Electrical plug connector and method for assembling an electrical plug connector

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical plug connector (1) having an electrically insulating housing assembly (2) and an outer conductor assembly (3) which is connected to the housing assembly (2) in a form-fitting manner. The outer conductor assembly (3) has at least one fastening tab (8) which can be bent from a basic state into a fastened state. It is provided that the outer conductor assembly (3) is received in the housing assembly (2) in such a way that the housing assembly (2) blocks a relative movement between the outer conductor assembly (3) and the housing assembly (2) in a form-fitting manner along a first translational degree of freedom (x) and / or along a second translational degree of freedom (y). In the basic state, the fastening tab (8) allows an assembly movement for assembling the housing assembly (2) on the outer conductor assembly (3) along a third translational degree of freedom (z), and, in the bent fastened state, the fastening tab (8) blocks the housing assembly (2) on the outer conductor assembly (3) in a form-fitting manner at least along the third translational degree of freedom (z).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical plug connector having an electrically insulating housing assembly and an outer conductor assembly connected to the housing assembly in a positively locking manner, as claimed in the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for assembling an electrical plug connector, wherein, according to the preamble of claim 15, the electrically insulating housing assembly of the plug connector is connected to the outer conductor assembly of the plug connector in a form-locking manner.

[0003] Various electrical plug connectors are known in the field of electrical engineering. Electrical plug connectors are commonly used to transmit power signals and / or data signals to corresponding mating plug connectors. Plug connectors or mating plug connectors can be specifically plugs, circuit board connectors, panel connectors, receptacles, couplers, or adapters. In the context of this invention, the terms "plug connector" or "mating connector" represent all variations. Background Technology

[0004] High demands are placed on the robustness and reliability of plug connectors used in the automotive industry or vehicles. Therefore, plug connections must sometimes withstand high loads, such as mechanical loads, and remain closed in a defined manner so that the electrical connection is not accidentally disconnected, for example, during vehicle operation. Ensuring reliability is a primary concern, especially in the context of autonomous vehicle operation and driver assistance systems.

[0005] When a vehicle operates autonomously, or with assistance systems in use, it is sometimes necessary to combine and typically transmit large amounts of data from numerous cameras, various sensors, and navigation sources in real time. Therefore, the operation of many devices, screens, and cameras requires high-performance infrastructure within the vehicle's electronic systems. Consequently, the demands on plug connectors and cable connections within the vehicle regarding the required data rates have become very high over time. To save structural space and weight, it is further important to design plug connectors to be as compact as possible.

[0006] Another requirement for plug connectors used in the automotive industry is that these plug connectors should be able to be produced economically in high unit quantities and should be easy and reliable to assemble.

[0007] Electrical plug connectors typically consist of an electrically insulating housing assembly and an outer conductor assembly mechanically connected to the housing assembly. The type of fastening between the housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly plays a significant role in defining the robustness, size, weight, and cost of the plug connector as a whole during production and assembly.

[0008] The fastening between the housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly is typically achieved in practice using what is known as an overfit or "interference fit." Alternatively or additionally, assembly claws can be provided on the outer conductor assembly that penetrate into the plastic housing assembly. In both cases, this ultimately leads to damage to the housing assembly, which particularly negatively impacts the lifespan of the plug connector.

[0009] It is also known in practice that the housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly are secured together by means of a combination of spring contacts and corresponding retaining recesses. However, this increases the cost of manufacturing such a plug connector, and plug connectors equipped with spring contacts and retaining recesses typically occupy a relatively large amount of structural space. Furthermore, this fastening can be released if subjected to relatively high tensile forces.

[0010] Furthermore, it is known that at least one fastening tab is provided on the outer conductor assembly, which can be bent from a basic state to a fastened state. Then, during the assembly of the plug connector, the fastening tab can be folded around the edge of the housing assembly. In this way, it is possible to cheaply and simultaneously achieve a form-locking connection to fasten the outer conductor assembly to the insulating housing assembly. Such a connection technique is used, for example, in EP0674364B1.

[0011] Plug connectors equipped with such fastening tabs are generally able to withstand higher tensile forces than plug connectors equipped with spring tabs and retaining recesses. However, further improvements are needed in fastening technology based on flexible fastening tabs, and in particular, to make them available as alternative plug connector constructions.

[0012] In view of the prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide an electrical plug connector that specifically has a robust and durable design and can be economically manufactured, preferably in the context of mass production.

[0013] The present invention is also based on the purpose of providing a method for assembling electrical plug connectors, so as to manufacture particularly robust and durable plug connectors in a particularly economical manner, preferably in the context of mass production.

[0014] This objective for the electrical plug connector is achieved by means of the features specified in claim 1. Regarding the method, this objective is achieved by the features of claim 15. Summary of the Invention

[0015] The dependent claims and the features described below relate to advantageous embodiments and variations of the invention.

[0016] An electrical plug connector is provided, comprising an electrically insulating housing assembly and an outer conductor assembly, the outer conductor assembly being connected to the housing assembly in a form-locking manner. The outer conductor assembly has at least one fastening tab, which can be bent from a basic state to a fastened state.

[0017] The electrical insulation housing assembly is preferably a single piece, but may also be in a multi-piece form. The housing assembly may optionally have, for example, seals and / or fastening elements.

