Connection system for electrically connecting two high-voltage components and motor vehicle comprising same

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection system (1) having two connection parts (2, 3), which can be detachably connected to each other, and an interlock device (10). In a first variant, a trigger point (14) of the interlock device (10) is surrounded by a main contact element (7) of one of the connection parts (2, 3). In addition or as an alternative, in a second variant, the connection parts (2, 3) are designed to be fastened to each other by means of a screw element (20). The trigger point (14) is then arranged in the region of a corresponding screw element receptacle (8), so that, when the screw element (20) is screwed in as intended, an interlock signal and / or closing of an interlock circuit are / is triggered directly or indirectly by the screw element (20). The invention also relates to a motor vehicle comprising such a connection system (1).

Description

[0001] 24-1188

[0002] 1

[0003] Connection system for electrically connecting two high-voltage components and motor vehicles

[0004] The present invention relates to a connection system comprising a plug and a socket for electrically connecting two devices or components. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle equipped with such a connection system. Electrical connections are used in an immense variety of applications. These applications sometimes require compliance with specific requirements, for example, regarding robustness and / or safety. In the high-voltage sector, for instance, so-called interlock systems have become established as one approach to addressing this need.

[0005] For example, DE 102020 129 075 A1 describes a two-part interlock connection arrangement for disconnecting a high-voltage component located in a housing with a lid when the lid is opened. This arrangement includes a housing-mounted component and a lid-mounted component, which, when connected, together form an interlock line. When the lid is opened, the lid-mounted component is spatially separated from the housing-mounted component in such a way that the interlock line is interrupted.

[0006] As a further example of connecting electrical devices, DE 10 2009 038 168 B4 describes a current bridging element for the detachable closing of a circuit within an energy storage device for a hybrid and / or electric vehicle. The current bridging element comprises a base element made of an electrically conductive material and a screw connection element designed as described in 24-1188.

[0007] 2. A screw connection can be made between the base element and a conductor of the circuit. The current bridging element also has plug connections that can be connected to the circuit and are designed so that they can be disconnected from the circuit when the screw connection is loosened. An interlock contact can also be connected to the screw connection element.

[0008] However, existing solutions often require complex designs of plugs and / or sockets and a relatively large amount of installation space. Therefore, there is a need for further improvements.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to enable a safe, space-saving and flexibly designed HV connection (HV: high voltage).

[0010] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the main claim and the dependent claim or independent claims. Further possible embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims, the description, and the figures. Features, advantages, and possible embodiments set forth in the description for one of the subject matter of the independent claims are to be regarded, at least analogously, as features, advantages, and possible embodiments of the respective subject matter of the other independent claims, as well as of any possible combination of the subject matter of the independent claims, optionally in conjunction with one or more of the dependent claims.

[0011] The connection system according to the invention comprises a first connection part and a second connection part, one of which is configured as a plug and the other as a socket. Each connection part has at least one main contact element and is designed for detachable connection to one another. The respective main contact element can serve to transmit electrical power and / or signals for the actual function of components or devices connected by means of the connection system. For this purpose, the main contact elements can in particular be made of a metallic material and / or have a conductive coating. The main contact elements can in particular be high-voltage (HV) contact elements. When detachably connecting the two connection parts to one another, they are arranged with their contact sides facing each other, for example, by being plugged in, screwed together, or the like. 24-1188

[0012] 3

[0013] In this process, an electrical contact is established between the at least one main contact element of the first connection part and the at least one main contact element of the second connection part.

[0014] Without limiting the generality, at least or exactly one interlock device is arranged in the first connection part, set back from the connection side compared to its at least one main contact element. After electrical contact is established between the main contact elements of the first and second connection parts, this interlock device triggers at least one corresponding interlock signal and / or the closing of a portion of an interlock circuit running through the connection system, provided the connection parts are properly connected. An interlock signal can, for example, be detected or output by electronics within the interlock device. The interlock signal can be detected by the interlock device, for example, through appropriate local component monitoring or evaluation.The interlock device can then, for example, perform a predefined action or reaction. Similarly, the interlock signal can be, or comprise, a signal output by the interlock device – for example, to another control unit, circuit, or the like. For example, it could be a current being applied or...

