Housing support for secure fitting

Abstract

The invention relates to a housing support (20) for holding a plug housing (25), in particular a plug housing (25) for a cable harness. The housing support (20) can have a main body (52), a head (50) with a plug housing receptacle (51) which is designed to receive the plug housing (25), and a coupling (100) for coupling the head (50) to the main body (52). The coupling (100) can be latched in a first coupling configuration, wherein, in the first coupling configuration of the coupling (100), the head (50) can be coupled to the main body (52) in a first position, wherein, in the first position of the head (50), the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head (50) runs parallel to the longitudinal direction (L1) of the main body (52).

Description

[0001] Mounting-resistant housing holder

[0002] The invention relates to a flexible holder for a connector housing.

[0003] Wiring harnesses in vehicle manufacturing consist of connector housings and individual cables that connect the sockets of the connector housings according to a specific diagram. Besides the conventional manual assembly of the housings, automated systems are also known. For example, US Patent 5,727,312 A describes a system that closely resembles the conventional method. In this system, holding forks and fixtures for connector housings are positioned on a routing board. A robot places a prepared cable (for example, a cut cable fitted with a contact) into the forks along a prescribed path. To assemble the connector housings with the cable ends, a second robot assists the process by holding the connector housing in place. Because the entire wiring harness is stretched in this system, this solution is bulky, requires a lot of space, and is slow due to the long travel distances.

[0004] Another approach focuses on compactly automating the assembly process. The wired cable harness can then be completed manually or automatically. For example, shaping after assembly can be achieved by wrapping with adhesive tape and / or attaching mounting elements. A corresponding solution is shown, for example, in EP 1 251 605 Al. Here, the empty connector housings are fixed to a mounting plate using housing holders. A placement head then guides the individual cable tips, each with a contact element, into the predetermined chamber of the connector housing. The connector housings are arranged on the mounting plate in such a way that a specific assembly sequence can be followed without the installed cables and those yet to be installed interfering with each other.

[0005] In addition to placement machines with a single placement head, there are also machines with two independent placement heads. With dual-head systems, it is sometimes possible to insert both ends of a cable into connector housings simultaneously, as long as the placement sequence allows it.

[0006] Each assembly panel is configured for a specific cable harness. Product changes necessitate the assembly panel being fitted with different housing holders. In many machines, the assembly panel is removable to minimize downtime. Replacement assembly panels are typically configured in advance and then swapped with the current one. Automated product changeovers are severely limited with these systems.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to increase the flexibility of the assembly systems and to maintain the cycle time of the process steps.

[0008] This problem is solved by a housing holder according to claim 1, a system according to claim 12 and a method according to claim 15. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0009] A first aspect of the invention relates to a housing support for holding a connector housing, in particular a connector housing for a cable harness. The housing support comprises a base body with a head and an opposite foot, the foot being configured for mounting the base body on a presentation plate, the base body extending from the foot to the head along a longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. The housing support comprises a head with a connector housing receptacle configured for receiving the connector housing, the head extending from a support side to a receiving side along a longitudinal direction (L2) of the head.The housing carrier includes a coupling for connecting the head to the base body, wherein the coupling is lockable in a first coupling configuration, in which the head is coupled to the base body in a first position, and wherein the coupling is positionable in a second coupling configuration, in which the head is coupled to the base body in a second position. In the first position of the head, the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head is parallel to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. In the second position of the head, the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. In the second position of the head, the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head can be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body.

[0010] A connector housing can be inserted into the connector housing receptacle. A cable can be inserted into the connector housing, specifically into a socket of the connector housing. A multiple of cables can be inserted into the sockets of the connector housing. The longitudinal axis of the base body can extend along the longitudinal direction of the base body. The longitudinal axis of the head can extend along the longitudinal direction of the head.

[0011] The connector housing can be inserted into the connector housing receptacle. The connector housing receptacle may have an opening. The opening may be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the head. The connector housing can be inserted through the opening into the connector housing receptacle. The insertion direction may run along the longitudinal axis of the head. The longitudinal direction of the head may run perpendicular to the opening of the connector housing receptacle.

[0012] The coupling can be fixed (lockable, latchable, clampable) in a first coupling configuration. The coupling can have a locking device. The coupling can be repeatedly and reversibly detachable in the first coupling configuration (snap-in, fixed, connectable, lockable, latchable, clampable). By snapping the coupling into the first coupling configuration, the coupling can be fixed in the first coupling configuration. By snapping the coupling into the first coupling configuration, the head can be fixed in the first position. In one embodiment, by snapping the coupling into the first coupling configuration, the head can be fixed in the first position. The head can be fixed in the first position. The head can be snap-in in the first position. In the first position, the head can be fixed for assembly.In particular, the relative position of the head in relation to the base body can be fixed when the coupling is locked into the first coupling configuration.

[0013] The first coupling configuration can be repeatedly detached. The second coupling configuration can be repeatedly detached. The coupling can be transferred from the first coupling configuration to the second coupling configuration. The coupling can be transferred from the second coupling configuration to the first coupling configuration. The coupling configurations (first, second) can be changed repeatedly.

[0014] The head and base body can form a frictional connection when the head is in the first position. The head and base body can form a positive-locking connection when the head is in the first position. The head and base body can form both a frictional and a positive-locking connection when the head is in the first position. In the first coupling configuration, the coupling can form a frictional connection. In the first coupling configuration, the coupling can form a positive-locking connection. In the first coupling configuration, the coupling can form both a frictional and a positive-locking connection.

[0015] The first head position can also be described as the extended position. The first head position can also be described as the 0° position. The first head position can also be described as the tilted position. The second head position can also be described as the tilted position. The second head position can also be described as the 90° position.

[0016] The head can be repeatedly and reversibly coupled to the base body. The head can be reversibly coupled to the base body. The head can be moved from the first position to the second position. The head can be moved from the second position to the first position. The head can be foldable. The head can be folded from the first position to the second position. The head can be folded from the second position to the first position.

[0017] In one embodiment, the housing support is configured such that, during the transition from the first position to the second position, the folding movement is supplemented by a translational movement. In another embodiment, the housing support is configured such that, during the transition from the second position to the first position, the folding movement is supplemented by a translational movement. In one embodiment, the first coupling configuration can be released by the translational movement.

[0018] In the first position of the head, the head's longitudinal axis can run parallel to the base body's longitudinal axis. In the first position, the head can be positioned so that the opening of the receptacle is parallel to the presentation plate. In the first position of the head, the longitudinal direction of the head can be positioned so that the insertion direction of the connector housing is perpendicular to the presentation plate when the housing carrier is mounted on the presentation plate. In the first position of the head, the longitudinal direction of the head can be positioned so that the insertion direction of the connector housing runs along the longitudinal direction of the base body. A connector housing held in the connector housing receptacle can be easily accessed. One advantage is that cables can be easily inserted into the connector housing.

[0019] The head can be locked in the first position. An advantage of this is that the first position of the head is stabilized. The relative position of the head with respect to the base body can be fixed in this way. Movement of the head can be advantageously reduced, and in particular prevented. This can facilitate the assembly of the connector housing. The position of the head and the connector housing inserted into the head can be fixed. Advantageously, the position of the connector housing slots can be fixed in this way. Inserting the cables into the connector housing can be advantageously facilitated. The housing holder can be secured during assembly with the head locked in the first position. Advantageously, movement of the head during assembly can be prevented. The housing support can be designed so that, in the 0° position (folded up), the orientation does not change due to the assembly forces.The insertion of the cables into the connector housing can be made easier, while maintaining precision.

[0020] One advantage is that an additional fixing unit, such as a clamping rail, which would otherwise be required to ensure the necessary precision for the placement process, can be omitted. The system can be simplified. Flexibility in the placement area can be advantageously increased. Freedom in positioning can be advantageously increased.

[0021] In the second head position, the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head can be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. In the second head position, the head's longitudinal axis can be orthogonal to the base body's longitudinal axis. The head's longitudinal axis can be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the base body, so that the opening of the receptacle is orthogonal to the presentation plate when the housing carrier is mounted on the presentation plate. The opening can face downwards. A cable inserted into the connector housing can hang down. In the second head position, kinking of a cable inserted into a connector housing can be advantageously prevented.

[0022] In the second position, the head can be rotated, particularly around the longitudinal axis of the base body. The head can roll around the longitudinal axis of the base body when the coupling is in the second coupling configuration. In the 90° position (folded down), the head of the housing holder can rotate freely, so that its angular position on the presentation plate can be determined by manipulating the cable harness. This advantageously prevents kinking of a cable inserted into a connector housing.

[0023] One advantage is that the housing carrier can be designed so that a mounted connector housing is aligned parallel to the presentation plate, thus minimizing kinks in the cables (for example, the cables can hang essentially vertically downwards from the connector housing). Another advantage is that the housing carrier can be designed so that the heads of the housing carrier (and the connector housing it holds) can be folded upwards by 90° for assembly, particularly in such a way that the connector housing is aligned orthogonally to the presentation plate. Access to the connector housing can be advantageously facilitated. Assembly can be advantageously simplified.

[0024] One advantage is that the position of the head is fixed in the first position relative to the base body. The position of the slots of a mounted connector housing can be advantageously defined. The assembly process can be improved. Robust assembly can be advantageously enabled, especially with low error tolerance.

[0025] Advantageously, multiple cables can be used without having to determine the position of the connector housing and / or a chamber (slot) of the connector housing before each insertion.

