DE102019133033A1 - Electromechanical contact spring structure for a terminal or a terminal - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an electromechanical contact spring structure (10) for a terminal or a terminal, in particular for a high-vibration terminal and / or for a miniature terminal, or a high-vibration terminal and / or a miniature terminal; comprising a mechanical contact body (100) extending in a longitudinal direction (Lr) of the contact spring structure (10) with an electromechanical contact spring device (200) into which a counter terminal section of a counter terminal can be inserted; wherein the contact spring device (200) comprises exactly or at least two electromechanical contact springs (220, 240); and the contact springs (220, 240) are designed as a counter terminal holder (220 & 240) for the counter terminal section (500), which are spring-damped in the contact spring structure (10) in the vertical direction (Hr) and / or transverse direction (Qr) of the contact spring structure (10). is set up.

Description

The invention relates to an electromechanical contact spring structure for a terminal or a terminal, in particular for a high-vibration terminal and / or for a miniature terminal, or a high-vibration terminal and / or a miniature terminal. The invention further relates to such an electrical terminal for an electrical connector, in particular a high-vibration connector and / or a miniature connector, as well as such an electrical connector, preferably for the vehicle sector. The invention also relates to an electrical entity, preferably for the vehicle sector.

In the electrical field (electronics, electrical engineering, electrics, electrical power engineering, etc.) there are a large number of electrical connector devices or connector devices, socket, pin and / or hybrid connectors, etc. - hereinafter referred to as (electrical) connectors (also: mating connectors) referred to - known, which serve to transmit electrical currents, voltages, signals and / or data with a large bandwidth of currents, voltages, frequencies and / or data rates. In the low, medium or high voltage and / or current range, and in particular in the vehicle sector, such connectors must be permanently, repeatedly and / or after a period of time in mechanically stressed, warm, possibly hot, contaminated, humid and / or chemically aggressive environments ensure a short-term transfer of electrical power, signals and / or data for a comparatively long period of inactivity. Because of a wide range of applications, a large number of specially designed connectors are known.

Such a connector and possibly its associated (e.g. in the case of a connector device or a connector device) or higher-level (e.g. in the case of a connector device) housing can be attached to an electrical line, a cable, a cable harness, etc. (electrical) cable referred to -, or on / in an electrical device or device, such as. B. on / in a housing, on / on a lead frame, on / on a printed circuit board, etc., a (power) electrical, electro-optical or electronic component or a corresponding aggregation, etc. (electrical entity).

If there is a connector (with / without housing) on a cable, a line or a cable harness, one speaks of a flying (plug) connector or a plug, a socket or a coupling; If it is located on / in an electrical, electro-optical or electronic component, aggregation, etc., one also speaks of a (connector device, such as a (built-in / add-on) connector, a (built-in / add-on) ) Plug or a (built-in / add-on) socket. Furthermore, a connector on such a device is often also referred to as a (plug) receptacle, pin tray, pin strip or header. - In the context of electrical power engineering (generation, conversion, storage, Transport and forwarding of electrical high-voltage current in electrical networks, preferably with three-phase high-voltage transmission), because of their comparatively complex structure, one speaks here of cable fittings.

Such a connector must guarantee a perfect transmission of electricity, whereby corresponding and partially complementary connectors (connector and mating connector) mostly locking devices and / or fastening devices for permanent but usually releasable locking and / or fastening of the connector on / in the mating connector or vice versa exhibit. - Furthermore, an electrical connection device for a connector, e.g. B. having or comprising an actual contact device (terminal; mostly materially formed in one piece or integrally, e.g. a contact element etc.) or a contact device (terminal; mostly in several parts, in two parts, in one piece, materially in one piece or integrally formed, e.g. a one-part or multi-part (crimp) contact device), be safely received in this. In the case of a (pre) assembled electrical cable, such a connecting device can be used as a connector (see above), that is to say without a housing, e.g. B. flying, be provided.

The DE 10 2016 102 036 A1 discloses an integral electrical connector device for electrically connecting at least one electrical conductor and / or at least one electrical pin contact device. The plug connection device has a frame-like end section at each of its two longitudinal ends and, in between, a spring section that connects the two end sections together electromechanically. The frame-like end sections limit a plug-in area of the connector device in its longitudinal directions. The spring section has an inwardly curved center section which extends laterally and continuously in the longitudinal direction into and out of the plug-in area.

With high-vibration terminals, a high normal contact force is an important factor in compensating for micro-movements and wear. B. in vibration tests (SG6) can be determined. The provision of sufficiently high normal contact forces for all tolerances (min./max.) Of the terminal's contact springs pose particular challenges for electrical high-vibration terminals according to the state of the art. High contact normal forces serve one Avoidance of relative movements and an avoidance of the terminals rolling in a common contact zone.

In the prior art, the high normal contact forces together with the tolerances that occur in continuous use with possibly longer periods of inactivity of the terminals, in combination with high temperatures, can lead to a comparatively high setting behavior and a comparatively high relaxation within the terminals. Over time, this can result in an electrical and possibly mechanical decoupling of a plug connection from the terminal and a counter terminal (vertical direction and transverse direction) and / or an electrical and possibly mechanical decoupling of the plug connection (longitudinal direction).

Particular challenges with electrical miniature terminals according to the prior art are an available / possible small or smallest size of a contact body, in particular a socket contact body, of the terminals. Furthermore, only a small amount of space available in the contact chambers of the terminals, only thin material thicknesses of the terminals and no mechanical decoupling are problematic in the case of a conventional one-piece or integral design.

Efforts are constantly being made to improve electrical connectors and their terminals, in particular to design them more effectively and to design and / or manufacture them more cost-effectively. It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an improved electrical high-vibration miniature contact device and an improved electrical high-vibration connector, preferably for the vehicle sector. In particular, the high-vibration miniature contact device and the high-vibration connector should be able to be manufactured inexpensively and be of simple construction and / or easy to handle.

