Automatic electrical connection with IP protection in unconnected state

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a system (100) for unmasking a mating face of a first industrial connector (1) when mating with a second industrial connector (1), both connectors having a protecting unit (10) for protecting the mating face in an unmated state and unmasking it in a mated state, wherein the mating face has at least one electrical contact (7). The protecting unit (10) includes a protective cover (2) movable between mated and unmated positions, an actuation and centering unit (41, 42) protruding in a mating direction (A), and a spring-assisted mechanism (M) designed to hold the protective cover (2) on the mating face by spring force (F) in the unmated state and enable opening and closing when subjected to an actuating force.

Description

[0001] Automatic electrical connection with IP protection in unconnected state FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a system comprising industrial connectors designed to protect and align mating faces during connection, ensuring reliable electrical contact and operational efficiency.

[0003] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] In various industrial applications, connectors are used to establish electrical connections between devices. A common issue with existing connectors is the exposure of mating faces to environmental elements such as dust and moisture when not engaged, which can lead to corrosion and compromised connections. Traditional connectors often require manual intervention to ensure alignment and protection, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors.

[0005] PRIOR ART

[0006] Existing solutions, such as connectors with manually operated protective covers, are limited as they do not provide automatic protection and alignment. These systems rely heavily on user handling, increasing the likelihood of misalignment or incomplete sealing, which can lead to unreliable connections and increased maintenance costs. Prior art solutions involve electrical connectors with pivotable flaps that provide environmental protection. These connectors are designed to withstand harsh conditions but primarily focus on protection in the connected state. A notable drawback is that the flaps may require manual operation or additional components to ensure they open during coupling, which can complicate the design and increase maintenance needs.

[0007] In some existing systems, attempts have been made to automate the protection and alignment processes using electrical or pneumatic actuators. These systems allow the protective covers to open and close automatically, reducing the need for manual intervention. However, they tend to be complex and expensive, requiring intricate mechanisms that are difficult to maintain and prone to failure. Moreover, theseautomated systems may not provide the desired level of precision in alignment, leading to suboptimal connections that compromise the system's performance.

[0008] Another challenge with existing connectors is ensuring precise alignment during coupling. Known systems often utilize complex centering mechanisms that extend the overall length required for coupling, thereby reducing efficiency.

[0009] The problem addressed by the present invention is the need for a connector device that ensures automatic opening of protective covers with minimal insertion while maintaining contact protection in an uncoupled state and facilitating efficient coupling through simplified centering mechanisms.

[0010] TASK

[0011] Starting from this prior art and in view of the disadvantages associated there, it is therefore the task of the present invention to at least partially avoid these disadvantages and, especially, to provide a coupling device for industrial connectors that automatically opens protective covers with minimal insertion, ensuring efficient coupling while maintaining protection of the contacts in an unmated (uncoupled) state. This device aims to simplify the centering mechanism, reducing the overall length required for coupling and enhancing reliability by minimizing wear and maintenance. Furthermore, no external control units and / or external power supply and / or pressed air and / or hydraulic oil should be required.

[0012] This is achieved by a system, an industrial connector, a protection unit as well as a manufacturing method according to the independent claims. Further developments are given in the dependent claims.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] According to the invention, a system comprising a first and a second industrial connector, both industrial connectors having a protecting unit for protecting a mating face of the industrial connector in an unmated state as well as for unmasking the mating face of the industrial connector in a mated state, wherein each mating face has at least one electrical contact, each protecting unit comprises a protective cover that is movable between a position referring to the mated state and a position referring to the unmated state; each protecting unit comprises an actuation andcentering unit, with both the actuation unit and the centering unit protruding in a respective mating direction; each protecting unit comprises a spring-assisted mechanism designed to hold the protective cover on the mating face of the industrial connector by spring force in the unmated state, to protect the at least one contact of the industrial connector, and to enable opening and closing of the protective cover when the actuation and centering unit is subjected to an actuating force, wherein the system is designed such that, when the first and the second industrial connectors are moved towards each other in the mating direction, the actuating force acts between the actuation unit of the first industrial connector and the centering unit of the second industrial connector and vice versa. Instead of or in addition to having at least one electrical contact in the mating face, the mating face may have other or further contacts typical of industrial connectors, such as pneumatic, fibre optic, network and / or other types of contacts for establishing a connection.

