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WO2008068241A1 - Connecteur - Google Patents

Connecteur Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2008068241A1
WO2008068241A1 PCT/EP2007/063226 EP2007063226W WO2008068241A1 WO 2008068241 A1 WO2008068241 A1 WO 2008068241A1 EP 2007063226 W EP2007063226 W EP 2007063226W WO 2008068241 A1 WO2008068241 A1 WO 2008068241A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
glazing
socket portion
plug portion
socket
plug
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.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/EP2007/063226
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Detlef Baranski
Wolfgang Erner
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.)
Pilkington Automotive Deutschland GmbH
Original Assignee
Pilkington Automotive Deutschland GmbH
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 Pilkington Automotive Deutschland GmbH filed Critical Pilkington Automotive Deutschland GmbH
Priority to EP07847733A priority Critical patent/EP2092613A1/fr
Publication of WO2008068241A1 publication Critical patent/WO2008068241A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

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
    • H01R13/6205—Two-part coupling devices held in engagement by a magnet
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
    • H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
    • H01Q1/1271—Supports; Mounting means for mounting on windscreens
    • 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
    • H01R13/627—Snap or like fastening
    • H01R13/6271—Latching means integral with the housing
    • H01R13/6273—Latching means integral with the housing comprising two latching arms
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
    • H05B3/84—Heating arrangements specially adapted for transparent or reflecting areas, e.g. for demisting or de-icing windows, mirrors or vehicle windshields
    • 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
    • H01R13/02—Contact members
    • H01R13/22—Contacts for co-operating by abutting
    • H01R13/24—Contacts for co-operating by abutting resilient; resiliently-mounted
    • 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
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/66—Structural association with built-in electrical component
    • H01R13/665—Structural association with built-in electrical component with built-in electronic circuit
    • 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
    • H01R13/66—Structural association with built-in electrical component
    • H01R13/70—Structural association with built-in electrical component with built-in switch
    • H01R13/703—Structural association with built-in electrical component with built-in switch operated by engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. dual-continuity coupling part
    • H01R13/7031—Shorting, shunting or bussing of different terminals interrupted or effected on engagement of coupling part, e.g. for ESD protection, line continuity
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R2201/00—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications
    • H01R2201/02—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications for antennas
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R2201/00—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications
    • H01R2201/26—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications for vehicles
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B2203/00—Aspects relating to Ohmic resistive heating covered by group H05B3/00
    • H05B2203/016—Heaters using particular connecting means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a connector for use with a vehicle glazing, in particular, a connector for making a mechanical and/or electrical connection to a vehicle glazing.
  • thermo connections are required for items such as mirror bosses or locating pins. Mechanical connections are typically made using primer and primer-less adhesives such as polyurethane. Electrical connections are required for circuitry which may be provided on the glazing, such as antennae or heating circuits on backlights or sidelights. In general, electrical connections are soldered, preferably using a lead-free solder.
  • DE 101 52 517 an example of using non- soldered conductors to provide an electrical connection is disclosed in DE 101 52 517.
  • a high-frequency antenna is provided on the surface of a vehicle glazing, which requires electrical connection to the wiring harness of the vehicle when fitted.
  • DE 101 52 517 employs a connector having magnetic contacts. Magnetic contact regions are provided at the end of the antenna lines on the glazing.
  • a connector module having permanent magnets corresponding to the contact regions is placed onto the glazing, such that the attractive magnetic field between the magnetic contacts and the contact regions forces them to remain in physical contact, and ensures the module remains on the surface of the glazing.
  • the magnetic contacts also serve as electrical contacts, enabling connection between the antenna and the wiring harness of the vehicle.
  • the use of magnetic contacts is advantageous, as it provides a simple locating device for the electrical connection.
  • the action of the magnetic field aids in locating the magnetic contacts onto the contact region. This enables the "blind" (where an operative positioning the connector onto the glazing cannot see or reach easily the portion of the glazing receiving the connector) electrical connection of the antenna lines on the glazing to external wiring.
  • the magnetic field attraction is also able to withstand a relatively high force applied perpendicular to the glazing.
