut or cap nut in the area of ​​the cable entry opening 36. When the nut or cap nut is tightened onto the thread, the inner diameter of the cable entry opening 36 is reduced, thus clamping the cable within it. This not only secures the cable 10 in the connector but also creates a seal. The conductors 15 can also be configured with a spatial arrangement within the cable 10 that may differ from that shown in Fig. 4b, e.g., as twisted conductors 15.

[0158] Figure 5a shows a data network 60a according to the invention, which comprises two devices 50, which are data processing devices. Each device 50 comprises a connector 30 according to the invention, wherein each connector 30 is connected to one of the two cable ends of the same cable 10 according to the invention. The two devices exchange data with each other via the connectors and the cable.

[0159] Figure 5b shows an electrical circuit 60b according to the invention, comprising two devices 50, one of which is a sensor and the other an actuator. Both devices 50 have a connector 30 according to the invention, each of which is electrically connected to a cable 10 according to the invention. Both electrical cables 10 are electrically connected to each other by means of a further connector 30 according to the invention. Furthermore, a further cable 10 according to the invention leads away from the common connector 30, whereby, for example, the actuator and the sensor can be supplied with electrical current from an external electrical power source.

[0160] Figure 6 schematically shows an optional embodiment of the connector 30 according to the invention. The conductors 31 for contacting the electrical conductors of the cable are visible. The conductors 31 lead electrically to contact conductors 180 of a plug 181 of the connector 30, where the contact conductors 180 form a plug assembly 181. Alternatively, a socket assembly is conceivable.

[0161] Figure 7a shows an optional embodiment of a connection system 40. Here, a strain relief 171 is formed by means of a heat-shrink tube 191. The heat-shrink tube 191 also serves to seal the electrical connection between the cable 10 and the connector 30. The heat-shrink tube 191 engages in a circumferential groove that forms the strain relief contour 172. The heat-shrink tube is also attached to the connector 30.

[0162] Figure 7b shows another optional embodiment of a connection system 40. In this embodiment, the cable 10 has a microencapsulation 193 which, upon contact with an activating substance 194, releases a sealing compound that seals the electrical connection between the cable 10 and the connector 30 from the environment.

[0163] Of course, it is also possible that connector 30 has the microencapsulation, while cable 10 contains the activation substance. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the activation, i.e., the release of the microencapsulation, occurs by means of heat, light, radiation, or another suitable method.

[0164] Figure 7c shows another optional embodiment of a connection system 40. In this embodiment, a sealing chamber 198 in the connector 30, which is bounded by the cable 10 and the connector 30, is sealed from the environment by means of a sealant 195. Preferably, the connector 30 has a filling opening 196 for filling the sealant 195. Furthermore, the connector 30 can have an outlet opening 197 from which the filled sealant 195 can escape when the sealing chamber 198 is already filled with the sealant 195. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the connector 30 to have a viewing window that bounds the sealing chamber 198, allowing a user to visually identify the degree to which the sealing chamber 198 is filled with the sealant 195.

[0165] Figure 8 shows a further optional embodiment of a connection system 40 with an insertion mechanism 80, which includes a lever mechanism for performing a contacting movement to establish contact between the conductors of the connector 30 and the cable 10. Alternatively, a screw mechanism or a plug-in mechanism is conceivable. The connection system 40 includes an adjustment mechanism 84 for setting a predetermined penetration depth of the connector conductors into the cable conductors during the insertion mechanism 80, preferably depending on the cable type of the cable 10 and / or continuously and / or in several predefined steps, wherein the connection system 40 has an indicator 83 configured to display the current penetration depth during the contacting movement.Reference symbol list Cable a First position b Second position c Further positions a First level b Second level c Further levels d Comparison level a Mark for forming a cable end b Mark for indexing a penetration depth Cable end Conductor of the cable a Outer contour b Inner contour a Projection b Recess a Fluid channel b Shielding Extension direction of the cable Sheathing Connector Conductor of the connector Contact tips Thread Housing Pin Cable entry opening Connection system Device a Data network b Electrical circuit Insertion mechanism.

[0166] indexing

[0167] Adjustment mechanism

[0168] Strain relief

[0169] Strain relief contour

[0170] Contact leader

[0171] Plug, plug arrangement

[0172] Heat shrink tubing

[0173] Microencapsulation

[0174] Activating substance

[0175] Sealant

[0176] Filling opening

[0177] Outlet opening 198 Sealing chamber

Claims

Claims 1. Cable (10), in particular power and / or data cable, comprising at least two conductors (15) extending along the direction of extension (19) of the cable (10), and an electrically insulating sheath (20) surrounding the conductors (15), characterized in that a first cable cross-section at a first location (11a) of the cable (10) has a first contour in a first plane (12a) extending transversely to the direction of extension (19) of the cable (10), that a second cable cross-section at a second location (11b) of the cable (10), which is spaced apart from the first location (11a) in the direction of extension (19) of the cable (10), has a second contour in a second plane (12b) extending transversely to the direction of extension (19) of the cable (10), and that the first and the second contours are uniform and each free of rotational symmetry.that the conductors (15) in the first level (12a) and in the second level (12b) are arranged with respect to their relative positions to the respective contour such that an identical coding is provided for connecting the cable (10) to a connector (30).