[0015] The technical advantage of this embodiment lies in providing robust protection for the connectors' mating faces when disconnected, preventing environmental damage such as dust and moisture ingress. The automatic alignment feature reduces manual handling errors, ensuring a secure and reliable connection every time, which is crucial for maintaining high performance in industrial environments.

[0016] A further technical advantage of this system is that it ensures efficient and reliable mating while maintaining protection of the contacts in an unmated state.

[0017] Furthermore, Ingress Protection (IP-Protection) for the connectors in the unmated state is ensured.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the invention, the system comprises two compatible industrial connectors, wherein each industrial connector is configured to mate with another compatible industrial connector. This symmetrical design ensures that both connectors have the same construction, with the actuation unit of one connector engaging the centering unit of the other connector and vice versa. The technical advantage of this embodiment is that it eliminates the need for different connector types or connector-adapter pairings, simplifying inventory management and reducing manufacturing complexity. Compatible can mean that the connectors are identical or nearly identical in form, fit and function.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the actuation and centering unit is integrated with the protective cover such that the actuation unit and the centering unit move together with the protective cover during the mating process. The technical advantage of this embodiment is that the centering function and the cover actuation function are combined into a single mechanism, reducing the number of components and simplifying the overall design.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the invention, the system is configured such that the protective covers of both industrial connectors open simultaneously when the industrial connectors are moved towards each other in the mating direction. The technical advantage of this embodiment is that both mating faces are unmasked at the same time, ensuring synchronised protection and exposure of the electrical contacts.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the spring-assisted mechanism provides a single continuous force that both holds the protective cover in the closed position in the unmated state and enables the opening movement when the actuating force is applied. The technical advantage of this embodiment is that no separate latching mechanism is required to hold the protective cover in the closed position, thereby reducing complexity and potential points of failure.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a spring-assisted mechanism of the protecting unit that includes an actuation surface on the protective cover, a guide surface on the protective cover, a linear guide for guiding in the mating direction, a pivot joint to enable a rotational movement of the protective covers, a stop to block the rotational movement of the protective cover in a fully open position, wherein the actuation surface and guide surface of the protective cover are configured to act as a guiding area of a cam guide.

[0022] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a spring-assisted mechanism of the protecting unit that includes an actuation surface on the protective cover, a guide surface on the protective cover, a linear guide for guiding in the mating direction, a pivot joint to enable a rotational movement of the protective covers, wherein the actuation surface and guide surface of the protective cover are configured to act as a guiding area of a cam guide.The technical advantage of the above mentioned embodiments is that it ensures smooth and controlled movement of the protective cover during the mating process. The integration of a cam guide mechanism facilitates precise movement, reducing wear and tear on components and enhancing the durability of the system. This precision also minimizes the risk of mechanical failure, thereby extending the operational lifespan of the connectors. Furthermore, according to the above mentioned embodiments, no external control units and / or external power supply and / or pressed air and / or hydraulic oil is required.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cam guide mechanism formed by the actuation surface and guide surface on the protective cover cooperates with the pin fixed to the housing to convert the linear actuating force into a combined rotational and translational movement of the protective cover. The technical advantage of this embodiment is that the protective cover moves smoothly out of the mating path whilst remaining connected to the connector, without requiring separate actuation components such as lever arms or activating pins. In addition, the advantage of the combined movement is the resulting reduction in the opening travel / angle and the ability to open the protective covers in the direction that is preferred for sealing.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a protecting unit that is either integrally molded with a housing of the respective industrial connector, or not integrally molded with the housing of the respective industrial connector, wherein, whether or not integrally molded, the housing has a pin for being a counterpart for the guiding area of the cam guide. The technical advantage of this embodiment is the flexibility in manufacturing and assembly, allowing for customization to specific application needs. By offering both integrally molded and separate options, the design can be adapted to various industrial standards and requirements, facilitating easier integration and maintenance.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the protecting unit or the housing of the system comprise a fine centering pin protruding in the mating direction, and a fine centering opening, wherein the system is designed that, when the first and the second industrial connectors are moved towards each other in themating direction, the fine centering pin of the first industrial connector enters the fine centering opening of the second industrial connector and vice versa.

[0026] The technical advantage of this embodiment is a significantly improved centering performance.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a spring-assisted mechanism constructed such that the protective cover is pressed into the unmated position when no mating process takes place; and / or the respective pivot joint enables a rotational movement of the respective protective cover, allowing it to open and close automatically with minimal insertion.