  • One disadvantage is that very little force applied parallel to the surface of the glazing is required to knock the magnetic contacts out of position, or to remove the module from the contact regions completely.
  • Devices such as sensors, lights, cameras, satellite navigation equipment, electrochromic mirrors and high mount stop lights require both mechanical and electrical connection to the glazing. This may be provided by adhering the housing of the device to the surface of the glass, and providing a soldered galvanic contact, or merely relying upon a physical contact between conductors.
  • a retaining socket such as that disclosed in WO2006/077149.
  • the base of a universal retaining socket comprising two accommodation spaces is adhered on the surface of a glazing.
  • a gap may be provided in the base to allow electrical conductors positioned on the surface of the glass to form a contact with conductors on the device to be retained in the socket.
  • the accommodation spaces in the retaining socket allow for a device to be inserted either a direction perpendicular to the surface of the glass (push in) or in a direction parallel to the surface of the glass (slide in).
  • Retaining lugs are provided to ensure a firm mechanical locking of the device into the accommodation space.
  • Magnetic guidance means may be provided to aid in positioning and/or fixing the part into the socket.
  • the present invention aims to address these problems by providing a vehicle glazing having a connector mounted thereon, the connector comprising: a socket portion having an external frame defining a cavity; a plug portion having a main body dimensioned to fit within the cavity formed by the socket portion external frame; wherein at least one of the socket portion and the plug portion comprises magnetic locating means for locating the other portion and locking means for engaging with the other portion.
  • both the socket portion and the plug portion comprise magnetic locating means.
  • the socket portion may be mounted on the glazing.
  • the plug portion may be mounted on the glazing.
  • the socket portion may comprise retaining lugs, and the plug portion comprises locking means for engaging with the socket portion retaining lugs.
  • the plug portion may comprise retaining lugs for engaging with the engaging means provided on the socket portion, and the socket portion is mounted on the glazing.
  • electrical contacts are provided on the glazing, and the socket portion is mounted on the glazing such that the electrical contact are positioned within the cavity, and the plug portion also comprises electrical contacts which are held in contact with the electrical contacts on the glazing when the locking means are engaged with the retaining lugs.
  • electrical contacts are provided on the glazing, and the socket portion is mounted on the glazing such that the contacts are positioned on the glass outside of the external frame of the socket portion, and the plug portion also comprises electrical contacts which are held in contact with the electrical contacts on the glazing when the locking means are engaged with the retaining lugs.
  • the locking means are releasable.
  • the plug portion locking means comprise at least one leg and foot, the leg and the main body of the plug portion defining a recess into which the external frame of the socket portion fits, and the foot engages with the socket portion retaining lugs.
  • the locking means comprise a pair of opposing legs and feet.
  • the leg may be flexible.
  • the leg may be rigid, and mounted on the plug portion by means of a flexible joint.
  • the leg may further comprise a protrusion, facing towards the main body of the plug portion,
  • the plug portion may be connected to the wiring harness of a vehicle.
  • the plug portion may form an electrical connection to an antenna, a crack detection circuit, a heating circuit, a light sensor, a moisture sensor, a temperature sensor, a rains sensor, an amplifier or a tuner.
  • a device may be mounted on the plug portion, or the plug portion may be part of a device.
  • the device is one of: interior lighting devices, exterior light devices, rain sensors, light sensors, temperature sensors, moisture sensors, electrochromic mirrors, mirrors, visible light and IR light cameras, stop lights, indicators, toll collection devices, transponders, telephone and internet connection devices, satellite navigation equipment, radar sensors, busbar connectors, choke coils, antenna amplifiers, car-to-car communication devices or car-to-everywhere communication devices.
  • the electrical contacts on the plug portion and/or the socket portion may be spring contacts.
  • the spring contact may urge the plug portion towards the socket portion such that the locking means engage.
  • the socket portion and the plug portion are formed from a thermoplastic material.
  • the magnetic locating means may comprise a ferromagnetic filler material within the thermoplastic material.
  • the magnetic locating means comprise at least two magnets in each of the socket portion and the plug portion.
  • the magnets may be arranged to provide location for a specific orientation of the plug portion within the socket portion.
  • an audible click is heard.
  • the plug portion and socket portion may comprise conductors that form a short circuit when the locking means have engaged with the retaining lugs
  • At least one of the plug portion or the socket portion comprises a radio- frequency identification device.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic cross-section of a first connector device in accordance with the present invention
  • Figure 2 is a schematic cross-section showing the connector of Figure 1 in a locked position