[0018] The housing assembly is preferably formed of only electrically insulating material. However, the housing assembly may also substantially have conductive components, such as connecting elements for connecting the plug connector to a circuit board or a corresponding mating plug connector, such as spring contacts, screw elements, and / or locking elements.

[0019] The housing assembly may be partially, substantially, or preferably entirely made of plastic.

[0020] The outer conductor assembly is preferably a single piece, but may also be in multiple pieces. The outer conductor assembly may, for example, have a separate spring cage for connecting the outer conductor to the corresponding mating plug connector, or a separate connecting element for connecting to electrical components (e.g., circuit boards).

[0021] The outer conductor assembly is preferably formed entirely of conductive material. However, the outer conductor assembly may also substantially have electrically insulating components, such as seals and / or stop elements made of plastic. The outer conductor assembly is preferably designed as a plug connector component of an electromagnetically shielded electrical plug connector.

[0022] The outer conductor assembly may be partially, substantially, or preferably entirely formed of metal (preferably a metal plate).

[0023] In addition to the insulating housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly, the electrical plug connector may also have additional plug connector components. For example, it may be provided that the electrical plug connector has one or more inner conductor contact elements, which preferably extend through the outer conductor assembly. It may also be provided that the electrical plug connector has one or more insulating components made of electrically insulating material to electrically insulate at least one inner conductor contact element relative to the outer conductor assembly and to mechanically secure the at least one inner conductor contact element within the outer conductor assembly. The electrical plug connector may also substantially have any other desired components, such as seals or fastening elements for fastening to electrical components (e.g., to cables or to circuit boards).

[0024] According to the present invention, an outer conductor assembly is received within a housing assembly. Here, the outer conductor assembly is received within the housing assembly such that relative movement between the outer conductor assembly and the housing assembly is prevented in a form-locking manner along a first translational degree of freedom and / or along a second translational degree of freedom.

[0025] Furthermore, it is preferable to provide that the outer conductor assembly is received in the housing assembly such that the orientation between the outer conductor assembly and the housing assembly is blocked in a form-locking manner along the first rotational degree of freedom and / or along the second rotational degree of freedom and / or along the third rotational degree of freedom.

[0026] Therefore, the outer conductor assembly is inserted into the housing assembly at least in certain regions, or is surrounded by the housing assembly at at least two opposing sides (preferably along the entire circumference). The outer conductor assembly can thus be introduced into the housing assembly by means of an assembly movement extending along a third translational degree of freedom. The inner wall of the housing assembly then prevents movement of the outer conductor assembly relative to the housing assembly at least along a first translational degree of freedom and preferably further along a second translational degree of freedom.

[0027] The secure fastening of the insulating housing assembly to the outer conductor assembly is a crucial application, particularly in the field of plug connectors for vehicles. The corresponding plug connectors can be exceptionally robust and durable because, in the event of external damage, only the housing assembly is initially damaged, while the outer conductor or outer conductor assembly retains its function, and thus the electrical availability of the plug connector is maintained. Therefore, in the event of plug connector failure, although, for example, the interface used to connect to the mating plug connector may be damaged, the likelihood of electrical short circuits or other malfunctions can be reduced.

[0028] According to the invention, the plug connector is designed such that at least one fastening tab, in its basic state, allows assembly movement for assembling the housing assembly onto the outer conductor assembly along a third translational degree of freedom, and, in a bent fastened state, at least one fastening tab forms a locking mechanism with respect to the outer conductor assembly at least along the third translational degree of freedom (and optionally additionally along the first and / or second translational degrees of freedom).

[0029] By means of the proposed fastening, a solid undercut can be provided between the housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly. In this way, the housing assembly can be significantly secured to the outer conductor assembly, preferably preventing pull-out in the insertion direction of the respective mating plug connector or in the opposite direction. Simultaneously, deformation of the housing assembly or other damage to the housing assembly can be avoided, such as damage that may be associated with, for example, interference fits or the use of the claws.

[0030] The plug connector, whose housing is formed by an electrically insulating housing assembly, can be advantageously combined with a fastening technique based on flexible fastening tabs, in which the outer conductor assembly is then received. The plug connector according to the invention can have a robust yet compact form and is also economically manufacturable and assemblable.

[0031] In a preferred improvement of the invention, at least one fastening tab can be bent from the basic state to the fastened state along a bending axis that extends parallel to or at least substantially parallel to the third translational degree of freedom.

[0032] By means of the orientation of the curved axis, a particularly stable and secure fastening can be provided by means of at least one fastening tab.

[0033] The existing technology has the following disadvantage: under unexpectedly high tensile forces, the fastening tabs can bend backward again partially, and thus the connection between the housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly can be loosened or even completely released. This problem can be avoided if the bending direction does not extend along the assembly movement or along the third translational degree of freedom, but is preferably orthogonal or at least approximately orthogonal to the assembly movement.

[0034] Even though an orientation parallel to the bending axis of the third translational degree of freedom is preferred in order to achieve particularly high stability, it is also generally permissible to provide an angular orientation of the bending axis relative to the third translational degree of freedom, particularly any angle between 0° and 90°, preferably between 0° and 45°, especially preferably between 0° and 30°, very particularly preferably between 0° and 20°, and even more preferably between 0° and 10°, for example, an angle between 0° and 5° or an angle between 0° and 2°.