The object of the invention is by means of an electromechanical contact spring structure for a terminal or a terminal, in particular for a high-vibration terminal and / or for a miniature terminal, or a high-vibration terminal and / or a miniature terminal; by means of such an electrical terminal for an electrical connector, in particular a high-vibration connector and / or a miniature connector, preferably for the vehicle sector; and solved by means of an electrical entity, preferably for the vehicle sector. Advantageous developments, additional features and / or advantages of the invention emerge from the dependent claims and the following description.

The electromechanical contact spring structure according to the invention comprises a mechanical contact body extending in a longitudinal direction with an electromechanical contact spring device into which a counter terminal section of a counter terminal can be inserted; wherein the contact spring device comprises exactly or at least two electromechanical contact springs; and the contact springs are designed as a counter terminal holder for the counter terminal section, which are set up in the contact spring structure in a spring-damped manner in the vertical direction and / or transverse direction of the contact spring structure.

The contact spring structure is preferably designed as a socket and thus a relevant terminal as a socket terminal, and the counter-terminal section as a pin, pin or tab and thus the relevant counter-terminal as a pin terminal, a pin terminal or a tab terminal. The transverse direction is perpendicular to the vertical direction, the transverse direction and the vertical direction jointly spanning a plane in which, on the one hand, a cross section of the contact spring structure or the counter terminal section lies and which, on the other hand, is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the contact spring structure. Unless otherwise stated, direction should always mean an extension or a course in both degrees of freedom of direction.

A single contact spring, which can also be referred to as a decoupling contact spring of the contact spring structure, can be designed in the longitudinal direction as a contact spring connected on one side or as a two-sided (contact spring designed as a contact lamella). The contact spring device as a counter-terminal holder can also be designed as a counter-terminal mounting, counter-terminal suspension, counter-terminal guide, counter-terminal mount or counter-terminal linear guide.

According to the invention, electromechanical contacting problems in a terminal can be countered by means of the contact spring structure according to the invention. The contact spring structure or the contact spring device according to the invention acts with its contact springs in a mating terminal section inserted into the contact spring structure in such a way that in a comparison with the prior art (cf. 12th ) only small normal contact forces are necessary for adequate function of the contact spring structure, since according to the invention no longer against a z. B. vibrating fixed stop must be acted.

According to the invention, a contact spring structure for terminals is provided which is suitable for high vibration applications and / or miniature applications. - The term " Hochvibrations -... ”is intended to indicate that the contact spring structure according to the invention can be used in environments subject to high vibration or, according to the invention, can be designed precisely for this. Of course, the contact spring structure according to the invention can also be used in environments that are not subject to high vibration.

Similarly, the term “miniature ...” is intended to indicate that the contact spring structure according to the invention is used in small or very small surroundings (a single cross-sectional diameter or a single cross-sectional dimension of a male terminal can be between 0.2 mm and 1.5 mm, for example (e.g. tab terminals with cross-sectional dimensions of 0.5mm x 0.4mm), e.g. for Pico / Nano MQS, MCON 0.50, HFP 1 etc.) can be used or can be designed precisely for this according to the invention. Of course, the contact spring structure according to the invention can also be used in non-miniaturized environments.

The contact springs can be set up offset from one another, adjacent to one another and / or opposite one another in the contact spring structure. Here, the contact springs can, for. B .: on / in a single side / circumferential section of the contact spring structure offset from one another, on / in two directly adjacent sides / circumferential sections of the contact spring structure and / or on / in diametrically opposite sides / circumferential sections of the contact spring structure.

Furthermore, the contact springs can be set up in the contact body in a manner that is essentially opposite to one another in the longitudinal direction. Contact springs which are essentially directed opposite one another in the longitudinal direction are to be understood as contact springs which extend towards one another and / or, viewed in the transverse direction and / or vertical direction, at least overlap one another. In the second case, the contact springs can essentially be congruent (cf. 5 ) be set up in the contact spring structure, or one contact spring can essentially completely cover the other contact spring in the contact spring structure (cf. 15th ). In particular, an electromechanical contact point of a contact spring can be adjacent, directly adjacent or diametrically adjacent to a root section of the other contact spring, and possibly vice versa.

The contact spring device can be designed in such a way that its mutually corresponding functions can be implemented symmetrically or point-symmetrically by means of the contact springs. Such mutually corresponding functions are, in particular, holding (storing, hanging, guiding, gripping) the counter-terminal section in the vertical direction (limiting a movement up and down) and holding (see above) the counter-terminal section in the transverse direction (limiting a movement to the right and left) as well as the movements in between. In embodiments, the root sections, the middle sections and / or the longitudinal end sections of the contact springs can be set up mainly or essentially mirror-symmetrically and / or point-symmetrically in the contact spring structure. Furthermore, the longitudinal end sections of the contact springs can be set up in mutually opposite longitudinal end sections of the contact spring structure.

The contact springs can be designed such that they can interact in such a way that the counter-terminal section that can be inserted into the contact spring device can be mechanically essentially completely decoupled from the contact body in the vertical and transverse directions within the contact body. I. E. the counter terminal or the counter terminal section is not seated (cf. 14th and 15th ) on an inner longitudinal side or inner peripheral wall of the contact body (cf. 13th ). The counter terminal section is mechanically decoupled from the contact body in the vertical and transverse directions.

Furthermore, the contact springs can be designed so that they can interact in such a way that the counter-terminal section that can be inserted into the contact spring device can preferably be centered in the contact spring structure with respect to the contact body, preferably essentially in the middle. I. E. again that the counter terminal or the counter terminal section cannot sit on an inner longitudinal side or inner circumferential wall of the contact body and is thus mechanically decoupled from the contact body.

In addition, the contact springs can be designed to work together in such a way that the mating terminal section that can be plugged into the contact spring device is only held, supported, suspended, guided or gripped by the contact spring device or only by the contact springs in the contact body (see above). The contact spring structure according to the invention or the contact spring device according to the invention can completely decouple an entire (relevant) electromechanical contact surface of the counter-terminal section within the contact spring structure, from all inner longitudinal sides or the entire inner circumferential wall of the contact body, i.e. H. in both extensions of the vertical direction and at the same time in both extensions of the transverse direction.