[0026] In one embodiment, the coupling can be locked in a rotationally secure position in the first coupling configuration, and the head is rotationally secured to the base body in the first position. In one embodiment, the head can be coupled to the base body in a rolling-proof manner. In one embodiment, the head can be coupled to the base body in a pitch-proof manner. In one embodiment, the head can be coupled to the base body in both a rolling-proof and pitch-proof manner.

[0027] In the first coupling configuration, the coupling can form a friction-fit, torsionally secure connection. In the first coupling configuration, the coupling can form a positive-locking, torsionally secure connection. In the first coupling configuration, the coupling can form a positive-locking, friction-fit, torsionally secure connection. The coupling between the head and the base body can be torsionally secure when the head is in the first position. The coupling between the head and the base body can be torsionally secure when the coupling is in the first coupling configuration.

[0028] In a torsionally secure coupling, the head can be locked in a defined position relative to the base body. A relative angle between the head and the base body can be locked in a defined position by force-fit and / or form-fit. The relative position of the head to the base body can be maintained in a torsionally secure coupling, especially when a predetermined force acts on the head, for example, the loading force. In a torsionally secure coupling, rotation of the head relative to the base body can be prevented. The positional relationship of the head and the base body can be fixed in a torsionally secure coupling. In a torsionally secure coupling, the orientation of the vertical direction (height direction) of the head relative to the vertical direction (height direction) of the base body can be fixed. The vertical directions of the head and the base body can be defined as being parallel to each other.In a torsionally rigid coupling, the orientation of the head's transverse direction relative to the orientation of the base body can be fixed. The transverse directions of the head and the base body can be defined as running parallel to each other. In a torsionally rigid coupling, the orientation of the head's longitudinal direction relative to the orientation of the base body can also be fixed. The longitudinal directions of the head and the base body can be defined as running parallel to each other.

[0029] The torsion-resistant coupling can be achieved by pressing two respective force-locking and / or positive-locking parts together. In one embodiment, contact surfaces (for example, the contact surfaces and the docking area) can be pressed together, forming a force-lock and / or positive-lock. In another embodiment, snap-in elements can be pressed together, forming a force-lock and / or positive-lock.

[0030] The head can be fixed to the base body in a roll-proof manner. Rolling movement of the head around a roll axis (longitudinal axis, roll axis) running along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body, relative to the base body, can be prevented. If the head is coupled to the base body in a roll-proof manner in the first position (rotation-proof coupling, roll-proof coupling), rotation of the head around the roll axis (longitudinal axis, roll axis) relative to the base body can be prevented. Rotation of the housing carrier by rotating the head around the roll axis (base body longitudinal axis), relative to the base body, can be blocked. If the head is coupled to the base body in a roll-proof manner in the first position, a defined force cannot rotate (move) the head around the roll axis relative to the base body by a predetermined angle.When the head is securely coupled to the base in the first position, preventing it from rolling, the orientation of the head's transverse direction relative to the orientation of the base can be fixed. The transverse directions of the head and the base can be defined as running parallel to each other. Similarly, when the head is securely coupled to the base in the first position, the orientation of the head's vertical direction (height) relative to the orientation of the base can be fixed. The vertical directions of the head and the base can be defined as running parallel to each other.

[0031] The head can be fixed to the base body in a pitch-resistant manner. Pitching of the head around a pitch axis (transverse axis) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction LI of the base body, relative to the base body, can be prevented. If the head is coupled to the base body in a pitch-resistant manner in the first position (rotation-resistant coupling, pitch-resistant coupling), rotation of the head around the pitch axis relative to the base body can be prevented. If the head is coupled to the base body in a pitch-resistant manner in the first position, the position of the head relative to the base body can be fixed such that the orientation of the longitudinal direction of the head to the longitudinal direction of the base body remains unchanged. The longitudinal directions of the head and the base body can be fixed as being parallel to each other.

[0032] The head and the base body can be connected to each other in a rotationally secure manner if the coupling is locked in the first coupling configuration.

[0033] The head can be fixed in a rotationally stable (torsionally stable, rotationally fixed) position relative to the base body when the coupling is engaged in the first coupling configuration. Rotational movement of the head in the first position relative to the base body can be advantageously prevented. Twisting of the head in the first position relative to the base body can be advantageously prevented. Nodding and / or rolling of the head in the first position relative to the base body can be prevented.

[0034] The coupling can be designed to exert a force-fit and / or a positive-fit connection between the head and the base body and to ensure a rotationally secure connection between the head and the base body when the head is in the first position. The coupling can include an anti-rotation device.

[0035] In the first coupling configuration, the coupling can cause an increased twisting resistance of the head relative to the base body and prevent the rotational movement (rolling, pitching) of the head relative to the base body.

[0036] The coupling can be configured to assume the first coupling configuration and the second coupling configuration, whereby in the first coupling configuration, a force-fit and / or a form-fit connection between the head and the base body is achieved.

[0037] One advantage is that in the extended position, the orientation (rotational position) of the head remains unchanged and is not affected by the forces acting on it during the assembly of the connector housing. Another advantage is that no additional clamping rails are required in the assembly area to fix the position of the housing carriers / heads. Increased flexibility in the assembly area is advantageous, while maintaining precision. The system can also be simplified.

[0038] In one embodiment, the coupling can be configured such that the head in the second position is rotatable (pivotable; rotatable) about a roll axis that runs parallel to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body when the coupling is in the second coupling configuration.

[0039] One advantage is that the head can rotate freely in the second position, allowing it to adapt to the shape and position of the wiring harness. This effectively prevents the cable from kinking when inserted into the connector housing.

[0040] The coupling can be configured to prevent rotation of the head relative to the base body in the first coupling configuration and to allow rotation of the head relative to the base body in the second coupling configuration. The coupling can also be configured to prevent rolling of the head relative to the base body in the first coupling configuration and to allow rolling (pivoting) of the head relative to the base body in the second coupling configuration. In one embodiment, the coupling can have two supports. The supports can be arranged on the support side of the head. Each support can have a contact surface, with the contact surfaces of both supports extending in a common contact plane. The contact plane can extend perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head.Each support can have its own bearing surface, with the bearing surfaces of both supports extending in a common bearing plane. The bearing plane can extend parallel to the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head.

[0041] In one embodiment, the coupling can have two supports. The supports can form the support side of the head. Each support can have a contact surface, with the contact surfaces of both supports extending in a common contact plane. The contact plane can extend perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head. Each support can have a contact surface, with the contact surfaces of both supports extending in a common contact plane. The contact plane can extend parallel to the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head.

[0042] The supports can point away from the side of the head where the image is being captured.

[0043] The supports can be designed to be attached to the base body.

[0044] The contact surfaces can run perpendicular to the contact surfaces.

[0045] The contact surface can be defined by the vertical direction (height direction) of the head and by the transverse direction of the head.

[0046] The contact area can be defined by the longitudinal direction of the head and the transverse direction of the head.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the coupling can have a docking area. The docking area can be located on the head side of the base body. The docking area can extend in a docking plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. The contact surfaces can press against the docking area when the head is in the first position. The contact surfaces can be arranged parallel to the docking area when the head is in the second position. The contact surfaces can press against the docking area when the head is in the first position, and the contact surfaces can be arranged parallel to the docking area when the head is in the second position. According to one embodiment, the coupling can have a docking area. The docking area can form the head side of the base body. The docking area can extend in a docking plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body.The contact surfaces can press against the docking area when the head is in the first position. The contact surfaces can be arranged parallel to the docking area when the head is in the second position. The contact surfaces can press against the docking area when the head is in the first position, and the contact surfaces can be arranged parallel to the docking area when the head is in the second position.

[0048] The docking area can be rectangular. The docking area can be defined by the vertical and transverse directions of the base body.

[0049] In the first coupling configuration, the contact surfaces and the docking area (docking surface) can establish a force-fit connection. The contact surfaces can be pressed against the docking area. Nodding of the head relative to the base body can be prevented. Rolling of the head relative to the base body can be prevented. The pressing of the contact surfaces and the docking area against each other can constitute the locking of the coupling in the first coupling configuration.

[0050] Advantageously, a reliable, reversible, and twist-proof coupling (in the first position) can be enabled in a simple way.

[0051] In the second coupling configuration, the mounting surfaces can be in contact with the docking area (docking surface). In the second coupling configuration, the mounting surfaces can be movable against the docking area. In the second coupling configuration, the mounting surfaces can be positioned against the docking area in such a way that a rolling movement of the head relative to the base body is possible. In the second coupling configuration, the mounting surfaces can be spaced away from the docking area (docking surface). In the second coupling configuration, a gap can exist between the mounting surfaces and the docking area. A rolling movement of the head relative to the base body can be possible.

[0052] In one embodiment, the coupling has a recess and a corresponding projection. The projection and the recess can be designed and arranged such that the projection engages in the recess when the coupling is in the first coupling configuration.

[0053] The recess can be a hole. The recess can be a locating bore. The protrusion can be a raised area. The protrusion can be a pin.

[0054] The recess and the projection can be aligned. The recess and the projection can have complementary shapes and sizes. The recess and the projection can be designed to be complementary to each other. The recess can be the negative of the projection. The projection and the recess can be designed such that the projection (pin) can be inserted into the recess (fitting bore), and in particular, can be inserted repeatedly and reversibly.

[0055] The projection can engage in the recess and form a positive connection when the coupling is in the first coupling configuration (the head is in the first position). The projection and the recess can be arranged and designed such that engagement of the projection in the recess is possible in the first coupling configuration. Alternatively, the projection and the recess can be arranged and designed such that the projection is inserted into the recess when the coupling is in the first coupling configuration.

