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EP2752946B1 - Electrical connector with automatic engagement - Google Patents

Electrical connector with automatic engagement Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2752946B1
EP2752946B1 EP13199878.3A EP13199878A EP2752946B1 EP 2752946 B1 EP2752946 B1 EP 2752946B1 EP 13199878 A EP13199878 A EP 13199878A EP 2752946 B1 EP2752946 B1 EP 2752946B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pin
locking
connection element
coupling
contact
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP13199878.3A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2752946A1 (en
Inventor
Alain-Christophe Tiberghien
Christophe Durieux
Serafim Marques Barroca
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Staubli Faverges SCA
Original Assignee
Staubli Faverges SCA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Staubli Faverges SCA filed Critical Staubli Faverges SCA
Publication of EP2752946A1 publication Critical patent/EP2752946A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2752946B1 publication Critical patent/EP2752946B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/625—Casing or ring with bayonet engagement
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
    • H01R13/502—Bases; Cases composed of different pieces
    • H01R13/506—Bases; Cases composed of different pieces assembled by snap action of the parts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
    • H01R13/52—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
    • H01R13/5219—Sealing means between coupling parts, e.g. interfacial seal
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/639—Additional means for holding or locking coupling parts together, after engagement, e.g. separate keylock, retainer strap
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/64—Means for preventing incorrect coupling
    • H01R13/641—Means for preventing incorrect coupling by indicating incorrect coupling; by indicating correct or full engagement
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R2103/00—Two poles
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R24/00—Two-part coupling devices, or either of their cooperating parts, characterised by their overall structure
    • H01R24/20—Coupling parts carrying sockets, clips or analogous contacts and secured only to wire or cable
    • H01R24/22—Coupling parts carrying sockets, clips or analogous contacts and secured only to wire or cable with additional earth or shield contacts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R24/00—Two-part coupling devices, or either of their cooperating parts, characterised by their overall structure
    • H01R24/28—Coupling parts carrying pins, blades or analogous contacts and secured only to wire or cable
    • H01R24/30—Coupling parts carrying pins, blades or analogous contacts and secured only to wire or cable with additional earth or shield contacts

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an electrical connection comprising a first coupling element and a second coupling element complementary to the first, the two coupling elements being able to mate with each other.
  • first coupling element is a male element
  • second coupling element is a female element, it being understood that the opposite is possible.
  • the invention has for application a power connection with multiple pin and contact sockets with earth pin and a power circuit.
  • an electrical connection may comprise an indexing device for orienting the male element relative to the female element around the coupling axis.
  • a connector may comprise a locking mechanism to prevent uncoupling of the coupling, as long as this mechanism has not been disabled.
  • the locking mechanism comprises a locking pin which progresses in a locking groove curvilinearly located within a rotating ring.
  • a locking spring cooperates with a first housing located inside the ring to hold the ring in the pin locking position when the coupling is coupled and in uncoupled configuration, the locking spring cooperates with a second housing for, after indexing , position the locking pin in front of the entrance of the locking groove, thus facilitating the locking of the coupling.
  • the angular travel between the two housings corresponds to the stroke made by the locking pin to reach the end of the locking groove.
  • the spring is out of its second housing and the operator must manually turn the ring to allow the engagement of the pins in the locking groove.
  • the invention more particularly intends to remedy by proposing an electrical connection comprising a more reliable and ergonomic locking device and improved connection security.
  • the invention relates to an electrical connection comprising a first coupling element and a second coupling element, complementary to the first coupling element, the two coupling elements being able to couple to one another according to a coupling pin, the first and the second coupling element comprising at least one pin carried by the first element or the second element and at least one respective contact carried by the second element or the first element, a bayonet locking mechanism of the coupling comprising at least one locking pin formed on a body of the first coupling element and at least one locking ring rotatably mounted around a body of the second coupling element and comprising a locking groove with a mouthpiece and a notch of locking in which the locking pin is adapted to be locked axially relative to the body of the second element of connection, indexing means for positioning the body of the first element and the body of the second coupling element, relative to one another about the coupling axis in an indexed configuration which is in operation, in progress before locking the locking pin into the locking groove.
  • the second coupling element comprises a safety ring mounted to move in axial translation relative to the locking ring, and comprising at least one safety tab, the safety ring being able to be pushed back by the pawn. locking during coupling between, a first position where the safety tab blocks the passage of the pin between the notch lock and the mouth, and a second position where the safety tab allows the passage of the pin, the safety ring being elastically biased towards its first position, each locking groove comprising at the front, a chamfer defining the mouthpiece .
  • the amplitude of rotation of the locking ring relative to the body of the second coupling element around the coupling axis is limited. In the indexed configuration of the bodies of the first and second elements, the axis of movement of the pin intersects the mouth of the locking groove over the entire rotation amplitude of the locking ring.
  • the locking pin once indexed, engages automatically in the locking groove under the sole axial forces of fitting and this reliably since there is no spring to position the locking ring in rotation.
  • pins and contacts are visible. They are normally connected to conductive cables that are not shown, for the sake of clarity.
  • the forward direction of a coupling element is defined as the direction oriented in the direction of the coupling, that is to say oriented towards the complementary coupling element.
  • the rear direction of a coupling element is defined as the direction opposite to the complementary coupling element.
  • the male element 100 represented in the state uncoupled to the figure 1 belongs to an electrical connection R visible to the figure 3 especially.
  • the element 100 has a generally cylindrical structure centered on an axis X1-X1.
  • This male element 100 comprises an outer body 102 on which are fixed, radially and outwardly oriented, three locking pins 104.
  • the three locking pins 104 are arranged angularly equidistributed around the axis X1- X1 of the male element 100, that is to say with an angular interval of 120 ° around the axis X1-X1. More generally, at least one locking pin 104 is necessary to lock the connector R.
  • the body 102 of the male element 100 further comprises an indexing pin 106 radially disposed inside the body 102 and, the front relative to the locking pin 104, that is to say oriented towards the female element 200 during the coupling.
  • the angular orientation of the indexing pin 106 is the same as that of one of the locking pins 104.
  • Y104 denotes the central axis of each pin 104, each axis Y104 being radial with respect to the axis X1-X1.
  • an insulating internal body 110 Inside the outer body 102 is disposed an insulating internal body 110, cylindrical in shape and also centered on the axis X1-X1 and surrounding a ground pin 108, two power pins 112 and two pilot pins 114.
  • the earth pin 108, the two power pins 112 and the two pilot pins 114 all extend parallel to the axis X1-X1.
  • a bore 116, of diameter D1 is formed around around at least one pilot pin 114.
  • a not shown seal provides sealing between the outer body 102 and the insulating body 110.
  • the outer body 102 further includes apertures 122, disposed in front of the indexing pin 106, into which air can flow.
  • the insulating body 110 has on its radial surface an outer longitudinal rib 118 of complementary shape with that of four grooves 120 hollowed inside and longitudinally, that is to say along the axis X1-X1, in the body 102 of the male element 100.
  • the rib 118 can be inserted optionally in one of the four grooves 120 and locked in this position by a stop segment 125 or circlip prior to coupling. This makes it possible to angularly immobilize the insulating body 110 around the axis X1-X1 with respect to the body 102 and to multiply the configurations of the connecting element 100 with an identical body and an insulator.
  • the female element 200 represented in the state uncoupled to the figure 2 also belongs to the connection R. It also has a generally cylindrical structure centered on an axis X2-X2.
  • the body 202 of the female element 200 has a longitudinal indexing groove 204 located at the front of the body 202, that is to say oriented towards the male element 100, which has a profile complementary to that of the counter indexing 106 of the male element 100 and which extends parallel to the axis X2-X2.
  • an internal insulating body 206 is disposed inside the body 202 of the female element 200 and includes a ground contact 208, two power contacts 212 and two parallel pilot contacts 214 to the X2-X2 axis.
  • a cylindrical finger 210 of insulating material Around one of the pilot contacts 214, is disposed a cylindrical finger 210 of insulating material, whose diameter D2 is substantially equal to the diameter D1 of the bore 116.
  • a not shown seal ensures the seal between the body 202 and the insulating body 206.
  • a not shown sealing sheath is placed around the body 202 and the cables connected to the contacts 208, 212, 214, and seals the rear of the body 202.
  • a locking ring 216 is arranged radially around the body 202.
  • the locking ring 216 is integral in translation along the axis X2-X2 of the body 202 by the cooperation of a heel 217 of the locking ring 216 with an external groove 203 of the body 202.
  • This locking ring 216 comprises three locking grooves 218 which are located in the front portion of the locking ring 216, that is to say turned towards the male element 100 during coupling. More generally, the number of locking grooves 218 depends on the number of locking pins 104 and the angular offset around the axis X2-X2 of two locking grooves 218 is the same as the angular offset around the axis X1-X1 of the two respective locking pins 104.
  • a safety ring 220 is arranged radially around the locking ring 216 and back relative to the locking grooves 218, that is to say in the opposite direction to the male element 100.
  • An elastic load means which in the example considered is a spring 222, bears longitudinally on the locking ring 216 and the safety ring 220, thus pushing the safety ring 220 forward abutting against the locking ring 216 uncoupled configuration .
  • a lip-type seal 224 is disposed in an outer housing of the body 202 and at the rear of the indexing groove 204.
  • a locking member which in the example in question is a cylindrical key 228 situated in a hollow housing 230 opening outwardly of the body 202.
  • the key 228 radially protrudes outwardly relative to the body 202 as illustrated on the figure 12 .
  • the portion of the key 228 protruding from the housing 230 is received in a housing 232 formed on the inner radial surface of the locking ring 216.
  • This housing 232 extends over an angular sector centered on the axis X2-X2 and whose the apex angle ⁇ 232 is about 15 °. It is therefore possible to rotate the locking ring 216 relative to the body 202 about the axis X2-X2 within an angle of 15 ° before the projecting portion of the key 228 abuts against a longitudinal walls of the housing 232.
  • the insulating body 206 of the female element 200 is, before coupling, angularly immobilized in the outer body 202 in one of four configurations with the aid of a stop segment 225.
  • the insulating body 206 comprises a longitudinal rib 209 of complementary profile with that of four grooves 215 provided inside the body 202 of the element 200.
  • another hole 223 may possibly accommodate a third pilot contact.
  • the angular immobilization of the two insulating bodies 110 and 206 in the bodies 102 and 202 imposes, in the optics of the coupling, that the ribs 209 and 118 are aligned after indexing of the two bodies 102 and 202, that is to say to say that the angular orientation of the insulating body 206 with the body 202 of the female element 200 is compatible with the angular orientation of the insulating body 110 with the body 102 of the male element 100.
  • the coupling would be impossible.
  • the operator axially brings the two connecting elements 100 and 200 together and places the body 102 around the body 202.
  • the bodies 102 and 202 are positioned angularly with respect to each other since the indexing pin 106 is inserted into the indexing groove 204.
  • the axis X1-X1 and the axis X2- X2 are merged with a coupling axis X3-X3.
  • the power pins 112 are aligned axially with the power contacts 212
  • the pilot pins 114 are aligned with the pilot contacts 214
  • the pin of FIG. earth 108 is aligned with the earth contact 208.
  • the hole 107 for receiving the pin 108 is aligned with the hole 207 for receiving the contact 208, the holes 111 are aligned with the holes 211 for receiving the contacts 112 and the holes 113 are also aligned with the holes 213 for receiving the pilot contacts 214.
  • no pin has yet reached its respective contact, which means that the current flows through neither the power circuit nor the pilot circuit and that the grounding is not yet effective.
  • the earth pin 108 and the earth contact 208 form grounding means
  • the power pins 112 form with the power contacts 212 connection means of the power circuit
  • the pilot pins 114 form with the pilot contacts.
  • connection means of a pilot circuit This driver circuit is associated with relays for controlling the flow of current within the power circuit.
  • the locking pin 104 and the locking groove 218 formed in the locking ring 216 form a locking mechanism of the connector: it is referred to as a bayonet type lock.
  • the locking groove 218 comprises, at the front, that is to say oriented towards the male element 100, a chamfer which widens in the direction of the male element 100 and which consists of two surfaces 2362 and 2634 each inclined at an angle of about 40 ° with respect to the axis X2-X2 and in the plane of the figure 3 .
  • the surfaces 2362 and 2364 define a mouth 236 which extends inside the locking groove 218 between the two surfaces 2362 and 2364 and whose opening angle ⁇ 218, measured at the front end of the locking ring 216 and around the axis X2-X2 in a plane parallel to that of the figure 11 , is about 23 °.
  • the opening angle ⁇ 218 is defined between a first edge A1 of the mouth 236 which is the junction between the surface 2362 and a front outer edge 2162 of the locking ring 216, and a second edge A2 of the mouth 236, which is the junction between the surface 2364 and a front outer edge 2164 of the locking ring 216.
  • the locking pin 104 is located axially opposite the locking groove 218.
  • a displacement axis X4-X4 of the pin 104 parallel to the coupling axis X3-X3 and passing through the central axis Y104 of the pin 104, this displacement axis X4-X4 being fixed with respect to the body 202 in the indexed configuration of the bodies 102 and 202, intersects a segment of circle 2366 defined in the mouth 236 around the axis X3-X3 between the first edge A1 and the second edge A2 of the mouth 236.
  • the value of the opening angle ⁇ 218 of the mouthpiece 236 is chosen to be greater than the angular range of rotation of the locking ring 216 around the axis X2-X2 relative to the body 202, this angular range being defined by the angle ⁇ 232 which is 15 °.
  • the angular positions of the mouth 236 and the housing 232 on the locking ring 216, the angular positions of the key 228 and the indexing groove 204 on the body 202, the angular positions of the locking pin 104 and of the indexing pin 106 on the body 102 are such that, in an indexed configuration of the bodies 102 and 202 and whatever the position of the locking ring 216 in its angular range of rotation defined by the two extreme angular positions of the locking ring 216 for which the key 228 is in circumferential abutment respectively against the one and the other of the longitudinal walls of the housing 232, the axis of displacement X4-X4 of the pin 104 intersects the segment of circle 2366, in other words the locking pin 104 is always included in the mouth 236 of the locking groove 218.
  • the representation of the angle ⁇ 218 and the angle ⁇ 232 is very schematic because these angles are actually measurable in a plane transverse to the coupling axis X3-X3 and perpendicular to the plane of the figure 3 .
  • the locking groove 218 comprises, at the rear of the mouth 236, a locking notch 238 which extends in a direction X5-X5 inclined with respect to the coupling axis X3-X3 and in the plan of the figure 3 at an angle ⁇ 238 of about 45 °. In practice the angle ⁇ 238 is between 30 ° and 75 °.
  • Note 237 the transition region extending axially between the mouth 236 and the locking notch 238.
  • Y237 is a radial axis X2-X2 axis and passing through the center of the zone 237.
  • Y238 is noted a radial axis with respect to the axis X2-X2 disposed in the locking notch 238, and such that in the locked configuration of the pin 104 in the locking notch 238, the axes Y104 and Y238 coincide.
  • the notch 238 moves away from the zone 237 and the mouth 236 by penetrating into the ring 216, that is to say away from the edges 2162 and 2164.
  • the locking groove 218 consists of the chamfered mouth 236, inclined notch 238 and transition zone 237.
  • the locking pin 104 engages in the locking groove 218 and causes, due to the geometry of the locking notch 238, the locking ring 216 rotates about the axis X3-X3.
  • the locking ring 216 is rotatably mounted about the axis X2-X2 and the body 202 of the female member 200, so that the locking pin 104 can engage fully in the locking notch 238.
  • the geometry of the locking groove 218 combined with the fact that the locking pin 104 is fixed in rotation relative to the body 202 when the bodies 102 and 202 are in indexed configuration, causes the locking ring 216 to rotate around the coupling pin X3-X3 when the locking pin 104 moves axially in translation relative to the locking ring 216 to reach its locked position.
  • an angle ⁇ 233 is defined representing the angular rotation of the ring 216 necessary so that the locking pin 104 can engage from the zone 237 to its locked position in the locking notch 238.
  • the angle ⁇ 233 is of the order of 11 °. This angle ⁇ 233 is better visible at the figure 14 , it represents the angular difference between the projection of the axis Y237 on a plane perpendicular to the axis X2-X2 and the projection of the axis Y238 on the same plane.
  • the angle ⁇ 233 is equal to the angular spacing between the axes Y104 and Y237 projected on the same plane perpendicular to the axis X3-X3.
  • This angular rotation of angle ⁇ 233 is included in the amplitude of rotation ⁇ 232 of the locking ring 216 which is of the order of 15 ° in the example.
  • the safety ring 220 comprises three safety lugs 234, arranged at the front of the safety ring 220, that is to say on the side of the element 100 in the configuration of the Figures 3 to 5 .
  • the front end surfaces of the safety tabs 234 are perpendicular to the X2-X2 axis.
  • the number of safety tabs 234 is equal to the number of locking grooves 218.
  • Each safety tab 234 is guided by an axial groove 235 which is better visible on the figure 14 .
  • This axial groove 235 is hollowed out in the locking ring 216, and along the axial extension of the zone 237.
  • the safety ring 220 is movable in axial translation with respect to the locking ring 216 and integral in rotation with the ring 216.
  • the spring 222 pushes each safety tab 234 in the advanced position in which is blocked the passage for a locking pin 104 between the mouth 236 and the locking notch 238.
  • the bringing together between the two connecting elements 100 and 200, along the coupling axis X3-X3, implies that the locking pin 104 enters the locking groove 218 and the coupling force results, if the pin 104 is not aligned with the zone 237, by pressing the locking pin 104 on one of the two slopes 2362 and 2364 of the chamfer.
  • This force causes rotation of the locking ring 216 about the axis X3-X3 which allows it to guide the locking pin 104 in translation to the zone 237 so that the locking pin 104 is axially in position.
  • This lack of conformity may, for example, appear as a result of an incompatibility in the angular positioning of the insulating body 110 with that of the insulating body 206 respectively relative to the body 102 of the male element. 100 and the body 202 of the female element 200.
  • the continuation of the coupling movement brings the coupling into the position of the figure 7 . More specifically, the power pins 112 are fitted into their respective contacts 212 thus electrically connecting the power circuit.
  • the body 102 of the male element 100 comes into contact with the lip seal 224, without sealing the inside of the bodies 102 and 202. Indeed, the openings 122 disposed in the body 102 of the male element 100 are axially located at the front with respect to the seal 224. Air between the bodies 102 and 202 can thus be discharged to the outside.
  • the locking pin 104 which remains engaged in the locking groove 218, reaches axially in contact with the safety tab 234 that it then axially pushes backwards, that is to say to the opposite of the first connecting element 100, against the elastic force of the spring 222. This thus releases the passage to the locking notch 238 at the zone 237.
  • the connection between the pilot pins 114 and their respective contacts 214 is not yet effective.
  • the locking pin 104 engages in the inclined notch 238 and progresses therein.
  • the pilot pins 114 engage in their pilot contact 214 while the locking ring 216 continues to rotate about the axis X3-X3 under the axial coupling forces.
  • the relays associated with the pilot circuit whose pins 114 are fitted in the contacts 214, are closed, the current can flow through the power circuit.
  • connection R the grounding by engagement of the earth pin 108 in the earth contact 208 is effective before the connection of the power circuit by engagement of power pins 112 in the power contacts 212 which is itself performed before the connection of the driver circuit by pilot pin engagement 114 in the pilot contacts 214.
  • the grounding is effective, the operator can manipulate the fitting without risk of electrocution, then the power circuit can be connected safely because it is not supplied with power since the electrical connection of the pilot circuit has not yet been established.
  • the connection of the pilot circuit makes it possible to allow the flow of current through the power circuit.
  • the coupling is designed so that, during the coupling of the elements 100 and 200, in an indexed configuration of the elements 100 and 200 before the engagement of the pin 104 with the locking groove 218 a distance d8, measured along an axis parallel to the axis X3-X3, between the earth pin 108 and its contact 208 is smaller than a distance d12, measured parallel to the axis X3-X3, between the power pins 112 and their contacts 212 which is itself smaller than a distance d14, also taken along an axis parallel to the axis X3-X3 between the pilot pins 114 and the contacts 214.
  • the distances d8 and d12 are respectively visible on the figures 4 and 5 and the distance d14 is visible on both figures 4 and 5 . In this way, it is ensured that the earth pin 108 first connects to the earth contact 208, the power pins 112 connect second to the power contacts 212 and the pilot pins 114 connect last to the pilot contacts 214. Since the reverse sequence occurs during decoupling, this ensures the security of the connection and disconnection.
  • the electrical contacts associated with the pins are provided in a known manner by a ring of flexible metal strips deformed by the fitting of the associated pin.
  • the locking pin 104 has reached the locking notch 238 and has disengaged radially from the safety tab 234; it therefore no longer exerts axial force on the safety tab 234.
  • the safety ring 220 which undergoes the elastic force of the spring 222 is elastically biased towards the front, thus approaching the first connecting element 100.
  • the security tab 234 partially covers the zone 237 and thus locking the locking pin 104 in the notch 238 in a position where the pin 104 is locked axially relative to the body 202. In fact the locking pin 104 strikes the safety tab 234 tending to move towards the zone 237.
  • the coupling is coupled and any distance from the bodies 102 and 202 is prevented.
  • the body 102 of the male element 100 continues its movement by compressing the lip seal 224.
  • the openings 122 disposed in the body 102 of the male member 100 pass behind the seal 224, the seal is operative between the two bodies and the air contained between the two bodies 102 and 202 is compressed at the end of 'coupling.
  • a lip seal has been chosen because its compression force is less than that of an O-ring.
  • this lip seal ensures sealing after the power pins 112 have been engaged in their contacts 212, this allowing to reduce the stroke on which the air contained between the two bodies 102 and 202 is compressed and thus reduce the coupling forces.
  • the deformation of the shielding strip 226 is pressed against the body 202 of the female element 200. It thus ensures the electrical continuity between the two bodies 102 and 202 for the safety of the operator.
  • the spring 222 When the spring 222 is sized to overcome all the friction forces opposing the recoil of the body 102 in the body 202, to its position of the figure 7 there is no intermediate position when mating. Indeed, since the pin 104 pushes the safety ring 220, the connection passes, in the case of a successful coupling, exclusively between a position where the locking pin 104 is in contact with the safety tab 234 to a coupled position where the locking pin 104 is locked in the locked position in the locking notch 238 by the safety tab 234. This is actually a safety in case of incomplete coupling, since the safety tab 234 pushes the pin of locking 104 in a position where the driver circuit is open and therefore no current is likely to pass through the power circuit. The fact that the coupling is incomplete is easily identifiable by the operator since the current does not flow in the power circuit.
  • the coupling forces are distributed over the coupling stroke. Indeed, it first appears the deformation force of the earth contact 208 by the ground pin 108, then the deformation force of the power contacts 212 by the power pins 112, then the crushing of the gasket. 224 sealing simultaneously with the force of fitting of the pilot pins 114 in the pilot contacts 214 and finally the deformation of the shielding strip 226 and the compression of the air contained inside the bodies 102 and 202.
  • the fact of distributing the resistant forces over the entire coupling path is more ergonomic for the operator during an electrical connection.
  • the construction of the coupling R with a safety ring 220 blocking the locking pin 104 in the locked position in the notched slot 238 makes it possible to limit the angle ⁇ 233 of angular rotation of the ring 216 necessary for locking and thus to limit the aperture angle ⁇ 218 which is at least equal to angle ⁇ 233 for a compact fitting.
  • the operator pulls the safety ring 220 backwards and simultaneously moves the two connecting elements 100 and 200 at the same time in order to pull the locking pins 104 out of the locking grooves. 218.
  • the arrangement of the distances between the pins 108, 112 and 114 and their respective contacts 208, 212, 214 implies that the pins 108, 112 and 114 leave their contacts 208, 212 and 214 in the reverse order of that described. for mating. Namely, the connection of the driver circuit is broken first, then comes the disconnection of the power circuit and finally the disconnection to earth. This ensures the safety of the operator during uncoupling.
  • connection R provides the interface between a fixed frame 242, which is for example a power terminal, and a moving part, which is for example a machine that can move on an assembly line.
  • a fixed frame 242 which is for example a power terminal
  • a moving part which is for example a machine that can move on an assembly line.
  • attachment means such as a chain 240, which connect the safety ring 220 to the fixed frame 242.
  • the seal 224 and / or the strip 226 may be provided on the male element 100.
  • some of the pins 108, 112 and 114 may be provided on the female element 200.
  • the chamfer is slightly curved.
  • the safety ring is provided with a single safety tab cooperating with one of the multiple locking grooves of the coupling.
  • the mechanical keying formed by 210/116 may be arranged around other pins and respective contacts.
  • the number of grooves 120 and 215 could be different from four.
  • the safety ring 220 is not supported against a spring but the safety tab 234 is elastically deformable. The deformation of this tab 234 makes it possible to release the passage of the pin 104 and the elastic return makes it possible to lock the pin 104 in the notch 238.
  • the slope of the surface 2362 may not be inclined relative to the axis X2-X2, giving rise to an asymmetrical mouth.
  • the angle of inclination of at least one of the slopes of the surfaces 2362 and 2364 is between 20 and 60 °.

