Outer conductor contact element, plug connector device and assembly method for a plug connector device

Abstract

The invention relates to an outer conductor contact element for a plug connector device, comprising at least one fixed stop which can be engaged behind a cable-side end face of a support sleeve along a longitudinal axis of the plug connector device when the outer conductor contact element is in an assembled state on the support sleeve, the cable-side end face facing away from a front free end of the outer conductor contact element. It is provided that the fixed stop is formed in the outer conductor contact element by means of a positive connector-side edge of a material cut-out provided in the outer conductor contact element, the positive connector-side edge facing towards the front free end of the outer conductor contact element. Alternatively, the fixed stop is formed in the outer conductor contact element by means of a separate stop element which is fastened to an inner wall of the outer conductor contact element. Alternatively, the fixed stop is formed in the outer conductor contact element by means of a punch-formed piece.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an outer conductor contact element for a plug connector assembly according to claim 1, comprising at least one retaining stop capable of engaging behind the cable-side end face of a support sleeve.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a plug connector device, including a support sleeve and an outer conductor contact element.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an assembly method for a plug connector device according to the preamble of claim 12, wherein an outer conductor contact element is assembled on a support sleeve such that a retaining stop of the outer conductor contact element engages behind the cable-side end face of the support sleeve. Background Technology

[0004] Many electrical plug connectors are known in the electronics industry. Electrical plug connectors are used as known to transmit power signals and / or data signals to corresponding mating plug connectors. A plug connector or mating plug connector can be a male connector, mounting plug, socket, coupler, or adapter. The terms "plug connector" or "mating plug connector" as used within the scope of this invention represent all variations.

[0005] The robustness, safety, and reliability of plug connectors are of paramount importance, especially for those used in the automotive industry or vehicles. Therefore, plug connectors must sometimes be able to withstand high loads, such as mechanical loads. Ensuring safety and reliability is a top priority, particularly in autonomous vehicle operation and for driver assistance systems.

[0006] During autonomous vehicle operation or the use of assistance systems, it is often necessary to combine and transmit large amounts of data from multiple cameras, different sensors, and navigation sources in real time. Therefore, the operation of many devices, screens, and cameras requires an efficient infrastructure within the vehicle's electronic systems. Furthermore, the demand for required data rates is very high for plug connectors and cable connections within the vehicle. Simultaneously, to save installation space and weight, it is important to implement plug connectors in the most compact possible manner.

[0007] To assemble a plug connector onto a cable, it is known to press the cable and plug connector together in the connection area. In this case, the force applied to the plug connector affects the mechanical holding force between the cable and the plug connector. However, the pressing step is naturally associated with corresponding deformation of the cable and / or plug connector components. This deformation can ultimately have an adverse effect on the electrical performance of the plug connector assembly. Therefore, it is often necessary to accept a trade-off between sufficient holding force and good electrical performance. This trade-off particularly offsets the suitability of robust plug connector assemblies for high-frequency technologies.

[0008] To improve this situation, class DE 102017006767 A1 proposes a plug connector assembly with a plug connector and a cable, wherein a support sleeve is fastened to a section of the cable from which the cable sheath has been stripped. A notch is formed between the cable-side edge of the support sleeve and the stripped edge of the cable sheath remaining on the cable. Finally, for assembling the plug connector, its outer conductor contact element is pressed against the cable and the support sleeve, causing the outer conductor contact element to move into the notch between the support sleeve and the cable sheath. Therefore, in addition to providing a non-positive locking connection, a positive locking connection can also be provided along the longitudinal axis of the plug connector assembly. The plug connector assembly can thus have increased holding force while maintaining good electrical performance.

[0009] However, it has been demonstrated that the fastening principle proposed in DE 102017006767 A1 requires the support sleeve to have a given minimum wall thickness in order to be used reliably. Since the support sleeve, together with the cable sheath, forms a notch in the cable, the wall thickness of the support sleeve defines the depth of the notch. The corresponding notch of the reshaped outer conductor contact element includes multiple bends, each with a bending radius due to the manufacturing steps. If the wall of the support sleeve is not thick enough, it is possible for successive bends of the outer conductor contact element to merge with each other. This can cause the positive locking connection between the outer conductor contact element and the cable pre-assembled with the support sleeve to adversely lose its holding force. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In view of the known prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide an outer conductor contact element that specifically combines improved holding force on a cable with advantageous electrical performance.

[0011] The present invention also aims to provide a plug connector device that specifically combines improved retention force of the outer conductor contact element on the cable with advantageous electrical performance.

[0012] Finally, the present invention also aims to provide an improved assembly method for plug connector devices, specifically to increase the retention force of the outer conductor contact element on the cable.

[0013] This objective is achieved by the features disclosed in claim 1. Regarding the plug connector device, this objective is achieved by the features of claim 7. Regarding the assembly method, this objective is achieved by the features of claim 12.