According to the invention, the contact springs cannot work essentially antagonistically to one another, but rather essentially work synergistically with one another. I. E. the contact springs can in this way in the contact spring device cooperate that a first contact spring works as a player with the second contact spring in such a way that the second contact spring supports the first contact spring in its task and vice versa.

A synergistic according to the invention - ie z. B. the vibrations damped the following (cf. 14th and 15th ) - (Co) working of the contact spring device or the contact springs is in clear contrast to an antagonistic - that is, a (counter) working of a contact spring in the prior art - that is, counteracting the vibrations. In the prior art, attempts are made to counter the electromechanical contacting problems caused by vibrations with comparatively high normal contact forces, ie in comparison with the invention, whereas the invention can manage with significantly lower normal contact forces. This has clear advantages when operating a terminal with the contact spring structure according to the invention.

In embodiments, the contact springs can act as a spring / damper element or a double spring / double damper element or a double spring damper element in the contact spring structure. Furthermore, at least one contact spring can be effective in the transverse direction and vertical direction. Both contact springs are preferably designed in this way. A contact spring or the contact spring device can be exposed from a circumferential wall, in particular an outer wall, of the contact body. I. E. at least one contact spring, the contact springs or the contact spring device is cut free from a wall of the contact body, which z. B. can be done with a punching in the context of a punching production of a terminal with the contact spring structure (cf. 6th ).

The contact spring device can have exactly two contact springs which are set up diametrically opposite one another in the contact spring structure. Furthermore, each contact spring can be converted into a position of the respective other contact spring by rotating approximately 180 ° around a central vertical axis of the contact spring structure and / or rotating approximately 180 ° around a central transverse axis of the contact spring structure. This is only about a mutual position and thus a mutual function of the contact springs, whereby the two contact springs do not have to be identical or identical (cf. 15th and 16 ) but can be designed identically or identically (cf. 14th ).

A single contact spring can be set up as a cantilever arm in a contact spring side wall / circumferential wall of the contact body that extends in the longitudinal direction. I. E. the contact spring is mounted on one side in the contact body or firmly clamped and z. B. mechanically resilient in the vertical direction and / or transverse direction. The contact spring can be suspended from a side wall / circumferential wall adjoining the / a contact spring side wall / circumferential wall on the circumference of the contact body. Furthermore, the contact spring can extend from the outside of the contact body in the longitudinal direction inward into a contact chamber of the contact body. For this purpose, a corresponding spring window is provided in the contact body, which can be created in particular by exposing the contact spring in the outer wall of the contact body.

A free contact spring longitudinal end section of the contact spring can be set up in the contact chamber, by means of which the counter-terminal section can be held. By means of the / a free contact spring longitudinal end section, the counter terminal section can be held in one or a single vertical direction and / or in one or a single transverse direction. The / a free contact spring longitudinal end section can be 1-shaped when viewed in the longitudinal direction, wherein a respective leg of the 1-shaped longitudinal end section can be seated on the counter-terminal section.

The free contact spring longitudinal end section can have a transverse holder for holding the counter-terminal section against a single transverse direction. Furthermore, the free contact spring longitudinal end section can have a holder for holding the counter terminal section against a single vertical direction. Furthermore, the transverse holder can have at least one raised contact point and / or the elevated holder can have at least one raised contact point.

In embodiments, according to the invention, a first contact spring, e.g. B. as a cantilever arm, in which the side wall / circumferential wall adjoining the contact spring side wall / circumferential wall are rooted. Starting from its root section in the contact body, the contact spring initially runs in this side wall / circumferential wall on / in the circumference of the contact body, then extends into the contact spring side wall / circumferential wall and then runs in the longitudinal direction inward into the contact body. Within the contact body, the contact spring with its 1-shaped longitudinal end section forms two electromechanical contact areas that hold the counter terminal section in a single vertical direction (up or down) and / or in a single transverse direction (to the right or left). - Here, the contact spring is exposed in particular from the outer wall of the contact body.

The relevant second contact spring of the contact spring device is essentially directed in opposite directions with respect to the first contact spring and in the Set up in the contact body essentially diametrically opposite or (point) mirrored (e.g. approx. 180 ° rotation about a common vertical axis and / or approx. 180 ° rotation about a common transverse axis). - Hold together (see above) the two contact springs the counter terminal section in the vertical direction (up and down) and / or in the transverse direction (to the right and left) within the contact body and mechanically decoupled from its side walls / peripheral walls, since the counter terminal section is directly mechanical Has contact only with the contact springs or their longitudinal end sections.

The two contact springs or the two free contact spring longitudinal end sections can be designed symmetrically or point-symmetrically in terms of their function in the contact spring device. I. E. In this consideration, a (point) symmetrical or not (point) symmetrical geometry of the contact springs is secondary, as long as the respective geometries ensure a symmetry or point symmetry of the function of the contact springs, such as. B. holding a first contact spring in a first vertical direction and first transverse direction, and holding a second contact spring in a second vertical direction and second transverse direction.

The contact spring longitudinal end sections can together be designed in such a way that, viewed in the longitudinal direction, the counter terminal section can be completely encompassed at least in sections. Furthermore, a contact spring or both contact springs can have a multiple-root section, in particular a double-root-root section, on / in the contact body. The contact spring structure can furthermore comprise a longitudinal spring device following the contact body in the longitudinal direction, which sets up the contact body resiliently in the contact spring structure in the longitudinal direction. Here, the longitudinal spring device z. B. be designed as a meander spring device.

The longitudinal spring device can have at least two spring elements spaced apart from one another and from the contact body in the longitudinal direction. A spring element can be firmly connected to the contact body via a spring bridge and a further spring element can be firmly connected to the spring element via a further spring bridge. This can continue if necessary. The spring bridges can be set up offset from one another in the longitudinal spring device on the circumference of the contact spring structure.

The contact spring structure or the contact body can have an essentially rectangular or square or an essentially elliptical or circular cross section. The contact spring structure can be materially formed in one piece or integrally. Furthermore, the contact spring structure can be designed as one material or integral with a terminal (contact device), if necessary a component of a terminal (contact device). As a result, the contact spring structure, a component of a terminal with the contact spring structure or the terminal with the contact spring structure can be constructed in a cost-effective one-piece design, which can be used for both box-shaped and round terminals.