[0035] Any desired number of fastening tabs can be provided to secure the outer conductor assembly to the housing assembly; for example, it can be exactly one fastening tab. However, using at least two fastening tabs can significantly increase the holding force between the housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly, and for this reason, it is preferred to provide two or more fastening tabs. However, for example, three or more fastening tabs, four or more fastening tabs, five or more fastening tabs, or six or even more fastening tabs can also be provided.

[0036] If multiple fastening tabs are provided, the bending axes of all fastening tabs preferably extend parallel to or at least substantially parallel to each other (wherein, in particular, angular deviations due to tolerances, or angular deviations between 0° and 10°, may be provided). However, the bending axes of the multiple fastening tabs may also be different from each other, in particular, they may be orthogonally oriented relative to each other.

[0037] In one improvement of the invention, the outer conductor assembly may be provided with at least one fastening tab pair, which is formed by two fastening tabs arranged on opposite sides of the outer conductor assembly.

[0038] It has been found that, in particular, the fastening tab pair of two fastening tabs arranged on opposite sides of the outer conductor assembly can result in a particularly stable plug connector, which also has a high resistance to lateral forces.

[0039] Basically, any number of fastening tab pairs can be provided. However, it has been found that even a single fastening tab pair is sufficient to provide a sufficiently strong fastening. However, two or more, three or more, four or even more fastening tab pairs can also be provided, if appropriate.

[0040] In addition to at least one pair of fastening tabs, for example, a single additional fastening tab (or multiple additional single fastening tabs) may also be provided.

[0041] The bending axes of the fastening tabs of the shared fastening tab pair are particularly preferably parallel to each other or at least substantially parallel to each other (wherein, in particular, angular deviations due to tolerances or angular deviations between 0° and 10° may be provided).

[0042] In one improvement of the invention, it can be provided that the fastening tabs of the shared fastening tab pair can be bent toward each other (at their free ends) from their respective basic states in order to obtain their respective fastening states.

[0043] The fastening tabs of a shared fastening tab pair can preferably be designed to engage in a "bracket-like" manner around a segment of the housing assembly between the two fastening tabs. This results in a particularly stable and secure fastening.

[0044] However, it is also possible to provide that the fastening tabs of a shared fastening tab pair can start from their respective basic states, (with their free ends) away from each other, or bend along any angle relative to each other (e.g., also orthogonal relative to each other) in order to obtain their respective fastening states.

[0045] In one improvement of the invention, the fastening tabs of the shared fastening tab pair are arranged at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor assembly.

[0046] Preferably, the fastening tabs of the shared fastening tab pair can therefore be arranged directly opposite each other. With such a “symmetrical” or directly opposite arrangement of fastening tabs, the fastening can be even more stable.

[0047] However, it is also possible to provide that the fastening tabs of the shared fastening tab pair are arranged to be axially offset relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor assembly, for example, if the fastening tabs are designed such that they can be bent toward each other, the fastening tabs extend adjacent to each other along the surface of the housing assembly in a bent fastening state, preferably extending directly adjacent to each other.

[0048] The fastening tabs may then be supported on each other to collectively dissipate the force applied to the plug connector, wherein, as previously mentioned, simple bending of the individual fastening tabs can be performed during the assembly process without the technician having to apply excessive force.

[0049] It can be provided that the housing assembly has at least one fastening edge, which is positioned in the housing assembly when the outer conductor assembly has been received, preferably fully received, such that at least one of the fastening tabs, in its fastened state, can be engaged in a form-locking manner behind the fastening edge to block the third translational degree of freedom.

[0050] In one improvement of the invention, the housing assembly may be provided with at least one first stop surface that, when the outer conductor assembly is located in the housing assembly and at least one fastening tab is positioned in its fastened state, prevents, in a form-locking manner, displacement of the outer conductor assembly opposite to the assembly movement along a third translational degree of freedom, the displacement being oriented opposite to the assembly movement.

[0051] It should be noted that, in the context of this invention, alternatives to the (first or second, further mentioned below) stop surface may be provided, such as other (first and / or second) stop elements. For example, the first stop element may be formed by one or more pins, each having a circular cross-section, with at least one fastening tab abutting against the pins in a form-locking manner in its fastened state.

[0052] The housing assembly can have virtually any desired number of first stop surfaces and / or fastening edges, and in particular, it can have exactly a single first stop surface or fastening edge. However, it is also possible, for example, to provide two or more first stop surfaces / fastening edges, three or more first stop surfaces / fastening edges, four or more first stop surfaces / fastening edges, five or more first stop surfaces / fastening edges, or six or even more first stop surfaces / fastening edges.

[0053] The number of first stop surfaces and / or fastening edges may correspond to the number of fastening tabs, wherein each first stop surface / fastening edge may be assigned to a corresponding fastening tab. However, the number of first stop surfaces / fastening edges is preferably less than the number of fastening tabs, wherein at least two fastening tabs, preferably sharing two fastening tabs in a fastening tab pair, are capable of subsequently engaging a shared first stop surface and / or fastening edge in their respective cases.