Landscapes

  • Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
  • Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
  • Connector Housings Or Holding Contact Members (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne un raccord électrique comprenant un premier élément de raccord et un deuxième élément de raccord complémentaire du premier, les deux éléments de raccord étant aptes à s'accoupler l'un à l'autre. En particulier, il peut être considéré que le premier élément de raccord est un élément mâle et le deuxième élément de raccord est un élément femelle, étant entendu que l'inverse est envisageable. A titre d'exemple, l'invention a pour application un raccord de puissance à broches et douilles de contact multiples avec broche de terre et un circuit de puissance.The invention relates to an electrical connection comprising a first coupling element and a second coupling element complementary to the first, the two coupling elements being able to mate with each other. In particular, it can be considered that the first coupling element is a male element and the second coupling element is a female element, it being understood that the opposite is possible. By way of example, the invention has for application a power connection with multiple pin and contact sockets with earth pin and a power circuit.

Il est connu de FR-A-2 147 289 , qu'un raccord électrique peut comporter un dispositif d'indexage permettant d'orienter l'élément mâle par rapport à l'élément femelle autour de l'axe d'accouplement. Il est également connu de ce document qu'un raccord peut comporter un mécanisme de verrouillage permettant d'empêcher le désaccouplement du raccord, tant que ce mécanisme n'a pas été désactivé. Dans ce cas, le mécanisme de verrouillage comprend un pion de verrouillage qui progresse dans une rainure de verrouillage située de manière curviligne à l'intérieur d'une bague rotative. Un ressort de blocage coopère avec un premier logement situé à l'intérieur de la bague pour maintenir la bague en position de verrouillage du pion lorsque le raccord est accouplé et en configuration désaccouplée, le ressort de blocage coopère avec un deuxième logement pour, après indexage, positionner le pion de verrouillage en face de l'entrée de la rainure de verrouillage, facilitant ainsi le verrouillage du raccord. Ainsi, la course angulaire entre les deux logements correspond à la course effectuée par le pion de verrouillage pour arriver jusqu'au bout de la rainure de verrouillage. Cependant, si la bague est tournée après déconnexion avant une prochaine connexion, le ressort est sorti de son deuxième logement et l'opérateur doit manuellement tourner la bague pour permettre l'engagement des pions dans la rainure de verrouillage. De plus, le recours à un ressort pour maintenir la bague fixe en rotation et donc pour maintenir le raccord en position accouplée manque de fiabilité car la résistance du ressort n'est pas suffisante pour contrecarrer un geste malencontreux d'un opérateur. Par ailleurs, dans le cas où un raccord électrique serait raccordé à une machine sur une ligne d'assemblage, cette machine étant susceptible de bouger, il est possible qu'un des éléments du raccord s'éloigne de manière intempestive. Rien n'est prévu à cet effet pour déconnecter automatiquement les deux éléments de raccord et ainsi éviter une détérioration de celui-ci.It is known to FR-A-2,147,289 , that an electrical connection may comprise an indexing device for orienting the male element relative to the female element around the coupling axis. It is also known from this document that a connector may comprise a locking mechanism to prevent uncoupling of the coupling, as long as this mechanism has not been disabled. In this case, the locking mechanism comprises a locking pin which progresses in a locking groove curvilinearly located within a rotating ring. A locking spring cooperates with a first housing located inside the ring to hold the ring in the pin locking position when the coupling is coupled and in uncoupled configuration, the locking spring cooperates with a second housing for, after indexing , position the locking pin in front of the entrance of the locking groove, thus facilitating the locking of the coupling. Thus, the angular travel between the two housings corresponds to the stroke made by the locking pin to reach the end of the locking groove. However, if the ring is turned after disconnection before a next connection, the spring is out of its second housing and the operator must manually turn the ring to allow the engagement of the pins in the locking groove. In addition, the use of a spring to keep the ring fixed in rotation and thus to keep the coupling in the coupled position is unreliable because the resistance of the spring is not sufficient to counteract an unfortunate gesture of an operator. Moreover, in the case where an electrical connection would be connected to a machine on an assembly line, this machine being able to move, it is possible that one of the elements of the fitting away inadvertently. Nothing is provided for this purpose to automatically disconnect the two connecting elements and thus prevent deterioration thereof.