An integral design is understood to mean a design of the contact spring structure, of the component of the terminal or of the terminal, in which there is only a single component that can only be divided by destroying it. The component is made from a single original piece (sheet metal, blank, etc.) and / or a single original mass (molten metal), which in turn or which in turn is necessarily integral. Internal cohesion takes place by means of adhesion and / or cohesion. A material (adhesive) one-piece design is understood to mean a design of the contact spring structure, the component of the terminal or the terminal, the individual parts of which are firmly bonded to one another (welding, soldering, gluing, etc.) and preferably cannot be separated into its individual parts without damaging one of its individual parts is. The cohesion can also be generated by means of a force fit and / or form fit (not in the case of an integral design).

The electrical terminal according to the invention has an electromechanical contact spring structure and an electromechanical further contacting section, the contact spring structure being designed according to the invention. The further contacting section can be used for the electromechanical connection of an electrical line, e.g. B. as a crimping section; be designed for electromechanical connection or formation with a conductor track, etc. Here, the contact body can be formed integrally with the further contact area (see above) or in one piece (see above).

The further contacting section can preferably adjoin the contact body or the contact spring structure essentially directly. The further contacting section can preferably adjoin the longitudinal spring device essentially directly. The contact spring structure can be set up integrally (see above) in the terminal or in an electrical contact device as a terminal. Furthermore, the contact spring structure can be set up integrally (see above) in an electrical contact device of the terminal as an electrical contact device. Compare with the above.

The contact spring structure according to the invention can on / in an electrical contact device (terminal), on / in an electrical Contact device (terminal) etc. are used, which high vibration requirements in miniaturized electrical contact systems, eg. B. for a currently smallest existing tab size of 0.5mm x 0.4mm is fulfilled. The contact spring structure can be implemented in a cost-effective one-piece or in particular integral design with a socket terminal in box design or round design. According to the invention, the terminal is able to work under high vibrations with low normal contact forces, its contact spring structure showing low setting behavior and low relaxation even at high temperatures over its entire service life.

The connector according to the invention comprises a connector substrate and an electrical terminal provided thereon / therein, the terminal being designed as a terminal according to the invention. Such a connector substrate can e.g. B. be designed as a (connector) housing, a holder, a carrier, a circuit board, etc.

The entity according to the invention comprises an electrical device and an electrical terminal, the terminal being or are designed as a terminal according to the invention and / or the connector as a connector according to the invention. Such an entity can e.g. B. as an electrical device, an electrical device, a pre-assembled electrical cable, an electrical assembly, an electrical circuit board, an electrical component, an electrical module, an electrical device, an electrical apparatus, an electrical unit, an electrical system, an electrical System, etc. be designed.

The invention is explained in more detail below on the basis of exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached schematic drawing, which is not true to scale. Sections, elements, components, units, components and / or schemes which have an identical, univoke or analogous design and / or function are shown in the description of the figures (see below), the list of reference symbols, the claims and in the figures (FIG.) Of the Drawing marked with the same reference numerals. A possible, in the description of the invention (see above), not shown in the drawing and / or not conclusive alternative, a static and / or kinematic reversal, a combination, etc. to the exemplary embodiments of the invention or a component, a scheme, a Unit, a component, an element or a section thereof can also be taken from the list of reference symbols and / or the description of the figures.

In the invention, a feature (section, element, component, unit, component, function, size, etc.) can be positive, i.e. H. present, or negative, d. H. absent, designed. In this specification (description (description of the invention (see above), description of the figures (see below)), list of reference symbols, patent claims, drawing) a negative feature is not explicitly explained as a feature unless, according to the invention, value is placed on its being absent. I. E. the actual invention made and not an invention constructed by the prior art is to omit this feature.

A feature of this specification can be applied not only in a specified manner and / or manner, but also in a different manner and / or manner (isolation, summary, replacement, addition, isolation, omission, etc.). In particular, it is possible to use a reference symbol and a feature assigned to it or vice versa in the description, the list of reference symbols, the patent claims and / or the drawing to replace, add or omit a feature in the patent claims and / or the description. In addition, a feature can be interpreted and / or specified in more detail in a patent claim.

The features of the description can (in view of the (initially mostly unknown) state of the art) also be interpreted as optional features; d. H. Each feature can be viewed as an optional, arbitrary or preferred, i.e. non-binding, feature. It is thus possible to extract a feature, possibly including its periphery, from an exemplary embodiment, this feature then being transferable to a generalized inventive concept. The absence of a feature (negative feature) in one embodiment shows that the feature is optional with respect to the invention. Furthermore, in the case of a species term for a feature, a generic term for the feature can also be read (possibly further hierarchical structure in sub-genus etc.). B. taking into account equal effect and / or equivalence, a generalization of the feature is possible.

• die 1 und 2 in Perspektivansichten von schräg oben, eine Gegenüberstellung eines elektrischen Hochvibrations-Miniatur-Buchsenterminals gemäß dem Stand der Technik (1) mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Kontaktfederstruktur (2),
• die 3 bis 5 unterschiedliche Perspektivansichten einer zweiten Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen elektromechanischen Kontaktfederstruktur für ein Buchsenterminal oder eines nicht weiter dargestellten Buchsenterminals,
• die 6 in einer zweidimensionalen Draufsicht einen vereinfachten Aufbau eines Stanzrohlings der Kontaktfederstruktur zeitlich vor einem Zurechtbiegen zu einer erfindungsgemäßen Kontaktfederstruktur,
• die 7 eine zweidimensionale Stirnseitenansicht auf ein freies Ende der Kontaktfederstruktur (links) und eine zweidimensionale Gegenstirnseitenansicht auf ein freies Ende eines Gegenterminalabschnitts eines Gegenterminals (rechts),
• die 8 in einer seitlichen Perspektivansicht eine dritte Ausführungsform einer Kontaktfederstruktur mit einer härteren elektromechanischen Kontaktfedereinrichtung mit zwei Wurzelabschnitten je Kontaktfeder,
• die 9 und 10 in zentral geschnittenen, zweidimensionalen Draufsichten, ein beginnendes (9) und ein noch nicht ganz vollendetes (10) Einstecken eines Gegenterminalabschnitts in die Kontaktfederstruktur,
• die 11 und 12 in seitlichen Perspektivansichten, eine vierte Ausführungsform der Kontaktfederstruktur mit einer als Mäanderfedereinrichtung ausgebildeten Längsfedereinrichtung,
• die 13 bis 15 in zentralen, zweidimensionalen Schnittansichten, elektromechanische Steckverbindungen zweier elektrischer Verbinder gemäß dem Stand der Technik (13) und gemäß der Erfindung (14 und 15), und
• die 16 in einer zweidimensionalen Draufsicht einen Aufbau eines Stanzrohlings der Kontaktfederstruktur mit unterschiedlich langen Kontaktfedern gemäß 15, zeitlich vor einem Zurechtbiegen zur Kontaktfederstruktur.