[0014] The dependent claims and the features described below relate to advantageous embodiments and variations of the invention.

[0015] An external conductor contact element for a plug connector assembly is provided.

[0016] The plug connector assembly is described in detail below and specifically may include an electrical plug connector (or a separate plug connector component of an electrical plug connector) and a cable, wherein the plug connector or the plug connector component of the plug connector is fastened to the cable.

[0017] Preferably, the plug connector assembly or the plug connector of the plug connector assembly includes, in addition to the outer conductor contact element, an inner conductor contact element, a support sleeve, and optionally a housing assembly, as described below.

[0018] The outer conductor contact element can be assembled on the cable, specifically it can be fixed axially in the circumferential direction (to resist rotation) and / or along the longitudinal axis of the plug connector assembly (to resist pull-out from the cable).

[0019] The outer conductor contact element can be implemented as a single piece or multiple pieces. Preferably, the outer conductor contact element is formed from at least one metal sheet.

[0020] The outer conductor contact element can contact the outer conductor of the cable electrically and mechanically, or can be electrically connected to the outer conductor of the cable at least indirectly. This outer conductor contact element can be implemented to electromagnetically shield the plug connector's built-in plug connector components (e.g., inner conductor contact elements) and / or to electrically connect the outer conductor of the cable to the corresponding outer conductor contact element of the mating plug connector.

[0021] The outer conductor contact element may include an interface in its front free end region for electrical and / or mechanical contact with the mating plug connector, particularly with the corresponding outer conductor contact element of the mating plug connector. The specific configuration of the interface may depend on the intended plug connector standard. The interface may include, for example, one or more resilient tabs, preferably a so-called resilient basket.

[0022] The outer conductor contact element can be implemented such that it can be assembled (specifically pressed, preferably coiled) on the support sleeve and / or the outer conductor of the cable and / or the cable sheath of the cable.

[0023] The outer conductor of the cable can be specifically a cable shielding fabric, which comprises individual threads woven together. However, essentially, any desired outer conductor can be provided.

[0024] According to the present invention, the outer conductor contact element includes at least one fixing stop, which, when the outer conductor contact element is in an assembled state on the support sleeve, is capable of engaging behind the cable-side end face of the support sleeve along the longitudinal axis of the plug connector assembly, the cable-side end face being away from the front free end of the outer conductor contact element.

[0025] By means of this retaining stop (which preferably extends orthogonally relative to the longitudinal axis in the radial direction or more so in the direction of the longitudinal axis), a positive locking connection for the outer conductor contact element can be provided in the axial direction. Specifically, if the support sleeve is fastened to the outer conductor of the cable in a known manner, sufficient retaining force can be provided for the outer conductor contact element. This retaining force can also be improved when other plug connector components of the plug connector are connected to the outer conductor contact element (e.g., the housing assembly of the plug connector).

[0026] In addition to the forward locking connection, a non-forward locking connection can be provided between the outer conductor contact element and the support sleeve, the outer conductor of the cable, and / or the cable sheath by means of a pressing step, preferably a curling step. However, by means of the already provided forward locking connection, the pressing force still required can be reduced, thereby reducing the degree of deformation of the support sleeve or cable, or even avoiding such deformation if possible. This allows for improved electrical performance of the plug connector fastened to the cable.

[0027] According to a first variant of the invention, a retaining stop is provided in the outer conductor contact element by means of a male connector-side edge of a material cutout provided in the outer conductor contact element, the male connector-side edge facing the front free end of the outer conductor contact element.

[0028] According to a second variant of the invention, a fixing stop is provided in the outer conductor contact element by means of a separate stop element that is fastened to the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element.

[0029] According to a third variant of the invention, a fixing stop is provided in the outer conductor contact element by means of a stamped part, which is provided in the outer conductor contact element when the outer conductor contact element is in an unassembled state.

[0030] The three variations according to the invention represent alternative and combined solutions for the common purpose of the invention. These three variations are also related in particular to the fact that an advantageous retaining stop is provided as an edge in the outer conductor contact element, preferably even before the outer conductor contact element is assembled.

[0031] Specifically, when more than one fixed stop is provided, the variants according to the invention can be combined with each other in any desired manner.

[0032] All three variations of the invention share a common advantage: a support surface, preferably a support surface with orthogonal end faces (relative to the longitudinal axis of the plug connector assembly), can be formed in the outer conductor contact element for the support sleeve. By means of this axial support on the support sleeve, the outer conductor contact element (and therefore the plug connector) is optimally held against the cable. High holding force can be provided even if the wall thickness of the support sleeve is relatively thin or the notch between the support sleeve and the cable sheath is only shallow, compared to known prior art. Because the retaining stop is not solely achieved by a pressing step in the outer conductor contact element, the number of bending radii can be reduced, and retaining stops can even be provided at possible locations that do not have any bending radius in the section under discussion.

