DE102017004018A1 - Electrical connector - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electrical connector, comprising - an electrically insulating housing (1) having a cable entry (101) at a first end and a base (103) at a second end, - at least two contact pins (3a, 3b), in the base (103) are accommodated, of which at least one contact pin (3a, 3b) is switchable, - an at least two-core cable (105) leading into the electrically insulating housing (1) for connection to a consumer (15), of which at least two Cores are connected to the at least two contact pins (3a, 3b), - at least one switching device (5) for switching the at least one contact pin (3a, 3b) and at least one internal power supply (7) for the at least one switching device (5). Furthermore, the present invention relates to the use of the electrical connector as a subscriber in an external wireless network, as an access point for establishing an internal wireless network and the Betriebszustan detection of electrical equipment and / or insulation monitoring and / or resistance measurement

Description

The present invention relates to an electrical connector and its uses.

Generic electrical connectors are known from the prior art in various variants per se.

WO 2011/083029 A1 concerns, for example, a connecting line for a connector with at least two conductors for transmitting a supply voltage and with two further conductors, which are conductively connected to each other at the first end and at the second end a measuring device for measuring resistance of a protective conductor and measuring conductor comprehensive measuring circuit, wherein in case of excess resistance, a warning signal is issued. The goal here is to provide a connection line with which damage to the electrical system can be detected as easily as possible and safely by the user. The disadvantage is that the connected consumer can continue to be used in case of a resistance violation in the protective conductor. Furthermore, an acoustic signal is not perceptible by every user. Damage to the lead insulation is obviously not detected.

DE 10 2014 004 449 A1 refers to an adapter plug with a plug for plugging into a socket and a socket for inserting a load, comprising two contact pins for connecting the intermediate plug to a voltage network, two contact sockets for connecting the load to the intermediate plug, a circuit board, the at least one electrical connection comprising the contact sockets to the contact pins, a circuit breaker for disconnecting at least one of the two electrical connections between the network and the load, and a control unit which activates the circuit breaker. The intermediate connector is characterized in that at least one of the contact sockets is arranged directly on the circuit board and at least one of the contact pins is connected via a directly attached to the board, resilient metal part with the board. Although this adapter is to eliminate the known from the prior art disadvantages longer ways for the flow of current and associated large electrical resistance, however, this adapter has a rather bulky shape and can therefore be considered by the user as disturbing. In addition, an adapter always represents an additional component that must be used properly and further maintained.

This constellation with inserted intermediate plug and connected consumer (main circuit) thus includes a socket with a pair of contact sockets with contact springs (pressed against the inserted pins), an intermediate plug (with a pair of pins, a conductor, a switch (semiconductors or relays, etc.), another trace, a pair of connection springs) and a combination of male + female + consumer (with a pair of pins, a lead, a consumer). Thus, the electrical connection is realized from board to pin of the intermediate plug, whereby arcs when switching mechanical contacts (eg conventional relays) are a cause of wear at the contact points and heat is developed, which is a common cause of property damage of and by electrical equipment ,

There are therefore disadvantages in the number of contact points and contact resistance. This results in not only economic disadvantages for the user due to power losses, caused by contact and contact resistance, but also increases the thermal hazard in the field of use used, since contact points are exposed to electrical, mechanical, thermal and chemical influences, so it is not connected to electrical connections rarely leads to errors and thus often cause property damage and fire damage.

Intermediate plugs are also portable equipment that must be checked at regular intervals in accordance with the requirements of DIN VDE and the German Employers' Liability Insurance Association. Thus, there are other economic disadvantages, since the testing cost is increased.

Multi-phase switching of sockets are used for example in DE 20 2010 015 424 U1 described. Advantageously, the use of microcontroller-controlled semiconductor elements is shown. These are also suitable for wired or wireless communication. Next, the multi-pole electrical plug-in device is measured by means of current measuring resistor, current transformer or current transformer and fed to the microcontroller, processed and evaluated. The disadvantage is that no automatic safety devices for personal protection (personal protection plug) and / or to prevent property damage (fire hazard) are provided, which makes a shutdown of the individual socket and thus the infected individual consumer from the power grid in case of failure.

In addition, for example, off DE 21 49 812 a program switch, in particular for washing machines and dishwashers, known with a blocking contact for switching off the connected consumers during rapid driving over individual program sections with open in the OFF position of the program switch program contacts, wherein the blocking contact an additional contact is connected in parallel, which is closed in the OFF position of the program switch, in all other positions but open. This should enable insulation measurement without additional switching connections at central measuring points of the device. For the measurements described and when the power switch is open, the connection cable and the mains plug are not included in the insulation measurement. Thus, electrically relevant parts of the consumer remain unchecked.

In DE 20 2004 008 334 U1 a BGVA2 power strip is described, which makes it possible to meet in a simple and above all favorable way requirements of accident prevention regulations (eg BGVA2 (VBG4) § 5) for portable electrical equipment with the help of differential current measurements as RISO replacement measurements according to DIN VDE 0702. It is therefore a handset / a probe plugged into the power strip, so that is alarmed by an acoustics when exceeding a permissible differential current set. The level of the differential current is realized via a changeover depending on the protection class and carried out by electrotechnically instructed persons in the simplest way safely and time-effectively. However, this has the disadvantage that the staff must be trained and instructed, which performs the test. Furthermore, the consumers are plugged into the power strip, that is, to disconnect from the power grid, to determine the choice of the protection class, to operate the selector switch, to perform the measurement and judged (acoustic signal perceived in industrial harsh environment) and passed the test Power plug of the consumer to the power grid - ie the socket - supply. Although this does justice to the protection goal of minimizing the risk to persons, the assessment of the state of isolation and thus the risk of lack of insulation is missing.