[0054] It can be improved that the fastening edges of the housing assembly are formed on the fastening recesses and / or the fastening webs. Recesses can also be provided in the housing assembly to form the fastening edges.

[0055] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, at least one first stop surface of the housing assembly may be formed on the sidewall of the fastening recess, on the sidewall of the fastening web, and / or formed by a step within the recess.

[0056] The fastening edge or first stop surface, particularly the fastening edge or first stop surface formed by the fastening web, can preferably be arranged to abut one end of the two ends of the housing assembly along the longitudinal axis. However, the fastening edge / first stop surface can also be arranged in the central section of the housing assembly. A particularly stable fastening can be provided if fastening is achieved in the region of at least one of the two ends of the housing assembly.

[0057] In one improvement of the invention, the housing assembly may be provided with at least one second stop surface, which forms an end stop for inserting the outer conductor assembly into the housing assembly along the assembly movement. For example, the second stop surface may prevent further insertion of the outer conductor assembly by blocking at least one fastening tab or other part or segment of the outer conductor assembly from shifting along the assembly movement.

[0058] For example, the second stop surface can be formed directly from one of the sidewalls of the housing assembly, preferably from a sidewall of the housing assembly in which a slit for inserting the outer conductor assembly is formed.

[0059] In one improvement of the invention, the housing assembly may be provided with at least one bevel, and at least one of the fastening tabs may be bent along the bevel from a basic state to a fastened state.

[0060] The bending of the fastening tabs can be performed along the ramp in a particularly defined and gentle manner.

[0061] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, a specified insertion direction can be provided, along which the electrical plug connector can be connected to a corresponding mating plug connector, wherein the specified insertion direction is parallel to the third translational degree of freedom orientation.

[0062] Since the mechanical load on the plug connector is typically introduced into the plug connector from the corresponding mating plug connector along the insertion direction or in the opposite direction to the insertion direction, a particularly robust plug connector can be provided by the proposed fastening technique, especially if the fastening tabs can primarily accommodate forces along the assembly movement or along the third translational degree of freedom and simultaneously along the insertion direction.

[0063] Furthermore, the assembly of plug connectors along the subsequent insertion direction is usually particularly easy.

[0064] However, it is also possible that the electrical plug connector can be orthogonally oriented along the specified insertion direction of the corresponding mating plug connector, or oriented along some other angle relative to the third translational degree of freedom. Therefore, the assembly movement may also deviate from the insertion direction.

[0065] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the housing assembly may be provided with a mechanical interface for connecting the electrical plug connector to a corresponding mating plug connector. Preferably, the housing assembly has a mechanical interface for connecting the electrical plug connector at a first (front) end along its longitudinal axis to the corresponding mating plug connector.

[0066] Mechanical interfaces may have means for mechanical coding, particularly means for ensuring the correct orientation of the plug connector and mating plug connector and / or for ensuring that only permissible mating plug connectors can be connected to the plug connector.

[0067] The mechanical interface may have a stop device for preventing engagement between the plug connector and the mating plug connector.

[0068] Mechanical interfaces may have one or more seals.

[0069] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, it can be provided that the outer conductor assembly has an end section protruding from the second (rear) end of the housing assembly positioned relative to the mechanical interface, the end section extending beyond the housing assembly.

[0070] Because the outer conductor assembly extends beyond the housing assembly at the second end of the housing assembly, it is possible to make mechanical and / or electrical connections to electrical components (e.g., to cables or circuit boards) in a particularly simple manner.

[0071] Preferably, at least one (preferably all) of the fastening tabs is formed in an end section extending beyond the housing assembly.

[0072] The arrangement of the fastening tabs in the end section extending beyond the housing assembly can be advantageous, as it promotes accessibility to the fastening tabs during the assembly process. Furthermore, it can further enhance the mechanical stability of the fasteners.

[0073] In one improvement of the invention, the outer conductor assembly may be provided with a connecting element for an electrical contact of at least one electrical conductor of an electrical assembly.

[0074] The outer conductor assembly and the connecting element can preferably be formed as a single piece. However, it is also possible to provide the outer conductor assembly and the connecting element in a multi-piece form.

[0075] Any desired number of connecting elements can be provided for electrical contact with the electrical components, and essentially only a single connecting element can be provided. However, it is preferred to provide multiple connecting elements to ensure a particularly low-resistance electrical connection between the electrical components and the outer conductor components.

[0076] In one improvement of the invention, the connecting element may be formed as a contact pin, preferably a press-in pin, for mounting in a metal-plated hole in an electrical component (particularly a so-called electroplated through-hole or a "via" in a circuit board).

[0077] Connections using contact pins (especially press-fit pins) have proven particularly suitable for connecting plug connectors to electrical components, especially to circuit boards. However, other connecting elements can also be provided, especially if the plug connector is to be connected to the electrical conductor of a cable. In this case, connecting elements can be provided, for example, that are adapted to be pressed or crimped together with the conductor of the cable, or cold-soldered to the conductor of the cable.

[0078] In an advantageous improvement of the invention, the outer conductor assembly may be formed from stamped and bent parts.

[0079] Producing the outer conductor assembly as a single piece made of a metal plate is particularly suitable for mass production, and especially for the formation of fastening tabs.