Il est également connu, en référence à FR-A-1 307 976 que dans les raccords de puissance, il convient d'abord de connecter la terre, puis le circuit de puissance et enfin, éventuellement un circuit pilote associé à des relais. Logiquement, la séquence inverse se produit dans le sens du désaccouplement. Ceci permet de garantir une connexion et une déconnexion sécurisées du circuit de puissance car celui-ci n'est alors pas alimenté en courant. Cependant, dans le cas où l'opérateur commence à accoupler un tel raccord pourvu d'un verrouillage à baïonnette jusqu'à ce que la broche pilote atteigne le contact pilote, fermant ainsi le circuit pilote et stoppe tout effort d'accouplement, le pion de verrouillage peut ne pas être parvenu en position de verrouillage. Dans cette configuration, il y a alors un risque de passage du courant dans le circuit de puissance, alors que les deux éléments de raccord ne sont pas complètement accouplés, ceci pouvant résulter en un désaccouplement brutal.It is also known, with reference to FR-A-1,307,976 that in the power connections, it is first necessary to connect the earth, then the power circuit and finally, possibly a pilot circuit associated with relays. Logically, the opposite sequence occurs in the direction of uncoupling. This ensures a secure connection and disconnection of the power circuit because it is not powered. However, in the case where the operator begins to couple such a fitting provided with a bayonet lock until the pilot pin reaches the pilot contact, thus closing the pilot circuit and stops any coupling effort, the pin lock may not have reached the lock position. In this configuration, there is then a risk of passage of the current in the power circuit, while the two coupling elements are not completely coupled, this may result in a sudden uncoupling.

C'est à ces inconvénients qu'entend plus particulièrement remédier l'invention en proposant un raccord électrique comportant un dispositif de verrouillage plus fiable et plus ergonomique et une sécurité de connexion améliorée.It is these drawbacks that the invention more particularly intends to remedy by proposing an electrical connection comprising a more reliable and ergonomic locking device and improved connection security.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne un raccord électrique comprenant un premier élément de raccord et un deuxième élément de raccord, complémentaire du premier élément de raccord, les deux éléments de raccord étant aptes à s'accoupler l'un à l'autre selon un axe d'accouplement, le premier et le deuxième élément de raccord comportant au moins une broche portée par le premier élément ou le deuxième élément et au moins un contact respectif porté par le deuxième élément ou le premier élément, un mécanisme de verrouillage à baïonnette du raccord comprenant au moins un pion de verrouillage ménagé sur un corps du premier élément de raccord et au moins une bague de verrouillage montée rotative autour d'un corps du deuxième élément de raccord et comprenant une rainure de verrouillage avec une embouchure et une encoche de verrouillage dans laquelle le pion de verrouillage est apte à être verrouillé axialement par rapport au corps du deuxième élément de raccord, des moyens d'indexage permettant de positionner le corps du premier élément et le corps du deuxième élément de raccord, l'un par rapport à l'autre autour de l'axe d'accouplement dans une configuration indexée qui intervient, en cours d'accouplement, avant l'engagement du pion de verrouillage dans la rainure de verrouillage. Conformément à l'invention, le deuxième élément de raccord comprend une bague de sécurité montée mobile en translation axiale par rapport à la bague de verrouillage, et comportant au moins une patte de sécurité, la bague de sécurité étant apte à être repoussée par le pion de verrouillage en cours d'accouplement entre, une première position où la patte de sécurité bloque le passage du pion entre l'encoche de verrouillage et l'embouchure, et une deuxième position où la patte de sécurité autorise le passage du pion, la bague de sécurité étant rappelée élastiquement vers sa première position, chaque rainure de verrouillage comprenant à l'avant, un chanfrein délimitant l'embouchure. De plus l'amplitude de rotation de la bague de verrouillage par rapport au corps du deuxième élément de raccord autour de l'axe d'accouplement est limitée. Dans la configuration indexée des corps des premier et deuxième éléments, l'axe de déplacement du pion intersecte l'embouchure de la rainure de verrouillage sur toute l'amplitude de rotation de la bague de verrouillage.For this purpose, the invention relates to an electrical connection comprising a first coupling element and a second coupling element, complementary to the first coupling element, the two coupling elements being able to couple to one another according to a coupling pin, the first and the second coupling element comprising at least one pin carried by the first element or the second element and at least one respective contact carried by the second element or the first element, a bayonet locking mechanism of the coupling comprising at least one locking pin formed on a body of the first coupling element and at least one locking ring rotatably mounted around a body of the second coupling element and comprising a locking groove with a mouthpiece and a notch of locking in which the locking pin is adapted to be locked axially relative to the body of the second element of connection, indexing means for positioning the body of the first element and the body of the second coupling element, relative to one another about the coupling axis in an indexed configuration which is in operation, in progress before locking the locking pin into the locking groove. According to the invention, the second coupling element comprises a safety ring mounted to move in axial translation relative to the locking ring, and comprising at least one safety tab, the safety ring being able to be pushed back by the pawn. locking during coupling between, a first position where the safety tab blocks the passage of the pin between the notch lock and the mouth, and a second position where the safety tab allows the passage of the pin, the safety ring being elastically biased towards its first position, each locking groove comprising at the front, a chamfer defining the mouthpiece . In addition the amplitude of rotation of the locking ring relative to the body of the second coupling element around the coupling axis is limited. In the indexed configuration of the bodies of the first and second elements, the axis of movement of the pin intersects the mouth of the locking groove over the entire rotation amplitude of the locking ring.

Grâce à l'invention, le pion de verrouillage une fois indexé, s'engage de manière automatique dans la rainure de verrouillage sous les seuls efforts axiaux d'emmanchement et ceci de manière fiable puisqu'il n'y a pas de ressort pour positionner la bague de verrouillage en rotation.Thanks to the invention, the locking pin, once indexed, engages automatically in the locking groove under the sole axial forces of fitting and this reliably since there is no spring to position the locking ring in rotation.

Selon des aspects avantageux mais non obligatoires de l'invention, un raccord électrique peut incorporer une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes prises dans toute combinaison techniquement admissible :

  • L'angle d'ouverture de l'embouchure de la rainure de verrouillage dans un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe est supérieur ou égal à l'amplitude de rotation de la bague de verrouillage autour du corps du deuxième élément de raccord.
  • l'encoche de verrouillage est inclinée par rapport à l'axe d'accouplement en s'éloignant de l'avant de la bague de verrouillage et en ce que la patte de sécurité bloque le pion de verrouillage en position verrouillée en configuration accouplée du raccord.
  • Le premier et le deuxième élément de raccord comprennent, en outre :
    • des moyens de connexion à la terre incluant une broche de terre ménagée sur un élément parmi le premier et le deuxième élément de raccord et un contact de terre ménagé sur l'autre élément, la broche de terre étant apte à s'engager selon l'axe d'accouplement dans le contact de terre,
    • des moyens de connexion d'un circuit de puissance incluant au moins une broche de puissance ménagée sur un élément parmi le premier et le deuxième élément de raccord et au moins un contact de puissance ménagé sur l'autre élément, la broche de puissance étant apte à s'engager, selon l'axe d'accouplement, dans le contact de puissance.
    • des moyens de connexion d'un circuit pilote incluant au moins une broche pilote ménagée sur un élément parmi le premier et le deuxième élément de raccord et au moins un contact pilote ménagé sur l'autre élément, la broche pilote étant apte à s'engager, selon l'axe d'accouplement, dans le contact pilote.
  • Dans la configuration indexée des deux corps avant l'engagement du pion avec la rainure de verrouillage, une distance axiale, prise selon un axe parallèle à l'axe d'accouplement, entre chaque broche de terre et son contact de terre respectif est inférieure à une distance axiale entre chaque broche de puissance et son contact de puissance respectif, la distance axiale entre chaque broche de puissance et son contact de puissance respectif étant inférieure à une distance axiale entre chaque broche pilote et son contact pilote respectif.
  • En cours d'accouplement, la connexion à la terre est effectuée avant la connexion du circuit de puissance, la connexion de puissance étant effectuée avant la connexion du circuit pilote.
  • Le premier élément de raccord et/ou le deuxième élément de raccord comprend en outre un joint d'étanchéité apte à coopérer avec le corps du deuxième élément de raccord et le corps du premier élément de raccord, alors que le joint d'étanchéité rend étanche l'intérieur des corps des premier et deuxième éléments au cours de l'accouplement après que le circuit de puissance a été connecté.
  • Le deuxième élément de raccord comprend, une lamelle de blindage disposée sur un corps parmi le corps du premier élément de raccord et le corps du deuxième élément de raccord et apte à coopérer avec l'autre corps parmi le corps et le corps après que le circuit de puissance a été connecté.
  • Au cours de l'accouplement, lorsque le pion de verrouillage parvient au contact d'une patte de sécurité de la bague de sécurité disposée dans sa première position, la connexion de la ou de chaque broche pilote dans le contact pilote respectif n'est pas effective.
  • Lorsque le pion coopère axialement avec la bague de sécurité alors que la bague de sécurité est entre sa première et sa deuxième position, la bague de sécurité est apte à repousser automatiquement et sans action de l'opérateur, un pion de verrouillage vers une position où la connexion de la ou de chaque broche pilote dans le contact pilote respectif n'est pas effective
  • Le corps du premier élément de raccord et/ou le corps du deuxième élément de raccord est formé d'un corps externe et d'un corps interne isolant alors que le corps interne isolant est apte à être immobilisé par rapport au corps externe dans plusieurs configurations décalées angulairement par rapport à un axe central de l'élément de raccord.
  • Le premier élément de raccord et/ou le deuxième élément de raccord comprennent en outre un détrompeur mécanique, constitué d'un alésage formé autour d'une broche, le diamètre de l'alésage étant sensiblement égal au diamètre d'un doigt cylindrique ménagé autour du contact respectif alors que, au cours de l'accouplement, l'alésage et le doigt isolant sont décalés radialement par rapport à l'axe d'accouplement et que l'alésage et le doigt sont aptes à coopérer au cours de l'accouplement en configuration indexée des corps.
  • L'amplitude de rotation de la bague de verrouillage par rapport au corps du deuxième élément de raccord autour de l'axe, est limitée angulairement par un organe de blocage.
  • L'organe de blocage est une clavette logée dans le corps du deuxième élément de raccord, ou respectivement dans la bague de verrouillage, et coopérant sur l'amplitude de rotation avec un logement radialement aligné avec la clavette et ménagé dans la bague de verrouillage, ou respectivement dans le corps du deuxième élément de raccord.
  • Le deuxième élément de raccord comprend des moyens d'attache de la bague de sécurité à un point fixe extérieur au raccord.
According to advantageous but non-mandatory aspects of the invention, an electrical connector may incorporate one or more of the following features taken in any technically permissible combination:
  • The opening angle of the mouth of the locking groove in a plane perpendicular to the axis is greater than or equal to the amplitude of rotation of the locking ring around the body of the second coupling member.
  • the locking notch is inclined with respect to the coupling pin away from the front of the locking ring and in that the locking tab locks the locking pin in the locked position in the coupled configuration of the coupling .
  • The first and second coupling members further include:
    • earth connection means including an earth pin on one of the first and second connecting members and a ground contact on the other element, the ground pin being engageable according to the coupling axis in the earth contact,
    • means for connecting a power circuit including at least one power pin arranged on one of the first and the second coupling element and at least one power contact arranged on the other element, the power pin being suitable to engage, according to the coupling axis, in the power contact.
    • means for connecting a pilot circuit including at least one pilot pin arranged on one of the first and the second coupling element and at least one pilot contact formed on the other element, the spindle pilot being able to engage, according to the coupling axis, in the pilot contact.
  • In the indexed configuration of the two bodies before engagement of the pin with the locking groove, an axial distance, taken along an axis parallel to the coupling axis, between each earth pin and its respective earth contact is less than an axial distance between each power pin and its respective power contact, the axial distance between each power pin and its respective power contact being less than an axial distance between each pilot pin and its respective pilot contact.
  • During mating, the ground connection is made before the power circuit connection, the power connection being made before the connection of the pilot circuit.
  • The first coupling element and / or the second coupling element further comprises a seal adapted to cooperate with the body of the second coupling element and the body of the first coupling element, while the seal seal inside the bodies of the first and second elements during mating after the power circuit has been connected.
  • The second coupling element comprises, a shielding plate disposed on one of the body of the first coupling element and the body of the second coupling element and adapted to cooperate with the other body of the body and the body after the circuit power has been connected.
  • During the coupling, when the locking pin comes into contact with a safety tab of the safety ring disposed in its first position, the connection of the or each pilot pin in the respective pilot contact is not effective.
  • When the pin cooperates axially with the safety ring while the safety ring is between its first and second position, the safety ring is able to automatically push back without action of the operator, a locking pin to a position where the connection of the or each pilot pin in the respective pilot contact is not effective
  • The body of the first coupling element and / or the body of the second coupling element is formed of an outer body and an insulating inner body while the inner insulating body is able to be immobilized relative to the outer body in several configurations. angularly offset from a central axis of the coupling member.
  • The first coupling element and / or the second coupling element furthermore comprise a mechanical polarizer consisting of a bore formed around a spindle, the diameter of the bore being substantially equal to the diameter of a cylindrical finger arranged around it respective contact while during the coupling, the bore and the insulating finger are offset radially with respect to the coupling axis and that the bore and the finger are able to cooperate during the coupling in indexed configuration of the bodies.
  • The amplitude of rotation of the locking ring relative to the body of the second coupling element around the axis is limited angularly by a locking member.
  • The locking member is a key housed in the body of the second coupling element, or respectively in the locking ring, and cooperating on the amplitude of rotation with a housing radially aligned with the key and formed in the locking ring, or respectively in the body of the second coupling element.
  • The second coupling element comprises means for attaching the safety ring to a fixed point outside the fitting.