In GB 2 128 047 A The listed device is equipped with a unit for detecting a differential residual current. A bobbin having a plurality of windings and a plurality of turns is designed as a coil, wherein the evaluation of current measurements takes place at the winding ends. The disadvantage is that the consumers are connected via terminals separable.

In WO 2016/166156 A1 is a temperature monitoring of connectors described, a shutdown of the connector to the pins is not realized.

A disadvantage of the known prior art is the relatively high space requirement of the respective solutions, which sometimes make an adapter necessary. In contrast, integrated solutions are often limited to just a few functionalities. Safety-related equipment shutdowns are often carried out for modules, so that electrically fault-free equipment to be separated from the electrical supply network. A central monitoring of safety-related properties (measured value acquisition and documentation capability) and operating states of connected equipment is not realized. Simple measurement procedures for necessary repeat tests of connected devices continue to require personnel, which means that the measuring procedure is not automated.

Based on the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art, the present invention seeks to provide an electrical connector having a compact design and is attached via a cable directly to the respective consumer, so that adapter or between connector and consumer arranged additional Circuits become redundant. It is also the goal to provide the electrical connector of the present invention with a variety of functionalities without having to give up the compact design.

• - ein elektrisch isolierendes Gehäuse (1) mit einer Kabeleinführung (101) an einem ersten Ende und einer Basis (103) an einem zweiten Ende,
• - mindestens zwei Kontaktstifte (3a, 3b), die in der Basis (103) aufgenommen sind, wovon zumindest ein Kontaktstift (3a, 3b) schaltbar ist,
• - ein in das elektrisch isolierende Gehäuse (1) führendes, zumindest zweiadriges Kabel (105) zur Verbindung mit einem Verbraucher (15), dessen zumindest zwei Adern mit den mindestens zwei Kontaktstiften (3a, 3b) verbunden sind,
• - zumindest eine Schaltvorrichtung (5) zum Schalten des zumindest einen Kontaktstifts (3a, 3b) und
• - zumindest eine interne Energieversorgung (7) für die zumindest eine Schaltvorrichtung (5).

This object is achieved in a first aspect of the present invention by an electrical connector comprising

• an electrically insulating housing ( 1 ) with a cable entry ( 101 ) at a first end and a base ( 103 ) at a second end,
• - at least two contact pins ( 3a . 3b ) in the base ( 103 ), of which at least one contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) is switchable,
• - a in the electrically insulating housing ( 1 ) leading, at least two-core cable ( 105 ) for connection to a consumer ( 15 ), whose at least two wires with the at least two pins ( 3a . 3b ) are connected,
• at least one switching device ( 5 ) for switching the at least one contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) and
• - at least one internal energy supply ( 7 ) for the at least one switching device ( 5 ).

The above object is achieved in other aspects of the present invention by the use of the electrical connector as a subscriber in an external wireless network, as an access point to set up an internal wireless network for operating state detection of electrical equipment and / or isolation monitoring and / or resistance measurement solved.

The electrical connector of the present invention has the advantage that it has a compact design, which differs only slightly from conventional connectors without functionalities. All electrical and electronic components of the electrical connector according to the invention are integrated in its housing, so that no adapter or additional circuits or components are necessary. The electrical connector according to the invention can replace a conventional connector without special effort, the unit costs are due to the compact design and the possibility of large-scale production in a financially acceptable area. Furthermore, a reduction of ongoing operating costs by reducing the testing costs for repeat testing of the connected devices is given as well as an integration option in established wireless communication networks. With the present invention, failures of connected consumers can be minimized and operating states transmitted for monitoring.

The invention will be described in detail below.

In a first aspect, the present invention relates to an electrical connector which initially comprises an electrically insulating housing ( 1 ) with a cable entry ( 101 ) at a first end and a base ( 103 ) at a second end. Furthermore, the electrical connector comprises at least two contact pins ( 3a . 3b ) in the base ( 103 ), of which at least one contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) is switchable.

The electrically insulating housing ( 1 ) is preferably made of a plastic and has, for example, a known to the expert form as SchuKo plug, plug-type F or CEE 7/4 plug, as they are widely used in Europe. The electrical connector according to the invention, however, can basically take any plug shape, for example, the usual form in the US.

By "base" in the present invention, the socket-facing part of the electrical connector is referred to, which is added in the inserted state inside the respective socket. The base ( 103 ) is used in addition to the isolation of the internal parts also to the at least two pins ( 3a . 3b ) at a defined distance.

The electrically insulating housing ( 1 ) may further comprise a protective conductor ( PE ) (ie ground) as a third pole or for the inclusion of a third pole in the base ( 103 ) be hung up (eg for US plug).

In the electrically insulating housing ( 1 ) carries at least two-core cable ( 105 ) for connection to a consumer ( 15 ), whose at least two wires with the at least two pins ( 3a . 3b ) are connected. The at least two wires are ordinary phase ( L ) and neutral ( N ), a third wire can be used as protective conductor ( PE ) to be available.

Furthermore, the electrical connector comprises at least one switching device ( 5 ) for switching the at least one contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) and at least one internal energy supply ( 7 ) for the at least one switching device ( 5 ).

