Electrical plug connector and field device

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical plug connector (100) for connection to a mating plug connector (200), comprising a handle body (30) which surrounds a connection cable (20), comprising a contact carrier (50) which has an elastic sealing element (90) in the joining region between the plug connector (100) and the mating plug connector (200), comprising a union nut (80) which is arranged on the contact carrier (50) such that it can rotate and move in an axially limited manner, wherein the union nut (80) of the plug connector (100) can be placed on a mating thread (210) of the mating plug connector (200) and protrusions (F1, F2) are formed on the end faces of the union nut (80), pointing inwards in the direction of the central axis (A) of the union nut (80), wherein the first protrusion (F1) is designed as a latching element (120) and the second protrusion (F2) is designed as a clamping element (130) in order to establish a quick connection between the plug connector (100) and the mating plug connector (200) without screwing.

Description

[0001] Electrical connector and field device

[0002] The invention relates to an electrical connector with a quick-connect feature that enables connection by plugging without screws, according to claim 1, and to a field device for automation technology according to claim 8.

[0003] Electrical connectors consist of two parts: the electrical connector and the mating connector. Both the connector and the mating connector each have a contact carrier with corresponding contacts, which are either contact pins or the corresponding sockets. Depending on whether the contact carrier contains the contact pins or the corresponding sockets, the respective connection part is called a plug (male) or a socket (female).

[0004] These electrical connectors are widely used in automation technology and are components of electronic equipment, sensors, actuators, and controllers. The M12 and M8 connector types are particularly common. These electrical connectors and mating connectors are available in both straight and 90-degree angled versions. In the angled version, the connector body is bent at a 90-degree angle, resulting in a 90-degree angle between the longitudinal direction of the connected cable and the longitudinal direction of the contacts.

[0005] Such electrical connectors can be either freely configurable or pre-wired, in the latter case where the contact carrier and connecting cable are overmolded and enclosed within the handle body. It is known that connectors and mating connectors can be joined by a coupling nut that is screwed onto a thread formed on the outer sleeve of the mating connector. The coupling nut has an internal thread that corresponds to the thread of the mating connector. Since these electrical connectors are frequently used in harsh industrial environments where they are exposed to shocks, vibrations, moisture, or direct splashing water, it has long been common practice to equip such connectors with a vibration-resistant locking mechanism to prevent the coupling nut from unintentionally loosening.In addition, a sealing element, usually a sealing ring, is attached to the connector or mating connector to ensure a secure seal of the contacts.

[0006] The described plug-in connectors have several disadvantages. For example, assembly errors can lead to leaks if the union nut is not correctly screwed onto the thread of the mating connector. Furthermore, screwing the union nut onto the thread of the mating connector is time-consuming and cumbersome. Checking whether the union nut is tightened correctly and sufficiently adds extra time to the connection process. Vibrations during operation can cause the union nut to loosen if it is not adequately secured, which can lead to failures or malfunctions.

[0007] A connector with a locking connection is known from DE 102004039580 A1. In this solution, a plug part is inserted into a socket part, whereby a threaded sleeve arranged on the plug part is expanded by an expanding element and engages positively in an internal thread of the socket part. The final locking and the creation of a tight connection, however, are achieved by subsequently turning a union nut, which axially clamps the two parts against each other. A disadvantage of this is that manual tightening is still necessary to create a secure and tight connection, which slows down the installation process and can be cumbersome in confined spaces. Furthermore, the quality of the seal depends on the correct, user-dependent installation of the union nut.

[0008] DE 102004028060 A1 discloses a connector element with a screw connection in which a screw sleeve is locked by a rotary motion. A disadvantage of this design is that manual rotation is still required for the connection. Further quick-connect devices are known from documents EP 1 629573 B1 and DE 10 2011 082 137 B3, which show connectors with an axially displaceable sliding sleeve for locking and unlocking. However, these solutions are mechanically complex and consist of numerous individual parts, such as separate clamping sleeves or clamping baskets, making manufacturing costly and time-consuming. DE 102018 100910 A1 discloses a quick-connect device in which a locking element with a flexible sawtooth profile engages in a standard thread to enable a purely plug-in connection. DE 195 17221 B4, on the other hand, shows a locking mechanism using spring tongues and a separate retaining ring.Both solutions have in common that they primarily focus on the mechanical locking mechanism, but do not reveal any specific doctrine on how to simultaneously generate a defined and constant contact force for a secure seal of the connection.