  • Figure 3 is a split schematic cross-section showing a second connector device in accordance with the present invention in a locked position and a release position;
  • Figure 4 is a split schematic cross-section showing a third connector device in accordance with the present invention in a locked position and a release position;
  • Figure 5 is a schematic cross-section showing a fourth connector device in accordance with the present invention in a locked position
  • Figure 6 is a schematic cross-section showing a fifth connector device in accordance with the present invention in a locked position
  • Figure 7 is a schematic cross-section showing a sixth connector device in accordance with the present invention in a locked position.
  • the present invention utilises both a self-locating function and a mechanical locking function to provide mechanical and/or electrical connection for a device or circuitry on the surface of a vehicle glazing.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-section of a first connector device in accordance with the present invention.
  • the connector 1 comprises a cylindrical plug portion 2 that forms a mating fit with a cylindrical socket portion 3, which is mounted on the surface of a vehicle glazing 4.
  • the socket portion 3 is in the form of a ring, having an external frame 5 and central cavity 6.
  • the base of the external frame 5 is adhered to the surface of the glazing 4 using a polyurethane adhesive.
  • Electrical contacts 7 are provided on the surface of the glazing 4, and the socket portion 3 is positioned such that the contacts 7 are placed within the central cavity 6.
  • the plug portion 2 is provided with two recesses 8, dimensioned to allow the external frame 5 of the socket portion 3 to fit within.
  • Each recess portion 8 is formed by the central body 9 of the plug portion 2 and a flexible leg 10.
  • Each flexible leg 10 is provided with a foot 11, partially closing each recess 8.
  • the flexible legs 10 and feet 11 form locking means, and are used in conjunction with retaining lugs 12 provided on the external frame 5 of the socket portion 3 to form a locking mechanical connection between the plug portion 2 and the socket portion 3.
  • the retaining lugs 12 are shaped to allow easy sliding passage of the feet 11 along the side of the external frame 5 as the plug portion 2 is pushed into the socket portion 3.
  • Each lug 12 comprises an angled sliding surface 13 and a lower surface 14, which is parallel with the surface of the glazing 4.
  • the flexible legs 10 flex outwards from the plug portion 2 until the feet 11 reach the end of the retaining lugs 12.
  • the flexible legs 10 force the feet 11 under the lower surface 14 of the retaining lugs, such that they engage with the lugs 12, locking the plug portion 2 into place with a snapping action.
  • the action of the retaining lugs 12 and feet 11 prevent the plug from being removed inadvertently by pulling upwards from the surface of the glass. This forms the connector locked position, as shown in Figure 2.
  • the plug portion 2 is also provided with electrical contacts 15, which contact the electrical contacts 7 on the surface of the vehicle glazing 4.
  • the electrical contacts 15, 7 are maintained in a position in physical contact, allowing current flow between them.
  • low-impedance, radio- frequency non-galvanic connections may be used.
  • magnetic locating means in the form of magnets 16, 17, 18, 19 are provided within both the plug portion 2 and the socket portion 3.
  • magnets 16, 17 are provided adjacent each recess 8, and in the socket portion 3, magnets 18, 19 are provided in the external frame 5.
  • the orientation of the poles of each magnet is such that the magnets 16, 17 in the plug portion 2 experience an attractive force from the magnets 18, 19 in the socket portion 3 when correctly aligned, and a repulsive force if incorrectly aligned.
  • the plug portion 2 is therefore self-locating in the socket portion 3.
  • the attractive force between the magnets 16, 17, 18, 19 also contributes to the mechanical connection between the plug portion 2 and the socket portion 3, but this connection is provided primarily by the feet 11 and retaining lugs 12.
  • the connector 1 therefore provides a self-locating electrical connector which is locked mechanically into position.
  • the plug portion 2 is secured against lateral, rotational and perpendicular movement within the socket portion 3.
  • an audible click is produced, indicating to the operative fixing the connector that the connector is fully engaged and locked. This is particularly useful in a "blind" situation.
  • the magnetic locating means need only be placed in one of the portions. If magnets are placed in the plug portion, corresponding metallic plates may be positioned in the socket portion, and vice versa. Such metallic plates are formed of a metallic material that is attracted by magnetic fields. This allows the cost of one of the connector portions to be minimised. The geometry of the metallic plates may be used to ensure that the magnetic locating means orients the plug portion correctly in the socket portion.
  • FIG 3 is a split schematic cross section showing a second connector in accordance with the present invention.
  • the connector 20 is generally similar to that shown in Figures 1 and 2 (other than in shape), but has one important difference in that the plug portion 21 is re leasable from the socket portion 22.
  • the connector 20 comprises a rectangular plug portion 21 that forms a mating fit with a rectangular socket portion 22, which is mounted on the surface of a vehicle glazing 23.