L'invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres avantages de celle-ci apparaîtront plus clairement à la lumière de la description qui va suivre d'un mode de réalisation d'un raccord électrique conforme à son principe, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une coupe longitudinale d'un élément mâle d'un raccord conforme à l'invention,
  • la figure 2 est une coupe longitudinale d'un élément femelle du raccord,
  • la figure 3 est une vue en élévation du raccord formé des éléments mâle et femelle des figures dans une configuration indexée,
  • la figure 4 est une coupe longitudinale selon la ligne IV-IV à la figure 3,
  • la figure 5 est une coupe brisée longitudinale dont la partie supérieure est coupée selon un plan incliné, d'un angle de 120° autour de l'axe central, du plan de la figure 4,
  • la figure 6 est une coupe longitudinale du raccord lors de la connexion de moyens de mise à la terre,
  • la figure 7 est une coupe longitudinale du raccord lors de la poursuite du mouvement d'accouplement, représentant le contact entre un pion de verrouillage appartenant à l'élément mâle et une bague de sécurité appartenant à l'élément femelle,
  • la figure 8 est une vue en élévation du raccord dans sa configuration accouplée,
  • la figure 9 est une coupe selon la ligne IX-IX à la figure 11.
  • la figure 10 est une coupe selon la ligne X-X à la figure 1,
  • la figure 11 est une coupe selon la ligne XI-XI à la figure 2,
  • la figure 12 est une coupe de détail à plus grande échelle selon la ligne XII-XII à la figure 2,
  • la figure 13 est une coupe selon la ligne XIII-XIII à la figure 4,
  • la figure 14 est une coupe selon la ligne XIV-XIV à la figure 8.
The invention will be better understood and other advantages thereof will appear more clearly in the light of the following description of an embodiment of an electrical connection according to its principle, given solely as an example. and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 is a longitudinal section of a male element of a coupling according to the invention,
  • the figure 2 is a longitudinal section of a female element of the coupling,
  • the figure 3 is an elevational view of the connector formed of the male and female elements of the figures in an indexed configuration,
  • the figure 4 is a longitudinal section along line IV-IV at figure 3 ,
  • the figure 5 is a longitudinal broken section, the upper part of which is cut along an inclined plane, at an angle of 120 ° around the central axis, from the plane of the figure 4 ,
  • the figure 6 is a longitudinal section of the connection when connecting earthing means,
  • the figure 7 is a longitudinal section of the coupling during the continuation of the coupling movement, representing the contact between a locking pin belonging to the male element and a safety ring belonging to the female element,
  • the figure 8 is an elevational view of the coupling in its coupled configuration,
  • the figure 9 is a section along the line IX-IX to the figure 11 .
  • the figure 10 is a section along the line XX to the figure 1 ,
  • the figure 11 is a section along the line XI-XI to the figure 2 ,
  • the figure 12 is a section of detail on a larger scale along the line XII-XII to the figure 2 ,
  • the figure 13 is a section along the line XIII-XIII to the figure 4 ,
  • the figure 14 is a section along the line XIV-XIV to the figure 8 .

Sur les figures, des broches et des contacts sont visibles. Ils sont normalement reliés à des câbles conducteurs qui ne sont pas représentés, pour la clarté du dessin.In the figures, pins and contacts are visible. They are normally connected to conductive cables that are not shown, for the sake of clarity.

Dans la suite de la description, on définit la direction avant d'un élément de raccord comme la direction orientée dans le sens de l'accouplement, c'est-à-dire orientée vers l'élément de raccord complémentaire. A l'inverse, on définit la direction arrière d'un élément de raccord comme la direction opposée à l'élément de raccord complémentaire.In the remainder of the description, the forward direction of a coupling element is defined as the direction oriented in the direction of the coupling, that is to say oriented towards the complementary coupling element. Conversely, the rear direction of a coupling element is defined as the direction opposite to the complementary coupling element.

L'élément mâle 100 représenté à l'état désaccouplé à la figure 1 appartient à un raccord électrique R visible à la figure 3 notamment. L'élément 100 présente une structure globalement cylindrique centrée sur un axe X1-X1. Cet élément mâle 100 comporte un corps externe 102 sur lequel sont fixement positionnés, de manière radiale et orientée vers l'extérieur, trois pions de verrouillage 104. Les trois pions de verrouillage 104 sont disposés angulairement de manière équirépartie autour de l'axe X1-X1 de l'élément mâle 100, c'est-à-dire avec un intervalle angulaire de 120° autour de l'axe X1-X1. De manière plus générale, au moins un pion de verrouillage 104 est nécessaire pour verrouiller le raccord R. Le corps 102 de l'élément mâle 100 comporte en outre un pion d'indexage 106 radialement disposé à l'intérieur du corps 102 et, à l'avant par rapport au pion de verrouillage 104, c'est-à-dire orienté vers l'élément femelle 200 lors de l'accouplement. De plus, l'orientation angulaire du pion d'indexage 106 est la même que celle d'un des pions de verrouillage 104. On note Y104 l'axe central de chaque pion 104, chaque axe Y104 étant radial par rapport à l'axe X1-X1.The male element 100 represented in the state uncoupled to the figure 1 belongs to an electrical connection R visible to the figure 3 especially. The element 100 has a generally cylindrical structure centered on an axis X1-X1. This male element 100 comprises an outer body 102 on which are fixed, radially and outwardly oriented, three locking pins 104. The three locking pins 104 are arranged angularly equidistributed around the axis X1- X1 of the male element 100, that is to say with an angular interval of 120 ° around the axis X1-X1. More generally, at least one locking pin 104 is necessary to lock the connector R. The body 102 of the male element 100 further comprises an indexing pin 106 radially disposed inside the body 102 and, the front relative to the locking pin 104, that is to say oriented towards the female element 200 during the coupling. In addition, the angular orientation of the indexing pin 106 is the same as that of one of the locking pins 104. Y104 denotes the central axis of each pin 104, each axis Y104 being radial with respect to the axis X1-X1.

A l'intérieur du corps externe 102, est disposé un corps interne isolant 110, de forme cylindrique et également centré sur l'axe X1-X1 et qui entoure une broche de terre 108, deux broches de puissance 112 et deux broches pilote 114. La broche de terre 108, les deux broches de puissance 112 et les deux broches pilote 114 s'étendent toutes parallèlement à l'axe X1-X1. Autour d'au moins une broche pilote 114, est ménagé un alésage 116, de diamètre D1, dans le corps isolant 110. Un joint d'étanchéité non représenté assure l'étanchéité entre le corps externe 102 et le corps isolant 110. Une gaine d'étanchéité non représentée et mise en place autour du corps 102 et des câbles reliés aux broches 108, 112, 114 assure l'étanchéité à l'arrière du corps 102.Inside the outer body 102 is disposed an insulating internal body 110, cylindrical in shape and also centered on the axis X1-X1 and surrounding a ground pin 108, two power pins 112 and two pilot pins 114. The earth pin 108, the two power pins 112 and the two pilot pins 114 all extend parallel to the axis X1-X1. Around around at least one pilot pin 114 is formed a bore 116, of diameter D1, in the insulating body 110. A not shown seal provides sealing between the outer body 102 and the insulating body 110. A sheath seal not shown and placed around the body 102 and the cables connected to the pins 108, 112, 114 seals the back of the body 102.

Le corps externe 102 comprend en outre des ouvertures 122, disposées à l'avant du pion d'indexage 106, dans lesquelles de l'air peut circuler.The outer body 102 further includes apertures 122, disposed in front of the indexing pin 106, into which air can flow.

Comme il en ressort de la figure 10, le corps isolant 110 comporte sur sa surface radiale une nervure longitudinale extérieure 118 de forme complémentaire avec celle de quatre rainures 120 creusées à l'intérieur et longitudinalement, c'est-à-dire selon l'axe X1-X1, dans le corps 102 de l'élément mâle 100. La nervure 118 peut être insérée au choix dans une des quatre rainures 120 et bloquée dans cette position par un segment d'arrêt 125 ou circlip préalablement à l'accouplement. Cela permet d'immobiliser angulairement le corps isolant 110 autour de l'axe X1-X1 par rapport au corps 102 et de multiplier les configurations de l'élément de raccord 100 avec un corps et un isolant identiques. Sur cette figure, on distingue un trou 107 dans lequel est positionnée la broche de terre 108, deux trous 111 dans lesquels sont positionnées les broches de puissance 112 et deux trous 113 dans lesquels sont positionnées les broches pilote 114. On note également la présente d'un autre trou 124, qui est inutilisé dans ce mode de réalisation, mais où il est possible d'insérer une troisième broche pilote.As is apparent from the figure 10 , the insulating body 110 has on its radial surface an outer longitudinal rib 118 of complementary shape with that of four grooves 120 hollowed inside and longitudinally, that is to say along the axis X1-X1, in the body 102 of the male element 100. The rib 118 can be inserted optionally in one of the four grooves 120 and locked in this position by a stop segment 125 or circlip prior to coupling. This makes it possible to angularly immobilize the insulating body 110 around the axis X1-X1 with respect to the body 102 and to multiply the configurations of the connecting element 100 with an identical body and an insulator. In this figure, there is a hole 107 in which is positioned the earth pin 108, two holes 111 in which are positioned the power pins 112 and two holes 113 in which are positioned the pilot pins 114. There is also the present invention. another hole 124, which is unused in this embodiment, but where it is possible to insert a third pilot pin.

L'élément femelle 200 représenté à l'état désaccouplé à la figure 2 appartient également au raccord R. Il présente également une structure globalement cylindrique centrée sur un axe X2-X2. Le corps 202 de l'élément femelle 200 comporte une rainure longitudinale d'indexage 204 située à l'avant du corps 202, c'est-à-dire orientée vers l'élément mâle 100, qui présente un profil complémentaire de celui du pion d'indexage 106 de l'élément mâle 100 et qui s'étend parallèlement à l'axe X2-X2. De manière analogue à l'élément mâle 100, un corps isolant interne 206 est disposé à l'intérieur du corps 202 de l'élément femelle 200 et englobe un contact de terre 208, deux contacts de puissance 212 et deux contacts pilote 214, parallèles à l'axe X2-X2. Autour d'un des contacts pilote 214, est disposé un doigt cylindrique 210 en matériau isolant, dont le diamètre D2 est sensiblement égal au diamètre D1 de l'alésage 116. Un joint d'étanchéité non représenté assure l'étanchéité entre le corps 202 et le corps isolant 206. Une gaine d'étanchéité non représentée est mise en place autour du corps 202 et des câbles reliés aux contacts 208, 212, 214, et assure l'étanchéité à l'arrière du corps 202.The female element 200 represented in the state uncoupled to the figure 2 also belongs to the connection R. It also has a generally cylindrical structure centered on an axis X2-X2. The body 202 of the female element 200 has a longitudinal indexing groove 204 located at the front of the body 202, that is to say oriented towards the male element 100, which has a profile complementary to that of the counter indexing 106 of the male element 100 and which extends parallel to the axis X2-X2. In a similar manner to the male element 100, an internal insulating body 206 is disposed inside the body 202 of the female element 200 and includes a ground contact 208, two power contacts 212 and two parallel pilot contacts 214 to the X2-X2 axis. Around one of the pilot contacts 214, is disposed a cylindrical finger 210 of insulating material, whose diameter D2 is substantially equal to the diameter D1 of the bore 116. A not shown seal ensures the seal between the body 202 and the insulating body 206. A not shown sealing sheath is placed around the body 202 and the cables connected to the contacts 208, 212, 214, and seals the rear of the body 202.

Une bague de verrouillage 216 est disposée radialement autour du corps 202. La bague de verrouillage 216 est solidaire en translation selon l'axe X2-X2 du corps 202 par la coopération d'un talon 217 de la bague de verrouillage 216 avec une gorge externe 203 du corps 202. Cette bague de verrouillage 216 comporte trois rainures de verrouillage 218 qui sont localisées dans la partie avant de la bague de verrouillage 216, c'est-à-dire tournées vers l'élément mâle 100 lors de l'accouplement. Plus généralement, le nombre de rainures de verrouillage 218 dépend du nombre de pions de verrouillage 104 et le décalage angulaire autour de l'axe X2-X2 de deux rainures de verrouillage 218 est le même que le décalage angulaire autour de l'axe X1-X1 des deux pions de verrouillage 104 respectifs.A locking ring 216 is arranged radially around the body 202. The locking ring 216 is integral in translation along the axis X2-X2 of the body 202 by the cooperation of a heel 217 of the locking ring 216 with an external groove 203 of the body 202. This locking ring 216 comprises three locking grooves 218 which are located in the front portion of the locking ring 216, that is to say turned towards the male element 100 during coupling. More generally, the number of locking grooves 218 depends on the number of locking pins 104 and the angular offset around the axis X2-X2 of two locking grooves 218 is the same as the angular offset around the axis X1-X1 of the two respective locking pins 104.

Une bague de sécurité 220 est disposée radialement autour de la bague de verrouillage 216 et en arrière par rapport aux rainures de verrouillage 218, c'est-à-dire dans la direction opposée à l'élément mâle 100. Un moyen de charge élastique, qui dans l'exemple considéré est un ressort 222, prend appui longitudinalement sur la bague de verrouillage 216 et sur la bague de sécurité 220, repoussant ainsi la bague de sécurité 220 vers l'avant en butée contre la bague de verrouillage 216 en configuration désaccouplée.A safety ring 220 is arranged radially around the locking ring 216 and back relative to the locking grooves 218, that is to say in the opposite direction to the male element 100. An elastic load means, which in the example considered is a spring 222, bears longitudinally on the locking ring 216 and the safety ring 220, thus pushing the safety ring 220 forward abutting against the locking ring 216 uncoupled configuration .

