Kreuzkontakte

Kreuzkontakte is a German compound noun formed from Kreuz (cross) and Kontakte (contacts). The term does not denote a single standardized concept; its meaning is dependent on the disciplinary context in which it appears. In German-language technical literature it is sometimes used descriptively to refer to points where different contact surfaces or conductor paths intersect or interact, with implications for design, insulation, or signal integrity.

In electronics and connector technology, Kreuzkontakte may describe arrangements in multi-pole connectors or switching devices where contact points cross or overlap within the housing. Such configurations are used to optimize space or routing, but they can affect mechanical wear, insulation requirements, and electrical performance. The exact interpretation of Kreuzkontakte in this field varies by manufacturer and documentation.

In social network analysis and sociology, Kreuzkontakte can be used informally to denote individuals who act as bridges between otherwise separate social groups. These people possess cross-cutting connections that link distinct circles, contributing to information flow and community integration. Here the term is more vernacular than a formal technical label, and it is often discussed alongside concepts such as bridging social capital or structural holes.

The term may also appear in broader discussions about networks, communication, or graph representations, usually as a descriptive shorthand rather than as a fixed technical term. Overall, Kreuzkontakte is context-specific and lacks a universally accepted definition across disciplines. See also cross-bridges, bridging contacts, and edge crossing in graph drawings for related concepts.