[0056] By engaging the projection in the recess, the relative position of the head to the base body in the first position can be improved. Rotational movement of the head relative to the base body can be prevented. In particular, rolling of the head relative to the base body can be prevented.

[0057] The projection, for example, the pin, can be located on the head. The projection can be located on the side of the head facing away from the connector receptacle. The projection can be located in the support area. The projection can be located on one of the supports. The projection can be located on the contact surface. The projection can extend longitudinally beyond the supports of the head. The recess, for example, the locating bore, can be located on the head side of the base body. The recess can be located in the docking area.

[0058] In one embodiment, the coupling includes a brake plate, the brake plate being arranged along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body between the base body and the head. A brake spring may be arranged between the brake plate and the base body. The brake spring may be arranged and configured such that a spring force of the brake spring acts along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body and presses the brake plate towards the head. In one embodiment, the brake plate can be pressed against the head by the spring force of the brake spring.

[0059] The brake plate can extend in a brake plate plane that is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. The brake plate can be displaceable along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. The brake plate can be displaceable orthogonally to the brake plate plane.

[0060] The brake plate can be connected to the base body via a guide, for example, a guide rail. The brake plate can be connected to the base body via a plurality of guides. The guides can extend along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. The guides can project beyond the head end of the base body, particularly along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body.

[0061] The brake plate can have a docking area. The brake plate can form the docking area. The brake plate can be positioned between the base body and the head such that the docking area points towards the head.

[0062] The coupling can be configured so that the brake plate rests against the head when the coupling is in the first coupling configuration. The coupling can be configured so that the brake plate rests against the head when the coupling is in the second coupling configuration. The coupling can be configured so that the brake plate rests against the head in both coupling configurations (first coupling configuration and second coupling configuration).

[0063] The coupling can be configured so that the docking area of ​​the brake plate rests against the head when the coupling is engaged in the first coupling configuration. Alternatively, the coupling can be configured so that the docking area of ​​the brake plate is pressed against the head when the coupling is engaged in the first coupling configuration.

[0064] The brake plate can be spring-loaded. The coupling can have a brake spring. The coupling can have a plurality of brake springs. In one embodiment, the coupling has four brake springs. In one embodiment, the brake plate (in particular the docking area of ​​the brake plate) can be pressed against the head by the spring force of the brake spring when the coupling is in the first coupling configuration. The brake spring can be compressible along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body.

[0065] The geometry of the head can be chosen such that the brake spring is compressed more in the first coupling configuration than in the second coupling configuration. The geometry of the head can be chosen such that the brake spring is compressed more in the 0° position (first position) than in the 90° position (second position). The brake spring can be compressed more when the head is in the first position than when the head is in the second position.

[0066] In one embodiment, the spring force curve of the brake spring (or the plurality of brake springs) can be selected such that braking force is low in the 90° position (folded position) (for example, 5 N). This can lead to advantageous damping of the head. In another embodiment, the spring force curve of the brake spring (or the plurality of brake springs) can be selected such that the braking force is greater than the loading forces in the 0° position (extended position). Advantageously, this can prevent displacement of the head. In yet another embodiment, the spring force curve of the brake spring (or the plurality of brake springs) can be selected such that the braking force is low in the 90° position of the head (second coupling configuration) and greater in the 0° position of the head (first coupling configuration), in particular greater than the loading force.

[0067] In one embodiment, the brake plate forms the docking area. In the first coupling configuration, the contact surface of the head can couple to the docking area of ​​the brake plate. In the first coupling configuration, the contact surface of the head and the docking area of ​​the brake plate can form a torsionally secure connection.

[0068] In one embodiment, the docking area can be arranged on the brake plate, with the docking area extending in a docking plane that is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the base body. In another embodiment, the docking area can be formed by the brake plate, with the docking area extending in a docking plane that is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the base body. In another embodiment, the docking area (of the brake plate) can press against the contact surfaces when the head is in the first position. The brake plate can have a gripping area. The gripping area can be designed and arranged so that it is accessible to an auxiliary gripper. In another embodiment, the brake plate can be displaced along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body by means of the auxiliary gripper.

[0069] To release the initial coupling configuration, the brake plate can be pulled away from the head. Specifically, the brake plate can be pulled towards the presentation plate when the housing carrier is positioned on the presentation plate.

[0070] One advantage is that pulling forces away from the presentation plate (for example, to release the initial coupling configuration) can be avoided. These pulling forces could otherwise pose the risk of the base body being detached from the presentation plate (for example, because it is pulled out of the magnetic coupling by the pulling force). System downtime due to detached housing supports can thus be advantageously avoided.

[0071] In one embodiment, the housing support can have a spring, wherein a spring force of the spring acts along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. The spring can be arranged and configured to pull the head towards the base body. The spring can also be arranged and configured to move the head towards the base body.

[0072] The spring can be arranged and designed to allow the coupling to engage in the first coupling configuration. The spring can also allow a controlled release of the coupling from the first coupling configuration.

[0073] The spring can pull the head towards the base body when the head is in the first position. The spring can be designed to press the head against the docking area when the coupling is in the first coupling configuration. The spring can be designed to press the supports (especially the contact surfaces) against the docking area when the coupling is in the first coupling configuration.

[0074] The spring can be a compression spring. The spring can be compressible along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body.

[0075] The housing support can have a tension mechanism by which the spring can pull the head towards the base body. The housing support can also have a tension mechanism by which the spring can move the head towards the base body. In one embodiment, the spring can move the head towards the presentation plate when the housing support is mounted on the presentation plate.

[0076] The spring can pull the head towards the base body when the head is in the second position. In one embodiment, the spring can pull the head towards the base body in both positions (first position, second position).

[0077] The housing support can be designed such that the head is spring-loaded. In one embodiment, the axis of the head is spring-loaded, in particular so that it is pulled towards the presentation plane.

[0078] In one embodiment, the housing support is designed such that the distance along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body between the head and the base body can vary depending on whether the head is in the first or second position. In another embodiment, the housing support is designed such that the distance between the head and the base body of the housing support changes depending on the selected position (0° position or 90° position). The head can be designed such that the distance between the head and the base body of the housing support changes depending on the selected position (0° or 90°).

[0079] In one embodiment, the distance can be greater when the head is in the second position (second coupling configuration) compared to the distance when the head is in the first position (first coupling configuration). In the second position (second coupling configuration), the head can be spaced away from the base body (along the longitudinal direction of the base body). In another embodiment, the distance between the head side of the base body and the contact surface in the first position of the head (first coupling configuration) can be less than the distance between the head side of the base body and the contact surface in the second position of the head (second coupling configuration). In the first position (first coupling configuration), the head can be pressed against the base body, creating a frictional connection. In the 90° position, there can be a significant gap between the head and the base body.In the 0° position, the head can rest on the base. The head can be pressed against the base by the spring force.

[0080] One advantage is that a force-fit connection between the base body and the head can be established simply and reliably in the first position. Another advantage is that movement of the head relative to the base body, for example a rolling motion, can be enabled simply and reliably when the head is spaced away from the base body in the second position.

[0081] The spring can enable a simple, reliable change between the first position and the second position, especially repeatedly and reversibly.

[0082] In one embodiment, the housing carrier can have a piston comprising a piston plate and a push rod extending longitudinally from one plate end towards a head end. The head can be movably arranged at the head end of the push rod.

[0083] In one embodiment, the spring can push the piston plate towards the foot side of the base body, in particular wherein the head is pressed against the base body by the spring force when the head is in the first position.

[0084] In one embodiment, the base body has a housing section extending between the base and the head. The housing section can define an interior space. The interior space and the piston can be designed and arranged such that the piston plate is located within the interior of the housing section and the head end of the push rod projects out of the interior space. In particular, the head end of the push rod can project out of the interior space along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body, beyond the base body itself.

[0085] The head can be articulated at the end of the push rod.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the spring can be arranged around the push rod. The spring can rest against the piston plate at one end. The spring can be arranged with a second end opposite the first end on the head side of the base body.

[0087] The traction mechanism may include the piston.

[0088] In one embodiment, the head and the base body can be connected to each other during the transition from the first position to the second position and vice versa. In another embodiment, the position of the head relative to the base body can be changed without the head completely separating from the base body. In another embodiment, the base body can have an axis that runs parallel to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. The base body can have a housing. The coupling can be configured such that the head can be coupled to the housing of the base body in the first position, and that the head can be coupled to the axis of the base body in the second position.

[0089] In one embodiment, the base body can have an axis that runs parallel to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body. The base body can have a housing. The coupling can be configured such that the head can be coupled to the housing of the base body when the coupling is in the first coupling configuration, and that the head can be coupled to the axis of the base body when the coupling is in the second coupling configuration.

[0090] The housing can encompass the docking surface. In the first position, the head can be fixed to the housing. In the first position, the head can be fixed to the docking surface.

[0091] The housing can have two coupling recesses. The head can have two coupling pins. The coupling pins can be arranged on the contact surface. In particular, each of the supports (each of the contact surfaces) can have a coupling pin. Each coupling pin can project from the contact surface orthogonally.

[0092] In the first position, the coupling pins can engage in the corresponding coupling recesses. In the first position, the coupling pins can be inserted into the corresponding coupling recesses.

[0093] In one embodiment, the head and the base body can completely separate from each other during the transition from the first position to the second position and vice versa. In another embodiment, the position of the head relative to the base body can be changed, with the head completely separating from the base body.

[0094] One advantage could be that a single base unit could be coupled with different heads. This could reduce costs.

[0095] In one embodiment, the head can have a detectable marker. In particular, the marker can be located on the recording side. The marker can be optically detectable. The marker can be located at a predefined position on the head. The marker can carry at least one piece of information (store, encode).