Un joint d'étanchéité 224, de type à lèvre, est disposé dans un logement externe du corps 202 et à l'arrière de la rainure d'indexage 204. Une prise de blindage 226, qui est formée par une lamelle métallique élastiquement déformable, est disposée à l'arrière du joint 224 et logée radialement dans un logement externe du corps 202 de l'élément femelle 200.A lip-type seal 224 is disposed in an outer housing of the body 202 and at the rear of the indexing groove 204. A shielding plug 226, which is formed by an elastically deformable metal blade, is disposed at the rear of the seal 224 and radially housed in an outer housing of the body 202 of the female element 200.

A l'arrière de la lamelle de blindage 226, est disposé un organe de blocage, qui dans l'exemple considéré, est une clavette 228 cylindrique située dans un logement creux 230 débouchant sur l'extérieur du corps 202. La clavette 228 dépasse radialement vers l'extérieur par rapport au corps 202 comme illustré sur la figure 12. La partie de la clavette 228 qui dépasse du logement 230 est reçue dans un logement 232 ménagé sur la surface radiale interne de la bague de verrouillage 216. Ce logement 232 s'étend sur un secteur angulaire centré sur l'axe X2-X2 et dont l'angle au sommet γ232 est d'environ 15°. Il est donc possible de faire tourner la bague de verrouillage 216 par rapport au corps 202 autour de l'axe X2-X2 dans la limite d'un angle de 15° avant que la partie saillante de la clavette 228 ne vienne en butée contre une des parois longitudinales du logement 232.At the rear of the shielding strip 226 is a locking member, which in the example in question is a cylindrical key 228 situated in a hollow housing 230 opening outwardly of the body 202. The key 228 radially protrudes outwardly relative to the body 202 as illustrated on the figure 12 . The portion of the key 228 protruding from the housing 230 is received in a housing 232 formed on the inner radial surface of the locking ring 216. This housing 232 extends over an angular sector centered on the axis X2-X2 and whose the apex angle γ 232 is about 15 °. It is therefore possible to rotate the locking ring 216 relative to the body 202 about the axis X2-X2 within an angle of 15 ° before the projecting portion of the key 228 abuts against a longitudinal walls of the housing 232.

De manière analogue à l'élément mâle 100 et comme visible à la figure 11, le corps isolant 206 de l'élément femelle 200 est, préalablement à l'accouplement, immobilisé angulairement dans le corps externe 202 dans l'une de quatre configurations à l'aide d'un segment d'arrêt 225. A cet effet, le corps isolant 206 comprend une nervure longitudinale 209 de profil complémentaire avec celui de quatre rainures 215 prévues à l'intérieur du corps 202 de l'élément 200. Sur cette figure, on distingue un trou 207 de réception du contact de terre 208, deux trous 211 de réception des contacts de puissance 212 et deux trous 213 de réception des broches pilote 214. On note également la présence d'un autre trou 223 pouvant éventuellement accueillir un troisième contact pilote.In a similar way to the male element 100 and as visible at figure 11 , the insulating body 206 of the female element 200 is, before coupling, angularly immobilized in the outer body 202 in one of four configurations with the aid of a stop segment 225. For this purpose, the insulating body 206 comprises a longitudinal rib 209 of complementary profile with that of four grooves 215 provided inside the body 202 of the element 200. In this figure, there is a hole 207 for receiving the earth contact 208, two 211 receiving holes of the power contacts 212 and two pilot pin receiving holes 213 214. We also note the presence of another hole 223 may possibly accommodate a third pilot contact.

L'immobilisation angulaire des deux corps isolants 110 et 206 dans les corps 102 et 202 impose, dans l'optique de l'accouplement, que les nervures 209 et 118 soient alignées après indexage des deux corps 102 et 202 c'est-à-dire que l'orientation angulaire du corps isolant 206 avec le corps 202 de l'élément femelle 200 soit compatible avec l'orientation angulaire du corps isolant 110 avec le corps 102 de l'élément mâle 100. Dans le cas contraire, l'accouplement serait impossible.The angular immobilization of the two insulating bodies 110 and 206 in the bodies 102 and 202 imposes, in the optics of the coupling, that the ribs 209 and 118 are aligned after indexing of the two bodies 102 and 202, that is to say to say that the angular orientation of the insulating body 206 with the body 202 of the female element 200 is compatible with the angular orientation of the insulating body 110 with the body 102 of the male element 100. In the opposite case, the coupling would be impossible.

On décrit maintenant l'accouplement des éléments 100 et 200 en référence à l'un des pions de verrouillage 104, étant précisé que les trois pions 104 se déplacent en même temps et interagissent de la même façon avec la bague de verrouillage 216 et avec la bague de sécurité 220.The coupling of the elements 100 and 200 is now described with reference to one of the locking pins 104, it being specified that the three pins 104 move at the same time and interact in the same way with the locking ring 216 and with the security ring 220.

L'opérateur rapproche axialement les deux éléments de raccord 100 et 200 et met en place le corps 102 autour du corps 202.The operator axially brings the two connecting elements 100 and 200 together and places the body 102 around the body 202.

Dans la position des figures 3, 4, 5 et 13 les corps 102 et 202 sont positionnés angulairement l'un par rapport à l'autre puisque le pion d'indexage 106 est inséré dans la rainure d'indexage 204. Dans cette configuration, l'axe X1-X1 et l'axe X2-X2 sont confondus avec un axe d'accouplement X3-X3. De plus, dans le cas où les corps isolants 110 et 206 sont immobilisés angulairement de manière compatible, les broches de puissance 112 sont alignées axialement avec les contacts de puissance 212, les broches pilote 114 sont alignées avec les contacts pilote 214 et la broche de terre 108 est alignée avec le contact de terre 208. Plus précisément, le trou 107 de réception de la broche 108 est aligné avec le trou 207 de réception du contact 208, les trous 111 sont alignés avec les trous 211 de réception des contacts 112 et les trous 113 sont également alignés avec les trous 213 de réception des contacts pilote 214. En revanche, aucune broche n'a encore atteint son contact respectif, ce qui signifie que le courant ne traverse, ni le circuit de puissance ni le circuit pilote et que la mise à la terre n'est pas encore effective.In the position of figures 3 , 4 , 5 and 13 the bodies 102 and 202 are positioned angularly with respect to each other since the indexing pin 106 is inserted into the indexing groove 204. In this configuration, the axis X1-X1 and the axis X2- X2 are merged with a coupling axis X3-X3. In addition, in the case where the insulating bodies 110 and 206 are angularly immobilized in a compatible manner, the power pins 112 are aligned axially with the power contacts 212, the pilot pins 114 are aligned with the pilot contacts 214 and the pin of FIG. earth 108 is aligned with the earth contact 208. More specifically, the hole 107 for receiving the pin 108 is aligned with the hole 207 for receiving the contact 208, the holes 111 are aligned with the holes 211 for receiving the contacts 112 and the holes 113 are also aligned with the holes 213 for receiving the pilot contacts 214. On the other hand, no pin has yet reached its respective contact, which means that the current flows through neither the power circuit nor the pilot circuit and that the grounding is not yet effective.

La broche de terre 108 et le contact de terre 208 forment des moyens de mise à la terre, les broches de puissance 112 forment avec les contacts de puissance 212 des moyens de connexion du circuit de puissance et les broches pilote 114 forment avec les contacts pilote 214 des moyens de connexion d'un circuit pilote. Ce circuit de pilote est associé à des relais permettant de commander la circulation du courant à l'intérieur du circuit de puissance. Le pion de verrouillage 104 et la rainure de verrouillage 218 ménagée dans la bague de verrouillage 216 forment un mécanisme de verrouillage du raccord : on parle d'un verrouillage de type baïonnette.The earth pin 108 and the earth contact 208 form grounding means, the power pins 112 form with the power contacts 212 connection means of the power circuit and the pilot pins 114 form with the pilot contacts. 214 connection means of a pilot circuit. This driver circuit is associated with relays for controlling the flow of current within the power circuit. The locking pin 104 and the locking groove 218 formed in the locking ring 216 form a locking mechanism of the connector: it is referred to as a bayonet type lock.

La rainure de verrouillage 218 comprend, à l'avant, c'est-à-dire orientée vers l'élément mâle 100, un chanfrein qui s'élargit en direction de l'élément mâle 100 et qui est constitué de deux surfaces 2362 et 2634 chacune inclinée d'un angle d'environ 40° par rapport à l'axe X2-X2 et dans le plan de la figure 3. Les surfaces 2362 et 2364 définissent une embouchure 236 qui s'étend à l'intérieur de la rainure de verrouillage 218 entre les deux surfaces 2362 et 2364 et dont l'angle d'ouverture α218, mesuré au niveau de l'extrémité avant de la bague de verrouillage 216 et autour de l'axe X2-X2 dans un plan parallèle à celui de la figure 11, est d'environ 23°. Plus précisément l'angle d'ouverture α218 est défini entre une première arête A1 de l'embouchure 236 qui est la jonction entre la surface 2362 et un bord externe avant 2162 de la bague de verrouillage 216, et une deuxième arête A2 de l'embouchure 236, qui est la jonction entre la surface 2364 et un bord externe avant 2164 de la bague de verrouillage 216.The locking groove 218 comprises, at the front, that is to say oriented towards the male element 100, a chamfer which widens in the direction of the male element 100 and which consists of two surfaces 2362 and 2634 each inclined at an angle of about 40 ° with respect to the axis X2-X2 and in the plane of the figure 3 . The surfaces 2362 and 2364 define a mouth 236 which extends inside the locking groove 218 between the two surfaces 2362 and 2364 and whose opening angle α218, measured at the front end of the locking ring 216 and around the axis X2-X2 in a plane parallel to that of the figure 11 , is about 23 °. More precisely, the opening angle α218 is defined between a first edge A1 of the mouth 236 which is the junction between the surface 2362 and a front outer edge 2162 of the locking ring 216, and a second edge A2 of the mouth 236, which is the junction between the surface 2364 and a front outer edge 2164 of the locking ring 216.

Dans la position indexée des figures 3, 4, 5 et 13, le pion de verrouillage 104 se trouve axialement en regard de la rainure de verrouillage 218. Autrement dit, un axe de déplacement X4-X4 du pion 104, parallèle à l'axe d'accouplement X3-X3 et passant par l'axe central Y104 du pion 104, cet axe de déplacement X4-X4 étant fixe par rapport au corps 202 dans la configuration indexée des corps 102 et 202, intersecte un segment de cercle 2366 défini dans l'embouchure 236 autour de l'axe X3-X3 entre la première arête A1 et la deuxième arête A2 de l'embouchure 236. Ceci a pour avantage que la poursuite de l'accouplement se fait simplement en rapprochant l'élément mâle 100 de l'élément femelle 200, par translation selon l'axe X3-X3.In the indexed position of figures 3 , 4 , 5 and 13 , the locking pin 104 is located axially opposite the locking groove 218. In other words, a displacement axis X4-X4 of the pin 104, parallel to the coupling axis X3-X3 and passing through the central axis Y104 of the pin 104, this displacement axis X4-X4 being fixed with respect to the body 202 in the indexed configuration of the bodies 102 and 202, intersects a segment of circle 2366 defined in the mouth 236 around the axis X3-X3 between the first edge A1 and the second edge A2 of the mouth 236. This has the advantage that the continuation of the coupling is done simply by bringing the male member 100 of the female member 200, by translation along the axis X3 -X3.

Par ailleurs, la valeur de l'angle d'ouverture α218 de l'embouchure 236 est choisie supérieure à la plage angulaire de rotation de la bague de verrouillage 216 autour de l'axe X2-X2 par rapport au corps 202, cette plage angulaire étant définie par l'angle γ232 qui vaut 15°. De plus les positions angulaires de l'embouchure 236 et du logement 232 sur la bague de verrouillage 216, les positions angulaires de la clavette 228 et de la rainure d'indexage 204 sur le corps 202, les positions angulaires du pion de verrouillage 104 et du pion d'indexage 106 sur le corps 102 sont telles que, dans une configuration indexée des corps 102 et 202 et quelle que soit la position de la bague de verrouillage 216 dans sa plage angulaire de rotation définie par les deux positions angulaires extrêmes de la bague de verrouillage 216 pour lesquelles la clavette 228 est en butée circonférentielle respectivement contre l'une et l'autre des parois longitudinales du logement 232, l'axe de déplacement X4-X4 du pion 104 intersecte le segment de cercle 2366, autrement dit le pion de verrouillage 104 est toujours compris dans l'embouchure 236 de la rainure de verrouillage 218. A la figure 3, la représentation de l'angle α218 et de l'angle γ232 est très schématique car ces angles sont en fait mesurables dans un plan transversal à l'axe d'accouplement X3-X3 et perpendiculaire au plan de la figure 3.Moreover, the value of the opening angle α218 of the mouthpiece 236 is chosen to be greater than the angular range of rotation of the locking ring 216 around the axis X2-X2 relative to the body 202, this angular range being defined by the angle γ232 which is 15 °. In addition the angular positions of the mouth 236 and the housing 232 on the locking ring 216, the angular positions of the key 228 and the indexing groove 204 on the body 202, the angular positions of the locking pin 104 and of the indexing pin 106 on the body 102 are such that, in an indexed configuration of the bodies 102 and 202 and whatever the position of the locking ring 216 in its angular range of rotation defined by the two extreme angular positions of the locking ring 216 for which the key 228 is in circumferential abutment respectively against the one and the other of the longitudinal walls of the housing 232, the axis of displacement X4-X4 of the pin 104 intersects the segment of circle 2366, in other words the locking pin 104 is always included in the mouth 236 of the locking groove 218. At the figure 3 , the representation of the angle α218 and the angle γ232 is very schematic because these angles are actually measurable in a plane transverse to the coupling axis X3-X3 and perpendicular to the plane of the figure 3 .