[0028] The technical advantage of this embodiment is the automation of the protective cover, which significantly reduces the need for manual intervention. This automation enhances operational efficiency and reduces the potential for human error, thereby ensuring that the connectors are consistently protected and aligned, ultimately improving the reliability and safety of the electrical connection.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system defines that the actuation unit of the first industrial connector and the centering unit of the second industrial connector as well as the actuation unit of the second industrial connector and the centering unit of the first industrial connector having a conical shape fitting into each other, thereby ensuring precise centering of the industrial connectors during the mating process.

[0030] The technical advantage of this embodiment is the enhanced precision in alignment provided by the conical shapes, which guide the connectors into perfect alignment during mating. This precision minimizes the risk of misalignment, which can cause poor electrical contact or mechanical stress, thereby ensuring stable and efficient connections critical for industrial applications.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system comprises industrial connectors designed to allow mechanical locking between each other in the coupled state.The technical advantage of this embodiment is the increased security and stability of the connection once engaged, preventing accidental disconnection. This mechanical locking feature is vital for applications where vibrations or dynamic forces are present, ensuring that the connection remains intact under various operational conditions.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a spring-assisted mechanism that includes an adjustable spring force that can be adapted to different operating conditions.

[0033] The technical advantage of this embodiment is the adaptability to various environmental conditions, allowing the system to maintain consistent performance across different applications. The adjustable spring force caters to different stress levels, ensuring that the protective mechanisms remain effective and reliable, regardless of the specific operational demands.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system defines that the actuation unit and the centering unit both having the same extension in the mating direction, thereby minimizing the plug path and the total extension of the industrial connector in the mating direction.

[0035] The technical advantage of this embodiment is the compact design, which reduces space requirements and facilitates easier installation in confined spaces. This compactness enhances the system's versatility, making it suitable for a broader range of industrial applications where space is at a premium.

[0036] Moreover, the embodiment ensures that the protective covers open with minimal insertion when enabling the connectors to be mated.

[0037] The expression "with minimal insertion" refers to the design feature of the system and / or the industrial connectors and / or the protection unit that allows the protective covers to open with a very short or reduced insertion path of the industrial connectors. This means that the industrial connectors can engage with each other efficiently and quickly, requiring less physical movement to transition from a unmated / protected state to a mated / coupled state. This feature minimizes wear on components and enhances the speed and reliability of the coupling process.Moreover, by minimizing the insertion path required to open the protective covers, the device reduces wear and tear, enhancing the longevity and maintenance efficiency of the connectors. The integration of actuation and centering units further streamlines the coupling process, ensuring precise alignment and engagement, which is critical for maintaining stable and continuous electrical connections.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, an industrial connector for use in a system according to the above mentioned system is separately disclosed, standing alone, with any of the above mentioned features or a technically reasonable selection of these.

[0039] The industrial connector preferably comprising a protecting unit for protecting a mating face of the industrial connector in an unmated state as well as for unmasking the mating face in a mated state, wherein the mating face has at least one electrical contact, wherein the protecting unit comprises a protective cover that is movable between a position referring to the mated state and a position referring to the unmated state, wherein the protecting unit comprises an actuation and centering unit, with both the actuation unit and the centering unit protruding in a respective mating direction, and wherein the protecting unit comprises a spring-assisted mechanism designed to hold the protective cover on the mating face by spring force in the unmated state and to enable opening and closing of the protective cover when the actuation and centering unit is subjected to an actuating force.

[0040] Instead of or in addition to having at least one electrical contact in the mating face, the mating face may have other or further contacts typical of industrial connectors, such as pneumatic, fibre optic, network and / or other types of contacts for establishing a connection.

[0041] The technical advantage of this embodiment is the versatility of the connector, allowing it to be used in a wide range of systems and applications. This adaptability ensures that the connector can be integrated into existing systems with minimal modification, providing a cost-effective solution for upgrading industrial connections. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a protecting unit for use in an above mentioned system or in an above mentioned industrial connector is separately disclosed, standing alone, with any of the above mentioned features or a technicallyreasonable selection of these.

[0042] The protecting unit preferably comprising a protective cover that is movable between a position referring to a mated state and a position referring to an unmated state, an actuation and centering unit, with both the actuation unit and the centering unit protruding in a respective mating direction, and a spring-assisted mechanism designed to hold the protective cover by spring force in the unmated state and to enable opening and closing of the protective cover when the actuation and centering unit is subjected to an actuating force.