[0009] The present invention relates in particular to a connector with a quick-release mechanism that establishes a secure connection by a simple push-in operation. To establish the connection between the connector and mating connector, the quick-release mechanism eliminates the need to screw the locking nut to the mating part. The connection is made by simply pushing the connector into the mating part. The connector is particularly relevant for circular connectors designed for industrial applications.

[0010] The invention aims to improve the reliability of connection technology by providing a robust connector that meets the high demands of industrial applications. Particular attention is paid to ease of use during installation and manufacturing of the connector to facilitate its use in various industrial scenarios.

[0011] The circular connectors in question have been known for a long time and are also manufactured and distributed by the applicant, among others, under the name "ecolink". The product range includes cable sockets and cable plugs in M8 and M12 configurations for automation technology. In addition to connection technology for general industrial applications, there are versions for use in hygienic and wet areas in the food and beverage industry, for use in machine tools and the metalworking industry, for use in welding systems, mobile machinery, and also in potentially explosive atmospheres.

[0012] To ensure the reliability required for the aforementioned industrial applications and, in particular, to prevent unintentional disconnection, these connectors are equipped with a vibration-locking mechanism. The operating principle of this vibration-locking mechanism is described in detail in the applicant's German patent application DE 102005056563 B3.

[0013] To meet the diverse requirements and standards of different applications and ensure cross-manufacturer compatibility, a connector with quick-connect technology should always be backward compatible. This means that the connector is designed to be both directly plugged in and screwed into a standards-compliant mating connector.

[0014] The object of the invention is to provide a simplified electrical connector with a quick connection which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and enables a safe and reliable connection by simply plugging it in.

[0015] The invention offers a simple, cost-effective solution to meet requirements regarding tightness (IP67) or resistance. The present invention reduces the number of components required and provides a multi-application solution suitable for both food and industrial applications.

[0016] The connector according to the invention is compatible with all standard-compliant plugs of a given connector standard. Furthermore, the mechanical locking mechanism is easy to operate by simply inserting the plug. The connection is vibration-resistant and sealed against the ingress of media in accordance with ANSI 60529 and EN 60529 standards.

[0017] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. Favorable embodiments and advantages of the invention become apparent from the further claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0018] The main inventive idea is, firstly, to design the geometry of the union nut in a more cost-effective way, so that it can be placed on a counterpart and mechanically locks and seals with the counterpart during the insertion process.

[0019] An electrical connector is provided for connecting to a mating connector. It comprises a grip body that encloses a connecting cable, a contact carrier with an elastic sealing element in the joining area between the connector and mating connector, and a cap nut that is rotatably and axially displaceably mounted on the contact carrier. The connector's cap nut can be fitted onto a mating thread of the mating connector. The cap nut has projections on its end faces that point inwards towards the nut's central axis. The first projection acts as a locking element, and the second projection as a clamping element, to create a quick connection between the connector and the mating connector without the need for screws.The special design of the union nut significantly reduces connection time compared to conventional screw connections. The quick-connect system enables simple and fast assembly without screws, which is particularly advantageous in industrial applications for shortening installation times. This simplifies the connection process. It is advantageous if the first projection has an inwardly shaped locking geometry that engages a threaded section of the mating connector when the plug connector is connected, and the second projection is elastically deformed when the plug connector is connected. The resulting counterforce acts on the mating connector via the locking geometry, compressing the sealing element and sealing the joining area.This elastic deformation ensures a durable and secure connection that withstands vibrations and mechanical stresses. Furthermore, the elastic deformation applies a counterforce to the locking geometry, compressing the sealing element in a defined manner. This results in a reliable seal.

[0020] It is advantageous if the first extension is located at a lower end and the second extension at an upper end of the union nut. This arrangement allows for optimized force distribution and connection stability. Since the first extension acts as a locking element, it ensures a secure mechanical lock that withstands mechanical loads and vibrations by engaging the threaded section of the mating connector and being clamped by the second extension. The second extension, which functions as a clamping element, is elastically deformed during connection. This elastic deformation generates a counterforce that compresses the elastic sealing element in the joining area, thus ensuring a reliable seal.