In the present invention, "switching device" is understood to mean a bidirectional current switch which is connected in series with an external power supply. The bidirectional current switch may be, for example, a Triac (Triac for Alternating Current) and is connected between a first node A (ie transition pin ( 3a . 3b ) on switching device ( 5 )) and a second node B (Transition switching device ( 5 ) on a conductor of the cable ( 105 )). The bi-directional power switch may include an electronic switch that flows in two directions and one or more of metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor, silicon controlled AC-DC converter circuit, bidirectional triode thyristor, insulated gate bipolar transistor, Junction field effect transistor, thyristor and optocoupler exist. The said current switches, which may consist of doped silicon material, thus become controllable semiconductors. For example, two metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors may form a controllable bi-directional power switch, two silicon controlled AC-DC converter circuits form a controllable bidirectional power switch, two insulated gate bipolar transistors form a controllable bidirectional power switch, or two junction field effect transistors form a controllable bidirectional power switch , There are bidirectional power switches, as well as a SiC-based MOSFET technology or solid-state relay can be used. Also used in the automotive sector, filled with hydrogen or nitrogen circuit breakers are bidirectional power switch in the context of the invention.

With "power supply" is in the context of the present invention, a power supply with a transformer and a primary-side power supply, wherein the transformer has at least one primary winding and at least one secondary winding and / or a power source with energy storage function such as chemical cells (battery or accumulator) or capacitors. Combinations are also usable according to the invention.

The electrical connector according to the invention is characterized in particular by the fact that at least one contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) is switchable.

"Switchable" means for the present invention that the current flow through this at least one contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) can be deliberately switched on and off from the outside. This results in the possibility to switch the electrical connector according to demand and thus the connected consumer ( 15 ) to control.

It is advantageous that the consumer, including the connection cable (cable ( 105 )) from the electrical supply network ( 17 ) is disconnected. In one in a socket ( 19 ) inserted state are the contact pins ( 3a . 3b ) of the electrical connector according to the invention with the electrical supply network ( 17 ) connected. The connecting cable (cable ( 105 )) is thus from the electrical supply network ( 17 ) separated. Are the contact pins ( 3a . 3b ), the connection cables (cables ( 105 )) and the consumers ( 15 ) tension-free. This means that in the event of a fault, the connecting cable (cable ( 105 )) and, for example, damaged insulation, the risk to persons is reduced. Likewise, the number of potentially live and touchable conductive parts is reduced with defective insulation. Furthermore, the functions that are accommodated according to the prior art, for example, in an adapter, according to the invention integrated in the electrical connector, so that reduces the testing cost.

In a preferred embodiment of the electrical connector according to the invention, this further comprises a radio module ( 9 ), which is connected to the at least one internal power supply ( 7 ) and with the at least one switching device ( 5 ) is in functional connection.

"Radio module" is understood in the context of the present invention, a unit that can receive signals wirelessly and send. This makes it possible according to the invention, the electrical connector by means of the radio module ( 9 ) in functionally connected at least one switching device ( 5 ) to be controlled wirelessly from the outside.

The radio module ( 9 ) from the at least one internal power supply ( 7 ) supplied with electrical energy. The functional connection of the radio module ( 9 ) to the at least one switching device ( 5 ) consists of the fact that the radio module ( 9 ) received signals, for example, in a switching command "ON" or "OFF" to the switching device ( 5 ). This transfer takes place in particular via a line connection between the radio module ( 9 ) and switching device ( 5 ).

In a development of the preferred embodiment, the radio module ( 9 ) an expansion unit ( 901 ) for the acquisition and evaluation of electrical measurements. The extension unit ( 901 ) is an extension of the standard circuit (eg WLAN module) with little effort and also saves space. The extension unit ( 901 ) is adaptable in the material so that the integration in one of the inner shape of the electrical connector according to the invention is adaptable. The corresponding electronics are placed on flexible printed circuit boards and thus adapted to the inner shape of the electrical connector according to the invention.

The term "electronics" here describes the control of the electronic current through electronic circuits, but also by related electrical circuits. "Electronics" in this context continues to be the name given to the entirety of electronic applications that are present in information for processing the electrical signals. The "electronics" comprise circuits for measurements, controls of electronic switches, for measures of electromagnetic compatibility and suppression measures.

In the present case, "expansion unit" is to be understood as meaning electronics for measured value acquisition, measured value processing and measured value storage. Sensors (e.g., a coil) are connected to coil ends.

The detected and evaluated electrical measured values can be, for example, currents, voltages, resistances and impedances. Specific examples are leakage current, protective conductor current, operating currents; Resistance values of insulation, impedances, voltage or voltage drops at capacitors, resistors / impedances etc.

In the expansion unit ( 901 ), a microcontroller system can be used which has a function for the temperature monitoring. This makes it possible according to the invention to monitor the temperature in the electrical connector and, for example, a fire hazard due to overheating by an automatic shutdown of the at least one switchable contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) counteract when exceeding a defined temperature.

It is preferred if the radio module ( 9 ) is selected from a WLAN module, a Bluetooth module, an LTE standard based module (eg G4 or G5), a GSM module, and / or a sub-GHz radio engineering module. A WLAN module is an established standard and can be implemented in home networks and in industry. A Bluetooth module is used for short transmission distances from machine to machine (in industry). Both types of modules are low-cost wireless modules with relatively little technical effort and low peripherals.

In one embodiment of the electrical connector according to the invention, the at least one switchable contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) and the at least one switching device ( 5 ) as an integrated component, in which the switching device ( 5 ) at the internal end of the contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) is attached.