[0043] The technical advantage of this embodiment is the standalone functionality of the protecting unit, enabling it to be integrated into existing systems without extensive modifications. This feature allows for easy retrofitting of existing systems, improving their protection and alignment capabilities without significant investment.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a protecting unit is configured to accommodate a housing.

[0045] The technical advantage of this embodiment is the seamless integration with the housing, enhancing structural stability and protection. This integration ensures that the protecting unit fits securely and operates efficiently within the connector system, providing robust environmental shielding and mechanical support.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the invention, the protective cover is configured to protect the entire mating face in the unmated state. The technical advantage of this embodiment is that complete ingress protection is provided, for example for the at least one electrical contact, preventing contamination from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a spring-assisted mechanism for use in an above mentioned system or in an above mentioned industrial connector or in an above mentioned protecting unit is separately disclosed, standing alone, with any of the above mentioned features or a technically reasonable selection of these. The spring-assisted mechanism preferably comprising an actuation surface configured to be provided on a protective cover, a guide surface configured to be provided on the protective cover, a linear guide for guiding in a mating direction, apivot joint to enable a rotational movement of the protective cover, wherein the actuation surface and guide surface are configured to act as a guiding area of a cam guide.

[0048] The technical advantage of this embodiment is the improved mechanism design that enhances ease of use and reliability in various configurations. The spring-assisted mechanism provides consistent performance, reducing wear on components and ensuring long-term durability and effectiveness across multiple applications.

[0049] The present invention relates to a system composed of several components, which are functional both in combination and in isolation.

[0050] The industrial connector is preferably a standalone module within the system, designed to enable reliable electrical connections. The industrial connector can be used independently of the entire system to function autonomously in various industrial applications.

[0051] The protecting unit is preferably integrated into the industrial connector but can also act as an independent component. It provides protection for the electrical contacts and can be incorporated into other systems requiring similar protection without necessitating the entire industrial connector.

[0052] The spring-assisted mechanism is a versatile element preferably integrated into the system, the industrial connector, and / or the protecting unit. Its functionality extends to applications requiring spring-assisted mechanics. It also can be used in isolation to support movements or regulate forces, independent of the other components.

[0053] This modular design ensures that each component of the invention can be employed both in conjunction and as an individual element, allowing for flexible adaptation to various technical requirements. Therefore, the application also discloses the above mentioned elements in isolated form.

[0054] The Figures depict:

[0055] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the system 100, illustrating one of the industrial connectors 1, with its connector housing 5, linear guide 3, actuation unit 41 and centering unit 42.Figure 2 shows a detailed view of industrial connector 1 , in an almost closed (unmated) position. The spring force F is indicated.

[0056] Figure 3 shows a detailed view of industrial connector 1 , in the same position as in Fig. 2. The mating direction A is indicated.

[0057] Figure 4 shows the movement of the protective cover 2 around the pivot joint 6 due to the pin 51 and actuation surface 21 , while guided along the linear guide 3.

[0058] Figure 5 shows the stop 43 that prevents over-opening around the pivot joint 6 of the protective cover 2.

[0059] Figure 6 shows a further embodiment of the industrial connector 1 with a fine centering unit comprising a fine centering pin 61 and a fine centering opening 62.

[0060] Fig. 1 illustrates one of the industrial connectors 1 of a system 100 for mating and unmating a mating face of a connector 1. The system 100 consists of two of said industrial connectors 1 (merely one shown here), wherein the actuation unit 41 of the first industrial connector 1 faces and touches the centering unit 42 of the second industrial connectors 1 , wherein the actuation unit 41 of the second industrial connector 1 faces and touches the centering unit 42 of the first industrial connector 1.

[0061] The industrial connector 1 includes a connector housing 5 designed to hold the linear guide 3 as well as the pin 51 (not shown here). Both are fixed to the housing 5. The pin 51 can preferably but optionally be integral with the housing 5.

[0062] The pivot joint 6 can move along the linear guide 3 (along the left-right direction of the view in Fig. 1 ), wherein the protective cover 2 is pivotally fixed to the pivot joint 6 in order to open and close the protective cover 2 with respect to the industrial connector 1. When a force is acting on the actuation unit 41 and or the centering unit 42 from the right to the left (according to the view in Fig. 1 ), both the actuation unit 41 and the centering unit 42 are moved to the left, along the linear guide 3. Furthermore, by that movement, the protective cover 2 is pivotally opened and moved to the left as well, as will be explained in the next figures.The linear guide 3 provides precise movement control for the components, ensuring alignment during the mating process (coupling process). The protective cover 2 serves to protect the internal components, especially the contacts 7 (covered by the protective cover 2 so cannot be seen in Fig. 1) on the mating face when the industrial connector 1 is in an unmated state (closed).