[0033] According to the invention, particularly robust plug connectors can be provided, for example, for use in high-frequency technology, whose support sleeves have only relatively thin wall thicknesses, thereby allowing the plug connectors to be further implemented to be particularly small.

[0034] According to an improvement of the invention, it can be provided that the material cutout in the outer conductor contact element is realized as a partially annular circumferential slit.

[0035] A partially annular circumferential gap can be described as an arc having, for example, a midpoint angle of 10° to 180°, preferably 20° to 120°, and more preferably 45° to 90°.

[0036] Multiple fixing stops can also be provided by means of multiple material cuts, which are distributed along the circumference of the outer conductor contact element and preferably arranged along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor contact element at the same axial position. For example, two-part annular circumferential gaps, three-part annular circumferential gaps, four-part annular circumferential gaps, five-part annular circumferential gaps, six-part annular circumferential gaps, or even more partial annular circumferential gaps can be provided.

[0037] According to an improvement of the invention, a material cutout may be provided in the outer conductor contact element such that the outer conductor contact element forms a tab connected on one side, wherein the free male connector side edge of the tab forms the retaining stop.

[0038] For example, a U-shaped cut in the material can be provided to form a tab.

[0039] Preferably, the male connector side edge of the tab includes a linear or straight extension to form an end-side fixing stop that covers as much of the surface as possible.

[0040] As long as multiple fixing stops can be formed in the outer conductor contact element, multiple tabs can also be formed along the circumference of the outer conductor contact element. The multiple tabs are preferably arranged at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor contact element. For example, two tabs, three tabs, four tabs, five tabs, six tabs, or even more tabs can be provided.

[0041] In one improvement of the invention, the outer conductor contact element may be reshaped along the longitudinal axis direction to the positive connector side edge of the material cut.

[0042] Specifically, the retaining stop can be formed in an advantageous manner by reshaping the outer conductor contact element in the region of the male connector side edge of the tab or slot in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0043] Preferably, the outer conductor contact element is simultaneously and correspondingly reshaped onto the support sleeve during the pressing step, a step that is typically provided. However, the outer conductor contact element may also be reshaped earlier, in the unassembled state, at the male connector side edge adjacent to the material cut along the longitudinal axis.

[0044] In one improvement of the invention, the separate stop element may be a sheet metal element, a metal connector, and / or a wire component.

[0045] The stop element and the outer conductor contact element are preferably formed as multiple parts. Preferably, the stop element is connected to the outer conductor contact element in a positive locking manner, for example by means of riveting. However, different connection methods can also be provided, such as a firmly coupled connection method.

[0046] Multiple stop elements can be provided as long as the outer conductor contact element provides multiple fixed stops (the multiple stop elements are implemented as sheet metal elements, metal connectors, and / or wire components in their respective cases). The stop elements can be arranged on the inner wall in a distributed manner at the same axial position along the circumference of the outer conductor contact element, preferably along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor contact element. For example, two stop elements, three stop elements, four stop elements, five stop elements, six stop elements, or even more stop elements can be provided.

[0047] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the stamped part provided in the outer conductor contact element may be implemented as a partially annular connector or a fully annular circumferential connector, which extends from the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0048] Particularly preferred is that the connector is provided only in a partially annular circumferential manner; however, a fully annular circumferential connector can also be provided substantially. This partially annular circumferential connector can be described as an arc having, for example, a midpoint angle of 10° to 180°, preferably 20° to 120°, and more preferably 45° to 90°.

[0049] Multiple fixing stops can also be provided by means of multiple stamped parts, which are distributed along the circumference of the outer conductor contact element and preferably arranged along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor contact element at the same axial position. For example, two-part annular circumferential connectors, three-part annular circumferential connectors, four-part annular circumferential connectors, five-part annular circumferential connectors, six-part annular circumferential connectors, or even more part annular circumferential connectors can be provided.

[0050] The present invention also relates to a plug connector device including a support sleeve and an outer conductor contact element, the support sleeve being fastened to the outer conductor of a cable, and the outer conductor contact element being assembled on the support sleeve, specifically the outer conductor contact element described above and below.

[0051] Preferably, the plug connector assembly includes a cable. Therefore, the cable can be considered as part of the plug connector assembly within the scope of the invention. However, essentially, the cable can also be separate from the plug connector assembly.

[0052] A plug connector device can be advantageously provided having an outer conductor contact element with an integrated retaining stop, specifically by means of a material cut or by exposing the outer conductor contact element and subsequently reshaping it. This allows for optimization of the plug connector's retention force on the cable.

[0053] Preferably, the support sleeve may include a retaining device, such as a flexible tab or multiple flexible tabs, to apply a radially inward force in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the plug connector assembly to the cable or the outer conductor of the cable. This prevents the support sleeve from shifting on the cable.

[0054] The support sleeve can be pressed onto the outer conductor of the cable.