As an "integrated component" is understood here an assembly in which the switching device ( 5 ), but possibly releasably connected to the at least one switchable contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) is attached. This attachment, for example, by screwing the switching device ( 5 ) into an internal thread in the contact pin ( 3a . 3b ). Alternatively, contact pin ( 3a . 3b ) and switching device ( 5 ) also be connected to each other by, for example soldering cohesively. The semiconductor housing of the switching device ( 5 ) and the contact pins ( 3a . 3b ) may alternatively be made of one piece and a single material, as will be discussed below.

This design as an integrated component, a direct (thermal) connection between the pins ( 3a . 3b ) and the heat-generating electronics, for example in the radio module ( 9 ) and / or the expansion unit ( 901 ), whereby the heat generated in the electrical connector according to the invention can be dissipated more quickly by the enlarged surface.

In a further development of the electrical connector according to the invention may further comprise a coil ( 11 ) for detecting and evaluating the current flow in the at least two-core cable ( 105 ).

The sink ( 11 ) has the advantage that by a design with multiple terminals (multiple windings or a winding with multiple "outlets"), the ranges of measured values are more selective, that is, the accuracy is increased. Further, a contactless / non-contact measurement is possible, while in the prior art in the current measurement via a measuring resistor, the resistance in the line (main circuit) increases and thus losses occur. In addition, temperature measurement (contactless) results in a higher microcontroller computing power or, alternatively, a table is to be stored in the controller, which is accessed as reverence values.

The "coil" in the present invention preferably comprises at least one electrically conductive wire wound in a plurality of turns to at least one winding.

It has proven to be advantageous if the at least one internal energy supply ( 7 ) is an AC / DC converter, the primary side of the at least two pins ( 3a . 3b ) and on the secondary side to the at least one switching device ( 5 ) and / or the WLAN module ( 9 ) connected.

In this way it is with open switch devices ( 5 ) and into a socket ( 19 ) inserted contact pins ( 3a . 3b ) possible, the switching device ( 5 ) and / or, for example, the WLAN module as a radio module ( 9 ), including if necessary the extension unit ( 901 ), so that the main circuit can be controlled, either via an internal evaluation of measured variables and / or via the connection to the radio module ( 9 ). The separation in the primary side and secondary side enables insulation measurement with simultaneous supply of energy. An isolation measurement is to be performed, for example, with a DC voltage. For after DIN VDE 0701-0702: 2008-06 Required measurements are different voltages or currents necessary, such as in the insulation measurement in 3 specified. This feeds a DC voltage generator ( G ) via a connected resistance meter ( Ω ) a connected consumer ( 15 ) (see. 3 ). A resistance measurement is performed by current and voltage measurement.

The term "AC / DC converter" refers to an AC / DC converter known to the person skilled in the art. According to the invention, this converter indicates that the primary-side voltage supply is connected to at least one DC voltage source and constructed such that two winding voltages with amplitudes can be generated in the transformer.

"Primary side" and "Secondary side" indicate the side to which electrical energy is supplied ( primary side) and dissipated at the electrical energy (secondary side) is.

Galvanic isolation enables the energy for the measuring electronics and the internal power supply ( 7 ) and deliver. There is no direct electrical connection to the feed necessary. In the insulation measurement, therefore, only components on the secondary side to the consumer ( 15 ) detected. Next, the electrical connector according to the invention is easily rotatable in a socket ( 19 ) can be inserted. That is, in one position is the one contact pin ( 3a ) with the phase ( L ) of the socket ( 19 ) and the other contact pin ( 3b ) with the neutral conductor ( N ). When the electrical connector is turned, the one pin ( 3a ) with the neutral conductor ( N ) in the socket ( 19 ) and the other contact pin ( 3b ) with the phase () L) in the socket ( 19 ) connected.

Galvanic isolation (also known as galvanic decoupling) is the avoidance of electrical conduction between two circuits, between which power (also referred to here as main circuit) or signals (control circuit) are exchanged. The electrical line is thereby separated by electrically non-conductive coupling members. In galvanic isolation, the electrical potentials are separated from each other and the circuits are then floating with each other.

In a second aspect, the present invention relates to the use of an electrical connector according to the invention as a subscriber in an external WLAN network. Thus, the electrical connector according to the invention worldwide via tablets, PC or mobile phones is controlled.

An "external WLAN network" is here referred to as a WLAN network in which the connection to the router is at least partially wireless, for example via a WLAN or WiFi connection, as for computers (or tablet PCs) and television sets or For example, a TV is state of the art. Furthermore, it can be provided that at least some of the devices combined with the internal WLAN network are connected to the router via a wireless bridge or a range extension for the wireless communication (bridge), for example for lighting devices (eg of a house or an apartment), household appliances or office equipment.

A third aspect of the present invention relates to the use of an electrical connector according to the invention as an access point for establishing an internal WLAN network.

This aspect has the advantage that the electrical connector according to the invention can be used as an independent structure, independent of existing home networks and independent of existing radio infrastructure.

An "internal WLAN network" is here called a WLAN network, which is characterized by the structure of the radio module ( 9 ) is constructed in the electrical connector according to the invention. There are several wireless modules ( 9 ) are coupled together by electrical connectors according to the invention. A radio module ( 9 ) thus provides the access point.

"Access Point" is generally understood to mean an electronic device that acts as an interface for wireless communication devices. In a typical WLAN network according to the standard IEEE 802.11 several so-called clients are used, which are connected to an access point. Clients can use the access point to access other devices connected to the access point, including clients. For example, the access point can also provide access to the Internet (WLAN router).

The fourth aspect of the present invention is the use of an electrical connector according to the invention for operating state detection of electrical equipment and / or for insulation monitoring and / or resistance measurement.