[0063] Fig. 2 provides a closer view of the system 100. The protective cover 2 is shown in an almost closed (unmated) position. The spring force F is acting on the pivot joint 6 along the linear guide 3, from the right to the left (according to Fig. 2) so that the protective cover 2, that is pivotally fixed to the pivot joint 6, is forced to the left as well. However, with the surface of the protective cover 2, especially with the surface of its actuation surface 21 and its guide surface 23, the protective cover 2 is in contact with the pin 51 that is fixed to the connector housing 5 or is an integrally molded part of it.

[0064] Furthermore, the pivot joint 6 with the protective cover 2 is movable relatively to the housing 5, along the left-right-direction of Fig. 2 (parallel to the mating direction as well as to the spring force acting direction F).

[0065] When the pivot joint 6 with the protective cover 2 is moving relatively to the housing 5 (along the left-right-direction of Fig. 2), the actuation surface 21 and guide surface 23 of the protective cover 2 are in surface contact (respectively meshing contact) with the pin 51 that is fixed to the connector housing 5 or an integrally molded part of it. Thereby, the protective cover 2 is forced to move relatively to the connector housing 5 via the following movements:

[0066] A) Rotational or pivotal movement around the pivot joint 6

[0067] B) Translational movement along the left-right-direction of Fig. 2 (parallel to the plug / mating direction as well as the spring force acting direction F)

[0068] Both movements take place simultaneously and are superimposed.

[0069] In a completely closed (unmated) position, the actuation surface 21 and guide surface 23 interact with the pin 51 to maintain the cover's 2 position, preventing unwanted opening.Fig. 3 shows the same view as Fig. 2, wherein the mating direction (plug direction) A is indicated. In this direction (which is parallel to the force acting direction F as shown in Fig. 2) both industrial connectors 1 of the system 100 are moving against each other, coming into contact, to be connected and mated.

[0070] Fig. 4 illustrates how the protective cover 2 moves as guided by the pin 51 and the actuation surface 21 and guide surface 23. This movement is crucial for ensuring that the cover 2 opens and closes smoothly, reducing mechanical stress and wear on the components.

[0071] Furthermore, the contacts 7, that were covered in the foregoing figures, emerge. Fig. 5 demonstrates the role of the stop 43 in preventing the over-opening of the protective cover 2. This feature ensures that the cover 2 remains in a defined fully opened position, providing stability and preventing damage to the cover 2 or other components during operation.

[0072] The stop 43 does not perform the movement A (rotating) as defined with regard to Fig. 2, but does perform the movement B (translating). Thus, the protective cover 2 is relatively movable against the stop 43. The shapes of the protective cover 2 as well as the protective cover 2 are configured in a way that they are coming in contact when the cover 2 comes to its fully opened position. Both (protective cover 2 and stop 43) thus block any further rotational movement in relation to each other.

[0073] Fig. 6 shows a further embodiment of an industrial connector 1 of a system 100 with an improved centering performance. The connector 1 comprises a fine centering unit with a fine centering pin 61 and a fine centering opening 62. The remaining features of this embodiment correspond to those of the other embodiment as illustrated and described with reference to Figs. 1 to 5.

[0074] The fine centering pin 61 protrudes parallelly and into the same direction (mating direction) as the actuation unit 41 and is configured to be inserted into a fine centering opening 62 of another corresponding connector 1 during the mating process (coupling process).Analogous to this, the fine centering opening 62 is configured to be entered by a fine centering pin 61 of another corresponding connector 1 during the mating process (coupling process). Furthermore, the fine centering opening 62 is configured to accommodate said fine centering pin 61.Reference Numbers

[0075] 100 System

[0076] 10 Protecting unit

[0077] 1 Industrial Connector

[0078] 2 Protective cover

[0079] M Spring-assisted mechanism

[0080] 3 Linear guide

[0081] 6 Pivot joint

[0082] 21 Actuation surface (of the protective cover 2) 23 Guide surface (of the protective cover 2) 43 Stop