  • the socket portion 22 is in the form of a rectangular ring, having an external frame 24 and central cavity 25.
  • the base of the external frame 24 is adhered to the surface of the glazing 23 using a polyurethane adhesive.
  • Electrical contacts 26 are provided on the surface of the glazing 23, and the socket portion 22 is positioned such that the contacts 26 are placed within the central cavity 25.
  • Retaining lugs 27, provided on the outer edge of the external frame 24, comprise an angled sliding surface 28 and a lower surface 29, which is parallel with the surface of the glazing 23.
  • the plug portion 21 is provided with two recesses 30, dimensioned to allow the external frame 24 of the socket portion 22 to fit within.
  • the recesses 28, 30 are bounded on one side by a flexible leg, they are bounded by a leg 31 attached to the main body 32 of the plug portion 21 by a flexible joint 33, located approximately halfway along each leg 31.
  • Each leg 31 has a notch 35 located towards a lower free end, which together form locking means such that each notch 35 engages with a retaining lug 27 on the socket portion 22 when the plug portion 21 is pushed into the socket portion 22.
  • the plug portion 21 is also provided with electrical contacts 34, which contact the electrical contacts 26 on the surface of the vehicle glazing 23.
  • the electrical contacts 34, 26 are maintained in a position in physical contact, allowing current flow between them.
  • magnetic locating means in the form of magnets 36a, 36b, 37a, 37b are provided within both the plug portion 21 and the socket portion 22.
  • magnets 36a, 36b are provided adjacent each recess 30, and in the socket portion 22, magnets 37a, 37b are provided in the external frame 24.
  • the plug 21 may be released from the locked position. If pressure is applied to the upper free end of each leg 31 (in the direction marked by arrow A), such that the flexible joint 30 flexes and the upper free end of the leg 31 is moved towards the main body 32 of the plug portion 21, the lower free end moves outwards and the notches 34 are released from the retaining lugs 27, allowing the plug portion 21 to be removed from the socket portion 22. Although some initial resistance will be felt, due to the attractive force between the magnets 36a, 36b, 37a, 37b, this is overcome easily.
  • steps 38 having a sliding surface are provided on the external frame 24 of the socket portion 22, such that when the lower free end of each leg 31 moves outwards away from the plug portion and along the sliding surfaces, an additional pushing force is created to overcome the attractive force between the magnets 35, 36, 37, 38.
  • the magnetic locating means need only be placed in one of the portions.
  • Figure 4 is a split schematic cross section showing a third connector in accordance with the present invention.
  • the connector is generally similar to that shown in Figure 3, but is additionally provided with means to help overcome the attractive force between the magnets when the plug portion is removed from the socket portion.
  • the connector 40 comprises a rectangular plug portion 41 that forms a mating fit with a rectangular socket portion 42, which is mounted on the surface of a vehicle glazing 43.
  • the socket portion 42 is in the form of a rectangular ring, having an external frame 44 and central cavity 45.
  • the base of the external frame 44 is adhered to the surface of the glazing 43 using a polyurethane adhesive.
  • Electrical contacts 46 are provided on the surface of the glazing 43, and the socket portion 42 is positioned such that the contacts 46 are placed within the central cavity 45.
  • Retaining lugs 47 each having a lower surface parallel to and facing the surface of the vehicle glazing 43, are provided on the outer edge of the external frame 44.
  • the plug portion 41 is provided with two recesses 48, dimensioned to allow the external frame 44 of the socket portion 42 to fit within.
  • Each recess 48 is partially bounded by a flexible leg 49 having a foot 50 facing outwards from the plug portion 41.
  • Each leg 49 and foot 50 combination forms locking means for engaging with the retaining lugs 47.
  • a protrusion 51 Part- way along each flexible leg 49, a protrusion 51 , which faces inwards towards to the plug portion 41, is provided.
  • the protrusion 51 is provided with two angled sliding surfaces, to help with separation of the plug portion 41 and the socket portion 42, as described below.
  • each foot 50 slides along the retaining lugs 47 until the plug portion 41 is in position, and the feet 50 snap underneath the retaining lugs 47 and remain in contact with their lower surfaces. This locks the plug portion into position, such that the connector is able to resist lateral, perpendicular and rotational movement. Also, when the locking means engage, an audible click is heard.
  • the plug portion 41 is also provided with electrical contacts 52, which contact the electrical contacts 46 on the surface of the vehicle glazing 43.
  • the electrical contacts 52, 46 are maintained in a position in physical contact, allowing current flow between them.
  • magnetic locating means in the form of magnets 53, 54, 55, 56 are provided within both the plug portion 41 and the socket portion 42.
  • magnets 53, 54 are provided adjacent each recess 48, and in the socket portion 42, magnets 55, 56 are provided in the external frame 44.
  • the magnetic locating means need only be placed in one of the portions.
  • pressure is applied to each flexible leg 49 (in the direction marked by arrow B), forcing it towards the plug portion 41. This causes two events to happen: each foot 50 is displaced from the lower surface of the retaining lug 47 it was in contact with; and the protrusion 51 contacts the joint between the plug portion 41 and the socket portion 42.