[0015] The application of voltage to the main contact elements or a corresponding release can be the action or reaction, or be effected by the output interlock signal. Likewise, when the connecting parts are disconnected, a corresponding interlock signal can be triggered and / or the interlock circuit can be opened, i.e., interrupted, thereby triggering a corresponding opposite action or reaction, such as interrupting or blocking the current or voltage application to the main contact elements. In a practical, intended application or use of the connection system according to the invention, the interlock signal or the closing of the interlock circuit can, for example, signal the correct positioning of the two connecting parts relative to each other and thereby release or trigger the application of current or voltage to the main contact elements.The interlock circuit may, for example, include a corresponding switching or control device or electronics, such as in one of the two 24-1188.

[0016] 4. The interlock circuit can be connected to each other via the connection system according to the invention or arranged separately from them. The interlock circuit can also run through further corresponding connection systems and / or further electrical components or devices. The closing of the part of the interlock circuit running through the connection system and / or the triggering of this closing is also referred to here succinctly as closing the interlock circuit.

[0017] In a first embodiment of the connection system according to the invention, a release point of the interlock device, at which the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit can be triggered, is surrounded by the main contact element of the first connection part, or in particular by only one main contact element. This can apply at least in a top view or in a projection, for example in or along a connection direction in which, during intended connection, the second connection part is connected to the first connection part, i.e., for example, placed on top of or inserted into it. The corresponding main contact element of the first connection part can therefore surround an area, for example, at least substantially centrally, in or below which the release point of the interlock device can be arranged.For this purpose, the corresponding main contact element can, for example, be designed in a ring shape or have a corresponding recess or through-hole.

[0018] In an additional or alternative second embodiment of the connection system according to the invention, its connecting parts are designed for fastening to one another by means of a screw element. Such a screw element can serve to fasten or hold the connecting parts together. Likewise, the screw element, i.e., the connection or clamping force thereby achieved between the connecting parts, and in particular between their main contact elements, can ensure a reliable and low-resistance contact between the main contact elements of the two connecting parts. The screw element can be a screw or, for example, a pin or the like that is at least partially threaded. When the connecting parts are properly connected, i.e., correctly, the screw element extends through the second connecting part in the direction of the first connecting part and is then threaded into a pin or the like that is at least partially threaded. 24-1188

[0019] 5. The screw element receptacle of the first connection part is screwed in, provided it has a screw thread, in particular an internal thread. The trigger point of the interlock device, at which the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit can be triggered, is located on or in the area of ​​the screw element receptacle, so that when the screw element is screwed into the screw element receptacle as intended, the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit is triggered directly or indirectly by the screw element. The screw element itself can be separate from the interlock circuit and therefore does not itself have to be a current-carrying component of the interlock circuit.Indirect triggering can mean, for example, that when the screwing element is screwed in, it in turn actuates or moves another element, such as a part of the interlock device, which then - directly or indirectly - causes the interlock circuit to close.

[0020] Both variants proposed here, whether used separately or in combination, allow for a particularly space-saving integration of the interlock device and thus a particularly compact design of the connection system. Furthermore, the connection system can be designed with exceptional simplicity. For example, particularly in the first variant, a single seal can suffice to seal both the interlock device or its release point and the corresponding main contact element against the environment, as this seal can surround the main contact element and thus also the interlock device or its release point. Unlike conventional designs, this seal does not require any additional space, such as that found in conventional solutions between the interlock contacts and the main contact elements.Particularly in the second variant, the screw element can be designed to be multifunctional, namely to secure the connection of the connecting parts or to generate the necessary contact force on the one hand, and to trigger the interlock signal and / or close the interlock circuit on the other. This eliminates the need for a separate component for each of the other functions, thus saving considerable installation space.

[0021] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the connecting parts each have a main contact element for a positive pole and a main contact element for 24-1188

[0022] 6. A negative pole. In the variant with a release point surrounded by a main contact element, this release point is surrounded by only one of the main contact elements of the first connection part. In other words, such a release point can only be present on or in the area of ​​a main contact element of the first connection part. If the interlock device has several release points—for example, for redundancy or protection—these can all be located on or in the area of ​​the corresponding main contact element of the first connection part. However, only a single release point can be provided for the interlock signal or for closing the interlock circuit. Therefore, a single-pole design can be implemented. This can be implemented in a particularly simple and compact way and also offers coding reliability.The latter means that it ensures that the connecting parts are correctly aligned relative to each other before the main contact elements are subjected to current or voltage.