[0080] The housing assembly may be designed to accommodate more than one outer conductor assembly, such as two or more outer conductor assemblies, three or more outer conductor assemblies, four or even more outer conductor assemblies. Alternatively or additionally, at least one outer conductor assembly may be provided to shield multiple inner conductor contact elements separately from each other.

[0081] Electrical plug connectors are preferably in the form of angled plug connectors. However, electrical plug connectors can also be in the form of non-angled plug connectors.

[0082] The electrical plug connector is preferably in the form of a circuit board plug connector (plug or socket) or a cable plug connector (plug or coupler).

[0083] Electrical plug connectors can be specifically designed to provide modular plug connector systems, such as H-MTD plug connectors. However, electrical plug connectors are not limited to specific plug connector types, in which the present invention is particularly suitable for plug connectors for high-frequency technologies. In particular, it can also be a plug connector of type PL, BNC, TNC, SMBA (FAKRA), SMA, SMB, SMS, SMC, SMP, BMS, HFM (FAKRA-Mini), BMK, Mini-Coax, or MATE-AX.

[0084] The plug connector according to the invention is particularly advantageous for use in vehicles, especially motor vehicles. Here, the term "vehicle" describes any mode of transport, particularly vehicles used on land, water, or in the air, and also includes spacecraft. Possible areas of use include autonomous driving, driver assistance systems, navigation systems, infotainment systems, rear-seat entertainment systems, internet connectivity, and wireless gigabit (IEEE 802.11ad standard). Possible applications involve high-resolution cameras (e.g., 4K and 8K cameras), sensor arrangements, in-vehicle computers, high-resolution screens, high-resolution dashboards, 3D navigation units, and mobile radio units.

[0085] The plug connector according to the invention is applicable to any application in the entire field of electrical engineering and should not be construed as being limited to use in automotive engineering.

[0086] The present invention also relates to a method for assembling an electrical plug connector, wherein the electrically insulating housing assembly of the plug connector is connected to the outer conductor assembly of the plug connector in a form-locking manner. Provided that, for this form-locking connection, at least one fastening tab is bent from a basic state to a fastened state.

[0087] According to the invention, an outer conductor assembly is received by a housing assembly such that the housing assembly, in a form-locking manner, prevents relative movement between the outer conductor assembly and the housing assembly along a first translational degree of freedom and / or along a second translational degree of freedom. With at least one fastening tab in its basic state, the outer conductor assembly can be inserted into the housing assembly by means of an assembly movement extending along a third translational degree of freedom. After the outer conductor assembly has reached its end state within the housing assembly, at least one fastening tab bends to its fastened state so as to form-lock the housing assembly against the outer conductor assembly, at least along the third translational degree of freedom.

[0088] Therefore, it may be advantageous to provide that the insulating housing assembly is securely held on the outer conductor assembly. For this purpose, the housing assembly can preferably be first pushed axially along the insertion direction of the respective mating plug connector in the outer conductor assembly (or vice versa). An assembly movement orthogonal to the insertion direction can also be provided. Subsequently, at least one strip segment or at least one flexible fastening tab, which is arranged at one axial end of the outer conductor assembly so as to extend orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor assembly, can preferably be bent. Here, at least one fastening tab, in the bent and tightened state, can be form-locked into a hook-shaped, for example L-shaped, elongation at the same axial end of the housing assembly, forming a form-locked connection.

[0089] If the outer conductor assembly is further received by the housing assembly, the housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly are particularly securely fixed by means of the form-locking of at least one flexible fastening tab.

[0090] The features already described in conjunction with the electrical plug connector according to the invention can of course also be advantageously applied to the method according to the invention, and vice versa. Furthermore, the advantages already mentioned regarding the plug connector according to the invention can be understood in relation to the method according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0091] Furthermore, it should be noted that expressions such as “comprising,” “having,” or “with” do not exclude any other features or steps. Additionally, expressions referring to steps or features in the singular, such as “a” or “the,” do not exclude multiple features or steps, and vice versa.

[0092] However, in embodiments of the invention that employ concise terminology, it may also be provided that the features introduced by the expressions "comprising," "having," or "with" constitute an exhaustive list. Therefore, in the context of the invention, one or more lists of features may be considered, for example, separately for each claim in a self-contained form. The invention may, for example, consist only of the features specified in claim 1.

[0093] Note that terms such as “first” or “second” are primarily used for the purpose of distinguishing features between various apparatus or method features, and are not necessarily intended to indicate that features are interdependent or related to each other.

[0094] Furthermore, it is emphasized that the values ​​and parameters described in this case also include deviations and fluctuations of ±10% or less, preferably ±5% or less, more preferably ±1% or less, and very particularly preferably ±0.1% or less, of the respective stated values ​​and parameters, if such deviations are not excluded in practice in the implementation of the invention. Specifying a range by way of starting and ending values ​​also includes all values ​​and fractions contained in the ranges stated respectively, in particular the starting and ending values ​​and their respective average values.