[0055] In one improvement of the invention, the outer conductor of the cable, particularly the outer conductor of the cable which is implemented as cable shielding fabric, may be at least partially folded back on the support sleeve.

[0056] This method allows for advantageous electrical and mechanical connections or contacts between the outer conductor of the cable and the outer conductor contact element of the plug connector.

[0057] Furthermore, in a particularly preferred improvement, the outer conductor of the cable, particularly the cable shielding fabric, may be folded back onto the support sleeve, such that the front free end of the cable shielding fabric or the outer conductor extends beyond the cable side edge of the support sleeve.

[0058] This allows for further improvement in the retention force of the outer conductor contact element on the cable, as the outer conductor or cable shielding fabric can be clamped between the retaining stop and the cable side face of the support sleeve. The axial force acting on the outer conductor contact element along the longitudinal axis of the cable can thus be advantageously dissipated via the outer conductor or via the cable shielding fabric. In this way, the outer conductor contact element can be secured to the cable without deformation of the outer conductor or cable shielding fabric in the longitudinal direction.

[0059] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the outer conductor contact element may be pressed, preferably rolled, onto a support sleeve.

[0060] The outer conductor contact element can be pressed onto the support sleeve in a radial and / or axial manner.

[0061] Furthermore, the outer conductor contact element can be pressed, preferably rolled, onto the cable sheath, the outer conductor of the cable, and / or other cable components (e.g., the cable membrane or the insulator of the inner conductor of the cable).

[0062] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the plug connector assembly may include an inner conductor contact element that is fastened to the inner conductor of the cable. Preferably, the inner conductor contact element extends at least partially through the outer conductor contact element along a longitudinal axis.

[0063] Particularly preferred is that the plug connector device is implemented in a coaxial manner, wherein the inner conductor contact element extends coaxially through the outer conductor contact element.

[0064] In one embodiment of the invention, the plug connector device may include an insulating element disposed between an inner conductor contact element and an outer conductor contact element.

[0065] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the invention, the plug connector device may include a housing assembly, preferably made of a synthetic material. The housing assembly may include a receiving device for receiving at least one outer conductor contact element. A latching device may be provided to secure at least one outer conductor contact element.

[0066] The plug connector according to the invention is particularly advantageous for use in vehicles, especially motor vehicles. The term "vehicle" in this context describes any means of transport, particularly land, water, or air transport, and also includes spacecraft.

[0067] Potential applications include autonomous driving, driver assistance systems, navigation systems, infotainment systems, rear-seat entertainment systems, internet connectivity, and wireless gigabit (IEEE 802.11ad standard). Other potential applications include high-resolution cameras (e.g., 4K and 8K cameras), sensor systems, in-vehicle computers, high-resolution screens, high-resolution dashboards, 3D navigation devices, and mobile communication devices.

[0068] However, the plug connector according to the invention is suitable for any desired application throughout the electronics industry and should not be construed as limited to use in the automotive industry.

[0069] The electrical plug connectors and electrical plug connections are not limited to specific plug connector types. This invention is particularly suitable for plug connectors and plug connections used in high-frequency technologies. PL, BNC, TNC, SMBA (FAKRA), SMA, SMB, SMS, SMC, SMP, BMS, HFM (FAKRA-Mini), H-MTD, BMK, Mini-Coax, or MATE-AX types of plug connectors or plug connections can be provided.

[0070] The present invention also relates to an assembly method for a plug connector assembly. Provided is that an outer conductor contact element is assembled on a support sleeve, the support sleeve being fastened to a cable such that a retaining stop of the outer conductor contact element engages behind the cable-side end face of the support sleeve along the longitudinal axis of the plug connector assembly, the cable-side end face being away from the front free end of the outer conductor contact element.

[0071] According to a first variant of the assembly method of the invention, the retaining stop is formed in the outer conductor contact element, wherein a material cutout is provided in the outer conductor contact element. Preferably, the male connector side edge of the material cutout is reshaped in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the plug connector assembly, the male connector side edge facing the front free end of the outer conductor contact element. Preferably, the male connector side edge of the material cutout is reshaped during the step of pressing the outer conductor contact element onto the support sleeve.

[0072] A second variant of the assembly method according to the invention (or alternatively, among other variants) is provided in which the retaining stop is formed in the outer conductor contact element, wherein the separate stop element is fastened to the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element.

[0073] A third variation of the assembly method according to the invention (or alternatively, among other variations) is provided in which the fixing stop is formed in the outer conductor contact element, wherein a stamped part is provided in the outer conductor contact element when the outer conductor contact element is in an unassembled state.

[0074] Variations of the assembly method according to the invention share the common feature that the outer conductor contact element can be advantageously pre-treated or prepared, and preferably subsequently reshaped by means of a reshaping process, preferably a curling process, such that the reshaped region of the outer conductor contact element forms an axial, end-side support surface for supporting the sleeve. Compared to the prior art, this allows for improved retention force of the outer conductor contact element, and thus improved retention force of the entire plug connector on the (pre-assembled) cable.