[0023] In a further possible embodiment of the present invention, the interlock device comprises at least one plunger and correspondingly at least one push-button switch. When the connecting parts are properly connected, the plunger is moved, thereby actuating the push-button switch. Actuating the push-button switch can then trigger the interlock signal or close the interlock circuit. One side or end of the plunger can therefore be positioned at the actuation point. At least when the connecting parts are properly connected, another side or the opposite end of the plunger can bear against the push-button switch. Such a plunger allows for a particularly simple and flexible arrangement of the push-button switch and / or other components or parts of the interlock device.Furthermore, this can make it particularly easy to ensure a sufficient distance, for example, a sufficiently long creepage distance, between the main contact element and contacts or electrically conductive parts of the interlock device. This can be especially relevant if the plunger is made of an electrically insulating, i.e., non-conductive, material. This may eliminate the need for additional electrical insulation or allow for a smaller amount of insulation. 24-1188.

[0024] 7

[0025] In a possible embodiment of the present invention, in the variant with the screw element, the plunger is arranged on the screw element receptacle such that it is actuated by the screw element when it is screwed in. In particular, the screw element can have a search tip, i.e., a chamfer, for example, conical, at the end to be inserted into the screw element receptacle. When screwed in, the screw element can then engage the plunger with this search tip and actuate it, i.e., move it in the direction of the push-button switch. In the embodiment proposed here, a release contour of the second connecting part, which would otherwise be used to actuate, i.e., move, the plunger, can be omitted.Furthermore, the proposed design makes it particularly easy to ensure that, when connecting the terminal parts, the main contact elements first come into contact with each other and are, for example, covered from the surroundings by appropriate housing parts or the like, before the interlock circuit is closed by screwing in the screw element. Conversely, when disconnecting the terminal parts, it is particularly easy and reliable to ensure that the interlock circuit is first broken or opened – and thus the main contact elements are de-energized or discharged – before the terminal parts are actually separated. The proposed probe tip of the screw element ensures reliable actuation of the plunger even if there is some play in the screw element.

[0026] In a possible embodiment of the present invention, the interlock device comprises at least or exactly two plungers, which are movably mounted in different directions. Thus, when the connecting parts are connected as intended, the plungers can be moved in correspondingly different directions. The interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit can be triggered by moving any one of the plungers accordingly. In other words, the interlock circuit can be closed when one plunger, the other plunger, or both plungers are moved as intended in the respective direction. For example, the interlock device can correspondingly comprise at least or exactly two pushbutton switches, each of which can be actuated by exactly one of the plungers to trigger the interlock signal or close the interlock circuit.For example, one of the plungers can be at least substantially in a longitudinal direction or insertion direction of the screw element, i.e. 24-1188.

[0027] 8, particularly in the direction of connection, and the other being movable at least substantially perpendicular thereto. The further development of the present invention proposed here can implement a safeguard for the function of triggering the interlock signal or closing the interlock circuit when connecting the terminal parts. This can, for example, achieve a higher safety level according to ISO 26262 or a higher ASIL (Automotive Safety Integrity Level) and / or a particularly robust and reliable triggering of the interlock signal or closing of the interlock circuit.

[0028] In a possible embodiment of the present invention, the at least one plunger is spring-mounted so that it must be actuated, i.e., moved, against a corresponding spring force to trigger the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit. The interlock device can therefore also include a corresponding spring element. With separate connecting parts, this spring element can, for example, push the plunger away from the push button switch or hold it at a distance. Depending on the design or arrangement, the spring element can be extended or compressed when the connecting parts are connected as intended. When the connecting parts are disconnected, the spring element can automatically move the plunger back to an initial or rest position in which the interlock circuit is open or which leads to the opening of the interlock circuit.The further development of the present invention proposed here makes it possible to achieve or ensure a simple and reliable opening, i.e. interruption of the interlock circuit, when the connecting parts are separated.