  • Continued pressure forces the two angled sliding surfaces of each protrusion 51 into the join between the plug portion 41 and the socket portion 42, overcoming the attractive force between the magnets and separating the plug portion 41 from the socket portion 42.
  • the contacts on the surface of the glass are positioned within the cavity formed by the external frame of the socket portion.
  • connectors in accordance with the present invention are not limited to this configuration. Contacts may be provided on the surface of the glass outside of the external frame of the socket portion, and corresponding contact regions placed externally of the recesses of the plug portion. In this situation, the main body of the plug portion is merely used to help form the mechanical interlock between the plug portion and the socket portion.
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-section of a fourth connector device in accordance with the present invention, in a locked position.
  • the connector 60 comprises a cylindrical plug portion 61 that forms a mating fit with a cylindrical socket portion 62, which is mounted on the surface of a vehicle glazing 63.
  • the socket portion 62 is in the form of a ring, having an external frame 64 and central cavity 65.
  • the base of the external frame 64 is adhered to the surface of the glazing 63 using a polyurethane adhesive.
  • the plug portion 61 is provided with two recesses 66, dimensioned to allow the external frame 64 of the socket portion 62 to fit within. Each recess 66 is formed in the central body 67 of the plug portion 61.
  • the recesses 66 form locking means, and are used in conjunction with retaining lugs 68 provided on the external frame 64 of the socket portion 62 to form a locking mechanical connection between the plug portion 61 and the socket portion 62.
  • the action of the retaining lugs 68 and recesses 66 prevent the plug portion 61 from being removed inadvertently by pulling upwards from the surface of the glass.
  • magnetic locating means in the form of magnets 69, 70, 71, 72 are provided within both the plug portion 61 and the socket portion 62.
  • magnets 69, 70 are provided on the surface contacting the base of the socket portion 62 parallel with the glazing 63, and in the socket portion 62, corresponding magnets 71, 72 are provided in the external frame 64.
  • the orientation of the poles of each magnet is such that the magnets 69, 70 in the plug portion 61 experience an attractive force from the magnets 71, 72 in the socket portion 62 when correctly aligned, and a repulsive force if incorrectly aligned.
  • the plug portion 61 is therefore self- locating in the socket portion 3.
  • the attractive force between the magnets 69, 70, 71, 72 also contributes to the mechanical connection between the plug portion 61 and the socket portion 62.
  • the plug portion 61 may also be provided with electrical contacts 73, which contact electrical contacts 74 provided in the frame 64 of the socket portion 62.
  • a separate electrical supply may be connected to the socket portion 62, or a low-impedance, radio- frequency non-galvanic connections may be used.
  • Figure 6 is a schematic cross-section showing a fifth connector device in accordance with the present invention in a locked position.
  • This example differs from that shown in Figure 5 in that recesses 75 are formed in the frame 64 of the socket portion 62, and retaining lugs 76 provided in the main body of the plug portion 61. All other features are the same as those described in connection with Figure 5.
  • Figure 7 is a schematic cross-section showing a sixth connector device in accordance with the present invention in a locked position.
  • the connector 80 comprises a plug portion 81 mounted on the surface of a glazing 82, and a socket portion 83 dimensioned to fit around the plug portion 81.
  • the plug portion 81 may be bonded to the glazing 82 by an adhesive, or, if the plug portion 81 is formed of an electrically conductive material, it may be soldered directly to an electrical connection 84 provided on the surface of the glazing 82.
  • magnets 85 need only be provided in the socket portion 83.
  • the plug portion 81 is provided with two recesses 86 formed in the central body 87 of the plug portion 81.
  • the recesses 86 form locking means, and are used in conjunction with retaining lugs 88 provided on the external frame 89 of the socket portion 83 to form a locking mechanical connection between the plug portion 81 and the socket portion 83.
  • the action of the retaining lugs 88 and recesses 86 prevent the socket portion 83 from being removed inadvertently by pulling upwards from the surface of the glass.
  • the connector is also suitable for various devices requiring both electrical and mechanical connection to the surface of a glazing, such as: interior lighting devices (IR or visible light devices mounted within the vehicle to direct light into or out of the vehicle) and exterior light devices (IR or visible light devices mounted external to the glazing to direct light into or out of the vehicle), rain sensors, light sensors, temperature sensors, moisture sensors, electro-chromic mirrors, mirrors, visible light and IR light cameras, stop lights, indicators, toll collection devices, transponders, telephone and internet connection devices, satellite navigation equipment, radar sensors, busbar connectors, choke coils, antenna amplifiers, car-to-car communication devices or car-to-everywhere communication devices (for example, devices interfacing with a central radio control station).
  • interior lighting devices IR or visible light devices mounted within the vehicle to direct light into or out of the vehicle