[0075] In one improvement of the invention, the outer conductor contact element may be produced or manufactured by means of a stamping and bending process.

[0076] Preferably, within the scope of the stamping and bending process, after the outer conductor contact element has been produced and before the outer conductor contact element is pushed onto the (pre-assembled) cable for assembly purposes, the stop element is fastened to the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element.

[0077] According to an improvement of the invention, a material cutout may be provided in the outer conductor contact element before the outer conductor contact element is assembled onto the support sleeve, preferably in the stamping and bending process.

[0078] However, it is also possible to provide material cutouts in the outer conductor contact element, for example by means of a pressing tool with an integrated stamping element, when the outer conductor contact element is assembled on the support sleeve.

[0079] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the separate stop element may be fastened to the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element by a riveting process.

[0080] The features already described regarding the outer conductor contact element according to the invention can also be naturally applied to plug connector assemblies and assembly methods, and vice versa. Furthermore, the advantages already mentioned regarding the outer conductor contact element can also be understood to apply to plug connector assemblies and assembly methods, and vice versa.

[0081] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an outer conductor contact element for a plug connector assembly, comprising at least one retaining stop that, when the outer conductor contact element is assembled on a support sleeve, is capable of engaging along the longitudinal axis of the plug connector assembly behind a cable-side end face of the support sleeve, the cable-side end face being remote from the front free end of the outer conductor contact element. This retaining stop is provided in the outer conductor contact element when it is unassembled, or the outer conductor contact element is prepared at least in the unassembled state to form the retaining stop. The claims and features described in this specification relate to advantageous embodiments and variations thereof.

[0082] Furthermore, with reference to the following, terms such as “comprising,” “having,” or “with” do not exclude other features or steps. Additionally, terms referring to singular steps or features, such as “a” or “the,” do not exclude plural features or steps, and vice versa.

[0083] However, in the linguistic embodiments of the present invention, it may also be provided that the features specified by the terms "including," "comprising," or "having" are listed exhaustively in the present invention. Therefore, in the context of the present invention, for example, with respect to each claim individually, one or more lists of features may be considered exhaustive. For example, the present invention may consist exclusively of the features mentioned in claim 1.

[0084] It should be noted that identifiers (such as "first" or "second") are primarily used to distinguish the respective features of the apparatus or method, and are not necessarily intended to indicate that the features are interdependent or related to each other.

[0085] Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the values ​​and parameters described herein include deviations or fluctuations of ±10% or less, preferably ±5% or less, further preferably ±1% or less, and especially preferably ±0.1% or less, of the values ​​or parameters mentioned in each case. Such deviations are not excluded when the invention is practiced in practice. The ranges defined by the starting and ending values ​​also include all those values ​​and fractions included in the ranges mentioned respectively (in particular the starting and ending values ​​and the corresponding median values). Attached Figure Description

[0086] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0087] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred exemplary embodiments in their respective contexts, wherein individual features of the invention are represented in combination with each other. Features of the exemplary embodiments are also implemented separately from other features of the same exemplary embodiments, and can therefore be readily combined by those skilled in the art to form further advantageous combinations and sub-combinations of features having other exemplary embodiments.

[0088] In the accompanying drawings, elements with similar functions are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0089] Indicatively:

[0090] Figure 1 A perspective view of a plug connector assembly with an outer conductor contact element according to the prior art is shown;

[0091] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of advantageous components of the plug connector device according to the invention is shown;

[0092] Figure 3 A side view is shown of a first exemplary embodiment of an outer conductor contact element according to the present invention, the outer conductor contact element having a partially annular circumferential slit to form a fixing stop;

[0093] Figure 4 Showing Figure 3 The front view of the outer conductor contact element is shown.

[0094] Figure 5 Showing Figure 3 A perspective view of the outer conductor contact element in its assembled state;

[0095] Figure 6 Showing Figure 3A partial side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element in a partially assembled state;

[0096] Figure 7 Showing Figure 3 A partial side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element in its assembled state;

[0097] Figure 8 A front view of a second exemplary embodiment of an outer conductor contact element according to the present invention is shown, the outer conductor contact element having tabs to form a retaining stop;

[0098] Figure 9 Showing Figure 8 A side view of the outer conductor contact element shown;

[0099] Figure 10 Showing Figure 8 A partial side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element in a partially assembled state;

[0100] Figure 11 Showing Figure 8 A partial side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element in its assembled state;

[0101] Figure 12 Showing Figure 8 Another side view of the outer conductor contact element in its assembled state is shown;

[0102] Figure 13 A front view of a third exemplary embodiment of an outer conductor contact element according to the present invention is shown, the outer conductor contact element having a stop element to form a fixed stop;

[0103] Figure 14 Showing Figure 13 A partial side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element in the first part of the assembly state;