[0021] It is advantageous if the union nut is made from formed sheet metal. A union nut made from formed sheet metal allows for cost-effective and rapid production. Formed sheet metal offers high stability, which increases the mechanical load-bearing capacity of the union nut. Furthermore, sheet metal forming is a process characterized by high precision and repeatability. It is also advantageous if the union nut is additively manufactured. Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, offers the advantage that materials are applied layer by layer to create the object. Additive manufacturing reduces material waste. It is also advantageous if the union nut is manufactured as a molded part, for example, by injection molding. Injection molding allows for the cost-effective mass production of union nuts.

[0022] It is advantageous if the detent geometry has at least three detent lugs distributed around its circumference, directed inwards to form a thread. The surfaces and the inwardly directed edge of the detent lugs are inclined according to the thread pitch of the mating thread and have a helical structure, so that the detent lugs form a linear friction surface with the mating thread during the engagement process. Distributing the detent lugs around the circumference increases stability and uniformity of force distribution. A more uniform force distribution around the circumference prevents wobbling and increases vibration resistance. The structure formed by the detent elements enables a secure and firm connection of the mating thread within this structure. The mating thread can be engaged into this structure without the need for additional tightening.The angled surfaces and inward-facing edges of the locking lugs result in a low-friction and precise fit of the locking lugs in the mating thread, simplifying assembly and reducing mechanical stress on the thread surface. Coated threads or threads made of soft materials, such as plastic mating threads, are less prone to scratching or damage. The helical structure of the locking lugs creates a positive-locking connection with the mating thread, thus improving holding power. Unintentional loosening of the connection is prevented by the counterforce generated by the deformation of the second spring element. The linear friction surface reduces wear and damage to the surfaces, as it ensures an even distribution of frictional forces.This increases the lifespan of the connection and ensures reliable function over a long period. The two spring elements guarantee a more secure and firm connection.

[0023] It is advantageous if three locking lugs, evenly distributed around the circumference, form a locking lug segment that creates a thread. The uniform distribution of the locking lugs around the circumference ensures an even distribution of force, which increases the stability of the connection. The probability of point loads and resulting damage is reduced. In addition, the uniform arrangement prevents the plug part from tilting in the socket part, making the connection more reliable.

[0024] It is advantageous if the locking lugs are uniformly distributed around the circumference, forming a row, with a first locking segment formed by the first, fourth, and seventh locking lugs, a second locking segment formed by the second, fifth, and eighth locking lugs, and a third locking segment formed by the third, sixth, and ninth locking lugs. Each locking segment forms a thread, thus creating a threaded geometry that allows for easy connection by inserting a mating connector. Dividing the locking lugs into locking segments and forming multiple threads enables an even tighter, more stable connection between the plug and socket parts.

[0025] It is advantageous if the second extension is located on the upper face of the union nut and has at least three stepped segments distributed around its circumference, directed inwards to form a spring, with the surfaces and the circular edge region of the surfaces having a helical structure. Positioning the second extension on the upper face of the union nut allows for optimal use of the available space. The arrangement of the stepped segments around the circumference achieves a symmetrical spring effect, resulting in a uniform distribution of forces. The spring effect, through elastic deformation during connection of the plug connector to the mating connector, ensures a constant contact force with which the sealing element is compressed. This increases the tightness and durability of the connection.

[0026] It is advantageous if at least one connector according to the invention is provided for an electrical connection on an electronic field device for automation technology, particularly in distribution boxes, Y-splitters, and connectors. Integrating the connector into a distribution box contributes to the standardization of connection elements, which increases compatibility with other components and simplifies inventory management. A further advantage of the invention is that it offers multiple connection options. The provision of a simplified locking nut allows the connector to be screwed to its mating component in the conventional manner and also offers the possibility of inserting the connector into the opposite position. The inventive design of the connector enables standard-compliant mating connectors to be plugged together.

[0027] The ability to create a quick connection without screws reduces installation time.

[0028] The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0029] Fig. 1 shows a connector according to the invention;

[0030] Fig. 2 shows the connector according to Fig. 1 together with a mating connector;

[0031] Fig. 3a shows a connector in perspective view;

[0032] Fig. 3b shows a union nut in detail;

[0033] Fig. 4a shows a shortened connector in perspective view;

[0034] Fig. 4b shows a detail of a short-length union nut.