With this aspect, an automated technique and procedures for measurement (after DIN VDE 0701-0702: 2008-06 ) provided. This will become a part of repeat testing for appliances of the protection class 1 , Insulation measurement, resistance measurement of protective conductors and leakage current measurement possible. Part of the re-examination includes the documentation.

In insulation monitoring, the electrical connector according to the invention represents a type of insulation measuring device with which values for the quality of the insulation are determined. In order to reduce the insulating capacity of the connected consumers ( 15 ), the measurement of the insulation resistance with a nominal DC voltage and additionally the measurement of the leakage currents (protective conductor current or contact current) with mains voltage is carried out (cf. DIN VDE 0701-0702: 2008-06 ).

In the resistance measurement of the electrical connector according to the invention operates as a kind of resistance measuring device, with which the resistors or impedances of the connected consumer ( 15 ) as well as the line connections be recorded. These values are determined via current and voltage measurement.

• 1 eine schematische Ansicht des erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Steckverbinders nach einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung, und
• 2 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung des in 1 gezeigten erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Steckverbinders,
• 3 eine schematische Messanordnung für die Isolationsmessung mit dem erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Steckverbinder und
• 4 ein Ablaufschema zur Verfahrensbeschreibung einer automatisierten Messung.

Other objects, features, advantages and applications will become apparent from the following description of the invention not limiting embodiments with reference to FIGS. All described and / or illustrated features alone or in any combination form the subject matter of the invention, regardless of their combination in the claims or their dependency. Show it:

• 1 a schematic view of the electrical connector according to the invention according to an embodiment of the invention, and
• 2 a schematic sectional view of the in 1 shown electrical connector according to the invention,
• 3 a schematic measuring arrangement for the insulation measurement with the electrical connector according to the invention and
• 4 a flow chart for the process description of an automated measurement.

In 1 a schematic view of the electrical connector according to the invention according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. The electrical connector has a housing 1 with a cable entry 101 at a first (upper) end and a base 103 at a second (lower) end. The housing 1 is advantageously designed in several parts, the base 103 carries the individual components and a cap, not shown, with the cable entry 101 this surrounds. Through the cable entry 101 leads at least two-core cable 105 to respective consumers 15 ,

From the base 103 lead in this embodiment, two contact pins 3a . 3b out. The illustrated embodiment corresponds in arrangement and dimensions to the usual in Germany power plugs with protective earth terminal (see. DIN VDE 0620-1: 2005-04 ). The contact pins 3a . 3b have a diameter of 4.8 mm, a free length of 19 mm and an axis distance of 19 mm. The two contact pins 3a . 3b are phase L and neutral N , The corresponding socket 19 has contact springs into which the contact pins 3a . 3b in the socket 19 engage plugged electrical connector.

The electrical connector of this embodiment further includes a protective conductor PE (as grounding) on, in the corresponding socket 19 communicates with corresponding contact springs. This is the cable 105 then three-wire configured. In addition, the electrical connector in its housing 1 a guide element 107 for safe plugging into the corresponding socket 19 on.

The at least two-core cable 105 not only serves the power or voltage supply of the connected consumer 15 , but also in an indirect form of supplying at least one switching device 5 by means of at least one internal power supply 7 ,

The connected consumers 15 can be any kind of electrical appliance from the household, the workshop, the office or the industry. To the consumers 15 are primarily ready-to-use electrical equipment such. As electrical equipment and tools, information technology equipment, electrical measurement, control, and laboratory equipment that can be connected to the electrical system.

2 represents schematically in section the in 1 For clarity, a part of the housing is shown 1 with the cable entry 101 and the cable 105 omitted.

The base 103 of the housing 1 first hold the two pins 3a . 3b in position. At the top of the contact pins 3a . 3b is each a switching device 5 mounted, which is formed in this embodiment as a thyristor. Furthermore, as a radio module 9 in this embodiment, a WLAN module with expansion unit 901 shown to the switching device 5 to control.

The internal energy supply 7 In this embodiment, an AC / DC converter comprises electrical energy from the cable (not shown) 105 ) for use in the switching device 5 (Thyristors). The AC / DC converter used here is on the primary side on the contact pins 3a . 3b connected, secondary side is the existing electronics (ie switching device 5 , Radio module 9 , Extension unit 901 ) provided. In the used AC / DC converter, the galvanic coupling in the form of a transformer is ensured.

By electrical decoupling of main circuit (230 V) and control circuit (5 V / 3.3 V) with the internal power supply 7 are insulating distances (flashover) to comply. The separation between the main circuit and the control circuit ensures that the peripherals connected on the secondary side have smaller insulating distances and components with lower insulation resistance are used. With commercially available standard elements of electronics, a miniature system according to the invention is realized (eg with a "surface mounted device", SMD, ie surface-mounted component, on flexible or partially flexible printed circuit boards), so that there is a high integration density in the electrical connector according to the invention.

Finally, the coil 11 shown here as a core wrapped with wire (ie, coil wire as an electrical conductor). Embodiments include a wrapped conductor (main circuit) with "coil wire" or a core with two through holes for the conductors of the main circuit and a wound coil wire for measurement evaluation

3 shows a schematic measuring arrangement for the insulation measurement with the electrical connector according to the invention in an automated measurement when plugging the electrical connector into a socket 19 to the enable circuit and power supply to the connected consumer 15 ,

Here is the feeding mains supply 17 as three horizontal conductors of the cable 105 (Phase L / Neutral N / Protective conductor PE ) in the upper part of the picture.