[0096] The marking can carry information about the housing carrier. For example, the marking can carry information regarding the type (kind) of the housing carrier.

[0097] The position of the marker allows the position of the housing holder to be detected and / or determined. The position of the connector housing that has been picked up can also be detected and / or determined.

[0098] One advantage is the ease of determining the position of the connector housing. The assembly of components into the connector housing can be reliably performed, particularly automatically.

[0099] In one embodiment, the housing support can have a sliding ring. The base of the main body can have the sliding ring. The base of the main body can be connected to, or connectable to, the sliding ring. The sliding ring can be designed to allow the housing support to be movably mounted on the presentation plate.

[0100] Another aspect of the invention relates to a system for assembling a connector housing, in particular a connector housing for a cable harness, wherein the system may comprise:

[0101] - a cable processing machine,

[0102] - a connector assembly machine, and

[0103] - a presentation plate, wherein at least one housing support according to the invention is arranged on the presentation plate.

[0104] In one embodiment, the presentation plate can extend in a presentation plane. The presentation plate can be positioned vertically.

[0105] In one embodiment, the presentation plate can include a preparation plate. In another embodiment, the presentation plate can include a preparation area. The presentation plate can include a loading area. In one embodiment, the preparation plate can be a continuation of the presentation plate. In another embodiment, the preparation plate can be an integral part of the presentation plate. In another embodiment, the presentation plate can be formed as a single piece. In yet another embodiment, the presentation plate can be a continuous plate. One advantage may be that particularly simple, uniform movement of a housing carrier on the presentation plate can be enabled.

[0106] In one embodiment, the presentation panel can comprise a plurality of sub-panels. These sub-panels can be interconnected. Advantages may include simplified manufacturing, easier transport, and / or easier assembly.

[0107] In one embodiment, the system can include an optical measuring unit. The optical measuring unit can be designed and arranged to detect the depth position of the head of the housing carrier, in particular the distance of the head to the presentation plate when the head is fixed in the first position.

[0108] The distance can be the distance along the longitudinal direction of the base body. The distance can be the distance perpendicular to the presentation plate (presentation plane). The position of the head in space can be determined using the optical measuring unit.

[0109] The optical measuring unit can have one line sensor. The optical measuring unit can have two line sensors. The two line sensors can be arranged in a crossed configuration (crossed line sensors).

[0110] The optical measuring unit can be configured to detect when the distance between the head and the presentation plate falls below a predefined threshold (permissible tolerance). If the threshold is not met, the housing carrier can, for example, be replaced and / or sent for maintenance.

[0111] The threshold value can be undershot, for example, if the sliding ring is worn. One advantage is that wear of the sliding ring can be detected and the sliding ring replaced.

[0112] The two crossed line sensors can be configured to detect and / or monitor deviations in parallelism. Such deviations could be caused, for example, by uneven wear of the sliding ring. If a deviation is detected, the housing carrier can be replaced and / or serviced. An advantage is the ability to monitor the orientation of the print head relative to the presentation plate (presentation plane). This also allows for the detection of any deviations in the print head's initial position, which could otherwise lead to assembly complications. The assembly process can thus be significantly improved.

[0113] The housing support with differing parallelism could, for example, be replaced and / or sent for maintenance, and then reused.

[0114] In one embodiment, the individual housing supports, in their 0° position, can pass through an optical measuring unit to determine the depth position of the heads. The housing supports can be subject to continuous wear (at the sliding ring), and changes can occur. In one embodiment, the depth position can be determined using a line sensor. In another embodiment, two crossed line sensors can be used to monitor deviations in parallelism. If the permissible tolerance is exceeded, the affected housing support can be removed for maintenance and repair.

[0115] In one embodiment, the system has a folding gripper, wherein the folding gripper is designed to grasp the head in the second position, move it away from the base body along the longitudinal direction of the base body, and tilt the head so that the head can be fixed to the base body in the first position.

[0116] In one embodiment, the system has a folding gripper, wherein the folding gripper is designed to grasp the head in the first position, move it away from the base body along the longitudinal direction of the base body, and tilt the head so that the head can be coupled to the base body in the second position.

[0117] In one embodiment, the system has an auxiliary gripper, wherein the auxiliary gripper is designed to grip the brake plate and move it along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body.

[0118] In one embodiment, the system has a folding gripper and an auxiliary gripper.

[0119] In one embodiment, the folding gripper can rotate (fold) its head by 90°.

[0120] The folding gripper can be configured to grasp the head in the second position, move it away from the base body along the longitudinal direction of the base body, and tilt the head so that the head can be fixed to the base body in the first position, and to grasp the head in the first position, move it away from the base body along the longitudinal direction of the base body, and tilt the head so that the head can be coupled to the base body in the second position.

[0121] The system may include a folding gripper. The folding gripper may be configured to transfer the coupling from the first coupling configuration to the second coupling configuration. The folding gripper may be configured to transfer the coupling from the second coupling configuration to the first coupling configuration. The folding gripper may be configured to move (fold) the head from the first position to the second position. The folding gripper may be configured to move (fold) the head from the second position to the first position.

[0122] In one embodiment, the system can include a gantry robot. The gantry robot can be configured to regulate the movement of the base body on the presentation plate. The gantry robot can also be configured to regulate the fixation of the base body to the presentation plate.

[0123] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for assembling a connector housing. The method may comprise the following steps:

[0124] - Provision of a housing carrier according to the invention,

[0125] - Arrangement of the housing carrier on a presentation plate, wherein the coupling is locked in the first coupling configuration,

[0126] - Inserting a connector housing into the housing carrier, and

[0127] - Fitting the connector housing with at least one cable.

[0128] In one embodiment, the connector housing can be inserted into the housing carrier when the housing carrier is mounted on the presentation plate. In another embodiment, the connector housing can be inserted into the connector housing receptacle of the housing carrier when the housing carrier is mounted on the presentation plate.

[0129] In one embodiment, the connector housing can be inserted into the housing carrier when the housing carrier is mounted on the presentation plate and the coupling of the housing carrier is engaged in the first coupling configuration. In another embodiment, the connector housing can be inserted into the connector housing receptacle of the housing carrier when the housing carrier is mounted on the presentation plate and the coupling of the housing carrier is engaged in the first coupling configuration.

[0130] In one embodiment, the housing carrier with the integrated connector housing can be arranged on the presentation plate.

[0131] The process may include the following steps:

[0132] - a provisioning step in which a housing carrier conforming to the invention is provided,

[0133] - an arrangement step in which the housing carrier is arranged on a presentation plate, with the coupling being engaged in the first coupling configuration,

[0134] - an insertion step in which a connector housing is inserted into the housing carrier, and

[0135] - a component placement step in which the connector housing is fitted with at least one cable.

[0136] One advantage is that, by snapping (jamming) the coupling into place in the first coupling configuration (head in the 0° position), the connector housing can be populated without the need for an additional fixing device. The process can be advantageously simplified. The process can be advantageously designed to be more flexible.

[0137] In one embodiment, the arrangement step may comprise the following substeps:

[0138] - Arrangement of the housing carrier on a presentation plate, wherein the coupling is in the second coupling configuration,

[0139] - Transferring the coupling from the second coupling configuration to the first coupling configuration (first transfer step), in particular so that the housing carrier with the coupling is arranged on the presentation plate in the engaged first coupling configuration and is ready for the subsequent assembly step. The method may include a second transfer step. In one embodiment, the second transfer step can be performed after the assembly step. In the second transfer step, the coupling can be transferred from the first coupling configuration to the second coupling configuration.

[0140] In one embodiment, the depth position of the head can be determined using the optical measuring unit before the placement step.

[0141] In one embodiment, a large number of housing supports can be provided. A large number of housing supports can be equipped.

[0142] In one embodiment, the first transfer step may comprise the following sub-steps:

[0143] - a first grasping step in which the head is grasped in the second position, especially by a folding gripper,

[0144] - a first release step in which the head is moved away from the base body along the longitudinal direction of the base body,

[0145] -a first folding step in which the head is turned, in particular folded by 90°, especially by the folding gripper,

[0146] - a first coupling step in which the head (in the folded-up position) is moved along the longitudinal direction of the base body towards the base body and is coupled to the base body in the first position.

[0147] In one embodiment, the first transfer step may comprise the following sub-steps:

[0148] - a first grasping step in which the head is grasped in the second position, especially by a folding gripper,

[0149] - a first release step in which the brake plate is moved away from the head along the longitudinal direction of the base body, in particular in the direction of the presentation plate,

[0150] - a first folding step in which the head is rotated, in particular folded by 90°, especially by the folding gripper, - a first coupling step in which the brake plate is moved along the longitudinal direction of the base body to the head and the head is coupled to the base body in the first position.

[0151] In one embodiment, the second transfer step can comprise the following sub-steps:

[0152] - a second gripping step in which the head is gripped in the first position, especially by a folding gripper,

[0153] - a second release step in which the head is moved away from the base body along the longitudinal direction of the base body,

[0154] - a second folding step in which the head is rotated, in particular folded by 90°, especially by the folding gripper,

[0155] - a second coupling step in which the head (in the folded-down position) is moved along the longitudinal direction of the base body towards the base body and is coupled to the base body in the second position.

[0156] In one embodiment, the second transfer step can comprise the following sub-steps:

[0157] - a second gripping step in which the head is gripped in the first position, especially by a folding gripper,

[0158] - a second release step in which the brake plate is moved away from the head along the longitudinal direction of the base body, in particular in the direction of the presentation plate,

[0159] -a second folding step in which the head is rotated, in particular folded by 90°, especially by the folding gripper,

[0160] - a second coupling step in which the brake plate is moved along the longitudinal direction of the base body towards the head and the head is coupled to the base body in the second position.