[0029] In a possible embodiment of the present invention, the interlock device comprises a first plunger contact element and a second plunger contact element. These plunger contact elements are spaced apart, particularly by less than the width or diameter of the plunger, when the connecting parts are separate. When actuated, i.e., when the plunger is moved to connect the connecting parts, it forms an electrically conductive connection between the two key contacts. This allows the interlock circuit to be closed, or the closing of the interlock circuit and / or the interlock signal to be triggered. The plunger itself can therefore be electrically conductive. In particular, at least one of the plunger contact elements can be designed as described in 24-1188.

[0030] 9

[0031] The contact element can be configured in the direction of the other plunger and / or as a spring-loaded contact element pre-tensioned in the direction of the plunger. This ensures that the plunger contact elements are pressed against the plunger when the plunger is actuated, i.e., when the connecting parts are connected, thus reliably and securely closing the interlock circuit. In the embodiment of the present invention proposed here, the interlock device can be designed to be particularly simple and robust.

[0032] In a further possible embodiment of the present invention, the interlock device comprises a photoelectric sensor that is interrupted when the connecting parts are connected as intended, thereby triggering the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit. The interlock device, or its photoelectric sensor, can include a light source and a light sensor. For example, when the connecting parts are connected, a trigger contour of the second connecting part or the screw element can enter a light path or beam path leading from the light source to the light sensor, thereby interrupting or triggering the photoelectric sensor. The interruption or triggering of the photoelectric sensor can be detected, for example, by means of a suitable electronic circuit or electronics.This electronic circuit or electronics can then, for example, trigger the interlock signal and / or close the interlock circuit. Such an electronic circuit or electronics can also be part of the interlock device. For example, the interlock device can include corresponding microelectronics or a corresponding circuit board. This can also be arranged in the first connection part. In the embodiment of the present invention proposed here, no components other than the release contour of the second connection part or the screw element need to be mechanically moved to trigger the interlock signal or to close the interlock circuit. This can enable a particularly robust design and a particularly fast triggering of the interlock signal or a particularly fast closing and opening, i.e., interruption of the interlock circuit.

[0033] In another possible embodiment of the present invention, in the variant with the screw element, the release point of the interlock device is located in a lower third of the 24-1188, i.e., the third furthest from the connection side of the first connection element.

[0034] 10

[0035] A screw element receptacle is provided. This ensures, simply and reliably, that when connecting the terminal parts, the interlock circuit is closed after the main contact elements of the terminal parts make contact with each other, and that when disconnecting the terminal parts, the interlock circuit is opened, i.e., interrupted, first. Furthermore, in the embodiment of the present invention proposed here, touch protection can be implemented particularly easily and in a space-saving manner. For example, it can be ensured, particularly simply and reliably, that when the main contact elements are exposed to the environment during the disconnection of the terminal parts, the interlock circuit is already open. Likewise, this makes it more difficult to unintentionally or tamper with the interlock signal and / or close the interlock circuit.

[0036] The present invention also relates to a motor vehicle comprising two high-voltage devices which are electrically connected to each other by means of the connection system according to the invention. Such a high-voltage device can be or comprise a high-voltage generator, a traction battery, an electric drive motor, power electronics, a high-voltage line, a busbar, a charging port or charging socket and / or the like.

[0037] Further features of the invention may become apparent from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features shown below in the description of the figures and / or in the figures themselves, can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0038] The drawing shows in:

[0039] Fig. 1 shows a schematic sectional view of a two-part connection system with two connection parts and a space-saving interlock device;

[0040] Fig. 2 is a schematic top view of two connection interfaces of a connection part of the connection system; Fig. 3 is a schematic sectional view of a connection part with the interlock device in a first light barrier variant:

[0041] Fig. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a connection part with the interlock device in a second light barrier variant;

[0042] Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of a connecting part with the interlock device in a first spring contact variant; and

[0043] Fig. 6 shows a schematic sectional view of a connecting part with the interlock device in a second spring contact variant.

[0044] In the figures, identical and functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0045] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a connection system 1, which here comprises a first connection part 2 and a second connection part 3. The first connection part 2 can, for example, be integrated into a generator housing 4 or be part of a charging socket or the like. A busbar 5 can, for example, be routed to the first connection part 2 within this generator housing 4, allowing for electrical contact via this busbar. The second connection part 3, on the other hand, can be designed, for example, as a plug, such as at one end of an electrical connection cable 6.