The three leaders end up vertically afterwards L . N . PE in the contacts of a detachable connection (socket 19 with phase L , Neutral N , Protective conductor PE ). The connected to the electrical connector according to the invention consumers 15 is shown in the lower part of the picture. With the contact pins 3a . 3b and the protective conductor PE the contacts of the electrical connector according to the invention are shown. node A and knots B are exemplary of the contact pin 3b located. In the interior lower diagram of the electrical connector according to the invention, the insulation measurement is symbolized. The generator G is about an ohmmeter Ω at the terminals of the protective conductor PE and the neutral N of the consumer 15 connected. The insulation measurement is carried out between the protective conductor PE and the neutral N the electrical connector according to the invention via the cable 105 to the consumer 15 ,

The following will discuss the operation of the erfindungsgenmäßen electrical connector. When objective features are referred to in this description of the operation (i.e., a method), they refer in particular to the electrical connector according to the invention.

With the insertion of the electrical connector according to the invention in a commercial socket 19 becomes the AC / DC converter (ie internal power supply 7 ) supplied with electricity. The housings of the thyristors (ie switching device 5 ) on the contact pins 3a . 3b are plugged in with the plug under mains voltage of eg 230 V AC. In this state, the semiconductors of the thyristors are opened switches. A connected consumer 15 is not supplied with electrical energy in this state. The secondary side of the AC / DC converter now supplies the downstream electronics integrated in the electrical connector according to the invention (ie switching device 5 , Radio module 9 , Extension unit 901 ).

The switch-on condition is the release of a successfully passed measurement, that is, measurements of insulation value and / or protective conductor current and / or leakage current. For example, a determined insulation resistance value of 2 MOhm and greater than the allowable limit is set, so that the measurement becomes a comparison with a release limit. These are carried out because energy is available via the AC / DC converter. If the measurement is successful, a release is made on the expansion unit 901 generated. This signal is passed on and signals a microcontroller operating on the expansion unit 901 is arranged, the state of the review. Positively passed measurements / tests generate switching commands (control these) to an optocoupler. An optocoupler is present per switch (on the pins 3a . 3b ) present (not shown in the figures). One side of the optocoupler is connected to the switch (thyristor) via control lines. The other side of the optocoupler is with the expansion unit 901 connected via control lines. These are connected via control lines (and thus to the thyristors) and placed in free spaces of the interior of the inventive electrical connector, specifically near the base 103 , the protective conductor PE and the contact pins 3a . 3b . The contact pins 3a . 3b will be switched. The measurement results can be transmitted via the WLAN module, for example as data such as operating current, insulation resistance, protective conductor current, leakage current.

As described above, the WLAN module is a radio module 9 with extension unit 901 a part of the integrated electronics. If the WLAN module is supplied with electrical energy by the AC / DC converter described above, it logs on as a conventional WLAN subscriber in an accessible WLAN network.

Since each WLAN module has an identification MAC address, an assignment of this WLAN module is made possible to its electrical connector according to the invention, which in turn assigns the consumer connected to the electrical connector according to the invention 15 is possible. The WLAN module sends and receives data as a subscriber in the existing WLAN network.

Another function is when the WLAN module is used as an access point. With an appropriate code on the microcontroller of the WLAN module, it logs into an existing WLAN and obtains from there by DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) an IP address. As an access point, the WLAN module does not log into an existing WLAN, but generates its own internal WLAN. With this new, internal WLAN, a user can connect via PC or mobile devices (tablet, smartphone, etc.).

In addition to an antenna and various peripherals, a microcontroller is implemented on the WLAN module. This allows the display of status properties or the control of outputs of the microcontroller. This allows an output via a programmed web server (eg Internet browser, PC, etc.) to be controlled. The gates of the thyristors (semiconductors as switches) are activated and the switches close. Thus, the consumer becomes 15 at the end of the cable 105 energized.

Is this consumer 15 additionally provided with a manual switch and the manual switch also operated, the consumer 15 powered. Electricity now flows from the conventional mains socket 19 over the contact pins 3a . 3b , continue on the thyristors (as switches) and the cable 105 to the electrically connected consumer 15 ,

In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the WLAN module has a radio module 9 the extension unit 901 out. With the WLAN module ready for operation and the current flow in the supply line, a WLAN extension for evaluation is thus available. The principle is based on the conventional fault detection principle used in, for example, RCDs (after the fault differential current method) or the method in personal safety plugs. In one variant, the sum of all Ström is evaluated.

In another variant, the coil 11 evaluated, in which an electric field coupled, that of a current-carrying electrical conductor of the cable 105 (hereinafter referred to as "conductor in the main circuit", eg neutral N ) arises.

The version on the WLAN module describes, for example, the acquisition of the values at the coil 11 , The insulation value measurement (current and voltage measurement) can also be carried out on further separate electronics (ie another module in the housing 1 the electrical connector according to the invention). This can also be integrated on flexible printed circuit boards and thus adaptable to the shape of the electrical connector according to the invention. The insulation measurement is not listed in the figures.

Conventionally, in a protective circuit, a defined current flow (eg 30 mA) in the protective conductor / equipotential bonding conductor leads to the opening of contacts in the main circuit (outer conductor and neutral conductor), so that in the event of a fault the downstream consumers 15 are tension-free; in the event of a fault, it is disconnected / released.