[0095] The present invention also relates to an electrical plug connector independent of claim 1, the electrical plug connector having an electrically insulating housing assembly and an outer conductor assembly, the outer conductor assembly being connected to the housing assembly in a form-locking manner, wherein the outer conductor assembly has at least one fastening tab, the at least one fastening tab being bendable from a basic state to a fastened state, wherein the fastening tab is bendable from the basic state to the fastened state along a bending axis parallel to or at least substantially parallel to the assembly movement of the housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly together. Further features of claim 1 and the dependent claims, as well as the features described herein, relate to advantageous embodiments and variations of this plug connector. Attached Figure Description

[0096] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0097] These figures each illustrate a preferred exemplary embodiment, in which individual features of the invention are shown in combination with each other. A feature of one exemplary embodiment may also be implemented separately from other features of the same exemplary embodiment, and thus can be readily combined by an expert to form further useful combinations and sub-combinations having features of other exemplary embodiments.

[0098] Components with the same function are represented by the same reference numerals in the figure.

[0099] In the diagram, the following is illustrated schematically in each case:

[0100] Figure 1A perspective view shows an electrical plug connector with an electrically insulating housing assembly and an outer conductor assembly in a partially assembled state, wherein two fastening tabs are in their respective basic states.

[0101] Figure 2 The fully assembled state is shown. Figure 1 The electrical plug connector, wherein the fastening tab is in a corresponding bent fastening state;

[0102] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A perspective view of the outer conductor assembly itself;

[0103] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 Rear view of an electrical plug connector, which has a partially bent fastening tab;

[0104] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A magnified perspective detail of the electrical plug connector, used to show the first stop surface of the housing assembly before the outer conductor assembly is inserted into the housing assembly;

[0105] Figure 6 This shows the process after the outer conductor assembly is inserted into the housing assembly and before the fastening tab is bent. Figure 5 The details shown in the article;

[0106] Figure 7 It shows Figure 6 The image shows details after the fastening tabs have bent.

[0107] Figure 8 An enlarged perspective detail of the first stop surface of the electrical plug connector according to the second exemplary embodiment is shown after the fastening tab has been bent, showing a specific fastening tab.

[0108] Figure 9 The image shows an enlarged perspective detail of the first stop surface of an electrical plug connector according to a third exemplary embodiment after the fastening tabs have bent, wherein the electrical plug connector has two fastening tabs offset along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor assembly; and

[0109] Figure 10 An electrical plug connector with fastening tabs in a fully assembled state according to a fourth exemplary embodiment is shown, the bending axis of the fastening tabs being orthogonally oriented relative to the assembly movement. Detailed Implementation

[0110] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An electrical plug connector 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown in the perspective view. Figure 1An electrical plug connector 1 in a partially assembled state is shown, and Figure 2 The electrical plug connector is shown in a fully assembled state, and in each case, a view of the rear end of the plug connector 1 is shown, which avoids the corresponding mating plug connector (not shown).

[0111] The electrical plug connector 1 has an electrically insulating housing assembly 2 (preferably a one-piece housing assembly 2 made of plastic) and an outer conductor assembly 3 that is connected to the housing assembly 2 in a form-locking manner. Figure 3 The outer conductor assembly 3 is shown separately.

[0112] The outer conductor assembly 3 is received within the housing assembly 2. The housing assembly 2 is thus form-locked along the first translational degree of freedom x and the second translational degree of freedom y (see [link to housing assembly 2]). Figure 1 It blocks the relative movement between the outer conductor assembly 3 and the housing assembly 2.

[0113] In the exemplary embodiment, the electrical plug connector 1 is designed as an example of an angled circuit board plug connector of the H-MTD type, but it can have virtually any other design.

[0114] In addition to the housing assembly 2 and the outer conductor assembly 3, the electrical plug connector 1 may also have additional plug connector components, specifically, one or more inner conductor contact elements (not shown) and possible insulating portions (also not shown) that insulate the inner conductor contact elements from each other and from the outer conductor assembly 3.

[0115] The housing assembly 2 may have a mechanical interface at its first end 4 along the longitudinal axis L for connecting the electrical plug connector 1 to a corresponding mating plug connector. This mechanical interface may specifically have means for mechanical coding and / or for stop engagement with the mating plug connector.

[0116] The outer conductor assembly 3, while housed within the housing assembly 2, may have an end segment 6 protruding beyond the housing assembly 2 at a second end 5 at the rear of the housing assembly 2. The second end 5 is positioned opposite a mechanical interface or a first end 4 of the housing assembly 2. At the end segment 6, a connecting element 7 may preferably be provided for electrical contact with at least one electrical conductor of an electrical component or circuit board (not shown). In exemplary embodiments, the connecting element is designed as a contact pin, particularly a press-fit pin 7, in various configurations, and for assembly purposes, may be received in metal-plated holes in electrical components, particularly plated through-holes in circuit boards.

[0117] The outer conductor assembly 3 can preferably be formed from a stamped and bent component.

[0118] exist Figures 1 to 7 and Figure 9 In an exemplary embodiment, the outer conductor assembly 3 has two flexible fastening tabs 8. Essentially any number of fastening tabs 8 can be provided, for example, a single fastening tab 8 can also be provided (see [link to example]). Figure 8 and Figure 10 (Exemplary embodiment). However, it has been shown that using at least two fastening tabs 8 is particularly advantageous for providing a robust fastening.