[0046] The first connection part 2 can include or provide a first main contact element 7. This first main contact element 7 can, for example, be electrically connected to the busbar 5, particularly for high-voltage transmission. In this case, the first main contact element 7 has a screw element receptacle 8 that extends through the first main contact element 7 in one connection direction. In this connection direction, the second connection part 3 can be plugged onto the first connection part 2. A touch guard 9 is provided on the screw element receptacle 8 by way of example. For this purpose, for example, a portion of the screw element receptacle 8 located on a connection side facing away from the busbar 5 can be made of an electrically insulating material.

[0047] An interlock device 10 is integrated into the first connection part 2. This interlock device 10 can be part of a low-voltage interlock circuit. The interlock device 10 allows at least a local section of this interlock circuit to be closed and opened, i.e., interrupted. The interlock device 10 comprises, by way of example, two plungers 11. These plungers 11 are movably mounted, with the corresponding directions of movement indicated by double arrows. By way of example, the directions of movement of the plungers 11 are at least substantially perpendicular to each other. One of the directions of movement extends at least substantially in the connection direction and is aligned with an insertion or longitudinal direction of the screw element receptacle 8. A push-button switch 12 is arranged at each distal end of the plungers 11.These pushbutton switches 12, in turn, can be arranged, for example, on a common or separate circuit board, or be part of an electronic circuit 13 or coupled to an electronic circuit 13. The plungers 11 can be moved from a release point 14 located here within the screw element receptacle 8 towards the respective pushbutton switch 12 in order to actuate it. By actuating one or both of the pushbutton switches 12, the interlock circuit can be closed.

[0048] To achieve, for example, a seal between the first main contact element 7 and the environment, or to provide additional protection against accidental contact, and / or to ensure the secure positioning of the second connection part 3 on the first connection part 2, the first connection part 2 can have a corresponding housing and / or sealing elements or the like. This is exemplified here by an inner guide wall 15 and an outer guide wall 16. These can be made, in particular, of an electrically insulating or non-conductive material.

[0049] The guide walls 15, 16 of the first connection part 2 allow the second connection part 3, or a connector housing 17 of the second connection part 3, to be guided or aligned when the two connection parts 2, 3 are connected to each other. The second connection part 3 has a second main contact element 18, which is electrically connected to the connecting cable 6. When the two connection parts 2, 3 are connected to each other as intended, the second main contact element 18 can rest against the first main contact element 7, so that these main contact elements 7, 18 are then in electrically conductive contact with each other. Then, for example, a connection part seal 19 of the second 24-1188

[0050] 13

[0051] The inner side of the connection part 3 rests against the outer guide wall 16 of the first connection part 2. On the outer side, the outer guide wall 16 can be surrounded by an outer part of the connector housing 17. However, other relative arrangements or nesting configurations, or corresponding housing designs of the connection parts 2 and 3, are also possible.

[0052] In principle, there are several approaches to electrical connection technology. For example, in addition to classic lamellar contacts for conventional plug-in systems, screw connections can be used, especially for high-power or high-voltage applications. In this case, a mechanical connecting element can act as a mechanical spring for the contact pairs. In this context, a screw element 20 is provided as such a mechanical connecting element. This allows for a detachable electrical connection between rigid conductors, or, for example, between the busbar 5 and the connecting cable 6. In this context, the screw element 20 can at least partially penetrate the first connection part 3 in the direction of connection and be screwed into the screw element receptacle 8 of the first connection part 2.This allows a contact normal force sufficient for safe current carrying capacity to be generated between the first main contact element 7 and the second main contact element 18. To facilitate this, the facing sides or surfaces of the main contact elements 7 and 18 can, for example, be flat, conical, or structured.

[0053] The screw element 20 has a probe tip 21 at its end, which is to be inserted into the screw element receptacle 8. This probe tip can ultimately reach the release point 14 when the connecting parts 2, 3 are connected together. There, the screw element 20 can actuate the plunger 11, thereby triggering or causing the closing of the interlock circuit or a corresponding interlock signal.