[0083] 51 Pin

[0084] 5 Housing

[0085] 7 Electrical contacts I mating face

[0086] 41 Actuation unit

[0087] 42 Centering unit

[0088] F Spring force

[0089] A Mating direction

[0090] 61 Fine centering pin

[0091] 62 Fine centering opening

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system (100) for unmasking a mating face of a first industrial connector (1 ) when mating with a mating second industrial connector (1), both industrial connectors (1) having- a protecting unit (10) for protecting the mating face of the industrial connector (1 ) in an unmated state as well as for unmasking the mating face of the industrial connector (1) in a mated state, wherein the mating face has at least one electrical contact (7); wherein- the protecting unit (10) comprises a protective cover (2) that is movable between a position referring to the mated state and a position referring to the unmated state; wherein- the protecting unit (10) comprises an actuation and centering unit (41 , 42), with both the actuation unit (41) and the centering unit (42) protruding in a respective mating direction (A); wherein- the protecting unit (10) comprises a spring-assisted mechanism (M) designed to hold the protective cover (2) on the mating face of the industrial connector (1 ) by spring force (F) in the unmated state, to protect the at least one contact (7) of the industrial connector (1 ), and to enable opening and closing of the protective cover (2) when the actuation and centering unit (41 , 42) is subjected to an actuating force; wherein- the system (100) is designed that, when the first and the second industrial connectors (1) are moved towards each other in the mating direction (A), the actuating force acts between the actuation unit (41 ) of the first industrial connector (1 ) and the centering unit (42) of the second industrial connector (1 ) and vice versa.

2. System (100) according to claim 1 , wherein the spring-assisted mechanism (M) of the protecting unit (10) comprises:an actuation surface (21) on the protective cover (2),a guide surface (23) on the protective cover (2),- a linear guide (3) for guiding in the mating direction,- a pivot joint (6) to enable a rotational movement of the protective cover (2), - a stop (43) to block the rotational movement of the protective cover (2) in a fully open position, wherein- the actuation surface (21 ) and guide surface (23) of the protective cover (2) are configured to act as a guiding area of a cam guide.

3. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the protecting unit (10) is eitherintegrally molded with a housing (5) of the respective industrial connector (1), ornot integrally molded with the housing (5) of the respective industrial connector (1),wherein, whether or not integrally molded, the housing (5) has a pin (51) for being a counterpart for the guiding area of the cam guide.

4. System (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein eitherthe protecting unit (10) or the housing (5) comprisea fine centering pin (61) protruding in the mating direction (A), and a fine centering opening (62),wherein the system (100) is designed that, when the first and the second industrial connectors (1) are moved towards each other in the mating direction (A), the fine centering pin (61 ) of the first industrial connector (1 ) enters the fine centering opening (62) of the second industrial connector (1 ) and vice versa.

5. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the spring- assisted mechanism (M) is constructed such that:- the protective cover (2) is pressed into the unmated position when no mating process takes place; and / or- the respective pivot joint (6) enables a rotational movement of the respective protective cover (2), allowing it to open and close automatically with minimal insertion.

6. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation unit (41 ) of the first industrial connector (1 ) and the centering unit (42) of the second industrial connector (1 ) as well as the actuation unit (41 ) of the second industrial connector (1 ) and the centering unit (42) of the first industrial connector (1) having a conical shape fitting into each other, thereby ensuring precise centering of the industrial connectors (1) during the mating process.

7. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the industrial connectors (1) are designed to allow mechanical locking between each other in the mated state.

8. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the spring- assisted mechanism (M) includes an adjustable spring force (F) that can be adapted to different operating conditions.

9. System (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation unit (41) and the centering unit (42) both having the same extension in the mating direction (A).

10. Industrial connector (1) for use in a system (100) according to any of the preceding claims.

11. Protecting unit (10) for use in a system (100) according to any of claims 1 to 9 or in an industrial connector (1) according to claim 10.

12. Protecting unit (10) according to claim 11 , wherein the protecting unit (10) is configured to accommodate a housing (5).

13. Spring-assisted mechanism (M) for use in a system (100) according to any of claims 1 to 9, or in an industrial connector (1) according to claim 10, or in a protecting unit (10) according to claim 11 or 12.

14. Method of manufacturing a system (100) according to any of claims 1 to 9, an industrial connector (1) according to claim 10, a protecting unit (10) according to any of claims 11 or 12, or a spring-assisted mechanism (M), according to claim 13, comprising assembling the components thereof.

Images