[0035] In the following description of preferred embodiments, the same reference numerals denote identical or comparable components. Figure 1 shows a connector 100 according to the invention, which is designed as a cable socket. The electrical connector 100 has a handle body 30 and a contact carrier 50 with associated sockets (female), as shown in Figure 2. The handle body is injection-molded onto the connecting cable 20 and the contact carrier 50 in such a way that it completely encloses and seals the connecting cable 20 and the contact carrier 50 at their ends. This ensures a robust and reliable connection for protection against external influences.

[0036] Furthermore, the contact carrier 50 has a collar 52 in the joining area, on which an elastic sealing element 90 is arranged. This sealing element 90 ensures an effective seal of the joining area, thereby preventing the ingress of moisture and dirt and protecting the electrical connection.

[0037] A union nut 80 is rotatably and axially displaceably mounted on the contact carrier 50. The union nut 80 is shaped so that it can be fitted onto a mating thread 210 of a mating connector 200. Projections F1, F2 are formed on the end faces of the union nut 80, pointing inwards towards the central axis A of the union nut 80. These projections F1, F2 allow the union nut 80 to engage with the mating component and be clamped in place.

[0038] The first extension F1 is designed as a locking element 120, which, when inserted into the mating connector 200, engages in a threaded section of the mating thread 210, ensuring a secure mechanical locking connection. The second extension F2 is designed as a clamping element 130, which is elastically deformed during connection. This elastic deformation generates a counterforce that compresses the elastic sealing element 90, thus ensuring a reliable seal. The combination of the locking element 120 and the clamping element 130 enables quick and easy assembly as well as a stable and tight connection that withstands mechanical loads and vibrations.

[0039] Figure 2 shows the connector 100 according to Figure 2 together with a mating connector 200. The mating connector 200 is equipped with contact pins (male) which serve for electrical connection with the sockets (female) of the connector 100. The sectional view shows the two components, connector 100 and mating connector 200, in the connected state and illustrates the operation of the connection.

[0040] When connected, the contact pins of the mating connector 200 are inserted into the sockets of the contact carrier 50 of the connector 100, thus establishing an electrical connection. The contact carrier 50 of the connector 100 is designed to securely hold the contact pins and ensure a stable electrical connection.

[0041] The union nut 80 is rotatably and axially displaceably arranged on the contact carrier 50 of the connector 100. It is shaped so that it can be fitted onto the mating thread 210 of the mating connector 200. When the union nut 80 is fitted onto the mating thread 210, the projections F1 and F2 of the union nut 80 engage in the mating thread.

[0042] The first extension F1, designed as a locking element 120, engages in a threaded section of the mating thread 210 and ensures a secure mechanical locking connection. This prevents unintentional loosening of the connection and guarantees a stable mechanical connection between the two components.

[0043] The second extension F2, designed as a clamping element 130, is elastically deformed during connection. This elastic deformation generates a counterforce that compresses the elastic sealing element 90, thus ensuring a reliable seal at the joint. This seal prevents the ingress of moisture and dirt and protects the electrical connection from external influences.

[0044] The union nut 80 enables quick and easy assembly of the two components without the need for screws. The combination of the locking element 120 and the clamping element 130 creates a stable and tight connection that withstands mechanical loads and vibrations. This is particularly advantageous in industrial applications where fast and reliable assembly is essential. Figure 3a shows a connector 100 according to Figure 1 in a perspective view. The top view shows the union nut 80 of the connector 100 from the front, which has several locking lugs 122, in particular three, six, nine, twelve, etc. These locking lugs 122 are evenly distributed around the circumference of the union nut 80 and directed inwards to form a thread.

[0045] The locking lugs 122 are inclined according to the thread pitch of the mating thread 210 and have a helical structure. This arrangement enables the locking lugs 122 to form a linear friction surface when engaging the mating thread 210. This linear friction surface ensures a low-friction and precise fit of the locking lugs 122 in the mating thread 210, which facilitates assembly and reduces mechanical stress on the thread surface. This results in less scratching or damage to coated threads or threads made of soft materials, such as plastic.

[0046] The uniform distribution of the locking lugs 122 around the circumference of the union nut 80 increases stability and ensures even force distribution, thus preventing tilting and increasing vibration resistance. The helical structure of the locking lugs 122 enables a positive-locking connection with the mating thread 210, thereby improving the holding force. Unintentional loosening of the connection is prevented by the counterforce caused by the deformation of the clamping element 130.