[0054] To ensure a securing or sealing of the opposite head end of the screw element 20, the second connection part 3 can, for example, have a mounting housing 22 on a top side of the connector housing 17 facing away from the connection side, or as part thereof. This mounting housing 22 can be closed by means of a mounting cover 23. The 24-1188

[0055] 14

[0056] The mounting cover 23 covers the screw element 20 and, for example, rests against a wall of the mounting housing 22 via a suitable seal.

[0057] It should be emphasized here that in the first connection part 2 the release point 14 is surrounded by the first main contact element 7 and the screw element 20 is multifunctional both for fastening the connection parts 2, 3 to each other and for triggering the closing of the interlock circuit or a corresponding interlock circuit by actuating the plungers 11.

[0058] Depending on the requirements, various configurations are possible. For example, the plunger 11, as well as the search tip 21, can be electrically conductive or electrically insulating. Likewise, the plunger 11 can be spring-mounted, and / or only one plunger 11 can be used. Similarly, the interlock device 10 can be designed differently, potentially eliminating the need for the plunger 11 altogether. Some of these possible configurations are explained in more detail elsewhere in connection with other figures.

[0059] Fig. 2 shows a schematic top view of the first connection part 2 in the connection direction for further illustration. It can be seen that the first connection part 2 provides two separate contacts or interfaces, namely a positive connection 24 and a negative connection 25. The interlock device 10 with the plungers 11 is shown here as an example integrated only into the positive connection 24. This allows the negative connection 25 to be positioned freely and flexibly, as indicated by the corresponding arrows.

[0060] The connection system 1 can be implemented as a single-pole or multi-pole plug-in system. Regardless of the configuration, to establish a connection, the second connection part 2 can be pre-plugged onto the first connection part 3, and then the screw element 20 can be tightened with a defined torque according to a specific specification or guideline. During this process, the screw element 20, or its probe tip 21, moves at least one of the plungers 11 towards the respective push button 12. This actuates the push button 12, which in turn triggers the interlock signal or closes the interlock circuit, thus creating a corresponding HVIL connection (HVIL: 24-1188).

[0061] 15

[0062] The high-voltage interlock is triggered. When the screw element 20 is loosened, the respective plunger 11 can move back to its starting position by the force of the respective push-button switch 12, thereby reopening the interlock circuit. Only then can the second terminal 3 be removed from the first terminal 2. When the plunger 11 is removed from the respective push-button switch 12, the electronics 13 can detect this, or the resulting opening of the interlock circuit, and execute a corresponding predefined fault response. This can, for example, mean or include de-energizing the main contact elements 7, 18.

[0063] The integrated HVIL solution described here, with the interlock device 10 integrated into only one of the terminals 24, 25, makes it easier to define a space-optimized positioning of the terminals 24, 25 in multi-pole applications, especially without needing an overarching cover or a common housing.

[0064] Fig. 3 shows a partial schematic representation of the first connection part 2, or the interlock device 10, in another possible variant. Here, optical triggering of the interlock device 10 is provided. For this purpose, the interlock device 10 comprises a light barrier, i.e., a light source 26 and a light sensor 27. The term "light" is to be understood generally here and can therefore refer to or include electromagnetic radiation within and / or outside the visible spectral range. In this case, the light source 26 can, for example, emit a light beam 28 along a beam path 29 in the direction of the light sensor 21. When the screw element 20 is screwed into the screw element receptacle 8 to connect the connection parts 2 and 3, the screw element 20 comes into contact with the trigger point 14, which here lies within the beam path 29.This blocks the beam path 29, thus interrupting the light barrier, so that the light beam 28 can no longer reach the light sensor 27. This can be detected by the electronics 13 connected to the light sensor 27 or the light source 26, which can then close the interlock circuit or output a corresponding interlock signal. As soon as the beam path 29 is clear again when the screw element 20 is unscrewed from the screw element receptacle 8, allowing the light sensor 27 to detect the light beam 28 again, the electronics 13 can open the interlock circuit. 24-1188.