[0119] In its basic state, the fastening tab 8 initially allows for assembly motion M, which is used to move the housing assembly 2 along the third translational degree of freedom z (see details). Figure 1 The outer conductor assembly 3 is assembled onto the outer conductor assembly 3. As long as at least one fastening tab 8 remains in its basic state, the outer conductor assembly 3 can thus be inserted into the housing assembly 2 along the third translational degree of freedom z. In contrast, in a bent, fastened state, the at least one fastening tab 8, at least along the third translational degree of freedom z, forms a locking mechanism that prevents the housing assembly 2 from contacting the outer conductor assembly 3, as in… Figure 2 and Figure 7 As illustrated by example. Preferably, in the fastened state where at least one fastening tab 8 is bent, at least one fastening tab 8 blocks relative movement between the outer conductor assembly 3 and the housing assembly 2 along all three translational degrees of freedom x, y, z.

[0120] The fastening tab 8 can be bent from its basic state to its fastened state along the corresponding bending axis B. If the corresponding bending axis B extends parallel to or at least substantially parallel to the third translational degree of freedom z, it can provide a very particularly stable or robust fastening capability, such as... Figures 1 to 9 All exemplary embodiments are shown. Alternatively, however, it can be configured such that the bending axis B extends along an angle (specifically orthogonal) relative to the third translational degree of freedom z, as will be based on the following. Figure 10 The exemplary embodiments are described in more detail.

[0121] exist Figures 1 to 7 and Figure 9 In an exemplary embodiment, the outer conductor assembly 3 has at least one fastening tab pair 9 (see...) Figure 3 The fastening tab pair 9 is formed by two fastening tabs 8, which are arranged on opposite sides of the outer conductor assembly 3. The fastening tabs 8 of the shared fastening tab pair 9 can be bent at their free ends toward each other from their corresponding basic state to obtain their corresponding fastened state (see, for example, see...). Figure 4 (The intermediate state shown).

[0122] The housing assembly 2 has at least one first stop surface 10 (exactly one first stop surface 10 in the exemplary embodiment). When the outer conductor assembly 3 is located in the housing assembly 2 and the fastening tab 8 is in its fastened state, the first stop surface 10 prevents the outer conductor assembly 3 from shifting in a direction opposite to the assembly direction. This type of connection is also known under the terms "undercut" or "interlocking". Figures 1 to 9 In an exemplary embodiment, the first stop surface 10 of the housing assembly 2 is formed on the fastening web 11 (see details). Figure 5 The first stop surface 10 is formed on the sidewall of the mating plug connector. However, the first stop surface 10 may also be formed on the sidewall of the fastening recess, within or behind the recess, or as some other surface. Figure 10 In this case, the first stop surface 10 is formed, for example, by a step within the recess 13.

[0123] To simplify the assembly process and to provide a particularly stable fastening, the fastening tab 8 is arranged in the end section 6 of the outer conductor assembly 3 extending out of the housing assembly 2 in the exemplary embodiment.

[0124] Figures 5 to 7 A method for assembling an electrical plug connector 1 in multiple assembly steps is shown. During the assembly process, the housing assembly 2 of the plug connector 1 can be connected to the outer conductor assembly 3 of the plug connector 1 in a form-locking manner. For this purpose, the outer conductor assembly 3 can be inserted into the housing assembly 2 by means of an assembly movement M extending along the third translational degree of freedom z, such as from... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The comparison shows that, subsequently, at least one fastening tab 8 can be bent from its basic state to its fastened state, as specifically from... Figure 6 and Figure 7 This can be seen in the comparison.

[0125] For the end stop of this assembly movement, the housing assembly 2 may be provided with at least one second stop surface 10'. In an exemplary embodiment, the second stop surface 10' is provided in a sidewall of the housing assembly 2, in which a slit for the outer conductor assembly 3 is formed. Figures 1 to 9 In an exemplary embodiment, the second stop surface 10' blocks the outer conductor assembly 3 via its fastening tab 8. In contrast, in... Figure 10 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second stop surface 10' directly blocks the outer conductor assembly 3 through the outer surface of the outer conductor assembly 3 facing the second stop surface 10'.

[0126] To facilitate bending, the housing assembly 2 may have at least one bevel 12, along which at least one of the fastening tabs 8 bends from the basic state to the fastened state (see details). Figure 5 ).

[0127] As mentioned above, it is essentially possible to provide any number of fastening tabs 8, or even just a single fastening tab 8, as in... Figure 8 As indicated by the example. Specifically, fastening tabs 8 for securing housing assembly 2 and outer conductor assembly 3 may also be provided in the region of the front first end 4 of housing assembly 2 and / or in the central section of housing assembly 2.

[0128] Preferably, the fastening tabs 8 of the shared fastening tab pair 9 are arranged at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis L of the outer conductor assembly 3, such as... Figures 1 to 7 As shown in the exemplary embodiment. However, it is also possible to provide axial offset between the fastening tabs 8, for example in Figure 9 The offset indicated in the middle. Therefore, it can be provided that the fastening tabs 8 of the shared fastening tab pair 9 are axially supported against each other, which can strengthen the fastening without significantly increasing the force that the technician must expend to tighten the tabs 8.