In the invention, the extension unit 901 The WLAN module used in a similar manner type by a defined current flow is evaluated. For this purpose, the coil according to the invention 11 used to evaluate the current flow in the main circuit. Through the open center of the coil 11 becomes a conductor of the cable 105 of the main circuit, starting at the output of the switching device 5 (For example, semiconductor in the thyristor) from the electrical connector according to the invention out to the consumer 15 guided. This conductor of the cable 105 creates a field and leaves the resulting voltage in the coil 11 evaluate at the coil ends through the circuit. This circuit indicates a defined switching state (eg on / off or 0/1) when a defined current threshold is reached and / or exceeded. The signal is evaluated and further processed by a microcontroller integrated in the WLAN module.

The WLAN module thus transmits a 0 or 1 to a web server in the WLAN network. In cyclic polling mode, whether the output is 0 or 1, the time of the operating mode is apparent. The measured values for the measurement after DIN VDE 0701-0702: 2008-06 are then transmitted as values.

The current flow in the main circuit breaks down to the consumer 15 from, the microcontroller detects an opposite signal. This second signal sets the standby mode of the connected consumer 15 is and can also be seen in the web server, since the WLAN module is supplied with inserted electrical connector according to the invention with electrical energy and send / receive in the wireless network.

Next is an induction-based measurement in a coil 11 for measuring protective earth currents / leakage currents for the requirements of DIN VDE 0701-0702: 2008-06 , In extension with another coil 11 This test is automated by the replacement of the electrical connector, so that the requirement of the measurement is met in different Spannungspolarität. The required repeat tests are consumer plugs 15 after a measurement, so that the voltage polarity can be checked. With the According to the invention provided further coil 11 is metrologically this voltage polarity detected and thus measured both polarities.

The web server is not just the mode of the connected consumer 15 visible, but it can also control microcontroller outputs. At the outputs of the microcontroller, switches in the form of relays or semiconductors may be connected via auxiliary switches (eg optocouplers).

In a further development, the contact pins 3a . 3b and the switching device 5 designed as an integrated component. One particular embodiment uses thyristors in a modified TO-65 package, for example. The thyristor is designed as an "anode". Two more connections on each thyristor are the "gate" and the "cathode". The cathode is used to conduct the line to the consumer 15 connect, the gate is used to control the switch. At the anode is one of the contact pins 3a . 3b connected.

In the 2 are both contact pins 3a . 3b shown switchable. This is an all-pole shutdown of the connected consumer 15 possible. The thyristors as a switching device 5 are in internal thread in the contact pins 3a . 3b screwed. Alternatively, the contact pins 3a . 3b also be manufactured completely as semiconductors. It is important to pay attention to the choice of material in terms of properties (see standardization). If a housing shape specified, then the contact pins 3a . 3b be bonded. The housing (eg anode) then contacts a live part in the mains socket 19 ,

In this case, the semiconductor properties are variably applicable, for example, a silicon crystal according to the properties of a T112-16-7-2 are used, the cathode and the gate at the end of the contact pin 3a . 3b led out. In this construction as a switching device 5 is a compact design possible, which differs from established variants (eg relays or semiconductor elements placed on boards). As a result, according to the invention, minimum conduction paths are possible, which results in a smaller possible construction volume and a reduction in contact and contact resistances.

Furthermore, each semiconductor (or each relay) with its internal resistance (eg as contact resistance in relays or as _Rson in semiconductors) generates dissipation energy in the form of heat. It is advantageous to dissipate this heat. With the inventive structure of the contact pins 3a . 3b generated heat from the housing of the thyristor directly to the contact pins 3a . 3b issued. The surface is thus enlarged without additional cooling surfaces and thus ensures better heat dissipation. The heat dissipation is therefore carried out via technically necessary components of a connector.

A flow chart for the method description of the operation of the electrical Steckvorbinders invention is in 4 displayed. The first step determines the insertion of the electrical connector according to the invention in the socket 19 , The contact pins 3a . 3b are in contact with live parts in the socket 19 , As a result, the standby mode is produced in the electrical connector according to the invention. This means that the internal electronics (ie WLAN module, expansion unit 901 etc.) is supplied with energy. Measured values (eg insulation value and PE conductor current) are determined. In the step of the measured value evaluation, determined measured values are compared with specified limit values. This results in possibilities, both positive and negative. If the comparison method has been passed (eg limit value for insulation measurement exceeded), the release takes place. The release step includes, for example, the activation of the contact pins 3a . 3b , If the limit value is negatively evaluated (eg insulation value less than limit value), the contact pins remain 3a . 3b uncontrolled. In the standby mode step, the WLAN module establishes a connection to an existing internal network. The data of measured values are transmitted. Not shown is the transmission for the transmission of data for the operating mode.

• - Dezentralisierung von sicherheitstechnischen Anforderungen an elektrisch ortsveränderliche Betriebsmittel
• - Dezentralisierung und Intelligenz bei Verbrauchern 15 / Geräten
• - zentrales Monitoring
• - automatisierte Messungen und Messwerte-Dokumentation
• - Speicherung von Betriebszuständen in z.B. Cloudsystemen - somit wird der Speicherbedarf von Messwerten in dem erfindungsgemäßen elektrischen Steckverbinder reduziert

The process has a number of advantages:

• - Decentralization of safety requirements for electrically portable equipment
• - Decentralization and intelligence among consumers 15 / Devices
• - central monitoring
• - automated measurements and measurement documentation
• - Storage of operating conditions in eg cloud systems - thus the memory requirements of measured values in the electrical connector according to the invention is reduced

In addition, the following objects are achieved by the present invention.