[0065] 16

[0066] Such optical triggering of the interlock circuit can also be implemented using a plunger 11. Figure 4 shows a partial schematic representation of the first connection part 2 in another possible embodiment. Here, the interlock device 10 also includes a light barrier with the light source 26, the light sensor 27, and the beam path 29 running between them. However, in this embodiment, the interlock device 10 additionally includes a plunger 11. When the screw element 20 is screwed in, it can actuate the plunger 11, i.e., move it into the beam path 29. This interrupts the light barrier, which, as described, triggers the closing of the interlock circuit or the corresponding interlock signal. The plunger 11 is spring-mounted. For this purpose, the interlock device 10 includes a spring element 30, which is shown schematically.This spring element 30 can rest against the plunger 11 at its distal end, i.e., at the end furthest from the screw element receptacle 8, and exert a spring force on the plunger 11. This spring force 11 allows the plunger 11 to be moved out of the beam path 29 without the screw element 20 being inserted. The spring element 30 can be arranged and / or designed such that it does not block the beam path 29, thus allowing the light beam 28 to pass through to the light sensor 27.

[0067] Fig. 5 shows a partial schematic representation of the first connection part 2 in another possible embodiment. Here, the interlock device 10 is triggered by direct contact. For this purpose, the interlock device 10 comprises a first interlock contact 31 and a second interlock contact 32. These can be connected to the electronics 13. Without the screw element 20 screwed into the screw element receptacle 8, the interlock contacts 31 and 32 are spaced apart, so that the interlock circuit is interrupted. The interlock device 10 also includes a plunger 11, which is then spaced apart from the interlock contacts 31 and 32. When the screw element 20 is screwed sufficiently far into the screw element receptacle 8, it moves the plunger 11 between the interlock contacts 31 and 32, resulting in the situation shown here.The plunger 11 then forms an electrically conductive connection between the interlock contacts 31 and 32 and can thus close the interlock circuit or trigger its closing or a corresponding interlock signal. The plunger 11 is spring-loaded, i.e., mounted by means of a spring element 30. The screw element 20 is made of 24-1188.

[0068] When the screw element receptacle 8 is removed from position 17, and thus no longer presses on the plunger 11, the spring element 30 can remove the plunger 11 from the interlock contacts 31, 32 in the opposite direction to the connection. This interrupts the interlock circuit. One or both of the interlock contacts 31, 32 can themselves be designed as spring contacts which, in the illustrated situation, can press against the plunger 11 to ensure electrical contact with the plunger 11.

[0069] Closing the interlock circuit or triggering a corresponding interlock signal by direct contact can also be achieved in another way. Fig. 6 shows a partial schematic representation of the first connection part 2 in another possible embodiment. Here, when the screw element 20 is screwed in, the plunger 11 is also moved by it towards the interlock contacts 31, 32. However, the plunger 11 can contact the interlock contacts 31, 32 with its underside instead of being moved between them. To ensure a secure, i.e., reliable and robust, electrical contact between the plunger 11 and both interlock contacts 31, 32, the plunger 11 can be widened at its distal end, the end facing the interlock contacts 31, 32. Such a widening can also be easily and effectively adapted to the geometry or...The form-fit mechanism prevents the plunger 11 from coming out of the screw element 20, for example, when the screw element 20 is removed from the screw element receptacle 8.

[0070] The screw element receptacle 8 can fall out. The entire plunger 11 or only its end, which serves to contact the interlock contacts 31, 32, may be electrically conductive.

[0071] In addition to the embodiments shown here, further embodiments are possible. For example, instead of the plunger 11, the screw element 20, in particular only its probe tip 21, can form the electrically conductive connection of the interlock contacts 31, 32. Likewise, the interlock device 10 can, for example, include a capacitive or inductive sensor, which can be arranged and configured to detect the intended connection of the connecting parts 2, 3 to one another, i.e., for example, the screwing of the screw element 20 into the screw element receptacle 8, and then trigger the closing of the interlock circuit or the corresponding interlock signal. In this way, for example, a corresponding movement of the screw element 20 and / or a plunger 11 relative to the respective sensor can be detected by means of this sensor.The designs described here can simplify, reduce material and weight, create a more compact design, and lower the costs of an electrical interface, while simultaneously enabling different safety levels, for example, up to ASIL C for HIL solutions. The examples described demonstrate, in particular, how a simplified HIL, i.e., a high-voltage locking loop for HV screw connections, can be implemented.