De plus, la rainure de verrouillage 218 comprend à l'arrière de l'embouchure 236, une encoche de verrouillage 238 qui s'étend selon une direction X5-X5 inclinée, par rapport à l'axe d'accouplement X3-X3 et dans le plan de la figure 3, d'un angle β238 d'environ 45°. En pratique l'angle β238 est compris entre 30° et 75°. On note 237 la zone de transition s'étendant axialement entre l'embouchure 236 et l'encoche de verrouillage 238. On note Y237 un axe radial à l'axe X2-X2 et passant par le centre de la zone 237. On note Y238 un axe radial par rapport à l'axe X2-X2 disposé dans l'encoche de verrouillage 238, et tel qu'en configuration verrouillée du pion 104 dans l'encoche de verrouillage 238, les axes Y104 et Y238 sont confondus.In addition, the locking groove 218 comprises, at the rear of the mouth 236, a locking notch 238 which extends in a direction X5-X5 inclined with respect to the coupling axis X3-X3 and in the plan of the figure 3 at an angle β238 of about 45 °. In practice the angle β238 is between 30 ° and 75 °. Note 237 the transition region extending axially between the mouth 236 and the locking notch 238. Y237 is a radial axis X2-X2 axis and passing through the center of the zone 237. Y238 is noted a radial axis with respect to the axis X2-X2 disposed in the locking notch 238, and such that in the locked configuration of the pin 104 in the locking notch 238, the axes Y104 and Y238 coincide.

Dans le plan de la figure 3, l'encoche 238 s'éloigne de la zone 237 et de l'embouchure 236 en pénétrant dans la bague 216, c'est à dire en s'éloignant des bords 2162 et 2164. La rainure de verrouillage 218 est constitué de l'embouchure chanfreinée 236, de l'encoche inclinée 238 et de la zone 237 de transition.In the plan of the figure 3 , the notch 238 moves away from the zone 237 and the mouth 236 by penetrating into the ring 216, that is to say away from the edges 2162 and 2164. The locking groove 218 consists of the chamfered mouth 236, inclined notch 238 and transition zone 237.

Lors de la poursuite de l'accouplement de l'élément mâle 100 et de l'élément femelle 200, le pion de verrouillage 104 s'engouffre dans la rainure de verrouillage 218 et entraine, du fait de la géométrie de l'encoche de verrouillage 238, la bague de verrouillage 216 en rotation autour de l'axe X3-X3.When the coupling of the male element 100 and the female element 200 is continued, the locking pin 104 engages in the locking groove 218 and causes, due to the geometry of the locking notch 238, the locking ring 216 rotates about the axis X3-X3.

La bague de verrouillage 216 est montée rotative autour de l'axe X2-X2 et du corps 202 de l'élément femelle 200, afin que le pion de verrouillage 104 puisse s'engager totalement dans l'encoche de verrouillage 238. En effet, la géométrie de la rainure de verrouillage 218 combinée avec le fait que le pion de verrouillage 104 est fixe en rotation par rapport au corps 202 dès lors que les corps 102 et 202 sont en configuration indexée, amène la bague de verrouillage 216 à tourner autour de l'axe d'accouplement X3-X3 lorsque le pion de verrouillage 104 se déplace axialement en translation par rapport à la bague de verrouillage 216 pour atteindre sa position verrouillée. Plus précisément, on définit un angle γ233 représentant la rotation angulaire de la bague 216 nécessaire pour que le pion de verrouillage 104 puisse s'engager depuis la zone 237 jusque dans sa position verrouillée dans l'encoche de verrouillage 238. L'angle γ233 est de l'ordre de 11°. Cet angle γ233 est mieux visible à la figure 14, il représente l'écart angulaire entre la projection de l'axe Y237 sur un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe X2-X2 et la projection de l'axe Y238 sur le même plan. Lorsque le pion 104 est verrouillé dans l'encoche de verrouillage 238, l'angle γ233 est égal à l'écartement angulaire entre les axes Y104 et Y237 projetés sur un même plan perpendiculaire à l'axe X3-X3. Cette rotation angulaire d'angle γ233 est comprise dans l'amplitude de rotation γ232 de la bague de verrouillage 216 qui est de l'ordre de 15° dans l'exemple. Par ailleurs, la bague de sécurité 220 comporte trois pattes de sécurité 234, disposées à l'avant de la bague de sécurité 220, c'est-à-dire du côté de l'élément 100 dans la configuration des figures 3 à 5. Les surfaces d'extrémité avant des pattes de sécurité 234 sont perpendiculaires à l'axe X2-X2. Le nombre de pattes de sécurité 234 est égal au nombre de rainures de verrouillage 218. Chaque patte de sécurité 234 est guidée par une rainure axiale 235 qui est mieux visible à la figure 14. Cette rainure axiale 235 est creusée dans la bague de verrouillage 216, et selon le prolongement axial de la zone 237. Ainsi, la bague de sécurité 220 est mobile en translation axiale par rapport à la bague de verrouillage 216 et solidaire en rotation de la bague de verrouillage 216. Le ressort 222 repousse chaque patte de sécurité 234 en position avancée dans laquelle est bloqué le passage pour un pion de verrouillage 104 entre l'embouchure 236 et l'encoche de verrouillage 238.The locking ring 216 is rotatably mounted about the axis X2-X2 and the body 202 of the female member 200, so that the locking pin 104 can engage fully in the locking notch 238. Indeed, the geometry of the locking groove 218 combined with the fact that the locking pin 104 is fixed in rotation relative to the body 202 when the bodies 102 and 202 are in indexed configuration, causes the locking ring 216 to rotate around the coupling pin X3-X3 when the locking pin 104 moves axially in translation relative to the locking ring 216 to reach its locked position. More precisely, an angle γ233 is defined representing the angular rotation of the ring 216 necessary so that the locking pin 104 can engage from the zone 237 to its locked position in the locking notch 238. The angle γ233 is of the order of 11 °. This angle γ233 is better visible at the figure 14 , it represents the angular difference between the projection of the axis Y237 on a plane perpendicular to the axis X2-X2 and the projection of the axis Y238 on the same plane. When the pin 104 is locked in the locking notch 238, the angle γ233 is equal to the angular spacing between the axes Y104 and Y237 projected on the same plane perpendicular to the axis X3-X3. This angular rotation of angle γ233 is included in the amplitude of rotation γ232 of the locking ring 216 which is of the order of 15 ° in the example. Furthermore, the safety ring 220 comprises three safety lugs 234, arranged at the front of the safety ring 220, that is to say on the side of the element 100 in the configuration of the Figures 3 to 5 . The front end surfaces of the safety tabs 234 are perpendicular to the X2-X2 axis. The number of safety tabs 234 is equal to the number of locking grooves 218. Each safety tab 234 is guided by an axial groove 235 which is better visible on the figure 14 . This axial groove 235 is hollowed out in the locking ring 216, and along the axial extension of the zone 237. Thus, the safety ring 220 is movable in axial translation with respect to the locking ring 216 and integral in rotation with the ring 216. The spring 222 pushes each safety tab 234 in the advanced position in which is blocked the passage for a locking pin 104 between the mouth 236 and the locking notch 238.

En référence aux figures 6 à 9, le rapprochement entre les deux éléments de raccord 100 et 200, selon l'axe d'accouplement X3-X3, implique que le pion de verrouillage 104 entre dans la rainure de verrouillage 218 et l'effort d'accouplement se traduit, si le pion 104 n'est pas aligné avec la zone 237, par pression du pion de verrouillage 104 sur une des deux pentes 2362 et 2364 du chanfrein. Cet effort entraîne la rotation de la bague de verrouillage 216 autour de l'axe X3-X3 ce qui lui permet de guider le pion de verrouillage 104 en translation jusqu'à la zone 237 si bien que le pion de verrouillage 104 se trouve axialement en regard de l'extrémité avant de la patte de sécurité 234. En parallèle de la rotation de la bague de verrouillage 216, se produit la connexion électrique de la broche de terre 108 avec le contact de terre 208 et, de manière quasiment simultanée, le doigt cylindrique 210 entourant le contact pilote 214 s'engage dans l'alésage 116. Cette coopération entre le doigt cylindrique 210 et l'alésage 116, qui qui sont décalés radialement par rapport à l'axe X3-X3, sert de détrompeur mécanique et empêche de poursuivre le mouvement d'accouplement si l'orientation des broches 108, 112 et 114 dans l'élément mâle 100 n'est pas conforme à celle des contacts 208, 212 et 214 dans l'élément femelle 200 car le doigt isolant 210 ne peut alors pas pénétrer dans l'alésage 116. Ce défaut de conformité peut, par exemple, apparaître à la suite d'une incompatibilité au niveau du positionnement angulaire du corps isolant 110 avec celui du corps isolant 206 respectivement par rapport au corps 102 de l'élément mâle 100 et au corps 202 de l'élément femelle 200.With reference to Figures 6 to 9 , the bringing together between the two connecting elements 100 and 200, along the coupling axis X3-X3, implies that the locking pin 104 enters the locking groove 218 and the coupling force results, if the pin 104 is not aligned with the zone 237, by pressing the locking pin 104 on one of the two slopes 2362 and 2364 of the chamfer. This force causes rotation of the locking ring 216 about the axis X3-X3 which allows it to guide the locking pin 104 in translation to the zone 237 so that the locking pin 104 is axially in position. front view of the safety tab 234. In parallel with the rotation of the locking ring 216, the electrical connection of the earth pin 108 with the earth contact 208 occurs and, almost simultaneously, the cylindrical finger 210 surrounding the pilot contact 214 engages in the bore 116. This cooperation between the cylindrical finger 210 and the bore 116, which are offset radially with respect to the axis X3-X3, serves as a mechanical keying and prevents the continuation of the coupling movement if the orientation of the pins 108, 112 and 114 in the male element 100 does not conform to that of the contacts 208, 212 and 214 in the female element 200 because the insulating finger 210 can not then to enter the bore 116. This lack of conformity may, for example, appear as a result of an incompatibility in the angular positioning of the insulating body 110 with that of the insulating body 206 respectively relative to the body 102 of the male element. 100 and the body 202 of the female element 200.

Comme visible à la figure 6, lorsque la broche de terre 108 est emmanchée dans son contact 208, la connexion entre les broches de puissance 112 et leurs contacts de puissance respectifs 212, n'est pas encore effective. Il en va de même pour la connexion entre les broches pilote 114 et leurs contacts respectifs 214. Ceci est cohérent avec le fait que la connexion du circuit de puissance est sécurisée puisqu'elle intervient après la mise à la terre, mais avant la fermeture du circuit pilote.As visible at figure 6 when the earth pin 108 is fitted into its contact 208, the connection between the power pins 112 and their contacts respective power 212, is not yet effective. The same goes for the connection between the pilot pins 114 and their respective contacts 214. This is consistent with the fact that the connection of the power circuit is secured since it intervenes after the earthing, but before the closing of the pilot circuit.

La poursuite du mouvement d'accouplement amène le raccord dans la position de la figure 7. Plus précisément, les broches puissance 112 sont emmanchées dans leurs contacts respectifs 212 connectant ainsi électriquement le circuit de puissance. Le corps 102 de l'élément mâle 100 vient au contact du joint à lèvre 224, sans pour autant rendre étanche l'intérieur des corps 102 et 202. En effet, les ouvertures 122 disposées dans le corps 102 de l'élément mâle 100 sont axialement situées à l'avant par rapport au joint d'étanchéité 224. De l'air présent entre les corps 102 et 202 peut ainsi être évacué vers l'extérieur. Par ailleurs, le pion de verrouillage 104, qui reste engagé dans la rainure de verrouillage 218, parvient axialement au contact de la patte de sécurité 234 qu'il repousse axialement alors vers l'arrière, c'est-à-dire à l'opposé du premier élément de raccord 100, à l'encontre de l'effort élastique du ressort 222. Ceci libère donc le passage vers l'encoche de verrouillage 238 au niveau de la zone 237. Dans cette configuration où le pion 104 parvient au contact de la patte de sécurité 234, la connexion entre les broches pilotes 114 et leurs contacts respectifs 214 n'est pas encore effective.The continuation of the coupling movement brings the coupling into the position of the figure 7 . More specifically, the power pins 112 are fitted into their respective contacts 212 thus electrically connecting the power circuit. The body 102 of the male element 100 comes into contact with the lip seal 224, without sealing the inside of the bodies 102 and 202. Indeed, the openings 122 disposed in the body 102 of the male element 100 are axially located at the front with respect to the seal 224. Air between the bodies 102 and 202 can thus be discharged to the outside. Moreover, the locking pin 104, which remains engaged in the locking groove 218, reaches axially in contact with the safety tab 234 that it then axially pushes backwards, that is to say to the opposite of the first connecting element 100, against the elastic force of the spring 222. This thus releases the passage to the locking notch 238 at the zone 237. In this configuration where the pin 104 comes into contact of the safety tab 234, the connection between the pilot pins 114 and their respective contacts 214 is not yet effective.

Dans la dernière phase de l'accouplement, le pion de verrouillage 104 s'engage dans l'encoche inclinée 238 et progresse dans celle-ci. Les broches pilotes 114 s'engagent dans leur contact pilote 214 alors que la bague de verrouillage 216 continue de tourner autour de l'axe X3-X3 sous les efforts axiaux d'accouplement. Dès lors que les relais associés au circuit pilote, dont les broches 114 sont emmanchées dans les contacts 214, sont fermés, le courant peut circuler à travers le circuit de puissance. On remarque donc que la connexion électrique est sécurisée puisque dans l'ordre de séquencement dans le raccord R, la mise à la terre par engagement de la broche terre 108 dans le contact terre 208 est effective avant la connexion du circuit de puissance par engagement des broches puissance 112 dans les contacts de puissance 212 qui est elle-même effectuée avant la connexion du circuit de pilote par engagement des broches pilote 114 dans les contacts pilote 214. De cette manière, dès que la mise à la terre est effective, l'opérateur peut manipuler le raccord sans risque d'électrocution, puis le circuit de puissance peut être connecté en toute sécurité car il n'est pas alimenté en courant puisque la connexion électrique du circuit pilote n'a pas encore été établie. Enfin, la connexion du circuit pilote permet d'autoriser la circulation du courant à travers le circuit de puissance.In the last phase of the coupling, the locking pin 104 engages in the inclined notch 238 and progresses therein. The pilot pins 114 engage in their pilot contact 214 while the locking ring 216 continues to rotate about the axis X3-X3 under the axial coupling forces. As soon as the relays associated with the pilot circuit, whose pins 114 are fitted in the contacts 214, are closed, the current can flow through the power circuit. Note therefore that the electrical connection is secure since in the order of sequencing in the connection R, the grounding by engagement of the earth pin 108 in the earth contact 208 is effective before the connection of the power circuit by engagement of power pins 112 in the power contacts 212 which is itself performed before the connection of the driver circuit by pilot pin engagement 114 in the pilot contacts 214. In this way, as soon as the grounding is effective, the operator can manipulate the fitting without risk of electrocution, then the power circuit can be connected safely because it is not supplied with power since the electrical connection of the pilot circuit has not yet been established. Finally, the connection of the pilot circuit makes it possible to allow the flow of current through the power circuit.