The only exemplary figures show:

• the 1 and 2 in perspective views obliquely from above, a comparison of an electrical high-vibration miniature socket terminal according to the prior art ( 1 ) with a contact spring structure according to the invention ( 2 ),
• the 3rd to 5 different perspective views of a second embodiment of an electromechanical contact spring structure according to the invention for a socket terminal or a socket terminal not shown,
• the 6th In a two-dimensional plan view, a simplified structure of a punched blank of the contact spring structure before it is bent into a contact spring structure according to the invention,
• the 7th a two-dimensional front side view of a free end of the contact spring structure (left) and a two-dimensional opposite front side view of a free end of a counter terminal section of a counter terminal (right),
• the 8th in a lateral perspective view a third embodiment of a contact spring structure with a harder electromechanical contact spring device with two root sections per contact spring,
• the 9 and 10 in centrally cut, two-dimensional plan views, a beginning ( 9 ) and a not quite finished ( 10 ) Inserting a counter terminal section into the contact spring structure,
• the 11 and 12th in lateral perspective views, a fourth embodiment of the contact spring structure with a longitudinal spring device designed as a meander spring device,
• the 13th to 15th in central, two-dimensional sectional views, electromechanical plug connections of two electrical connectors according to the prior art ( 13th ) and according to the invention ( 14th and 15th ), and
• the 16 in a two-dimensional plan view a structure of a punched blank of the contact spring structure with contact springs of different lengths according to FIG 15th , before bending to the contact spring structure.

The invention is described below on the basis of exemplary embodiments of five embodiments ( 2 , 3rd to 5 , 8th , 11 and 12th , and 15th and 16 ) a variant of an electromechanical socket contact spring structure 10 for an electrical socket terminal 1 , especially a high vibration jack terminal 1 and / or a miniature jack terminal 1 , for an electrical connector 0 (see. 14th and 15th ), e.g. B. an electrical entity, preferably for the vehicle sector, explained in more detail. Although the invention is described and illustrated in greater detail by preferred exemplary embodiments, the invention is not restricted by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, but is of a more fundamental nature. - Other variations can be derived from this and / or from the above (description of the invention) without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

The invention is generally applicable in the electrical field to an electrical entity (see above). Ground-based electrical energy technology and its derivatives in vehicles are an exception here. - In the drawing, only those spatial sections of an object of the invention are shown which are necessary for an understanding of the invention. Designations such as connector and mating connector, terminal 1 and counter terminal 5 etc. are to be interpreted synonymously, ie they can be interchanged with one another if necessary.

Challenges with a high vibration terminal 1 according to the state of the art (cf. 1 and 13th ) is a generation of high normal contact forces with low settling behavior and low relaxation of the terminal 1 even at high temperatures over its entire service life. Furthermore, there is a mechanical decoupling of a counter terminal section 500 (see. 2 ) in the terminal 1 and an electrical line from a (actual) contact spring structure 10 of the terminal 1 to avoid relative movements and rolling in an electromechanical contact zone of a contact chamber 102 of the terminal 1 problematic. - Challenges with a miniature terminal 1 according to the state of the art (cf. 1 and 13th ) are its small socket size with its correspondingly even smaller contact chamber 102 , a thin material for the terminal 1 and no available mechanical decoupling of a counter terminal section 500 (see again 2 ) in the terminal 1 with an integral structure of the terminal 1 .

The 2 (see a. 3rd to 12th ) shows an electromechanical socket contact spring structure according to the invention 10 for such a terminal 1 or such a terminal 1 , with a mechanical contact body 100 , in which an electromechanical contact spring device 200 as a counter terminal holder according to the invention 200 is set up. The contact body 100 has mainly or substantially rectangular and / or square cross-sections, in particular along its mainly or substantially entire extent in the longitudinal direction Lr . It is of course possible to use mainly or substantially elliptical and / or circular cross-sections here.

The following description of the contact spring structure of the invention 10 essentially refers to the illustrated contact spring structure 10 in box training. This description can be applied to contact spring structures 10 Transferred to a circular design, whereby the term side (longitudinal) wall should also include the term circumferential (longitudinal) wall. Furthermore, the following description also relates to a terminal according to the invention 1 with the contact spring structure according to the invention 10 , where the terminal 1 apart from the Contact spring structure 10 only in the 11 and 12th is indicated. Here is a beginning of an electromechanical contacting section 400 the contact spring structure 10 and thus the terminal 1 shown over which z. B. an electrical line to the contact spring structure or the terminal 1 10 is electromechanically connectable.

I. E. the illustrated contact spring structure 10 is z. B. an integral part of a terminal 1 with the, z. B. as a crimping section 400 (with, for example, crimping areas for an electrical conductor, electrical insulation and / or a seal for the line), further contacting section 400 . Furthermore, the contact spring structure 10 analogous to 1 a hood with a locking spring 104 and possibly a shoulder for a second contact protection 600 (see. 14th , 15th ) exhibit. Here, the hood with the locking spring formed from it can be 104 z. B. on a free wall (left side wall 140 in the 2 ) the contact spring structure 10 z. B. connect integrally. The hood can have a polarization, i.e. a non-rotating installation, of the terminal 1 serve. Other possible forms in addition to or instead of the hood are e.g. B. a flag placed on a right or left edge in I-shape or L-shape etc.