[0161] Further features and advantages of the invention are explained below with reference to the description of exemplary embodiments in the figures. Figure 1 shows a perspective schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment.

[0162] System for assembling a connector housing,

[0163] Figures 2A and 2B each show a frontal view of an exemplary system with an optical measuring unit.

[0164] Figure 3A to 3D shows an alternative housing support, in a perspective view (3A,

[0165] 3B) or a side view (3C, 3D), wherein the head is arranged in the folded-up (3B, 3D) or folded-down (3A, 3C) position,

[0166] Figures 4A to 4D show an embodiment of a housing carrier in a perspective view, illustrating the change of position of the head from the first position (4A) to the second position (4D) via a released position (4B) and a released, folded position (4C).

[0167] Figures 5A and 5B show a schematic cross-section of the embodiment from Figure 4, in the first position (5A) and in the second position (5B) of the head.

[0168] Figures 6A to 6E show an embodiment of a housing carrier in a perspective view.

[0169] View illustrating the change of position of the head from the first position (6A) to the second position (6E) via a released position (6B), a partially folded position (6C), and a released, folded position (6D),

[0170] Figures 7A and 7B show a schematic side view of the embodiment from Figure 6, in the first position (7A) and in the second position (7B) of the head.

[0171] Figures 8A to 8D show an embodiment of a housing carrier in a perspective view, illustrating the change of position of the head from the first position (8A) to the second position (8D) via a released position (8B) and a released, folded position (8C).

[0172] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a system 1 for assembly; Figures 2A and 2B show details of different embodiments of a system 1. A system 1 can include a cable processing machine 10 (Fig. 1). The system 1 can include a connector assembly machine 11 (Fig. 1). The system 1 can include a presentation plate (Figs. 1, 2A, 2B). The exemplary system 1 shown in Figure 1 includes a cable processing machine 10, a connector assembly machine 11, and a presentation plate 12. A system 1 can include a gantry robot.

[0173] For the automated production of a cable harness, plant 1 can be provided with the following main components: cable processing machine 10,

[0174] Connector assembly machine 11 and presentation plate 12 (Figure 1).

[0175] In one embodiment, the cable processing machine 10 can be configured to cut (lengthen) different cable types to the required length. In another embodiment, the cable processing machine 10 can be configured to provide different cable types with contact elements, in particular to provide cut cables with contact elements (processed cables). The processed cables 2 can subsequently be inserted into the corresponding slots of the connector housings 25 in the connector assembly machine 11. The cable harness thus wired can then be transferred to the presentation plate 12. Each connector housing 25 can be held by a respective housing support (housing holder) 20.

[0176] The presentation plate 12 can extend in a presentation plane El (Figs. 5A, 5B, 7A, 7B). The presentation plate 12 can be arranged vertically. The presentation plate 12 can have a front 13 and a back 14 facing away from the front 13 (Figs. 1, 2A, 2B, 5A, 5B, 7A, 7B). The front 13 and the back 14 can extend parallel to each other. The front 13 of the presentation plate 12 can face the cable processing machine 10 and / or the connector assembly machine 11 (Fig. 1). The connector assembly machine 11 can have access to the front 13 of the presentation plate 12. A gantry robot can have access to the back 14 of the presentation plate 12.

[0177] The presentation plate 12 can have a placement area 30 (Figs. 2A, 2B). The presentation plate 12 can have a preparation plate. In one embodiment, the preparation plate can have the placement area 30. The placement area 30 can be arranged such that the connector placement machine 11 has access to the placement area 30. The connector placement machine 11 can access a connector housing 25 that is arranged in the placement area 30. The connector placement machine 11 can access a housing carrier 20 that is arranged in the placement area 30. In particular, the connector placement machine 11 can access a connector housing 25 that is arranged on a housing carrier 20 if the housing carrier 20 is arranged in the placement area 30. A first folding mechanism 40 can be arranged on the presentation plate 12 (Figs. 2A, 2B).A second folding mechanism 41 can be arranged on the presentation plate 12 (Figs. 2A, 2B). In particular, a first folding mechanism 40 and a second folding mechanism 41 can be arranged on the presentation plate 12. In the illustrated embodiments, the first folding mechanism 40 is arranged upstream of the assembly area 30. In the illustrated embodiments, the second folding mechanism 41 is arranged downstream of the assembly area 30. In particular, the assembly area 30 can be positioned downstream of the first folding mechanism 40 and upstream of the second folding mechanism 41. The assembly area 30 can be arranged between the first folding mechanism 40 and the second folding mechanism 41.

[0178] The assembly area 30 can advantageously be designed without a fixing unit (clamping rail-free). In one embodiment, the assembly area 30 does not have a clamping rail that fixes a housing carrier 20 in order to ensure the necessary precision for the assembly process.

[0179] The system 1 can include an optical measuring unit 31 (Figs. 2A, 2B). The presentation plate 12 can include an optical measuring unit 31. An optical measuring unit 31 can be arranged on the presentation plate 12 (in particular on the front 13).

[0180] The optical measuring unit 31 can be arranged between the first folding mechanism 40 and the second folding mechanism 41. In the illustrated embodiments, the optical measuring unit 31 is arranged upstream of the assembly area 30. The optical measuring unit 31 can also be arranged downstream of the first folding mechanism 40. Furthermore, the optical measuring unit 31 can be positioned downstream of the first folding mechanism 40 and upstream of the assembly area 30.

[0181] The optical measuring unit 31 can have one line sensor 32 (Figure 2A). In one embodiment, the optical measuring unit 31 can have two line sensors 32 (Figure 2B). The two line sensors 32 can be two crossed line sensors 32. The optical measuring unit 31 can be configured to determine a depth position of the head 50. The optical measuring unit 31 can be configured to determine a distance Al of the head 50 to the presentation plate 12, in particular the distance Al when the head 50 is fixed in the first position on the base body 52 (see also Figures 5A, 7A). The optical measuring unit 31 can be configured to determine the distance Al between the presentation plane El and the head 50, for example the contact surface 106 (contact plane E2), when the head 50 is fixed in the first position on the base body 52 (see also Figures 5A, 7A).

[0182] At least one housing support 20 can be positioned on the presentation plate 12. In particular, a plurality of housing supports 20 can be arranged on the presentation plate 12 (Figs. 1, 2A, 2B). A housing support 20 can be repeatedly and releasably fixed to the presentation plate 12. A housing support 20 can be slidably arranged on the presentation plate 12.

[0183] The housing carrier 20 can be clamped to the vertical presentation plate 12 by means of two magnetic groups 23 (Fig. 3). One of the two magnetic groups 23 can be arranged on the front 13 of the presentation plate 12, and the other can be arranged on the rear 14 of the presentation plate 12. The poles of the two magnetic groups 23 can correspond to each other such that the magnetic group 23 on one side of the presentation plate 12 (e.g., the front 13) couples with the magnetic group 23 on the other side of the presentation plate 12 (e.g., the rear 13). To move the housing carrier 20, the rear 13 of the presentation plate 12 can be accessible to a gantry robot, in particular a gantry robot with a coupling. The system 1 can include such a gantry robot.

[0184] Furthermore, deflectors 21 and / or spacers 22 can be arranged on the presentation plate 12 in a similar design to the housing support 20 (Fig. 1). The housing support 20, deflectors 21, and / or spacers 22 can have freely rotatable heads 50. Advantageously, the heads 50 can adapt to the resulting shape and / or position of the cable harness.

[0185] Through the interaction of the housing carriers 20, deflections 21 and spacers 22, the wired cable harness can be provided section by section to the adhesive tape modules on the front 13 of the presentation plate 12, in particular to be able to bandage the branches of the cable harness.

[0186] In one embodiment, unused housing carriers 20 can be parked (stored) at the edge of the presentation plate 12, for example until they are needed for the production of a cable harness. Advantageously, unused housing carriers 20 can be kept ready (Fig. 1).

[0187] The presentation plate 12 can have a plurality of channels 15 (openings, through-holes, holes) (Figs. 1, 3C, 3D, 5A, 5B, 7A, 7B). A channel 15 can extend between the front 13 and the back 14 of the presentation plate 12. A channel 15 can span the presentation plate 12. The channel 15 can span the presentation plate 12 orthogonally to the presentation plane El from the front 13 to the back 14. The presentation plate 12 can have a hole pattern (channel pattern). The hole pattern can be regular. Through the hole pattern, a gantry robot coupled to the housing support 20 can pressurize the space 27 between the magnet groups 23 and the presentation plate 12 with compressed air to create an air cushion. One advantage is that the housing support 20 can be moved on the presentation plate 12 with less force. Deflectors 21 and / or spacers 22 can be designed and moved in the same way.One advantage can be that the corresponding element (housing support 20, deflections 21 or spacer enlarger 22) can be moved on the presentation plate 12 with less force.

[0188] For specific processing steps and / or generally when required, the clamping of the housing carrier 20 (and / or the deflection 21 and / or the spacer 22) can be increased by means of negative pressure (vacuum) between the magnet groups 23 and the presentation plate 12. The negative pressure can be provided by a coupled gantry robot. The fixation (locking) of the housing carrier 20 on the presentation plate can be advantageously reinforced.

[0189] One advantage is that the mobility of the housing support 20 on the presentation plate 12 can be easily and coordinated by regulating the air supply to the space 27. Another advantage is that the positioning of the housing support 20 can be easily and coordinated by regulating the air exhaust from the space 27.