[0104] Figure 15 Showing Figure 13 A partial side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element in the second part of the assembly state;

[0105] Figure 16 Showing Figure 13 A partial side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element in its assembled state;

[0106] Figure 17 A side view is shown of a fourth exemplary embodiment of an outer conductor contact element according to the present invention, the outer conductor contact element having a stamped part to form a fixed stop;

[0107] Figure 18 Showing Figure 17A side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element shown;

[0108] Figure 19 Showing Figure 17 A partial side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element in a partially assembled state is shown; and

[0109] Figure 20 Showing Figure 17 A partial side sectional view of the outer conductor contact element in its assembled state. Detailed Implementation

[0110] Figure 1 A plug connector assembly 100 according to the prior art is shown. The plug connector assembly 100 includes a cable 2 and an electrical plug connector 3 assembled on the cable 2.

[0111] Cable 2 is implemented as a coaxial cable and includes a cable sheath 4, an outer conductor, an optional cable membrane (not shown), an insulator or dielectric 6, and an inner conductor 7. The outer conductor extends below the cable sheath 4 and is implemented as a cable shielding fabric 5. The cable membrane extends below the cable shielding fabric 5, and the inner conductor 7 extends through the dielectric 6. The invention is described below with reference to the same cable type. However, essentially, the invention is suitable for any desired cable, for example, it is also suitable for cables not implemented as coaxial cables and / or including multiple inner conductors 7.

[0112] The electrical plug connector 3 includes multiple plug connector components, in Figure 1 Only the outer conductor contact element 8 of a plurality of plug connector components is shown. Further explanation below explains that additional plug connector components may optionally be provided within the scope of the plug connector device 1 according to the invention.

[0113] The outer conductor contact element 8 is assembled on the cable 2 and is preferably fixed in the circumferential or radial direction (around the longitudinal axis L of the plug connector assembly 100) and in the axial direction (along the longitudinal axis L of the plug connector assembly 100). Since the outer conductor contact element 8 is typically connected to other plug connector components, the high holding force of the outer conductor contact element 8 on the cable 2 can limit the mechanical stability of the entire plug connector 3.

[0114] In the region of the free end of the front portion of the outer conductor contact element 8, the outer conductor contact element 8 includes an interface 9 for contacting the corresponding outer conductor contact element of the mating plug connector (not shown). Figure 1 In the case of the outer conductor contact element 8 shown, and in the case of the outer conductor contact element 8 shown in the exemplary embodiments, the interface 9 is implemented as a flexible basket, but it can be implemented as needed.

[0115] The outer conductor contact element 8 is connected to the cable 2 in the region of its cable-side end. For this purpose, in the prior art, the cable 2 is held in the region of the tapered portion 10 on one side. Furthermore, the support sleeve 11 (in...) Figure 1 The support sleeve (not visible in the center) is disposed in the connection area, and is pressed against the outer conductor or the cable shielding fabric 5 of the cable 2. Starting from the rear cable side end face 12, the support sleeve 11, together with the cable sheath 4, forms a notch 13 on the cable 2, into which the outer conductor contact element 8 can penetrate due to the reshaping process during the assembly step. This allows for a positive locking device along the longitudinal axis L of the plug connector assembly 100, in addition to a non-positive locking device. In this case, the deeper the notch 13, the greater the retaining force provided by the positive locking device. In particular, a slightly deeper notch 13 can also provide only a small retaining force. This is an improvement according to the invention.

[0116] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of advantageous components of the plug connector device 1 according to the invention is shown.

[0117] Within the scope of the assembly method for the plug connector assembly 1, the cable 2 can be pre-assembled. For this purpose, the cable 2 can be cut to a defined length, for example. Subsequently, the cable sheath 4 of the cable 2 can be stripped of its insulation up to a defined stripping length, and thus the outer conductor or cable shielding fabric 5 of the cable 2 is exposed. Furthermore, the inner conductor 7 of the cable 2 is stripped of its insulation or released from the dielectric 6. Figure 2 The image shows the pre-processed cable sections.

[0118] The inner conductor contact element 14 can be fastened (preferably pressed or coiled) to the inner conductor 7 of the cable 2.

[0119] Furthermore, within the scope of the pre-assembly step, the support sleeve 11 can be fastened to the outer conductor or to the cable shielding fabric 5 of the cable 2. In this case, it is preferable that the cable-side end face 12 of the support sleeve 11 can be spaced apart from the cable sheath 4 of the cable 2 to form a notch 13 (see, for example, see...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 Optionally, the outer conductor or cable shielding fabric 5 of cable 2 may be folded back at least partially, preferably completely, onto the support sleeve 11. However, this is not shown in the figures for better feasibility.

[0120] The outer conductor contact element 8 can then be assembled onto the cable 2, which has been pre-assembled in this manner. In this case, the outer conductor contact element 8 can be assembled onto the support sleeve 11 such that the retaining stop 15 of the outer conductor contact element 8 can engage behind the cable side end face 12 of the support sleeve 11 along the longitudinal axis L of the plug connector assembly 1 (as will be described below).