[0047] The lower view shows the union nut 80 of the connector 100 in a rear view.

[0048] Figure 3b shows the union nut according to Figure 3a in detail in a side view, a top view and a perspective view.

[0049] The union nut 80 has locking lugs 122 evenly distributed around its circumference. These locking lugs 122 are arranged in groups, with three uniformly distributed locking lugs 122 forming a respective locking lug segment A1-A3, BIBS, C1-C3, D1-D3, which forms one thread. This uniform distribution of the locking lugs 122 ensures a uniform force distribution, thereby increasing the stability of the connection and reducing point loads and resulting damage. The uniform arrangement of the locking lugs 122 also prevents the plug part from tilting in the socket part, which increases the reliability of the connection.The locking lugs 122 are arranged in a row, with a first locking segment formed by the first, fourth, and seventh locking lugs 122 for three threads, a second locking segment formed by the second, fifth, and eighth locking lugs 122, and a third locking segment formed by the third, sixth, and ninth locking lugs 122. Similarly, for four threads, a first locking segment A1-A3 is formed by the first, fifth, and ninth locking lugs 122, a second locking segment B1-B3 by the second, sixth, and tenth locking lugs 122, a third locking segment C1-C3 by the third, seventh, and eleventh locking lugs 122, and a fourth locking segment D1-D3 by the fourth, eighth, and twelfth locking lugs 122. The locking lugs 122 and the locking segments together form a locking element 120. Following the same scheme, the union nut can have a large number of threads.Each locking segment forms a thread, creating a thread geometry that allows for easy connection by inserting a mating connector 200.

[0050] This division of the locking lugs 122 into locking segments and the formation of multiple threads results in an even firmer and more stable connection between the plug part 100 and the socket part 200. The even distribution of force and the prevention of tilting contribute to ensuring that the connection remains robust and reliable, even under mechanical stress.

[0051] The second extension F2 is arranged on the upper end face of the union nut 80 and has at least three stepped spring segments 140 distributed around its circumference. These segments 140 are directed inwards and designed to form a spring. The segments 140 together form the clamping element 130. The surfaces and the circular edge region of the stepped segments 140 have a helical structure.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the segments 140 are arc-shaped and each has two opposing legs. This allows for a greater spring travel, making the spring force more adjustable. The spring force is defined by the leg width, leg length, and spiral shape. The placement of the second extension F2 on the upper end face of the union nut 80 enables optimal use of the available space for generating a clamping force. The uniform arrangement of the stepped segments 140 around the circumference achieves a symmetrical spring action, resulting in an even distribution of forces. When the connector 100 is connected to the mating connector 200, the elastic deformation of the segments 140 ensures a constant contact force that compresses the sealing element 90.The contact pressure increases the tightness and durability of the connection by preventing the ingress of moisture and dirt and improving the mechanical stability of the connection, especially its vibration resistance.

[0053] Figure 4a shows a connector according to Figure 3a in a shortened, space-saving design. The perspective views show a low-profile cap nut 80. In this embodiment, the cap nut has notches distributed around its circumference. These notches extend the locking lugs 122 over the outer circumference of the cap nut 80. These notches increase the spring action of the locking lugs 122 by allowing them greater elasticity. The individual spring force of the locking lugs 122 can be defined and adjusted by means of the notches. This allows for more precise control over the contact force and the locking mechanisms when connecting the connector 100 to the mating connector 200. The increased spring action of the locking lugs 122 ensures a secure and more stable connection that better withstands mechanical stresses and vibrations.At the same time, the space-saving design of the union nut helps to ensure that the 100 connector can be used in applications where available space is limited.

[0054] Figure 4b shows the union nut according to Figure 4a in detail.

[0055] The second extension F2 is arranged on the upper end face of the union nut 80 and has at least three stepped spring segments 140 distributed around its circumference. These segments 140 are directed inwards and designed to form a spring. The segments 140 together form the clamping element 130. The surfaces and the circular edge region of the stepped segments 140 have a helical structure.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the segments 140 are arc-shaped and each has two opposing legs. This allows for a greater spring travel, making the spring force more adjustable. The spring force is defined by the leg width, leg length, and spiral shape.