  • exterior light devices IR or visible light devices mounted external to the glazing to direct light into or out of the vehicle
  • rain sensors light sensors, temperature sensors, moisture sensors, electro-chromic mirrors, mirrors, visible light and IR light
  • either the plug portion or the socket portion is formed as part of the device, or is affixed to the device, for example, using an adhesive.
  • the connectors it is possible to use the connectors to provide connection between antennae, crack detection and heating circuits, sensors, such as moisture, light, temperature and rain sensors, amplifiers and tuners, and the wiring harness of a vehicle in place of conventional flat cable connectors.
  • the socket portion and/or the plug may also contain an RFID (radio- frequency identification) device for wireless identification purposes. This may be used to aid in identifying the correct socket portion for a particular device during automated production.
  • the plug portion and socket portion are made of a thermoplastic material, with permanent magnets or magnetic plates embedded therein.
  • plastic having magnetic properties for example, a plastic loaded with a ferromagnetic or other suitable magnetic filler material, may be used instead. Additional magnets may be used to ensure a specific orientation of the plug portion within the socket portion.
  • the portion having metallic plates may be fully metallic rather than a thermoplastic material containing metallic plates.
  • the magnets themselves may be formed of any suitable magnetic material. Of particular use are those materials known as supermagnets. Such materials have improved magnetic properties, enabling even small amounts of material to exert a strong magnetic force.
  • a 5mm cube of neodymium- iron-boron is able to hold a weight of 1.1kg.
  • Such materials are available from Webcraft GmbH, Winterthurerstr. 18b, 8610 Uster, Switzerland.
  • Either the plug portion or the socket portion may be affixed to the surface of the glazing.
  • a polyurethane adhesive is used, other suitable adhesives include 1- and 2-component polyurethane adhesives; tapes, such as those sold under the codes 9214 and 9270 by the 3M Corporation, of Corporate Headquarters, 3M Center, St. Paul, MN 55144-1000, USA; or adhesive sheets or films, such as strips of polyvinyl butyral or other plastics materials traditionally used as interlayers in laminated glazings.
  • the adhesive should be able to withstand a force of 3 to 5N per mm 2 , which is more than sufficient to hold a device such as a sensor (having a typical weight in the range 30g to 10Og), a mirror (having a typical weight up to 90Og) or a camera (having a typical weight in the range 15Og to 25Og).
  • a device such as a sensor (having a typical weight in the range 30g to 10Og), a mirror (having a typical weight up to 90Og) or a camera (having a typical weight in the range 15Og to 25Og).
  • the socket portion may be adhered to the glazing using an electrically conductive adhesive. It may be desirable to include the socket portion within an encapsulated or extruded frame around the periphery of the glazing, rather than bonding the socket portion to the surface of the glazing using a separate adhesive.
  • the contacts within the plug portion may be conductive plates, wires or spring contacts. If spring contacts are used, the spring itself may be used to urge the plug portion into mechanical contact with the socket portion.
  • the spring may be formed of a resilient metallic material, or using an electrically conductive elastic plastic material. The material used may show uniaxial electrical conductivity.
  • means to enable a simple electrical test to determine whether an electrical connection has also been made may be provided.
  • the means may comprise additional electrical contacts within the socket portion and the plug portion which when connected, form a short circuit.
  • the contacts are positioned such that the short circuit is only formed if the electrical contacts on the plug portion and the glazing are in physical contact and current is able to flow between them.
  • the short circuit conductors may also be provided if radio -frequency non-galvanic connections are used.
  • the connector may be used to connect and/or mount a single device on the surface of a glazing, or to connector and/or mount a plurality of independent or linked devices.
  • the connector is provided with a socket portion which is able to receive two or more plug portions.
  • a first plug portion may be used to take a 12V external power supply to the glazing, and a second plug portion to connect that power supply to a stop lamp module.
  • Several devices may therefore be connected via a single socket portion to the 12V supply.
  • connectors having a socket portion capable of receiving three plug portions may be used to link such stop light modules in a staggered fashion across the surface of the glazing.
  • a first plug portion carries the 12V supply to the connector.
  • a second plug portion is used to plug in the stop lamp module to the socket portion.
  • a third plug portion is used to carry the 12V supply to a second connector, and so on.
  • the connector (1, 20, 40, 60, 80) is suitable for use with both single-ply and laminated (comprising two plies of annealed silicate glass bonded together by a ply of an interlayer material) vehicle glazings, such as windscreens, backlights, sidelights and rooflights.
  • Single-ply glazings may comprise fully toughened or semi-toughened plies of silicate glass, or a ply of a plastic material, such as polycarbonate.
  • Such single-ply glazings may also comprise a coating or a film adhered to one surface.