[0190] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate exemplary housing carriers 20 that undergo different steps of a process.

[0191] The housing carriers 20 can be positioned upstream of the first folding device 40 with a head 50 in the second position (folded-down head 50) (Figures 2A, 2B; areas 2a). The housing carriers 20 can be fed to the first folding mechanism 40 with the head 50 in the second position. The first folding mechanism 40 can be configured to move the heads 50 of the housing carriers 20 from the second position to the first position. Downstream of the first folding device 40, the heads 50 of the housing carriers 20 can be arranged in the first position (Figures 2A, 2B; areas 2b). The housing carriers 20 with heads 50 in the first position can be fed to the assembly area 30 (Figures 2A, 2B; areas 2c). In the assembly area 30, cables 2 can be inserted into the connector housings 25 (arranged in the housing carriers 20), in particular according to a specified plug-in scheme.In the first position of the heads 50, the connector housings 25, especially their slots, can be particularly easily accessible. Insertion can be advantageously facilitated. The housing carriers 20 with heads 50 in the first position and inserted connector housings 25 can be arranged upstream of the second folding mechanism 41 (Figures 2A, 2B; areas 2d). The housing carriers 20 with inserted connector housings 25 and heads in the first position can be fed to the second folding mechanism 41. The housing carriers 20 can be fed to the second folding mechanism 41 in the first position. The second folding mechanism 41 can be designed to move the heads 50 from the first position to the second position. Downstream of the second folding mechanism 41, inserted housing carriers 20 with heads 50 in the second position can be arranged (Figures 2A, 2B; area 2e). Kinking of the cables 2 can be advantageously prevented.

[0192] Figures 3A to 3D show a housing carrier 20 with an alternative coupling mechanism between the head 50 and the base body 52. ​​The illustrated arrangement mechanism of the base body 52 to the presentation plate 12 can also be used for the other described housing carriers 20.

[0193] The alternative coupling mechanism (Figures 3A to 3D) has a boom 6 and a notch 5 into which the boom 6 can be inserted when the head 50 is folded up (Figures 3B, 3D). The boom 6, inserted into the notch 5, is not locked in place, so that movement of the head 50 relative to the base body 52 is not prevented. The head 50 can perform a rolling movement relative to the base body 52 about the roll axis R. Relative to the base body 52, the head 50 can be rotated by a twist angle AR (Figure 3B). The head 50 can perform a pitching movement relative to the base body 52, in particular about the pitch axis N. Relative to the base body 52, the head 50 can be rotated / tilted by a tilt angle AN (Figure 3D). For example, a force applied during assembly can cause rolling and / or pitching. Figures 4 to 8 show exemplary embodiments of housing supports 20 according to the invention.A housing support 20 can have a base body 52. ​​A housing support 20 can have a head 50. A housing support 20 can have a coupling 100. In particular, a housing support 20 can have a base body 52, a head 50, and a coupling 100.

[0194] The base body 52 can have a head side 55. The base body 52 can have a foot side 54. The base body 52 can extend along a longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 from the foot side 54 to the head side 55. The longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 can extend along a longitudinal axis of the base body.

[0195] The base body 52 can extend orthogonally to its longitudinal axis in a transverse direction Ql. The base body can also extend orthogonally to both the longitudinal direction LI and the transverse direction Ql in a vertical direction Hl (height direction).

[0196] The head side 55 can extend orthogonally to the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52. ​​The foot side 54 can extend orthogonally to the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52. ​​The head side 55 and the foot side 54 can extend parallel to each other.

[0197] The housing support 20 can be designed and arranged on the presentation plate 12 such that the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 extends orthogonally to the presentation plane El. The housing support 20 can be arranged on the presentation plate 12 such that the base body 52 projects perpendicularly from the presentation plate 12.

[0198] The base 54 can be configured to mount the base body 52 on the presentation plate 12. The base 54 can include the magnet assembly 23 (Fig. 3). The base 54 can include a sliding ring 53. In one embodiment, a sliding ring 53 is arranged on the base 54. In another embodiment, a sliding ring 53 can be repeatedly and reversibly arranged on the base 54. Advantageously, a sliding ring 53 can be easily replaced, for example, if a sliding ring 53 shows signs of wear.

[0199] The head end 55 of the base body 52 can have a docking area 102 (Figs. 4, 5, 8). In one embodiment, a docking area 102 can be arranged on the head end 55 of the base body 52. ​​The head end 55 of the base body 52 can form the docking area 102. In one embodiment, the housing carrier 20 can have a brake plate 70 (Figs. 6, 7). The brake plate 70 can have the docking area 102. The brake plate 70 can form the docking area 102.

[0200] The docking area 102 can extend in a docking plane E4. The docking area 102 can extend orthogonally to the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52. ​​The housing support 20 can be designed and arranged on the presentation plate 12 such that the docking plane E4 extends parallel to the presentation plate 12, in particular parallel to the presentation plane EL.

[0201] The head 50 can have a support side 56 (Figs. 4 to 8). The head 50 can have a receiving side 57. The head 50 can extend between the support side 56 and the receiving side 57 along a longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50. The longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50 can extend along the longitudinal axis of the head.

[0202] The head 50 can extend orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the head in a transverse direction Q2 of the head 50. The head can also extend orthogonally to the longitudinal direction L2 and to the transverse direction Q2.

[0203] extend 50 in a vertical direction H2 (height direction).

[0204] The head 50 can have a tilting axis K (transverse axis). The tilting axis K can extend orthogonally to the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50. The tilting axis K can extend along the transverse direction Q2.

[0205] The head 50 can have a connector housing receptacle 51. The connector housing receptacle

[0206] The 51 can be configured to receive the connector housing 25. The connector housing receptacle 51 can have an opening 58 (access). The opening 58 can be located in the receiving side 57 of the head 50. The opening 58 can extend orthogonally to the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50. The connector housing receptacle 51 can extend from the opening 58 towards the support side 56.

[0207] A connector housing 25 can be inserted through the opening 58 into the connector housing receptacle 51. The connector housing 25 can be inserted into the connector housing receptacle 51 along an insertion direction. The insertion direction can run along the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50. The insertion direction can be directed towards the support side 56. The connector housing receptacle 51 can be configured to hold a connector housing 25 when the connector housing 25 is inserted into the connector housing receptacle 51. The connector housing 25 can have a slot. In particular, the connector housing can have a plurality of slots. When the connector housing 25 is positioned in the connector housing receptacle 51, the slot can be accessible from the outside, in particular along the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50. The slot can be accessible through the opening 58.

[0208] A connector housing receptacle 51 can be designed to receive a specific type of connector housing 25. For example, the connector housing receptacle 51 can have a size and shape that corresponds to the size and shape of a type of connector housing 25.

[0209] The head 50 can have a marking 59. The marking 59 can be located at a specific position on the head 50. The marking 59 can be located on the receiving side 57 of the head 50. The marking 59 can be located next to the opening 58 of the connector housing receptacle 51. The marking 59 can, for example, be an optically detectable marking. In one embodiment, at least one piece of information is stored / encoded in the marking 59. For example, the marking 59 can encode the type of connector housing 25 for which the connector housing receptacle 51 is designed. In one embodiment, the position of the head 50 can be determined from the position of the marking 59.

[0210] The head 50 can have a housing 93. The marking can be located on the housing 93 of the head 50.

[0211] The support side 56 can have a support 110 (Figs. 4 to 8). In one embodiment, one support 110 is arranged on the support side 56. In another embodiment, two supports 110 are arranged on the support side 56. In yet another embodiment, the support side 56 has two supports 110. The head 50 can have a plurality of supports 110 arranged on the support side 56. The head 50 can have a plurality of supports 110 formed by the support side 56. The coupling 100 can encompass the supports 110.

[0212] A support 110 can have a contact surface 106. The contact surface 106 can extend in a contact plane E2. The contact surface 106 can extend orthogonally to the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50. In one embodiment, the contact surface 106 can extend parallel to the opening 58 of the connector housing receptacle 51. The contact surface 106 can be defined by the vertical direction H2 (height direction) of the head 50 and by the transverse direction Q2 of the head 50. The contact surface 106 can be rectangular.

[0213] The support 110 can have a contact surface 104. The contact surface 104 can extend in a contact plane E3. The contact surface 104 can extend parallel to the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50. In one embodiment, the contact surface 104 can extend orthogonally to the opening 58 of the connector housing receptacle 51.

[0214] The contact surface 104 can be defined by the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50 and the transverse direction Q2 of the head 50. The contact surface 104 can be rectangular.

[0215] The contact surface 104 of a support 110 can extend orthogonally to the bearing surface 103 of the support 110. The contact surface 104 can adjoin the bearing surface 103. The bearing surface 103 and the contact surface 104 can form a right angle.

[0216] The two supports 110 can be spaced apart from the longitudinal axis of the head (central axis in the longitudinal direction L2 of the head). The two supports 110 can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the head.

[0217] In the first position of the head 50, the contact surface 106 and the docking area 102 can be arranged parallel to each other. In the first position of the head 50, the contact surface 106 can be pressed against the head side 55 of the base body 52. ​​In the first position of the head 50, the contact surface 106 of the support 110 of the head 50 can be pressed against the docking area 102 of the base body 52 (Figs. 4A, 5A, 8A). In the first position of the head 50, the contact surface 106 of the support 110 of the head 50 can be pressed against the docking area 102 of the brake plate 70 (Figs. 6A, 7A). In the first position of the head 50, the contact surface 106 and the docking area 102 can be arranged in a force-fit (friction-fit) manner. The coupling 100 can thus be locked into its first coupling configuration.