Afin de réaliser cette séquence de connexion, le raccord est conçu de manière à ce que, pendant l'accouplement des éléments 100 et 200, dans une configuration indexée des éléments 100 et 200 avant l'engagement du pion 104 avec la rainure de verrouillage 218, une distance d8, mesurée selon un axe parallèle à l'axe X3-X3, entre la broche terre 108 et son contact 208 est inférieure à une distance d12, mesurée parallèlement à l'axe X3-X3, entre les broches de puissance 112 et leurs contacts 212 qui est elle-même inférieure à une distance d14, également prise selon un axe parallèle à l'axe X3-X3 entre les broches pilotes 114 et les contacts 214. Les distances d8 et d12 sont visibles respectivement sur les figures 4 et 5 et la distance d14 est visible sur les deux figures 4 et 5. De cette manière, on assure que la broche de terre 108 se connecte en premier au contact de terre 208, les broches de puissance 112 se connectent en deuxième aux contacts de puissance 212 et les broches pilotes 114 se connectent en dernier aux contacts pilotes 214. Etant entendu que la séquence inverse se produit lors du désaccouplement, cela permet d'assurer la sécurité de la connexion et de la déconnexion.In order to carry out this connection sequence, the coupling is designed so that, during the coupling of the elements 100 and 200, in an indexed configuration of the elements 100 and 200 before the engagement of the pin 104 with the locking groove 218 a distance d8, measured along an axis parallel to the axis X3-X3, between the earth pin 108 and its contact 208 is smaller than a distance d12, measured parallel to the axis X3-X3, between the power pins 112 and their contacts 212 which is itself smaller than a distance d14, also taken along an axis parallel to the axis X3-X3 between the pilot pins 114 and the contacts 214. The distances d8 and d12 are respectively visible on the figures 4 and 5 and the distance d14 is visible on both figures 4 and 5 . In this way, it is ensured that the earth pin 108 first connects to the earth contact 208, the power pins 112 connect second to the power contacts 212 and the pilot pins 114 connect last to the pilot contacts 214. Since the reverse sequence occurs during decoupling, this ensures the security of the connection and disconnection.

Les contacts électriques associés aux broches sont assurés de manière connue par une couronne de lamelles métalliques flexibles déformées par l'emmanchement de la broche associée. Au terme de la dernière séquence de l'accouplement, le pion de verrouillage 104 est parvenu dans l'encoche de verrouillage 238 et s'est dégagé radialement de la patte de sécurité 234 ; il n'exerce donc plus d'effort axial sur la patte de sécurité 234. Ainsi, la bague de sécurité 220 qui subit l'effort élastique du ressort 222 est rappelée élastiquement, vers l'avant, se rapprochant ainsi du premier élément de raccord 100. La patte de sécurité 234 vient recouvrir partiellement la zone 237 bloquant ainsi le pion de verrouillage 104 dans l'encoche 238 dans une position où le pion 104 est verrouillé axialement par rapport au corps 202. En effet le pion de verrouillage 104 heurte la patte de sécurité 234 en tendant à se déplacer vers la zone 237. Le raccord est accouplé et tout éloignement des corps 102 et 202 est empêché.The electrical contacts associated with the pins are provided in a known manner by a ring of flexible metal strips deformed by the fitting of the associated pin. At the end of the last sequence of the coupling, the locking pin 104 has reached the locking notch 238 and has disengaged radially from the safety tab 234; it therefore no longer exerts axial force on the safety tab 234. Thus, the safety ring 220 which undergoes the elastic force of the spring 222 is elastically biased towards the front, thus approaching the first connecting element 100. The security tab 234 partially covers the zone 237 and thus locking the locking pin 104 in the notch 238 in a position where the pin 104 is locked axially relative to the body 202. In fact the locking pin 104 strikes the safety tab 234 tending to move towards the zone 237. The coupling is coupled and any distance from the bodies 102 and 202 is prevented.

En parallèle de la dernière séquence d'accouplement, le corps 102 de l'élément mâle 100 poursuit son mouvement en comprimant le joint à lèvre 224. Après que le pion de verrouillage 104 soit parvenu au contact de la patte de sécurité 234, les ouvertures 122 disposées dans le corps 102 de l'élément mâle 100 passent à l'arrière du joint d'étanchéité 224, l'étanchéité est opérationnelle entre les deux corps et l'air contenu entre les deux corps 102 et 202 est comprimé en fin d'accouplement. Afin de diminuer les efforts d'accouplement, un joint à lèvre a été choisi car son effort de compression est inférieur à celui d'un joint torique. De plus, ce joint à lèvre assure l'étanchéité après que les broches puissance 112 aient été engagées dans leurs contacts 212, ceci permettant de réduire la course sur laquelle l'air contenu entre les deux corps 102 et 202 est comprimé et ainsi diminuer les efforts d'accouplement. Puis vient la déformation de la lamelle de blindage 226. Lors de cette déformation, la lamelle de blindage 226 est plaquée contre le corps 202 de l'élément femelle 200. Elle assure ainsi la continuité électrique entre les deux corps 102 et 202 pour la sécurité de l'opérateur.In parallel with the last coupling sequence, the body 102 of the male element 100 continues its movement by compressing the lip seal 224. After the locking pin 104 has come into contact with the safety tab 234, the openings 122 disposed in the body 102 of the male member 100 pass behind the seal 224, the seal is operative between the two bodies and the air contained between the two bodies 102 and 202 is compressed at the end of 'coupling. In order to reduce the coupling forces, a lip seal has been chosen because its compression force is less than that of an O-ring. In addition, this lip seal ensures sealing after the power pins 112 have been engaged in their contacts 212, this allowing to reduce the stroke on which the air contained between the two bodies 102 and 202 is compressed and thus reduce the coupling forces. Then comes the deformation of the shielding strip 226. During this deformation, the shielding strip 226 is pressed against the body 202 of the female element 200. It thus ensures the electrical continuity between the two bodies 102 and 202 for the safety of the operator.

Ainsi, il est possible de garantir la sécurité d'un opérateur qui interromprait son effort durant l'accouplement. Dans ce cas, si le pion 104 a repoussé la patte de sécurité 234 sans toutefois parvenir en position verrouillée, la bague de sécurité 220 et les pattes de sécurité 234 sont repoussées élastiquement par le ressort 222 vers l'avant, puisque l'opérateur n'exerce plus d'effort pour comprimer le ressort 222. L'effort exercé par le ressort 222 sur le pion 104 s'oppose aux efforts de frottement entre les éléments de raccord 100 et 200, et notamment aux efforts de frottement des broches 108 et 112 qui sont respectivement déjà engagées dans leurs contacts 208 et 212. Ceci entraîne que les pions de verrouillage 104 sont repoussés par les pattes 234 en direction de l'embouchure 236 vers une position où le circuit pilote est déconnecté. Lorsque le ressort 222 est dimensionné pour vaincre tous les efforts de frottement s'opposant au recul du corps 102 dans le corps 202, jusqu'à sa position de la figure 7, il n'y a pas de position intermédiaire lors de l'accouplement. En effet, dès lors que le pion 104 repousse la bague de sécurité 220, le raccord passe, dans le cas d'un accouplement réussi, exclusivement entre une position où le pion de verrouillage 104 est en contact avec la patte de sécurité 234 à une position accouplée où le pion de verrouillage 104 est bloqué en position verrouillée dans l'encoche de verrouillage 238 par la patte de sécurité 234. Ceci est en fait une sécurité en cas d'accouplement incomplet, puisque la patte de sécurité 234 repousse le pion de verrouillage 104 dans une position où le circuit pilote est ouvert et donc où aucun courant n'est susceptible de traverser le circuit de puissance. Le fait que l'accouplement soit incomplet est facilement repérable par l'opérateur puisque le courant ne circule pas dans le circuit de puissance.Thus, it is possible to guarantee the safety of an operator who would interrupt his effort during mating. In this case, if the pin 104 has pushed the safety tab 234 without reaching the locked position, the safety ring 220 and the safety tabs 234 are resiliently pushed by the spring 222 towards the front, since the operator 'exerts more effort to compress the spring 222. The force exerted by the spring 222 on the pin 104 opposes the friction forces between the connecting elements 100 and 200, and in particular the friction forces of the pins 108 and 112 which are respectively engaged in their contacts 208 and 212. This causes the locking pins 104 are pushed by the tabs 234 towards the mouth 236 to a position where the driver circuit is disconnected. When the spring 222 is sized to overcome all the friction forces opposing the recoil of the body 102 in the body 202, to its position of the figure 7 there is no intermediate position when mating. Indeed, since the pin 104 pushes the safety ring 220, the connection passes, in the case of a successful coupling, exclusively between a position where the locking pin 104 is in contact with the safety tab 234 to a coupled position where the locking pin 104 is locked in the locked position in the locking notch 238 by the safety tab 234. This is actually a safety in case of incomplete coupling, since the safety tab 234 pushes the pin of locking 104 in a position where the driver circuit is open and therefore no current is likely to pass through the power circuit. The fact that the coupling is incomplete is easily identifiable by the operator since the current does not flow in the power circuit.

Les efforts d'accouplements sont répartis sur la course d'accouplement. En effet, il apparaît en premier l'effort de déformation du contact de terre 208 par la broche de terre 108, puis l'effort de déformation des contacts de puissance 212 par les broches de puissance 112, puis l'écrasement du joint d'étanchéité 224 simultanément à l'effort d'emmanchement des broches pilotes 114 dans les contacts pilotes 214 et enfin la déformation de la lamelle de blindage 226 et la compression de l'air contenu à l'intérieur des corps 102 et 202. Le fait de répartir les efforts résistants sur toute la course d'accouplement est plus ergonomique pour l'opérateur lors d'un raccordement électrique.The coupling forces are distributed over the coupling stroke. Indeed, it first appears the deformation force of the earth contact 208 by the ground pin 108, then the deformation force of the power contacts 212 by the power pins 112, then the crushing of the gasket. 224 sealing simultaneously with the force of fitting of the pilot pins 114 in the pilot contacts 214 and finally the deformation of the shielding strip 226 and the compression of the air contained inside the bodies 102 and 202. The fact of distributing the resistant forces over the entire coupling path is more ergonomic for the operator during an electrical connection.

Après indexage des deux corps 102 et 202, le seul effort de rapprochement axial des deux corps 102 et 202 permet l'engagement du pion de verrouillage 104 dans la rainure de verrouillage 218 et le verrouillage du pion 104 dans l'encoche de verrouillage 238 avec la bague de verrouillage 236 qui tourne autour de l'axe X3-X3. On parle d'un accouplement automatique.After indexing the two bodies 102 and 202, the only effort of bringing the two bodies 102 and 202 into axial alignment allows the locking pin 104 to engage in the locking groove 218 and locking the pin 104 in the locking notch 238 with the locking ring 236 which rotates about the axis X3-X3. We are talking about automatic coupling.

La construction du raccord R avec une bague de sécurité 220 bloquant le pion de verrouillage 104 en position verrouillée dans l'encoche 238 inclinée permet de limiter l'angle γ233 de rotation angulaire de la bague 216 nécessaire pour le verrouillage et donc de limiter l'angle d'ouverture α218 qui est au moins égal à l'angle γ233 pour un raccord compact.The construction of the coupling R with a safety ring 220 blocking the locking pin 104 in the locked position in the notched slot 238 makes it possible to limit the angle γ233 of angular rotation of the ring 216 necessary for locking and thus to limit the aperture angle α218 which is at least equal to angle γ233 for a compact fitting.

Lors du désaccouplement, l'opérateur tire la bague de sécurité 220 vers l'arrière et effectue simultanément un mouvement d'éloignement axial des deux éléments de raccord 100 et 200 afin de sortir les pions de verrouillage 104 à l'extérieur des rainures de verrouillage 218. L'agencement des distances entre les broches 108, 112 et 114 et leurs contacts 208, 212, 214 respectif implique que les broches 108, 112 et 114 sortent de leurs contacts 208, 212 et 214 dans l'ordre inverse de celui décrit pour l'accouplement. A savoir, la connexion du circuit pilote est rompue en premier, vient ensuite la déconnexion du circuit de puissance puis enfin la déconnexion à la terre. Ceci permet d'assurer la sécurité de l'opérateur au cours du désaccouplement. De même, dès lors que les pions de verrouillage 104 sont libérés par la bague de sécurité 220 et sortent de l'encoche de verrouillage 238, on garantit que, sans action de l'opérateur, les pions 104 sont repoussés par les pattes de sécurité 234 vers une position où au moins le circuit pilote est interrompu et où il n'y a donc plus de courant transitant dans le circuit puissance.When uncoupling, the operator pulls the safety ring 220 backwards and simultaneously moves the two connecting elements 100 and 200 at the same time in order to pull the locking pins 104 out of the locking grooves. 218. The arrangement of the distances between the pins 108, 112 and 114 and their respective contacts 208, 212, 214 implies that the pins 108, 112 and 114 leave their contacts 208, 212 and 214 in the reverse order of that described. for mating. Namely, the connection of the driver circuit is broken first, then comes the disconnection of the power circuit and finally the disconnection to earth. This ensures the safety of the operator during uncoupling. Similarly, since the locking pins 104 are released by the security ring 220 and out of the locking notch 238, it is ensured that, without action of the operator, the pins 104 are pushed back by the safety tabs 234 to a position where at least the pilot circuit is interrupted and where there is no longer any current flowing in the power circuit.