Landscapes

  • Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
  • Connector Housings Or Holding Contact Members (AREA)
  • Coupling Device And Connection With Printed Circuit (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un vitrage de véhicule (4) ayant un connecteur (1) placé sur celui-ci. Le connecteur (1) comprend une partie de support (3) ayant un cadre externe (5) définissant une cavité (6), dans laquelle est insérée une partie fiche (2) comprenant un corps principal (9) dimensionné pour s'insérer à l'intérieur de la cavité (6). Au moins une partie douille (3) ou une partie fiche (2) comprend des moyens d'assemblage (16, 17, 18, 19) pour assembler l'autre partie et des moyens de blocage (10, 11, 12) pour engagement avec l'autre partie.
PCT/EP2007/063226 2006-12-04 2007-12-04 Connecteur Ceased WO2008068241A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP07847733A EP2092613A1 (fr) 2006-12-04 2007-12-04 Connecteur

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0624201.0 2006-12-04
GB0624201A GB0624201D0 (en) 2006-12-04 2006-12-04 Connector

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2008068241A1 true WO2008068241A1 (fr) 2008-06-12

Family

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PCT/EP2007/063226 Ceased WO2008068241A1 (fr) 2006-12-04 2007-12-04 Connecteur

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2092613A1 (fr)
GB (1) GB0624201D0 (fr)
WO (1) WO2008068241A1 (fr)

Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2461598A (en) * 2008-07-07 2010-01-13 Christopher Whitney Cossins Surface-mounted connector with magnetic plug
GB2536617A (en) * 2015-03-05 2016-09-28 Adaptalux Ltd Electrical connector
WO2016166538A1 (fr) * 2015-04-15 2016-10-20 Ab Connectors Ltd Ensemble connecteur
WO2017207082A1 (fr) * 2016-06-02 2017-12-07 Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg Système de connexion électrique
WO2019011819A1 (fr) * 2017-07-14 2019-01-17 Fidlock Gmbh Dispositif de fermeture avec contact électrique
CN110165457A (zh) * 2019-06-18 2019-08-23 深圳市时商创展科技有限公司 一种磁吸连接头、磁吸连接器及其制备方法
DE102015203706B4 (de) * 2015-03-02 2020-03-26 Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft Anordnung zur lösbaren Befestigung einer Fußmatte an einem Boden oder Bodenbelag eines Fahrzeugs
CN111048957A (zh) * 2020-01-28 2020-04-21 杨培才 一种防过热自保护插座
WO2022026526A1 (fr) * 2020-07-29 2022-02-03 Carlex Glass America, Llc Produit en verre, connecteur et procédé d'installation de connecteur
US12424807B2 (en) 2022-07-08 2025-09-23 Agc Automotive Americas Co. Method of manufacturing a window assembly with a solderless electrical connector

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US6129559A (en) * 1996-01-19 2000-10-10 Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. Microconnector and method of manufacturing the same
DE10021542A1 (de) * 2000-05-03 2001-11-15 Am3 Automotive Multimedia Ag Steckvorrichtung
DE20022883U1 (de) * 2000-12-14 2002-05-16 MagCode AG, 89520 Heidenheim Elektromechanische Verbindungsvorrichtung
DE10152517A1 (de) * 2001-11-01 2003-05-15 Receptec Gmbh Fahrzeug-Antenneneinrichtung
WO2004027937A1 (fr) * 2002-09-13 2004-04-01 Magcode Ag Procede et dispositif de raccordement electrique d'ensembles et de modules
US20060019540A1 (en) * 2004-07-26 2006-01-26 Fci Americas Technology, Inc. Performance indicating electrical connector
WO2006077149A1 (fr) * 2005-01-24 2006-07-27 Pilkington Automotive Deutschland Gmbh Culot de retenue