2. Cable (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the relative positions of the conductors (15) to the respective contour change along the extension direction (19) of the cable (10).

3. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conductors (15) have a periodic change in position transverse to the direction of extension (19) of the cable (10), such that the relative positions of the conductors (15) to the contour in the first and / or second plane (12a, 12b) change continuously.

4. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the relative position of the conductors (15) to the respective contour in cable cross-sections remains constant at points between the first and second and / or at least one further point (11a, 11b) along the extension direction (19) of the cable (10), preferably in order to form a constant recurring and / or at least sectionally continuous coding of the cable.

5. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second locations (11a, 11b) on the cable (10) are marked in order to optionally form a cable end (14) with an end-face contact surface at one of the marked locations (11a, 11b).

6. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective contour comprises an outer contour, which is formed in particular by the sheathing (20).

7. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective contour comprises an inner contour (16b) which is formed in particular by a fluid channel (18a) which runs in the cable (10) in the extension direction (19) of the cable (10).

8. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the same coding, in particular at further locations (11c) and / or in further planes (12c) transverse to the direction of extension (19) of the cable (10), is provided only at certain intervals along the direction of extension (19) of the cable (10).

9. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conductors (15) in the first plane (12a) have essentially the same relative positions to the first contour as in the second plane (12b) to the second contour.

10. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two conductors (15) are twisted to each other in the direction of extension (19) of the cable (10), which in particular results in the change of the relative positions of the conductors (15) to the respective contour along the direction of extension (19) of the cable (10).

11. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and the second contour differ from a rotationally symmetrical, in particular circular, contour by at least one recess (17b) and / or at least one projection (17a).

12. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cable (10) has several contours, in particular strain relief contours (172), particularly preferably in the form of circumferential recesses, in particular grooves or notches, or elevations, in particular ridges or steps, preferably for a heat shrink tube (191) or a strain relief (171) along its extension on its outer circumference, preferably at regular intervals from each other.

13. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cable (10), in particular on the outer circumference of the cable (10) and / or on the contact surface, has a microencapsulation (193) to form a seal, wherein the contents of the microencapsulation (193) can be released in particular by the application of heat, radiation, in particular light, preferably in the form of ultraviolet light, contact with an activation substance or light in combination with moisture, or that the cable (10), in particular on the outer circumference and / or on the contact surface, has an activation substance for a microencapsulation (193) in order to release its contents upon contact with the microencapsulation (193) in order to form a seal.

14. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and the second contour, in particular outer contour (16a), are designed to form a positive-locking connection with a contour, in particular inner contour (16b), of a cable entry opening (36) of a connector (30), and / or that the first and the second contour, in particular inner contour (16b), are designed to form a positive-locking connection with a fluid connection of a connector (30).

15. Cable (10) according to claim 14, characterized in that the first contour, in particular outer contour (16a) and / or inner contour (16b), is configured to interact with the contour, in particular inner contour (16b), of the cable entry opening (36) of the connector (30) and / or the fluid connection of the connector (30) such that the cable (10) is positioned so that the conductors (15) of the cable (10) are in conductive contact with conductors (31) of the connector (30) provided for this purpose when a cable end (14) of the cable (10) is formed on the first plane (12a) and the cable end (14) is inserted into the cable entry opening (36) of the connector (30), and / or that the second contour, in particular outer contour (16a) and / or inner contour (16b), is configured to interact with the contour, in particular inner contour (16b), the cable entry opening (36) of the connector (30) and / or the fluid connection of the connector (30) to cooperate in such a way,that the cable (10) is positioned such that the conductors (15) of the cable (10) are in conductive contact with the respective conductors (31) of the connector (30) when a cable end (14) of the cable (10) is formed on the second level (12b) and the cable end (14) is inserted into the cable entry opening (36) of the connector (30).

16. Cable (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cable end (14) is formed on one of the levels (12a, 12b, 12c).

17. Connector (30) for a cable (10) according to claim 16.

18. Connector (30) according to claim 17, characterized in that the multiple conductors (31) of the connector (30), in particular the design and / or arrangement and / or dimensioning of the conductors (31) of the connector (30), are designed to be compatible with the electrical conductors (15) of the cable (10), in particular the dimensioning and / or the routing of the electrical conductors (15) of the cable (10) and / or the arrangement of the electrical conductors (15) of the cable (10) at the contact surface, such that electrical contact of multiple electrical conductors (15) of the cable (10) is possible by means of only one of the conductors (31) of the connector (30), in particular by one of the conductors (31) of the connector (30) connecting a first electrical conductor (15) of the cable (10) in the contact surface and a further electrical conductor (15) of the cable (10) in the direction of extension of the cable (10) behind or next to the first electrical conductor (15) of the cable. (10)preferably due to the twisting of the electrical conductors (15) of the cable (10), electrical contact is excluded.