Selon un aspect optionnel de l'invention représenté de façon schématique uniquement à la figure 8, il est prévu une sécurité supplémentaire utile dans le cas d'un désaccouplement forcé des éléments 100 et 200. En effet, il est courant que le raccord R assure l'interface entre un bâti fixe 242, qui est par exemple une borne secteur, et une partie mobile, qui est par exemple une machine pouvant se déplacer sur une ligne d'assemblage. Ainsi, il est intéressant de pouvoir garantir un désaccouplement du raccord lorsqu'un des deux éléments du raccord s'éloigne de l'autre de manière intempestive. A cet effet, l'élément de raccord 200 équipant le bâti fixe 242 est équipé de moyens d'attache, tels qu'une chaîne 240, qui relient la bague de sécurité 220 au bâti fixe 242. De cette manière, le mouvement de retrait de l'élément mâle 100 dans le sens de la flèche F1 à la figure 8, alors que le raccord est encore accouplé, entraîne dans son mouvement de translation, le corps 202 de l'élément femelle 200 et la bague de verrouillage 216. Le mouvement de la bague de sécurité 220 dans le même sens est limité par la chaîne 240. Si le mouvement de l'élément 100 se poursuit dans le sens de la flèche F1, la bague de sécurité 220 recule par rapport à la bague de verrouillage 216 et les pattes de sécurité 234 s'écartent du passage entre l'encoche de verrouillage 238 et la zone 237, libérant ainsi les pions 104. Ceux-ci ne sont plus bloqués dans les encoches 238, ils sortent des rainures 218 et le raccord R est désaccouplé.According to an optional aspect of the invention shown schematically only in the figure 8 , there is provided an additional safety useful in the case of a forced disconnection of the elements 100 and 200. Indeed, it is common that the connection R provides the interface between a fixed frame 242, which is for example a power terminal, and a moving part, which is for example a machine that can move on an assembly line. Thus, it is interesting to be able to guarantee disconnection of the coupling when one of the two elements of the coupling moves away from the other in an untimely manner. For this purpose, the connecting element 200 fitted to the fixed frame 242 is equipped with attachment means, such as a chain 240, which connect the safety ring 220 to the fixed frame 242. In this way, the withdrawal movement of the male element 100 in the direction of the arrow F1 to the figure 8 while the coupling is still coupled, causes in its translational movement, the body 202 of the female member 200 and the locking ring 216. movement of the safety ring 220 in the same direction is limited by the chain 240. If the movement of the element 100 continues in the direction of the arrow F1, the safety ring 220 moves back relative to the locking ring 216 and the safety tabs 234 deviate from the passage between the locking notch 238 and the zone 237, thus releasing the pins 104. These are no longer locked in the notches 238, they come out of the grooves 218 and the fitting R is uncoupled.

Selon une variante non représentée de l'invention, le joint 224 et/ou la lamelle 226 peut être prévu sur l'élément mâle 100.According to a not shown variant of the invention, the seal 224 and / or the strip 226 may be provided on the male element 100.

Selon une autre variante, certaines broches parmi les broches 108, 112 et 114 peuvent être prévues sur l'élément femelle 200.According to another variant, some of the pins 108, 112 and 114 may be provided on the female element 200.

Selon une autre variante, le chanfrein est légèrement courbé.According to another variant, the chamfer is slightly curved.

Selon une autre variante, la bague de sécurité est munie d'une seule patte de sécurité coopérant avec l'une des multiples rainures de verrouillage du raccord.According to another variant, the safety ring is provided with a single safety tab cooperating with one of the multiple locking grooves of the coupling.

Selon une autre variante, le détrompage mécanique formé par 210/116 peut être ménagé autour d'autres broches et contacts respectifs.According to another variant, the mechanical keying formed by 210/116 may be arranged around other pins and respective contacts.

En variante, le nombre de rainures 120 et 215 pourrait être différent de quatre.Alternatively, the number of grooves 120 and 215 could be different from four.

Selon une autre variante, la bague de sécurité 220 n'est pas en appui contre un ressort mais la patte de sécurité 234 est élastiquement déformable. La déformation de cette patte 234 permet de libérer le passage du pion 104 et le retour élastique permet de verrouiller le pion 104 dans l'encoche 238.According to another variant, the safety ring 220 is not supported against a spring but the safety tab 234 is elastically deformable. The deformation of this tab 234 makes it possible to release the passage of the pin 104 and the elastic return makes it possible to lock the pin 104 in the notch 238.

En variante, la pente de la surface 2362 pourrait ne pas être inclinée par rapport à l'axe X2-X2, donnant lieu à une embouchure dissymétrique. Enfin, l'angle d'inclinaison d'au moins une des pentes des surfaces 2362 et 2364 est compris entre 20 et 60°.Alternatively, the slope of the surface 2362 may not be inclined relative to the axis X2-X2, giving rise to an asymmetrical mouth. Finally, the angle of inclination of at least one of the slopes of the surfaces 2362 and 2364 is between 20 and 60 °.

Claims (15)

  1. Electrical connector (R), comprising a first connection element (100) and a second connection element (200), complementary to the first connection element (100), the two connection elements (100, 200) being able to be coupled to one another according to a coupling axis (X3-X3), the first and the second connection element comprising:
    - at least one pin (108, 112, 114) carried by the first element (100) or the second element (200) and at least one respective contact (208, 212, 214) carried by the second element (200) or the first element (100),
    - a bayonet-type locking mechanism (104, 218) of the connector comprising at least one locking pin (104) arranged on a body (102) of the first connection element (100) and at least one locking ring (216) mounted rotatingly around a body (202) of the second connection element (200) and comprising a locking groove (218) with an outlet (236) and a locking notch (238) wherein the locking pin (104) is able to be locked axially in relation to the body (202) of the second connection element (200).
    - means for indexing (106, 204), making it possible to position the body (102) of the first element (100) and the body (202) of the second connection element (200), one in relation to the other around the coupling axis (X3-X3) in an indexed configuration which intervenes, during coupling, before the engagement of the locking pin (104) in the locking groove (218),
    characterised
    - in that the second connection element (200) comprises a safety ring (220) mounted mobile in axial translation in relation to the locking ring (216), and comprising at least one safety catch (234),
    - in that the safety ring (220) is able to be pushed back by the locking pin (104) during coupling between, a first position wherein the safety catch (234) blocks the passage of the pin (104) between the locking notch (238) and the outlet (236), and a second position wherein the safety catch (234) authorises the passage of the pin, the safety ring (220) being drawn back elastically to its first position,
    - in that each locking groove (218) comprises at the front, a chamfer (2362, 2364) delimiting said outlet (236), and
    - in that the rotation range (γ232) of the locking ring (216) in relation to the body (202) of the second connection element (200) around the coupling axis (X3-X3) is limited, and
    - in that in the indexed configuration of the bodies (102) and (202) of the first and second elements (100, 200), the axis of travel (X4-X4) of the pin (104) intersects said outlet (236) of the locking groove (218) over the entire rotation range (γ232) of the locking ring (216).
  2. Electrical connector (R) according to claim 1, characterised in that the angle of opening (α218) of the outlet (236) of the locking groove (218) in a plane perpendicular to the axis (X3-X3) is greater than or equal to the rotation range (γ232) of the locking ring (216) around the body (202) of the second connection element (200).
  3. Electrical connector (R) as claimed in any preceding claim, characterised in that the locking notch (238) is inclined (β238) in relation to the coupling axis (X3-X3) by moving away from the front of the locking ring (216) and in that the safety catch (234) blocks the locking pin (104) in locked position in coupled configuration of the connector.
  4. Electrical connector (R) as claimed in any preceding claim, characterised in that the first and the second connection element (100, 200) further include
    - means for earthing (108, 208) including an earthing pin (108) arranged on an element among the first (100) and the second connection element (200) and an earth contact (208) arranged on the other element, with the earthing pin (108) able to engage according to the coupling axis (X3-X3) into the earth contact (208),
    - means for connecting (112, 212) a power circuit including at least one power pin (112) arranged on an element among the first (100) and the second connection element (200) and at least one power contact (212) arranged on the other element, the power pin (112) able to engage, according to the coupling axis (X3-X3), into the power contact (212).
    - means for connecting (114, 214) a pilot circuit including at least one pilot pin (114) arranged on an element among the first and the second connection element (100, 200) and at least one pilot contact arranged on the other element, with the pilot pin (114) able to engage, according to the coupling axis (X3-X3), into the pilot contact (214).
  5. Electrical connector (R) according to claim 4, characterised in that, in said indexed configuration of the two bodies before the engagement of the pin (104) with the locking groove (218), an axial distance (d8), taken according to an axis parallel to the coupling axis (X3-X3), between each earthing pin (108) and its respective earth contact (208) is less than an axial distance (d12) between each power pin (112) and its respective power contact (212), said axial distance (d12) between each power pin (112) and its respective power contact (212) being less than an axial distance (d14) between each pilot pin (114) and its respective pilot contact (214).
  6. Electrical connector (R) according to one of claims 4 or 5, characterised in that, during coupling, the connection to the earth is carried out before the connection of the power circuit, said power connection being carried out before the connection of the pilot circuit.
  7. Electrical connector (R) according to one of claims 5 or 6, characterised in that the first connection element (100) and/or the second connection element (200) further comprises a seal (224) able to cooperate with the body (202) of the second connection element (200) and the body (102) of the first connection element (100) and in that the seal (224) seals the inside of the bodies (102, 202) of the first and second elements (100, 200) during the coupling after the power circuit (112, 212) has been connected.
  8. Electrical connector (R) according to any of claims 5 to 7, characterised in that the second connection element (200) comprises, a shielding blade (226) arranged on a body (202) among the body (102) of the first connection element (100) and the body (202) of the second connection element and able to cooperate with the other body (102) among the body (102) of the first connection element (100) and the body (202) of the second connection element (200) after the power circuit (112, 212) has been connected.
  9. Electrical connector (R) according to one of claims 4 to 8, characterised in that, during the coupling, when the locking pin (104) comes into contact with a safety catch (234) of the safety ring (220) arranged in its first position, the connection of the or of each pilot pin (114) in the respective pilot contact (214) is not effective.
  10. Electrical connector (R) according to any of claims 4 to 9, characterised in that, when the pin (104) cooperates axially with the safety ring (220) while the safety ring (220) is between its first and its second position, the safety ring (220) is able to automatically push back, and without action from the operator, a locking pin (104) towards a position wherein the connection of the or of each pilot pin (114) in the respective pilot contact (214) is not effective.
  11. Electrical connector (R) as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that the body (102) of the first connection element (100) and/or the body (202) of the second connection element (200) is formed of an external body (102, 202) and of an internal insulating body (110, 206) and in that the internal insulating body (110, 206) is able to be immobilised in relation to the external body (102, 202) in several configurations angularly offset in relation to a central axis (X1-X1, X2-X2) of the connection element.
  12. Electrical connector (R) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first connection element (100) and/or the second connection element (200) further include a mechanical foolproof device, comprised of a bore (116) formed around a pin (114), the diameter (D1) of the bore (116) being substantially equal to the diameter (D2) of a cylindrical finger (210) arranged around the respective contact (214), in that during the coupling, the bore (116) and the finger (210) are offset radially in relation to the coupling axis (X3-X3) and in that the bore (116) and the finger (210) are able to cooperate in indexed configuration of the bodies (102, 202).
  13. Electrical connector (R) as claimed in any preceding claim, characterised in that the rotation range (γ232) of the locking ring in relation to the body (202) of the second connection element (200) around the axis (X3-X3), is limited angularly by a blocking member (228).
  14. Electrical connector (R) according to claim 13, characterised in that the blocking member (228) is a key (228) housed in the body (202) of the second connection element (200), or respectively in the locking ring (216), and cooperating on the rotation range (γ232) with a housing (230) radially aligned with the key and arranged in the locking ring (216), or respectively in the body (202) of the second connection element (200).
  15. Electrical connector (R) as claimed in any preceding claim characterised in that the second connection element (200) comprises means (240) of fastening the safety ring (220) to a fixed point (242) outside of the connector.
EP13199878.3A 2013-01-02 2013-12-31 Electrical connector with automatic engagement Active EP2752946B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1350017A FR3000620B1 (en) 2013-01-02 2013-01-02 ELECTRICAL CONNECTION WITH AUTOMATIC ENGAGEMENT

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2752946A1 EP2752946A1 (en) 2014-07-09
EP2752946B1 true EP2752946B1 (en) 2015-10-28

Family

ID=48224940

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP13199878.3A Active EP2752946B1 (en) 2013-01-02 2013-12-31 Electrical connector with automatic engagement

Country Status (5)

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US (1) US9039436B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2752946B1 (en)
CN (1) CN103915737B (en)
ES (1) ES2553465T3 (en)
FR (1) FR3000620B1 (en)

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FR3048822B1 (en) * 2016-03-11 2018-04-06 Staubli Faverges ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
US9923293B2 (en) * 2016-06-02 2018-03-20 Raytheon Company Radially compliant, axially free-running connector
CN106594682B (en) * 2016-11-03 2020-03-06 武汉通畅汽车电子照明有限公司 Quick mounting structure of car light bulb
NL2018092B1 (en) * 2016-12-28 2018-07-06 Ab Trading & Consultancy B V Plug assembly for use with refrigerated shipping containers
DE102018118681A1 (en) * 2018-08-01 2020-02-06 Amad Mennekes Holding Gmbh & Co. Kg Plug device with lockable components
US10652664B1 (en) * 2019-06-28 2020-05-12 Bose Corporation Active loudspeaker and cable assembly
FR3101204A1 (en) * 2019-09-25 2021-03-26 Psa Automobiles Sa SEALING CAP FOR A CONNECTION AREA BETWEEN TWO ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS
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US11824304B2 (en) 2022-01-05 2023-11-21 System One Innovations Inc. Electrical connector

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN103915737B (en) 2017-09-22
US20140187073A1 (en) 2014-07-03
ES2553465T3 (en) 2015-12-09
FR3000620B1 (en) 2015-02-27
EP2752946A1 (en) 2014-07-09
CN103915737A (en) 2014-07-09
FR3000620A1 (en) 2014-07-04
US9039436B2 (en) 2015-05-26

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