According to the publications "Verband der Sachversicherer" (VdS - Confidence through Safety), power losses above 60 W are classified as a fire hazard, so that insulation faults at a current flow in systems (at an alternating voltage of 230 V) from 260 mA (approx. 300 mA - Module summary ) means potential hazards. So are to classify the detection and shutdown per equipment as an essential preventative measure.

There will be automated measurements for reducing the risk potential, increasing the safety of operators of connected consumers 15 - Leakage current measurement and protective conductor current measurement are assigned to the protection of persons (established technology), the increase of the detection of fire loads (insulation measurement) of electrical connected conductors / consumers 15 and the reduction of measurement effort in retesting for specialized personnel, thus trained electric persons can be used reached.

Central monitoring is made possible with clear identification and allocation of equipment and their condition and connected devices, as well as minimization of components in the main circuit to the contact and contact resistance (P _loss = I ^{2 *} (R _contact + R _transition )) on Minimum limit. This results in a reduction of contact and contact resistance in the power connection area (main circuit).

The main circuit load is lower because there is no group shutdown, but individual consumers 15 be switched. The realization of a possible all-pole separation from the electrical energy supply network to the consumer 15 is used for effective measurement and safety.

It is an automatic shutdown (current measurement eg protective earth current - known from personal protection plug) or disabled switch on the equipment in case of failure (insulation measurement) allows and a reduction of hazards by reducing the number of live parts with disabled resources. That's how it is in the socket 19 plugged portable equipment with this invention with the contact pins turned off 3a . 3b the connection line 105 and the consumer 15 stress. Will the insulation of the connecting cable 105 damaged and touched the electrically conductive conductor, there is no acute danger.

Furthermore, a minimization of the memory requirement in the electrical connector according to the invention, for example by the WLAN outsourcing of values, is achieved.

In Germany sockets are supplied with a mains voltage of 230 V (RMS) and a frequency of 50 Hz. With connected pure ohmic consumer 15 results in an alternating current, which is in phase with the voltage. These sinusoidal alternating variables are switched on and off. In the switching time, the time-dependent and thus change-size-dependent power is converted in the switching contact. The power is calculated P (t) = U (t) * I (t). If the voltage from the change from positive to negative half-wave, ie at zero crossing, equal to 0 V, the converted switching power is 0 watts. The switch (thyristor) heats up less. With purely inductively connected consumer 15 Current and voltage are phase-shifted by 90 °, so that a favorable switching torque is at a maximum. Solid-state relays have the switching capability, but no space-saving packaging was found and experimented with for the prototypes. Thus, the invention has the further advantage that further reduce the heat losses and arcs do not arise.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

insulating housing

101

cable entry

103

Base

105

at least two-core cable

107

guide element

3a, 3b

contact pins

5

switching device

7

internal energy supply

9

Radio module

901

expansion unit

11

Kitchen sink

15

consumer

17

supply network

19

socket

A

Node at the transition from pin ( 3a . 3b ) on switching device ( 5 )

B

Node at the junction of switching device ( 5 ) on a conductor of the cable ( 105 )

G

generator

L

Phase of the at least two-core cable 105

N

Neutral conductor phase of the at least two-core cable 105

Ω

ohmmeter

PE

protective conductor

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

Cited patent literature

• WO 2011/083029 A1 [0003]
• DE 102014004449 A1 [0004]
• DE 202010015424 U1 [0008]
• DE 2149812 [0009]
• DE 202004008334 U1 [0010]
• GB 2128047 A [0011]
• WO 2016/166156 Al [0012]

Cited non-patent literature

• DIN VDE 0701-0702: 2008-06 [0046, 0058, 0059, 0088, 0090]
• DIN VDE 0620-1: 2005-04 [0063]

Claims (10)

Electrical connector, comprising an electrically insulating housing (1) having a cable entry (101) at a first end and a base (103) at a second end, at least two contact pins (3a, 3b) received in the base (103), of which at least one contact pin (3a, 3b) is switchable, an at least two-core cable (105) leading into the electrically insulating housing (1) for connection to a consumer (15), whose at least two wires are connected to the at least two contact pins (3a, 3b), - At least one switching device (5) for switching the at least one contact pin (3a, 3b) and - At least one internal power supply (7) for the at least one switching device (5). Electrical connector after Claim 1 , further comprising a radio module (9) which is connected to the at least one internal power supply (7) and with which at least one switching device (5) is in functional connection. Electrical connector after Claim 2 , wherein the radio module (9) further comprises an expansion unit (901) for detecting and evaluating electrical measurements. Electrical connector after Claim 2 or 3 wherein the radio module (9) is selected from a WLAN module, a Bluetooth module, an LTE standard based module, a GSM module and / or a sub-GHz radio engineering module. Electrical connector according to one of Claims 1 to 4 wherein the at least one switchable contact pin (3a, 3b) and the at least one switching device (5) are designed as an integrated component, wherein the switching device (5) is attached to the internal end of the contact pin (3a, 3b). Electrical connector according to one of Claims 1 to 5 further comprising a coil (11) for detecting and evaluating the current flow in the at least two-core cable (105). Electrical connector according to one of Claims 1 to 6 in which the at least one internal power supply (7) is an AC / DC converter, which is connected to the at least two contact pins (3a, 3b) on the primary side and to the at least one switching device (5) and / or the WLAN module (9) on the secondary side. connected. Use of an electrical connector according to one of Claims 2 to 7 as a participant in an external WLAN network. Use of an electrical connector according to one of Claims 2 to 7 as an access point to set up an internal WLAN network. Use of an electrical connector according to one of Claims 3 to 7 for operating state detection of electrical equipment and / or for insulation monitoring and / or resistance measurement.

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