Patent Citations (7)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6129559A (en) * 1996-01-19 2000-10-10 Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. Microconnector and method of manufacturing the same
DE10021542A1 (de) * 2000-05-03 2001-11-15 Am3 Automotive Multimedia Ag Steckvorrichtung
DE20022883U1 (de) * 2000-12-14 2002-05-16 MagCode AG, 89520 Heidenheim Elektromechanische Verbindungsvorrichtung
DE10152517A1 (de) * 2001-11-01 2003-05-15 Receptec Gmbh Fahrzeug-Antenneneinrichtung
WO2004027937A1 (fr) * 2002-09-13 2004-04-01 Magcode Ag Procede et dispositif de raccordement electrique d'ensembles et de modules
US20060019540A1 (en) * 2004-07-26 2006-01-26 Fci Americas Technology, Inc. Performance indicating electrical connector
WO2006077149A1 (fr) * 2005-01-24 2006-07-27 Pilkington Automotive Deutschland Gmbh Culot de retenue

Cited By (24)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2461598A (en) * 2008-07-07 2010-01-13 Christopher Whitney Cossins Surface-mounted connector with magnetic plug
DE102015203706B4 (de) * 2015-03-02 2020-03-26 Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft Anordnung zur lösbaren Befestigung einer Fußmatte an einem Boden oder Bodenbelag eines Fahrzeugs
GB2536617B (en) * 2015-03-05 2021-07-14 Adaptalux Ltd Electrical connector and lighting apparatus
GB2536617A (en) * 2015-03-05 2016-09-28 Adaptalux Ltd Electrical connector
GB2556204A (en) * 2015-04-15 2018-05-23 Ab Connectors Ltd Connector assembly
US10177491B2 (en) 2015-04-15 2019-01-08 Ab Connectors Ltd Connector assembly
WO2016166538A1 (fr) * 2015-04-15 2016-10-20 Ab Connectors Ltd Ensemble connecteur
AU2016247749B2 (en) * 2015-04-15 2021-05-27 Ab Connectors Ltd Connector assembly
GB2556204B (en) * 2015-04-15 2021-02-03 Ab Connectors Ltd Connector assembly
WO2017207082A1 (fr) * 2016-06-02 2017-12-07 Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg Système de connexion électrique
CN109314343A (zh) * 2016-06-02 2019-02-05 罗森伯格高频技术有限及两合公司 电插头连接
CN109314343B (zh) * 2016-06-02 2022-04-15 罗森伯格高频技术有限及两合公司 电插头连接
TWI719213B (zh) * 2016-06-02 2021-02-21 德商羅森伯格高頻技術公司 電插頭連接
US10903603B2 (en) 2016-06-02 2021-01-26 Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik Gmbh Electrical connector
WO2019011819A1 (fr) * 2017-07-14 2019-01-17 Fidlock Gmbh Dispositif de fermeture avec contact électrique
EP3780288A1 (fr) * 2017-07-14 2021-02-17 Fidlock GmbH Dispositif de fermeture à contact électrique
CN110892591A (zh) * 2017-07-14 2020-03-17 费得洛克有限公司 具有电接触部的封闭设备
US11245223B2 (en) 2017-07-14 2022-02-08 Fidlock Gmbh Closing device with electrical contact
CN110892591B (zh) * 2017-07-14 2022-03-29 费得洛克有限公司 具有电接触部的封闭设备
CN110165457A (zh) * 2019-06-18 2019-08-23 深圳市时商创展科技有限公司 一种磁吸连接头、磁吸连接器及其制备方法
CN111048957A (zh) * 2020-01-28 2020-04-21 杨培才 一种防过热自保护插座
WO2022026526A1 (fr) * 2020-07-29 2022-02-03 Carlex Glass America, Llc Produit en verre, connecteur et procédé d'installation de connecteur
US20230299517A1 (en) * 2020-07-29 2023-09-21 Carlex Glass America, Llc Glass product, connector, and method of installing connector
US12424807B2 (en) 2022-07-08 2025-09-23 Agc Automotive Americas Co. Method of manufacturing a window assembly with a solderless electrical connector

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB0624201D0 (en) 2007-01-10
EP2092613A1 (fr) 2009-08-26

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