[0057] The placement of the second extension F2 on the upper face of the union nut 80 allows for optimal use of the available space to generate a clamping force. The uniform arrangement of the stepped segments 140 around the circumference achieves a symmetrical spring effect, resulting in an even distribution of forces. When the connector 100 is joined to the mating connector 200, the elastic deformation of the segments 140 ensures a constant contact force that compresses the sealing element 90. This contact force increases the tightness and durability of the connection by preventing the ingress of moisture and dirt and improving the mechanical stability of the connection, particularly its vibration resistance.

[0058] The lower view shows the union nut 80 of the connector 100 in a rear view.

[0059] The connector according to the invention is compatible with all standardized connector codings of the M12 and M8 types. In particular, the connector can be used in field devices of automation technology, especially in distributors, Y-distributors, and connectors.

[0060] The invention is not limited to the M12 design. The invention is also transferable to the M8 design. Reference numerals

[0061] 20 connection cables

[0062] 30 handle bodies

[0063] 50 contact carriers

[0064] 52 collars

[0065] 60 stops

[0066] 80 Union nuts

[0067] 90 Sealing element

[0068] 100 electrical connectors, 120 locking elements

[0069] 122 Rastnase

[0070] 130 clamping elements

[0071] 140 spring segment

[0072] 200 mating connectors, 210 mating threads

[0073] 220 thread section

[0074] A union nut axle

[0075] F1 first extension

[0076] F2 second process

[0077] A1-A3 first locking segment B1-B3 second locking segment C1-C3 third locking segment D1-D4 fourth locking segment

Claims

Patent claims 1. Electrical connector (100) for connection with a mating connector (200), with a handle body (30) that encloses a connecting cable (20), with a contact carrier (50) which has an elastic sealing element (90) in the joining area between connector (100) and mating connector (200), with a union nut (80) which is rotatably and axially displaceably arranged on the contact carrier (50), wherein the union nut (80) of the connector (100) can be fitted onto a mating thread (210) of the mating connector (200) and projections (F1, F2) are formed on the end faces of the union nut (80) which point inwards in the direction of the central axis (A) of the union nut (80), wherein the first extension (F1) is designed as a locking element (120) and the second extension (F2) as a clamping element (130) to create a quick connection between the connector (100) and the mating connector (200) without screwing.

2. Electrical connector (100) according to claim 1 , wherein the first extension (F1) has an inwardly shaped locking geometry which engages in a threaded section (220) of the mating thread (210) of the mating connector (200) when connecting the connector (100) to the mating connector (200), and The second extension (F2) is elastically deformed when connecting the connector (100) with the mating connector (200), whereby a resulting counterforce acts on the mating connector (200) via the locking geometry in such a way that the sealing element (90) is compressed and the joining area is sealed.

3. Electrical connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first extension (F1) is arranged at a lower end and the second extension (F2) is arranged at an upper end of the cap nut (4).

4. Electrical connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the detent geometry has at least three detent lugs (122) distributed around the circumference, which are directed inwards to form a thread, wherein the surfaces and the inwardly directed edge region of the detent lugs (122) are inclined according to the thread pitch of the mating thread (210) and have a helical structure, so that the detent lugs (122) form a linear friction surface with the mating thread (210) during the detent process.

5. Electrical connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein three locking lugs (122) distributed uniformly around the circumference form a respective locking lug segment (A1-A3, B1-B3, C1-C3) which forms a thread.

6. Electrical connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking lugs (122) are uniformly distributed around the circumference so that they form a row, and with three thread turns a first locking segment (A1-A3) is formed from the first, fourth and seventh locking lugs (122), a second locking segment (B1-B3) is formed from the second, fifth and eighth locking lugs (122), a third locking segment (C1-C3) is formed from the third, sixth and ninth locking lugs (122), and each locking segment (A1-A3, B1-B3, C1-C3) forms one thread turn, so that the locking lugs (122) form a thread geometry which allows simple connection by inserting a mating connector (200).

7. Electrical connector (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second extension (F2) is arranged on the upper end face of the cap nut (4) and has at least three stepped spring segments (140) distributed around the circumference, which are directed inwards to form a spring, wherein the surfaces and the circular edge region of the surfaces have a helical structure.

8. Electronic field device for automation technology, characterized in that at least one connector (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7 is provided for an electrical connection.

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