The contact spring structure 10 (see a. 3rd to 7th ) in box design has four on one circumference of the contact spring structure 10 integrally connected side walls 110 , 120 , 130 , 140 which are essentially successively perpendicular to one another in the direction of their circumference; an upper side wall 110 , a right side wall 120 , a lower side wall 130 and a left side wall 140 . The side walls 110 , 120 , 130 , 140 constitute the contact body 100 the contact spring structure 10 and preferably also their contact spring device 200 . The side walls are in the present case 120 , 140 as contact spring side walls 120 , 140 formed, with at least one other side wall 110 , 130 as a contact spring side wall 120 , 140 can be formed. - According to the above, this is analogous to the circumferential walls of a contact spring structure 10 Applicable in all-round training.

Within the contact spring structure 10 is the contact chamber 102 for the counter terminal section 500 of a counter terminal 5 set up, wherein the counter terminal section 500 as a pin 500 , a pen 500 or a tab 500 can be formed. The contact spring structure 10 has the particular from its contact body 100 cut out, z. B. punched, electromechanical contact spring device 200 as a counter terminal bracket 200 on. The contact spring device 200 in the present case comprises two electromechanical contact springs 220 , 240 , a right contact spring 220 and a left contact spring 240 .

The contact springs 220 , 240 are present as decoupling spring elements 220 , 240 formed so as to have the counter terminal section 500 within the contact body 100 can be completely mechanically decoupled from its inner wall.

This, of course, has its limits; is a force or moment on the counter terminal section 500 too big, the opposite terminal section 500 on the inside of the contact body, of course 100 strike or vice versa. In such a case, however, a force or a moment occurs which is significantly greater than a force or a moment for which the contact spring structure is used 10 is designed.

The contact springs 220 , 240 are in spring windows in the contact body 100 set up, which is preferably done by releasing (punching) the contact springs 220 , 240 in the respective outer wall or walls of the contact body 100 can arise. Here are the spring windows and thus also the contact springs 220 , 240 at least in the right contact spring side wall 120 and the left contact spring side wall 140 set up, with the relevant contact spring 220 , 240 from outside on / in the contact body 100 longitudinal Lr inside into the contact chamber 102 extends into it.

The contact springs 220 , 240 are preferably essentially one another in the longitudinal direction Lr oppositely directed, essentially diametrically opposite and at least functionally (point) mirrored in the contact body 100 set up. Only functional and not geometrically point-mirrored contact springs 220 , 240 show the 15th , with the contact springs 220 , 240 not the same length, but the one in the 15th lower contact spring 220/240 is made shorter than the upper contact spring 240/220 . Of course it is possible to use the contact springs 220 , 240 also in their geometry essentially (point) mirrored in the contact body 100 to set up (cf. 14th ).

Inside in the contact chamber 102 are free contact spring longitudinal end sections 223 , 243 (see a. 7th ) set up, wherein the contact spring longitudinal end sections 223 , 243 preferably in each other in the longitudinal direction Lr opposite longitudinal end portions of the contact body 100 are set up (see a. 6th and 16 ). This is possibly on each other in the longitudinal direction Lr opposite middle sections of the contact body 100 applicable.

Each contact spring longitudinal end section 223 , 243 embraces you in a vertical direction Mr the contact spring structure 10 extending Cross holder 224 , 244 with preferably at least one electromechanical contact point, and one in the transverse direction Qr the contact spring structure 10 extending holder 225 , 245 preferably also with at least one electromechanical contact point. Viewed in the longitudinal direction, mutually related (224/225, 244/245) cross brackets 224 , 244 and holder 225 , 245 1-shaped, with a respective leg of this 1-shaped training with its contact point on the opposite terminal section 500 can be seated.

According to the invention (see a. 9 and 10 ) the cross brackets work 224 , 244 and the upholders 225 , 245 the contact springs 220 , 240 together in such a way that they are in the contact chamber 102 plugged in counter terminal section 500 , the counter terminal section 500 longitudinal Lr offset on its circumference holders, z. B. storage, hanging, guiding, grasping. Here the counter terminal section has 500 no direct mechanical contact with an inner wall of the contact body 100 . Due to the sectional views of the 9 and 10 is the holder on the right 245/225 the contact springs 240/220 not to see.

A single contact spring longitudinal end section 223/243 holds the counter terminal section 500 in a single vertical direction Mr (either + Hr or -Hr) and a single cross direction Qr (either + Qr or -Qr). The other contact spring longitudinal end section 243/223 holds the counter terminal section 500 in this vertical direction Mr opposite only other vertical direction Mr (either -Hr or + Hr) and in this transverse direction Qr opposite only other transverse direction Qr (either + Qr or -Qr).

A single contact spring 220/240 can be integral z. B. in the relevant contact spring side wall 120/140 root. It is also possible that one with the contact body 100 integral root section 221/241 a contact spring 220/240 in an upper (cf. 3rd ) or lower (cf. 4th ) Side wall 110/130 is set up. The root section in question extends here 221 , 241 starting from its root in the relevant side wall 110/130 initially on / in the circumference of the contact body 100 , swivels into the relevant side wall 110/130 and then extends as a central section 222/242 longitudinal Lr inside into the contact chamber 102 . Here is the relevant contact spring 220/240 preferably as a cantilever arm in the contact spring structure 10 set up.

A harder contact spring 220/240 both in the vertical direction Mr as well as in the transverse direction Qr this can have a multiple root section 221 , 221 , ... / 241, 241, ..., in particular a double root-root section 221 , 221 / 241 , 241 on / in the contact body 100 have (cf. 8th ). - Furthermore, the contact spring structure 100 longitudinal Lr to the contact body 100 then a longitudinal spring device 300 include that as a meander spring device 300 can be formed. The longitudinal spring device 300 is preferably in the longitudinal direction Lr between the onward contacting section 400 and the contact body 100 in the terminal 1 set up.