[0218] In the second position of the head 50, the contact surface 104 can be arranged parallel to the docking area 102 of the base body 52 (Figs. 4D, 5B, 8D). In one embodiment, in the second position of the head 50, the contact surface 104 rests against the head side 55, in particular against the docking area 102 (Fig. 8D). In another embodiment, in the second position of the head 50, the contact surface 104 is spaced apart from the head side 55, in particular from the docking area 102 (Figs. 4D, 5B). In the second position of the head 50, the contact surface 104 can be arranged parallel to the docking area 102 of the brake plate 70 (Figs. 6E, 7B). In another embodiment, in the second position of the head 50, the contact surface 104 rests against the docking area 102 (Figs. 6E, 7B).

[0219] In the first position of the head 50 (first coupling configuration of the coupling 100), the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 and the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50 can be aligned with each other. They can be parallel to each other. In the first position of the head 50 (first coupling configuration of the coupling 100), the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 and the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50 can be parallel to each other. In the first position of the head 50, the vertical direction H2 of the head 50 can be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction LI of the base body (see, for example, Figs. 4A, 5A, 6A, 7A, 8A).

[0220] In the second position of the head 50 (second coupling configuration of the coupling 100), the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 and the vertical direction H2 of the head 50 can be aligned with each other. They can be parallel to each other. In the second position of the head 50 (second coupling configuration of the coupling 100), the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 and the vertical direction H2 of the head 50 can be parallel to each other. In the second position of the head 50, the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50 can be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction LI of the base body (see, for example, Figs. 4D, 5B, 6E, 7B, 8D).

[0221] In one embodiment, the support 110 can have a projection 61, for example a pin (Fig. 4). The projection 61 can extend orthogonally from the contact surface 106 to the contact plane E2. In another embodiment, the docking area 102 can have a recess 62, for example a locating bore (Fig. 4). The projection (pin) 61 and the recess (locating bore) 62 can be arranged on the head 50 and the base body 52 such that the projection 61 engages in the recess 62 when the head 50 is in the first position.

[0222] The base body 52 can have a housing 90 (Fig. 5). The housing 90 of the base body 52 can have a section that encloses an interior space 92. A piston 84 can be arranged, at least partially, in the interior space 92. A piston plate 85 of the piston 84 can be arranged in the interior space 92. The piston plate 85 can be arranged on a push rod 86. The push rod 86 can have a plate end 87 and an opposite head end 88. The push rod 86 can extend along the longitudinal direction L2 of the base body 52. ​​The piston plate 85 can be arranged at the plate end 87 of the push rod 86. The piston plate 85 can point towards the base end 54 of the base body 52. ​​The push rod 86, in particular the head end 88 of the push rod, can project out of the interior space 92. The push rod 86, in particular the head end 88 of the push rod 86, can project beyond the head side 55 of the base body 52 out of the interior 92.

[0223] In one embodiment, the head 50 can be arranged on the push rod 86. The head 50 can, in particular, be arranged at the end 88 of the push rod 86. The head 50 can be movably arranged on the end 88 of the push rod 86. In one embodiment, the head 50 can be rotatably arranged on the push rod 86. In one embodiment, the head 50 can be rolled on the push rod 86. In one embodiment, the head 50 can be tilted on the push rod 86.

[0224] The base body 52 can have a spring 82 (Fig. 5). The spring 82 can extend along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52. ​​The spring 82 can be arranged relative to the base body 52 such that the spring force of the spring 82 can act along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52. ​​The spring 82 can be deformable (in particular, stretchable and / or compressible) along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52.

[0225] In one embodiment, the spring 82 (spring force) can press the piston plate 85 towards the foot side 54 of the base body 52. ​​In another embodiment, the head 50 can be pressed against the base body 52 by pressing the piston plate 85 towards the foot side 54 of the base body 52. ​​In particular, the support side 56 of the head 50 can be pressed against the head side 55 (especially the docking area 102) of the base body 52, particularly when the piston plate 85 is pressed towards the foot side 54 of the base body 52.

[0226] In one embodiment, the spring 82 can be arranged around the push rod 86. The spring 82 can bear against the piston plate 85 at a first end. The spring 82 can be arranged with a second end opposite the first end against the head side 55 of the base body 52.

[0227] In one embodiment, the housing carrier 20 can have a brake plate 70 (Figs. 6, 7). The brake plate 70 can be arranged between the base body 52 and the head 50. In one embodiment, the brake plate 70 can have a gripping area 71. The gripping area 71 can be a projection. The gripping area 71 can be designed and arranged so that it is accessible to an auxiliary gripper. The auxiliary gripper can grip the brake plate 70 at the gripping area 71. In one embodiment, the auxiliary gripper can move the gripped brake plate 70. The brake plate 70 can be displaced along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 by means of the auxiliary gripper. The brake plate 70 can form the docking area 102.

[0228] The housing carrier 20 can have a guide 73 (Figs. 6, 7). A guide 73 can, for example, be a guide rail. In one embodiment, the housing carrier 20 can have a plurality of guides 73. Each guide 73 can extend along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52. ​​The guides 73 can project beyond the head side 55 of the base body 52 (along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52). The guides 73 can extend in the direction of the head 50.

[0229] The brake plate 70 can be arranged on the base body 52 by means of the guide 73, in particular by means of a plurality of guides 73. The brake plate 70 can be arranged on the base body 52 so as to be movable, in particular slidable, along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 by means of the guide 73. The base body 52, in particular the head end 55, can have a through-opening 77, in particular a plurality of through-openings 77. A guide 73 can extend through a through-opening 77. A guide 73 can be guided through a through-opening 77. The guide 73 can be movable (slidable) through the through-opening 77. Each guide 73 can be arranged in its corresponding through-opening 77.

[0230] The housing carrier 20 can have a brake spring 72 (Figs. 6, 7). The housing carrier 20 can have a plurality of brake springs 72. The brake spring 72 can be arranged between the head 55 of the base body 52 and the brake plate 70. Each brake spring 72 can be arranged around a guide 73. The spring force of each brake spring 72 can act along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52. ​​The spring forces of the brake springs 72 can press the brake plate 70 against the head 50. The spring forces of the brake springs 72 can press the brake plate 70 against the contact surfaces 106 of the supports 110 when the head 50 is in the first position. The spring forces of the brake springs 72 can press the brake plate 70 against the contact surfaces 104 of the supports 110 when the head 50 is in the second position. The brake plate 70 can form the docking area 102.In one embodiment, the brake spring 72 can be configured such that it is more compressed in the first position of the head 50 than when the head 50 is in the second position. In another embodiment, the brake spring 72 can be configured such that it is more compressed in the first coupling configuration of the coupling 100 than in the second coupling configuration of the coupling 100.

[0231] In one embodiment, the head 50 can be repeatedly detached from the base body 52 (Fig. 8). In another embodiment, the head 50 can be repeatedly attached to the base body 52. ​​In another embodiment, the head 50 can be repeatedly fixed in the first position on the base body 52. ​​In another embodiment, the head 50 can be repeatedly attached to the second position on the base body 52. ​​In another embodiment, the coupling 100 can be repeatedly engaged in the first coupling configuration. In another embodiment, the coupling 100 can repeatedly assume the second coupling configuration.

[0232] The base body 52 can have an axis 79 (Fig. 8). The axis 79 can extend along the longitudinal axis of the base body (longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52; roll axis). The head 50 can be detachably fixed to the axis 79 when the head 50 is in the first position. The head 50 can have an axis recess. The axis recess can be designed to be complementary (corresponding) to the axis 79. The axis recess can be designed to receive a section of the axis 79 (axis extension 78), particularly when the head 50 is in the second position.

[0233] The base body 52 can have a plurality of anchoring recesses 76 (Fig. 8). In one embodiment, the head side 55 can have the plurality of anchoring recesses 76. The head 50 can have a plurality of anchoring projections 75 (coupling pins). In one embodiment, the support side 56 can have the plurality of anchoring projections 75. In one embodiment, the anchoring projections 75 extend beyond the contact surface 106, in particular along the longitudinal axis L2 of the head 50. The anchoring recesses 76 can be configured to correspond (complement) to the anchoring projections 75. The anchoring recesses 76 can be configured to receive the anchoring projections 75, in particular when the head 50 is in the first position. Exemplary movement sequences of a head 50 are illustrated (see especially figures 4A-D, 6A-E, 8A-D).The coupling 100 can be locked into the first coupling configuration and fix the head 50 in the first position (Figs 4A, 6A, 8A).

[0234] In a subsequent step, the head 50 can be moved away from the base body 52 along its longitudinal direction LI (Figs. 4B, 8B). The head 50 can be moved away from the base body 52 (from the head side 55) in a translational movement. The contact surfaces 106 can thereby detach from the docking area 102. The coupling can be released. The force-fit and / or positive locking can be released. In one embodiment, the head 50 can be completely detached from the base body 52 (Fig. 8B). In another embodiment, the head 50 can remain tiltably connected to the base body 52 (Fig. 4B). In a subsequent step, the head 50 can be tilted (folded down), in particular by 90°, so that the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50 is arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction LI of the base body (Figs. 4C, 8C). In particular, the head 50 can be rotated so that the connector housing receptacle 51 points downwards.The head 50 can be positioned at a distance from the base body 52. ​​In a next step, the folded-down head 50 can be moved along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 towards the base body 52 and positioned on the base body 52 (Figs. 4D, 8D). The head 50 can be moved in a translational motion towards the base body 52. ​​The coupling 100 can assume the second coupling configuration. In the second position, the head 50 can be positioned (coupled) on the base body.

