Multi-pole plug connection unit for three-phase alternating current systems

A multipole plug-type connection unit for three-phase AC systems, said connection unit defining a longitudinal axis and comprising:

• a first plug-shaped connection part including a single-piece, monolithic insulating body and a plurality of electrical contacts disposed therein, said single-piece, monolithic insulating body having a connection section defining a terminal end thereof;
• a second plug-shaped connection part including a single-piece, monolithic insulating body and a plurality of electrical contacts disposed therein, said single-piece, monolithic insulating body of said second plug-shaped connection part having a connection section defining a terminal end thereof, said connection sections having respective portions configured in a complementary manner with one another to permit insertion, in a direction substantially parallel to the axis, of said portion of said second plug-shaped connection part into said portion of said first plug-shaped connection part without bending to define a connected state of said first and second plug-shaped connection parts;
• and
• a locking sleeve disposed in surrounding relation with said connection sections of said first and second plug-shaped connection parts in the connected state and securing said first and second plug-shaped connection parts to one another in the connected state in the direction substantially parallel to the axis, said locking sleeve and said first and second plug-shaped connection parts in the connected state together defining an outer diameter of said connection unit of less than 23 mm, and each said connection section defines an outer contour configured to cooperatively engage and directly contact said locking sleeve to secure said locking sleeve to said connection sections.