[0121] The outer conductor contact element 8 is preferably pressed or preferably rolled onto the support sleeve 11.

[0122] Preferably, the outer conductor contact element 8 may be manufactured by means of a stamping and bending process before being pushed onto the pre-assembled cable 2 or before being assembled onto the pre-assembled cable 2.

[0123] After the outer conductor contact element 8 has been assembled onto the pre-assembled cable 2, the outer conductor contact element 8 can optionally be pushed into the receiving device of the housing assembly 16 and secured (preferably latched) in the receiving device.

[0124] Four advantageous exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below. It should be emphasized that these different variations can be combined substantially as needed to form a retaining stop 15, particularly if more than one retaining stop 15 is provided in the outer conductor contact element 8.

[0125] Figures 3 to 7 A first exemplary embodiment of the outer conductor contact element 8 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4 A section of the outer conductor contact element 8 is shown in a separate view. Figures 5 to 7 The outer conductor contact element 8 is shown in a partially assembled or assembled state on cable 2.

[0126] In a first exemplary embodiment, the retaining stop 15 of the outer conductor contact element 8 is formed by means of a male connector-side edge provided with a material cutout 17 in the outer conductor contact element 8, the male connector-side edge facing the front free end of the outer conductor contact element 8. Figures 3 to 7 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the material cut 17 is formed as a partially annular circumferential slit. The material cut 17 or slit has preferably been provided in the outer conductor contact element 8 before assembly, preferably during a stamping and bending process.

[0127] The retaining stop 15 can be reliably formed by means of the male connector side edge of the material cutout 17, and the retaining stop itself can provide high holding force if the wall thickness of the support sleeve 11 is only thin.

[0128] What can be provided is that the male connector side edge of the material cutout 17 or slit is reshaped in the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the plug connector assembly 1 to form the retaining stop 15 (see Figure 6 and Figure 7 In this case, when the outer conductor contact element 8 is pressed onto the support sleeve 11, reshaping advantageously occurs.

[0129] Figures 8 to 12 A second exemplary embodiment of the outer conductor contact element 8 according to the present invention is shown, wherein, Figure 8 and Figure 9 A section of the outer conductor contact element 8 is shown in a separate view, and Figures 10 to 12 This demonstrates a partially assembled state on pre-assembled cable 2. Figure 10 ) and in the assembled state ( Figure 11 and Figure 12 8. Outer conductor contact element.

[0130] In the second exemplary embodiment, the retaining stop 15 is also formed by means of a material cutout 17 provided in the outer conductor contact element 8. However, the material cutout 17 is provided in the outer conductor contact element 8 such that the outer conductor contact element 8 forms a tab 18 connected on one side, wherein the free male connector side edge of the tab 18 forms the retaining stop 15.

[0131] Finally, for example, a retaining stop 15 can be formed by reshaping the outer conductor contact element 8 within the scope of the assembly step. The retaining stop 15 can fix the outer conductor contact element 8 along the longitudinal axis L of the outer conductor contact element 8 or the plug connector assembly 1 in a positive locking manner.

[0132] Figures 13 to 16 A third exemplary embodiment of the outer conductor contact element 8 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 13 A section of the outer conductor contact element 8 is shown in a separate view. Figure 14 and Figure 15 The outer conductor contact element 8 is shown during the process of continuing the assembly step or during the step of pressing the outer conductor contact element 8 onto the support sleeve 11. Figure 16 The external conductor contact element 8 is shown in an assembled state.

[0133] Compared to the first two exemplary embodiments, the fixing stop 15 in the third exemplary embodiment is not formed by means of a material cut 17, but by means of a separate stop element 20 fastened to the inner wall 19 of the outer conductor contact element 8. The stop element 20 can be fastened to the inner wall 19 of the outer conductor contact element 8, preferably in a positive locking manner, for example by means of a riveting step or by means of any other method. This is preferably done when the outer conductor contact element 8 is still in an unassembled state or before the outer conductor contact element is assembled.

[0134] exist Figures 13 to 16 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the separate stop element 20 is formed as a sheet metal element. However, in essence, the stop element 20 may also be formed as a wire portion or any other stop element 20.

[0135] at last, Figures 17 to 20 A fourth exemplary embodiment of the outer conductor contact element 8 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 17 and Figure 18 A section of the outer conductor contact element 8 is shown in a separate view. Figure 19 The outer conductor contact element 8 is shown in a partially assembled state on the pre-assembled cable 2; Figure 20 The external conductor contact element 8 is shown in an assembled state.