The longitudinal spring device 300 decoupled in the terminal 1 the contact body 100 from the follow-up section 400 longitudinal Lr mechanically partially, or vice versa. The longitudinal spring device 300 in the present case has two to each other and to the contact body 100 longitudinal Lr spaced spring elements 310 , 320 , especially spring washers 310 , 320 , on. The spring washers 310 , 320 can thereby have a cross section of the contact body 100 have. Of course, there is also a different number of spring elements 310 , 320 applicable. The first spring element 310 is over a first spring bridge 305 with the contact body 100 , and the second spring element 320 is via a second spring bridge 315 with the first spring element 310 firmly but flexibly connected to each other. The spring bridges 305 , 315 are on the perimeter of the contact spring structure 10 z. B. offset by 180 ° to each other in the longitudinal spring device 300 set up.

According to the invention, by an arrangement of the opposing and mirrored contact springs 220 , 240 a small bush diameter of a one-piece or integral and thus inexpensive bush can be achieved. By means of the design and arrangement of the contact springs according to the invention 220 , 240 can be a mechanical decoupling in both directions Mr (+ Hr / -Hr), Qr (+ Qr / -Qr) can be achieved perpendicular to a connector direction Lr the contact spring structure 10 stand. By means of two electromechanical contact points for the two mounting levels (contact level in vertical direction Mr and longitudinal direction Lr on the one hand and contact plane in the transverse direction Qr and longitudinal direction Lr on the other hand) of the opposite terminal section 500 results in a low normal contact force even with high vibrations of the counter-terminal section 500 and / or the contact body 100 .

Furthermore, according to the invention, a low setting behavior results from a low spring rate of the contact springs 220 , 240 caused by a higher deflection of the contact springs 220 , 240 is made possible. In addition, according to the invention, there is a reliable electromechanical contact by means of the four contact points with their one hand in the longitudinal direction Lr offset two contact areas 223 (224/225), 243 (244/245), with a single contact area 223 (224/225) / 243 (244/245) on the one hand the counter terminal section 500 stops in two individual directions (+ Hr / + Qr, + Hr / -Qr, -Hr / + Qr or -Hr / -Qr) and inhibits its movement in such a direction. The one in the longitudinal direction Lr offset contact area 243 (244/245) / 223 (224/225) takes over the remaining two individual directions (-Hr / -Qr, -Hr / + Qr, + Hr / -Qr or + Hr / + Qr) analogously.

Of course, according to the invention, the contact spring structure 10 also as a multi-part, in particular two-part, contact spring structure 10 be trained. Although the drawing is only box-shaped contact spring structures 10 shows, the invention is also analogous to round or mainly or essentially hollow cylindrical contact spring structures 10 applicable. - Depending on an application of the invention, the sizes of the slots, in particular for exposing the contact springs 220 , 240 (Spring window), the hardness of the contact springs 220 , 240 , can be a position and / or a number of the contact points, can be interaction parameters of the two contact springs 220 , 240 etc. on / in the contact spring structure 10 influenced and selected accordingly.

In the illustrated exemplary embodiments, the two contact springs are 220 , 240 essentially geometrically identical or geometrically identical. But this does not have to be the case. It is of course possible to use the contact springs 220 , 240 differently interpret what is in the 15th and 16 is shown. Here is the contact spring 220/240 made shorter than the contact spring 240/220 , where the root section 241/221 the contact spring 240/220 the free contact spring longitudinal end section 223/243 that of the contact spring 220/240 (later in the transverse direction Qr ) opposite. Other geometric positions and dimensions, such as a reversal of the exemplary embodiment just described, a central positioning of the contact springs 220 , 240 in the contact spring structure 10 etc., are of course applicable. Furthermore, the contact points are the contact spring longitudinal end sections 223 , 243 good in the 16 to recognize.

List of reference symbols

0

(electrical) (socket / hybrid) connector

1

(electrical) (socket) terminal

5

(electrical) counter terminal

10

(Electromechanical) (socket) contact spring structure for a terminal 1 or a terminal 1

100

(mechanical) contact body

102

Contact chamber

104

Locking spring

110

(upper) side wall / peripheral wall

120

(right) contact spring side wall / circumferential wall

130

(lower) side wall / peripheral wall

140

(left) contact spring side wall / circumferential wall

200

(Electromechanical) contact spring device as a counter terminal holder

220

(right, electromechanical) contact spring

221

Root section

222

Middle section

223

free contact spring longitudinal end section

224

Cross holder, preferably with at least one electromechanical contact point

225

Elevator, preferably with at least one electromechanical contact point

240

(left, electromechanical) contact spring

241

Root section

242

Middle section

243

free contact spring longitudinal end section

244

Cross holder, preferably with at least one electromechanical contact point

245

Elevator, preferably with at least one electromechanical contact point

300

Longitudinal spring device

305

(first) spring bridge

310

Spring element

315

(second) spring bridge

320

Spring element

400

(electromechanical) further contact section

500

(into the contact spring structure 10 plug-in) counter terminal section

600

second contact fuse

Lr

Longitudinal direction (non-directional), longitudinal axis

Mr

Vertical direction (undirected), vertical axis

Qr

Cross direction (non-directional), cross axis

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• DE 102016102036 A1 [0006]

Claims (15)

Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) for a terminal (1) or a terminal (1), in particular for a high-vibration terminal (1) and / or for a miniature terminal (1), or a high-vibration terminal (1) and / or a miniature terminal (1); comprising a mechanical contact body (100) extending in a longitudinal direction (Lr) of the contact spring structure (10) with an electromechanical contact spring device (200) into which a counter terminal section (500) of a counter terminal (5) can be inserted; wherein the contact spring device (200) comprises exactly or at least two electromechanical contact springs (220, 240); characterized in that the contact springs (220, 240) are designed as a counter terminal holder (220 & 240) for the counter terminal section (500), which are spring-damped in the contact spring structure (10) in the vertical direction (Hr) and transverse direction (Qr) of the contact spring structure (10) ) is set up. Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that: • the contact springs (220, 240) are set up offset from one another, adjacent to one another and / or opposite one another in the contact spring structure (10), • the contact springs (220, 240) in Longitudinal direction (Lr) are set up in the contact body (100) in essentially opposite directions, • the contact spring device (200) is designed in such a way that their mutually corresponding functions can be implemented symmetrically or point-symmetrically by means of the contact springs (220, 240), • the root sections (221 , 241), the middle sections (222, 242) and / or the longitudinal end sections (223, 243) of the contact springs (220, 240) are mainly or essentially mirror-symmetrical and / or point-symmetrical in the contact spring structure (10), and / or the longitudinal end sections (223, 243) of the contact springs (220, 240) in mutually opposite longitudinal end sections en the contact spring structure (10) are set up. Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact springs (220, 240) are designed to work together in such a way that the mating terminal section (500) which can be inserted into the contact spring device (200): • in the vertical direction (Hr) and transverse direction ( Qr) can be essentially completely decoupled mechanically from the contact body (100) within the contact body (100), • is preferably essentially centerable in the contact spring structure (10) with respect to the contact body (100), and / or only from the contact spring device (200) ) or is only held, stored, suspended, guided or gripped by the contact springs (220, 240) in the contact body (100). Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the contact springs (220, 240) do not work essentially antagonistically to one another, but rather essentially synergistically with one another, • the contact springs (220, 240) as a spring damper -Element act in the contact spring structure (10), and / or • at least one contact spring (220, 240) can be effective in the transverse direction (Qr) and vertical direction (Hr). Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • a contact spring (220, 240) or the contact spring device (200) is exposed from a peripheral wall, in particular an outer wall, of the contact body (100) Contact spring device (200) has exactly two contact springs (220, 240), which are set up diametrically opposite one another in the contact spring structure (10), and / or • each contact spring (220/240) by an approx. 180 ° rotation about a central vertical axis (Hr) of the contact spring structure (10) and / or an approx. 180 ° rotation around a central transverse axis (Qr) of the contact spring structure (10) can be converted into a position of the respective other contact spring (240/220). Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that • a single contact spring (220, 240) as a cantilever arm (220, 240) in a contact spring side wall / circumferential wall (120, 140) extending in the longitudinal direction (Lr) ) of the contact body (100) is set up, • the contact spring (220, 240) consists of a side wall / circumferential wall (110, 130) adjoining the contact spring side wall / circumferential wall (120, 140) on the circumference of the contact body (100) is suspended out, and / or • the contact spring (220, 240) extends from the outside of the contact body (100) in the longitudinal direction (Lr) inwards into a contact chamber (102) of the contact body (100). Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • a free contact spring longitudinal end section (223, 243) of the contact spring (220, 240) is set up in the contact chamber (102), by means of which the counter terminal section (500) can be held, • by means of the / a free contact spring longitudinal end section (223, 243) ) the counter terminal section (500) can be held in a single vertical direction (Hr) and / or in a single transverse direction (Qr), and / or • the / a free contact spring longitudinal end section (223, 243) viewed in the longitudinal direction (Lr) 1-shaped, wherein a respective leg of the 1-shaped longitudinal end section (223, 243) can be seated on the counter-terminal section (500). Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the free contact spring longitudinal end section (223, 243) has a transverse holder (224, 242) for holding the counter-terminal section (500) against a single transverse direction (Qr), • the free contact spring longitudinal end section (223, 243) has a holder (225, 245) for holding the counter terminal section (500) against a single vertical direction (Qr), and / or • the transverse holder (224, 242) has at least one raised contact point and / or the holder (225, 245) has at least one raised contact point. Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: the two contact springs (220 & 240) or the two free contact spring longitudinal end sections (223 & 243) symmetrically or point-symmetrically in terms of their function in the contact spring device (200 ) are set up, • the contact spring longitudinal end sections (223 & 243) are designed together in such a way that, viewed in the longitudinal direction (Lr), so that the counter terminal section (500) can be completely encompassed at least in sections, and / or a contact spring (220, 240 ) or both contact springs (220 & 240) have a multiple root section (221, 221; 241, 241) on / in the contact body (100). Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the contact spring structure (10) in the longitudinal direction (Lr) to the contact body (100) then further comprises a longitudinal spring device (300) which the contact body (100) in the longitudinal direction (Lr) sets up resiliently in the contact spring structure (10), • the longitudinal spring device (300) has at least two spring elements (310, 320) spaced apart from one another and from the contact body (100) in the longitudinal direction (Lr), • a spring element (310) via a spring bridge (305) is firmly connected to the contact body (100) and a further spring element (310) is firmly connected to the spring element (310) via a further spring bridge (315), and / or the spring bridges (305, 315) on the circumference of the contact spring structure (10 ) are set up offset from one another in the longitudinal spring device (300). Electromechanical contact spring structure (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: • the contact spring structure (10) or the contact body (100) has a substantially rectangular and substantially elliptical cross-section, • the contact spring structure (10) is made in one piece or integrally and / or • the contact spring structure (10) can be constructed in one piece or integrally with a terminal (1), possibly a component of a terminal (1). Electrical terminal (1), in particular high-vibration terminal (1) and / or miniature terminal (1), for an electrical connector (0), in particular a high-vibration connector (0) and / or a miniature connector (0), preferably for the vehicle sector, the terminal (1) having an electromechanical contact spring structure (10) and an electromechanical further contacting section (400), characterized in that the contact spring structure (10) is designed according to one of the preceding claims. Electrical terminal (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that: • the further contacting section (400) essentially directly adjoins the contact body (100) or the contact spring structure (10), • the further contacting section (400) essentially directly adjoins the The longitudinal spring device (300) is connected, • the contact spring structure (10) is set up integrally in the terminal (1) or in an electrical contact device (1) as a terminal (1), and / or • the contact spring structure (10) is integrated in an electrical contact device of the terminal (1) is set up as an electrical contact device (1). An electrical connector (0), in particular high-vibration connector (0) and / or miniature connector (0), preferably for use in vehicles, wherein the connector (0) comprising a connector substrate and a thereto / provided therein electrical terminal (1), characterized characterized in that the terminal (1) is designed according to one of the preceding claims. Electrical entity, preferably for the automotive sector, where the entity comprises an electrical device and an electrical terminal (1) and / or an electrical connector (0), characterized in that the terminal (1) and / or the connector (0) is or are designed according to one of the preceding claims .

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