[0072] 19

[0073] Reference symbol list

[0074] 1 Connection system

[0075] 2 first connection part

[0076] 3 second connection part

[0077] 4 Aggregate housings

[0078] 5 busbar

[0079] 6 connection cable

[0080] 7 first main contact element

[0081] 8 Screw element holder

[0082] 9 Touch protection

[0083] 10 Interlock device

[0084] 11 pestles

[0085] 12 push-button switches

[0086] 13 Electronics

[0087] 14 Trigger point

[0088] 15 inner guide wall

[0089] 16 outer guide wall

[0090] 17 connector housings

[0091] 18 second main contact element

[0092] 19 Connection part seal

[0093] 20 screw element

[0094] 21 Search tip

[0095] 22 Mounting housings

[0096] 23 Mounting covers

[0097] 24 positive connection

[0098] 25 negative terminal

[0099] 26 Light source

[0100] 27 Light sensor

[0101] 28 Light beam

[0102] 29 beam away

[0103] 30 spring element

[0104] 31 first interlock contact

[0105] 32 second interlock contact

Claims

24-1188 Patent claims 1. Connection system (1) comprising a first connection part (2) and a second connection part (3), one of which is configured as a plug and the other as a socket, each having at least one main contact element (7, 18) and being designed for detachable connection to one another, wherein the connection parts (2, 3) are arranged with their connection sides facing each other and an electrical contact is established between at least one main contact element (7) of the first connection part (2) and at least one main contact element (18) of the second connection part (3), wherein an interlock device (10) is arranged in the first connection part (2) which is set back from the connection side compared to its at least one main contact element (7), and which, after the electrical contact between the main contact elements (7, 18) of the first and the second connection part (2, 3) has been established, when the connection parts (2, 3) are connected as intended.3) triggers an interlock signal and / or the closing of a part of an interlock circuit running through the connection system (1), as well as, - a release point (14) of the interlock device (10), at which the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit can be triggered, is surrounded by a main contact element (7) of the first connection part (2), and / or - the connecting parts (2, 3) are designed for fastening to one another by means of a screw element (20), which, when the connecting parts (2, 3) are connected to each other as intended, extends through the second connecting part (3) and is screwed into a screw element receptacle (8) of the first connecting part (2) which is at least partially threaded, wherein the trigger point (14) of the interlock device (10) is arranged in the area of ​​the screw element receptacle (8), so that when the screw element (20) is screwed into the screw element receptacle (8) as intended, the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit is triggered by the screw element (20). 24-1188 21 2. Connection system (1) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the connection parts (2, 3) each have a main contact element for a positive pole and a main contact element for a negative pole, wherein in the variant with a release point (14) surrounded by a main contact element (7) this is surrounded only by one of the main contact elements (7) of the first connection part (2).

3. Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the interlock device (10) comprises a plunger (11) and a push button switch (12), wherein the plunger (11) is moved when the connection parts (2, 3) are connected to each other as intended and thereby actuates the push button switch (12).

4. Connection system (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that in the variant with the screw element (20) the plunger (11) is arranged on the screw element receptacle (8) such that it is actuated by the screw element (20) when the screw element (20) is screwed in, in particular by a search tip (21) of the screw element (20) formed at an end to be inserted into the screw element receptacle (8).

5. Connection system (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the interlock device (10) has two plungers (11) which are movably mounted in different directions, wherein the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit can be triggered by a corresponding movement of any one of the plungers (11).

6. Connection system (1) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that 24-1188 22 the plunger (11) is spring-mounted, so that it must be actuated against a corresponding spring force in order to trigger the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit.

7. Connection system (1) according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the interlock device (10) has a first plunger contact element (31) and a second plunger contact element (32) which are separated from each other when the connection parts (2, 3) are separated from each other, wherein the plunger (11) forms an electrically conductive connection between the two plunger contact elements (31, 32) when actuated.

8. Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the interlock device (10) comprises a light barrier (26, 27) which is interrupted when the connection parts (2, 3) are connected to each other as intended, thereby triggering the interlock signal and / or the closing of the interlock circuit.

9. Connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the variant with the screw element (20) the release point (14) is arranged in a third of the screw element receptacle (8) furthest from the connection side of the first connection element (2).

10. Motor vehicle comprising two high-voltage devices (5, 6) which are electrically connected to each other by means of a connection system (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

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