[0136] In the fourth exemplary embodiment, two retaining stops 15 are formed in the outer conductor contact element 8 by means of a stamped member 21, which is provided in the outer conductor contact element 8 when the outer conductor contact element 8 is in an unassembled state. Preferably, the stamped member 21 is provided in the outer conductor contact element 8 within the scope of a stamping and bending process. The stamped member 21 is formed in the outer conductor contact element 8 as a partially annular connector. Basically, any number of stamped members 21 can be provided, but for example, only a single stamped member 21 can also be provided. A stamped member forming a completely annular circumferential connector can also be provided.

[0137] As mentioned in the introduction, virtually any number of retaining stops 15 can be provided in the outer conductor contact element 8. For example, in the fourth exemplary embodiment, two partially annular connectors are described to form two retaining stops 15. Each of the retaining stops 15 shown can be provided multiple times in virtually each exemplary embodiment, and combinations of different types of retaining stops 15 are also possible within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An outer conductor contact element (8) for a plug connector assembly (1), comprising at least one retaining stop (15) wherein, when the outer conductor contact element (8) is in an assembled state on a support sleeve (11), the at least one retaining stop (15) is capable of engaging along the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug connector assembly (1) behind a cable-side end face (12) of the support sleeve (11), the cable-side end face being remote from the front free end of the outer conductor contact element (8). Its features are, The fixing stop (15) is formed in the outer conductor contact element (8) by means of the following manner: a) By means of a male connector side edge provided with a material cutout (17) in the outer conductor contact element (8), the male connector side edge facing the front free end of the outer conductor contact element (8), wherein the outer conductor contact element (8) is reshaped in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) adjacent to the male connector side edge of the material cutout (17); or b) Before the outer conductor contact element (8) is assembled onto the support sleeve (11), a separate stop element (20) is used to fasten the stop element (20) to the inner wall (19) of the outer conductor contact element (8); or c) The stamping part (21) is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8) when the outer conductor contact element (8) is in an unassembled state by means of the stamping part (21).

2. The external conductor contact element (8) according to claim 1. Its features are, The material cut (17) is formed as a partially annular circumferential slit in the outer conductor contact element (8).

3. The outer conductor contact element (8) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The material cutout (17) is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8) such that the outer conductor contact element (8) forms a tab (18) connected on one side, wherein the free male connector side edge of the tab (18) forms the retaining stop (15).

4. The outer conductor contact element (8) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The separated stop element (20) is a sheet metal element or a wire portion.

5. The external conductor contact element (8) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The stamped part (21) provided in the outer conductor contact element (8) is formed as a partially annular connector that extends from the inner wall (19) of the outer conductor contact element (8) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L).

6. A plug connector device (1) comprising a cable (2), a support sleeve (11) and an outer conductor contact element (8) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the support sleeve (11) being fastened to the outer conductor (5) of the cable (2) and the outer conductor contact element (8) being assembled on the support sleeve (11).

7. The plug connector device (1) according to claim 6. Its features are, The outer conductor (5) of the cable (2) is at least partially folded back onto the support sleeve (11).

8. The plug connector device (1) according to claim 7. Its features are, Fold the outer conductor (5) of the cable (2) back onto the support sleeve (11) so that the free front end of the outer conductor (5) extends beyond the cable side edge of the support sleeve (11).

9. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 8. Its features are, The outer conductor contact element (8) is pressed onto the support sleeve (11).

10. The plug connector device (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 8. Its features are, The plug connector assembly (1) includes an inner conductor contact element (14) which is fastened to the inner conductor (7) of the cable (2), wherein the inner conductor contact element (14) extends at least partially through the outer conductor contact element (8) along the longitudinal axis (L).

11. An assembly method for a plug connector assembly (1), wherein an outer conductor contact element (8) is assembled on a support sleeve (11) and the support sleeve (11) is fastened to a cable (2) such that a retaining stop (15) of the outer conductor contact element (8) engages behind a cable-side end face (12) of the support sleeve (11) along the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug connector assembly (1), the cable-side end face being away from the front free end of the outer conductor contact element (8); Its features are, The fixing stop (15) is formed in the outer conductor contact element (8), wherein a) A material cutout (17) is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8), and the male connector side edge of the material cutout (17) is reshaped in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug connector assembly (1), the male connector side edge facing the front free end of the outer conductor contact element (8); and / or b) Before the outer conductor contact element (8) is assembled onto the support sleeve (11), the separated stop element (20) is fastened to the inner wall (19) of the outer conductor contact element (8); and / or c) When the outer conductor contact element (8) is in an unassembled state, a stamped part (21) is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8).

12. The assembly method according to claim 11, Its features are, The outer conductor contact element (8) is produced by means of a stamping and bending process.

13. The assembly method according to claim 11 or 12, Its features are, Before the outer conductor contact element (8) is assembled onto the support sleeve (11), the material cutout (17) is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8).

14. The assembly method according to claim 11 or 12, Its features are, The separated stop element (20) is fastened to the inner wall (19) of the outer conductor contact element (8) by means of a riveting process.

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