19. Connector (30) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the connector (30) has a strain relief (171) for the cable (10) which is designed to interact with one of the contours, in particular with one of the strain relief contours (172), of the cable (10), preferably in the form of a circumferential recess, in particular a groove or notch, or protrusions, or ridge, in particular a bead or shoulder, such that the cable (10) is strain relieved and / or that the connector (30) has a heat shrink tube and a fastening, preferably in the form of a fastening contour, for the heat shrink tube (191) in order to form the strain relief (171) for the cable (10), in particular by means of the heat shrink tube (191).

20. Connector (30) according to one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that the connector (30), particularly in areas for contact with the outer circumference and / or the contact surface of the cable (10), has a microencapsulation (193) to form a seal, wherein the contents of the microencapsulation (193) can be released, in particular by the application of heat, radiation, in particular light, preferably in the form of ultraviolet light or ultraviolet radiation, contact with an activation substance (194) or light in combination with moisture, or that the connector (30), particularly in areas for contact with the outer circumference and / or the contact surface of the cable (10), has an activation substance for a microencapsulation (193) in order to release its contents upon contact with a microencapsulation (193).

21. Connector (30) according to one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that the conductors (31) of the connector (30) lead electrically to electrical contact conductors (180) of a plug arrangement (181) or socket arrangement of the connector (30), and that the position and / or arrangement and / or configuration and / or dimensioning of the electrical contact conductors (180) differs from that of the conductors (31) of the connector (30), in particular at the contact surface.

22. Connector (30) according to one of claims 17 to 21, characterized in that the connector (30) comprises a cable entry opening (36) for inserting the cable end (14) of the cable (10), in particular that the contour, in particular the inner contour (16b), of the cable entry opening (36) is designed to form a positive-locking connection with the contour, in particular the outer contour (16a), at the cable end (14), and that the contour, in particular the outer contour (16a), at the cable end (14) and the contour, in particular the inner contour (16b), of the cable entry opening (36) interact in such a way that the cable (10) is positioned so that the conductors (15) of the cable (10) are in conductive contact with conductors (31) of the connector (30) provided for this purpose when the cable end (14) is inserted into the cable entry opening (36) of the connector (30). and / or that the connector (30) includes a fluid connection,to form a fluidic connection with the fluid channel (18a) of the cable (10), in particular that the contour of the fluid connection is formed, with the contour, in particular the inner contour (16b), to form a positive-locking connection with the contour, in particular the inner contour (16b), at the cable end (14), in such a way that the contour, in particular the inner contour (16b), at the cable end (14) and the contour of the fluid connection interact in such a way that the cable (10) is positioned so that the conductors (15) of the cable (10) are in conductive contact with the respective conductors (31) of the connector (30) when the cable end (14) is inserted into the cable entry opening (36) of the connector (30) and / or the fluidic connection is established.

23. Connection system (40) with a connector (30) according to one of claims 17 to 22 and a cable (10) according to claim 16, characterized in that the cable (10) is inserted with its cable end (14) into the cable entry opening (36) and the cable (10) is electrically and / or data-transmitting connected to the connector (30).

24. Connection system (40) according to claim 23, characterized in that the connection system (40) comprises an insertion mechanism (80), in particular a screw mechanism, a lever mechanism or a plug-in mechanism, for performing a contacting movement to make contact between the conductors (15, 31) of the connector (30) and the cable (10), wherein the insertion mechanism (80) is preferably configured to move the cable (10) towards the connector (30) during the contacting movement, wherein the connection system (40) or the insertion mechanism (80) preferably comprises an adjustment mechanism (84) for setting a predetermined penetration depth (90) of the conductors (31) of the connector (30) into the conductors of the cable (10) during the insertion mechanism (80), preferably depending on a cable type of the cable (10) and / or continuously and / or in several predefined steps.wherein the connection system (40) or the insertion mechanism (80) preferably has an indexing (83) configured to indicate the current penetration depth (90) to a user during the contacting movement.

25. Connection system (40) according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that the cable (10) is positioned by the contour, in particular inner contour (16b) and / or outer contour (16a), at the cable end (14) and the contour, in particular inner contour (16b) of the cable insertion opening (36) and / or contour of the fluid connection such that the conductors (15) of the cable (10) are in contact with the conductors (31) of the connector (30) provided for this purpose, wherein in particular the conductors (31) of the connector (30) are designed as contact tips (32) which partially penetrate the conductors (15) of the cable (10) in order to establish the electrical contact.

26. Electrical circuit (60b) or data network (60a) comprising a cable (10) according to claim 16, a connector (30) according to any one of claims 17 to 22, or a connection system (40) according to any one of claims 23 to 25.

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