[0235] In one embodiment (Fig. 4), the folding movement can be supplemented by a translational movement. The folding gripper can grasp the head 50 in the 90° position and pull the head 50 out. In this position, the head 50 can be folded upwards by 90° and brought towards the base body 52. ​​The pin 61 (projection) can be threaded into the locating bore 62 (recess), and the spring 82 pulls the head 50 towards the base body 52. ​​The head 50 can be fixed in the 0° position and, after visual inspection, can be moved into the assembly area.

[0236] In one embodiment (Fig. 8), the head 50 can have coupling pins 75 (couplings) to be fixed in two positions. The coupling 100 can have two coupling pins 75. In the 90° position, the head 50 can be coupled to the axis 79 (rotation axis), and in the 0° position, directly to the base body 52 (for example, directly to the housing 90 of the base body 52). To change the position from 90° to 0°, the folding gripper can pull the head 50 off the axis 79, rotate the head 50 by 90°, and couple it directly to the base body 52. ​​In one embodiment, the coupling pins 75 (couplings) can have additional locking mechanisms.

[0237] During the transition from the first position to the second position, the folding movement of the head 50 can be extended by a translational movement of the head 50. The translational movement of the head 50 can be mediated, for example, by a folding gripper.

[0238] In one embodiment, the head 50 can rest against the brake plate 70 in the first position (Fig. 6A). In a next step, the brake plate 70 can be moved away from the head 50 along the longitudinal direction LI of the base body 52 (Fig. 6B). The brake plate 70 can be moved away from the head 50 (from the contact surface 106) in a translational movement. The brake plate 70 can be moved towards the base body 52 (towards the head side 55) in a translational movement. The brake plate 70 can be pulled towards the presentation plate 12 in a translational movement if the housing carrier 20 is arranged on the presentation plate. The contact surfaces 106 can thereby detach from the docking area 102 (brake plate 70). The coupling can be released. The force and / or positive locking can be released. The head 50 can be tilted (folded down) in a next step (Figs 6C, 6D).The head 50 can be folded by 90° so that the longitudinal direction L2 of the head 50 is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L1 of the base body (Fig. 6D). The head 50 can be rotated so that the connector housing receptacle 51 points downwards. In a next step, the brake plate 70 can be brought onto the head 50 (Fig. 6E). The brake plate 70 can be moved towards the head 50 in a translational motion. The coupling 100 can assume the second coupling configuration. The head 50 can be arranged (coupled) to the base body in the second position.

[0239] In one embodiment (Fig. 6), in addition to the folding movement of the head 50, the brake plate 70 can be moved separately. The folding gripper can grasp the head 50. Before the folding movement of the head 50, an auxiliary gripper can retract the brake plate 70 at the corresponding projections 71. The brake plate 70 can be re-engaged when the head 50 is in the 0° position.

[0240] During the transition from the first position to the second position, the folding movement of the head 50 can be extended by a translational movement of the brake plate 70. This translational movement of the brake plate can be achieved, for example, by an auxiliary gripper.

[0241] The described embodiments can be combined with one another. Individual aspects of the described embodiments can be combined. For example, a brake plate can have a recess (e.g., a locating bore) into which a projection 61 (e.g., the pin 61) of the head can engage in the 0° position. The brake plate can be supplemented with a positive-locking element for the 0° position (e.g., serrations or dowel pins). The brake plate 70 could have coupling recesses. The embodiment with couplings could be combined with the damping brake plate, for example, for the 90° position.

Claims

Claims 1. A housing support (20) for holding a connector housing (25), in particular a connector housing (25) for a cable harness, wherein the housing support (20) comprises: - a base body (52) with a head side (55) and an opposite foot side (54), wherein the foot side (54) is designed for arranging the base body (52) on a presentation plate (12), wherein the base body (52) extends from the foot side (54) to the head side (55) along a longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52), - a head (50) with a connector housing receptacle (51) designed to receive the connector housing (25), wherein the head (50) extends from a support side (56) to a receiving side (57) along a longitudinal direction (L2) of the head (50), - a coupling (100) for coupling the head (50) to the base body (52), wherein the coupling (100) is lockable in a first coupling configuration, wherein in the first coupling configuration of the coupling (100) the head (50) is coupled to the base body (52) in a first position, and wherein the coupling (100) is positionable in a second coupling configuration, wherein in the second coupling configuration of the coupling (100) the head (50) is coupled to the base body (52) in a second position, wherein in the first position of the head (50) the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head (50) is parallel to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52), wherein in the second position of the head (50) the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head (50) is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52).

2. Housing carrier (20) according to claim 1, wherein the coupling (100) can be locked in the first coupling configuration in a rotationally secure manner and the head (50) is coupled to the base body (52) in a rotationally secure manner in the first position, in particular wherein the head (50) is coupled to the base body (52) in a roll-proof and / or pitch-proof manner.

3. Housing carrier (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the coupling (100) is configured such that the head (50) in the second position is rotatable in relation to the base body (52) about a roll axis (R) which runs parallel to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52) when the coupling (100) is in the second coupling configuration.

4. Housing support (20) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the coupling (100) has two supports (110), wherein the supports (110) are arranged on the support side (56) of the head (50) or form the support side (56) of the head (50), wherein each support (110) has a respective contact surface (106), wherein the contact surfaces (106) of the two supports (110) extend in a common contact plane (E2), wherein the contact plane (E2) extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head (50), wherein each support (110) has a respective contact surface (104), wherein the contact surfaces (104) of the two supports (110) extend in a common contact plane (E3), wherein the contact plane (E3) extends parallel to the longitudinal direction (L2) of the head (50).

5. Housing carrier (20) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the coupling (100) has a docking area (102), wherein the docking area (102) is arranged on the head side (55) of the base body (52) or forms the head side (55) of the base body (52), wherein the docking area (102) extends in a docking plane (E4) which extends orthogonally to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52), in particular wherein the contact surfaces (106) press against the docking area (102) when the head (50) is in the first position and / or in particular wherein the contact surfaces (104) are arranged parallel to the docking area (102) when the head (50) is in the second position.

6. Housing carrier (20) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the coupling (100) has a recess (62) and a corresponding projection (61), wherein the projection (61) and the recess (62) are designed and arranged such that the projection (61) engages in the recess (62) when the coupling (100) is in the first coupling configuration.

7. Housing carrier (20) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the coupling (100) has a brake plate (70), wherein the brake plate (70) is arranged along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52) between the base body (52) and the head (50), wherein a brake spring (72) is arranged between the brake plate (70) and the base body (52), wherein the brake spring (72) is arranged and designed such that a spring force of the brake spring (72) acts along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52) and presses the brake plate (70) in the direction of the head (50), in particular wherein the brake plate (70) is pressed against the head (50) by the spring force of the brake spring (72).

8. Housing support (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the housing support (20) has a spring (82), wherein a spring force of the spring (82) acts along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52), wherein the spring (82) is arranged and designed to pull the head (50) in the direction of the base body (52).

9. Housing carrier (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the housing carrier (50) has a piston (84) comprising a piston plate (85) and a push rod (86) extending along a longitudinal direction (L3) from a plate end (87) towards a head end (88), wherein the head (50) is movably arranged at the head end (88) of the push rod (86), in particular wherein the spring (82) presses the piston plate (85) towards the foot side (54) of the base body (52), in particular wherein the head (50) is pressed against the base body (52) by the spring force when the head (50) is in the first position.

10. Housing carrier (20) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the base body (52) has an axis (79) which runs parallel to the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52), and wherein the base body (52) has a housing (90), wherein the coupling (100) is designed such that the head (50) can be coupled to the housing (90) of the base body (52) in the first position, and that the head (50) can be coupled to the axis (79) in the second position.

11. Housing carrier (20) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the head (50) has a detectable marking (59), in particular wherein the marking (59) is arranged on the receiving side (57).

12. A system (1) for assembling a connector housing (25), in particular a connector housing (25) for a cable harness, wherein the system (1) comprises: - a cable processing machine (10), - a connector assembly machine (11), and - a presentation plate (12), wherein at least one housing support (20) according to one of claims 1 to 11 is arranged on the presentation plate (12).

13. System (1) according to claim 12, wherein the system (1) comprises an optical measuring unit (31) which is designed and arranged to detect a depth position of the head (50) of the housing carrier (20), in particular the distance (Al) of the head (50) to the presentation plate (12) when the head (50) is coupled in the first position.

14. System (1) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the system (1) comprises a folding gripper, wherein the folding gripper is configured to grasp the head (50) in the second position, to move it away from the base body (52) along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52), and to tilt the head (50) so that the head (50) can be fixed to the base body (52) in the first position, and / or wherein the folding gripper is configured to grasp the head (50) in the first position, to move it away from the base body (52) along the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52), and to tilt the head (50) so that the head (50) can be coupled to the base body (52) in the second position, and / or wherein the system (1) comprises an auxiliary gripper, wherein the auxiliary gripper is configured to grasp the brake plate (70) and to move it along the to move in the longitudinal direction (LI) of the base body (52).

15. Method for assembling a connector housing (25), comprising the steps - Provision of a housing carrier (20) according to one of claims 1 to 11, - Arrangement of the housing carrier (20) on a presentation plate (12), wherein the coupling (100) is engaged in the first coupling configuration, - Inserting a connector housing (25) into the housing carrier (20), and - Fitting the connector housing (25) with at least one cable (2).

Images