[0129] exist Figures 1 to 9 In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical plug connector 1 is designed such that a specified insertion direction S (refer to...) Figure 1 Parallel to the third translational degree of freedom z-orientation, the electrical plug connector 1 can be connected to the corresponding mating plug connector along the insertion direction S. In this way, a particularly robust electrical plug connector 1 can be provided.

[0130] However, it is also possible to provide that the assembly motion M deviates from the insertion direction S, such as... Figure 10 As shown. The outer conductor assembly 3 can then be inserted into the housing assembly 2, for example, orthogonally relative to the insertion direction S. At least one fastening tab 8 (in Figure 10 The example only shows a single fastening tab 8 that can then be bent into its fastened state. For this purpose, the fastening tab 8 can, for example, be guided through a recess 13 in the housing assembly 2 and then bent toward the fastening edge of a step formed in the recess 13 so as to form the aforementioned form-locking with the stop surface 10 formed by the step.

[0131] exist Figure 10 The example also shows a fastening tab 8 with a curved axis B, which is orthogonally oriented relative to the assembly movement M.

[0132] Figure 10 The electrical plug connector 1 shown may preferably have additional fastening devices, particularly fastening tabs 8, in the area of ​​the front, first end 4 and / or center section of the housing assembly 2.

Claims

1. An electrical plug connector (1), the electrical plug connector having an electrically insulating housing assembly (2) and an outer conductor assembly (3) connected to the housing assembly (2) in a form-locking manner, wherein, The outer conductor assembly (3) has at least one fastening tab (8) that is flexible from a basic state to a fastened state. Its features are, The outer conductor assembly (3) is received in the housing assembly (2) such that the housing assembly (2) forms a locking relative movement between the outer conductor assembly (3) and the housing assembly (2) along a first translational degree of freedom (x) and / or along a second translational degree of freedom (y), wherein the fastening tab (8) in the basic state allows assembly movement for assembling the housing assembly (2) onto the outer conductor assembly (3) along a third translational degree of freedom (z), and in the bent fastening state, the fastening tab (8) forms a locking at least along the third translational degree of freedom (z) onto the outer conductor assembly (3); The outer conductor assembly is inserted into the housing assembly in at least some areas and is surrounded by the housing assembly at at least two opposite sides.

2. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1. Its features are, The fastening tab (8) is capable of bending from the basic state to the fastened state along the bending axis (B), which extends parallel to or at least substantially parallel to the third translational degree of freedom (z).

3. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features The outer conductor assembly (3) has at least one fastening tab pair (9), which is formed by two fastening tabs (8) arranged on opposite sides of the outer conductor assembly (3).

4. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 3. Its features are, The fastening tabs (8) of the shared fastening tab pair (9) are able to bend toward each other from their respective basic states in order to obtain their respective fastening states.

5. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 3. Its features are, The fastening tabs (8) of the shared fastening tab pair (9) are arranged at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis (L) of the outer conductor assembly (3).

6. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The housing assembly (2) has at least one first stop surface (10) that, when the outer conductor assembly (3) is located in the housing assembly (2) and the at least one fastening tab (8) is in its fastened state, the at least one first stop surface (10) blocks the displacement of the outer conductor assembly (3) opposite to the assembly movement along the third translational degree of freedom (z) in a form-locking manner, the displacement being oriented opposite to the assembly movement.

7. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 6. Its features are, The at least one first stop surface (10) of the housing assembly (2) is formed on the sidewall of the fastening groove, on the sidewall of the fastening web (11), and / or formed by a step in the recess.

8. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The housing assembly (2) has at least one second stop surface (10') for the at least one fastening tab (8), the at least one second stop surface (10') forming an end stop for inserting the outer conductor assembly (3) into the housing assembly (2) along the assembly movement.

9. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The housing assembly (2) has at least one inclined surface (12), and at least one of the fastening tabs (8) is capable of bending along the at least one inclined surface (12) from the basic state to the fastened state.

10. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The specified insertion direction (S) is oriented parallel to the third translational degree of freedom (z), and the electrical plug connector (1) can be connected to the corresponding mating plug connector along the specified insertion direction (S).

11. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The housing assembly (2) has a mechanical interface for connecting the electrical plug connector (1) to a corresponding mating plug connector.

12. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 11. Its features are, The outer conductor assembly (3) has an end section (6) protruding from the end (5) of the housing assembly (2) relative to the mechanical interface, the end section extending beyond the housing assembly (2), wherein at least one of the fastening tabs (8) is formed in the end section (6) extending beyond the housing assembly (2).

13. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The outer conductor assembly (3) has contact pins for mounting in the metal-plated holes of the electrical components.

14. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The outer conductor assembly (3) is formed from stamped and bent parts.

15. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 12. Its features are, All of the fastening tabs (8) are formed in the end section (6) extending beyond the housing assembly (2).

16. The electrical plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The outer conductor assembly (3) has a press-fit pin (7) for mounting in a hole in the metal plated electrical component.

17. A method for assembling an electrical plug connector (1), wherein an electrically insulating housing assembly (2) of the plug connector (1) is connected in a form-locking manner to an outer conductor assembly (3) of the plug connector (1), wherein, For the form-locking connection, at least one fastening tab (8) bends from the basic state to the fastened state. Its features are, The outer conductor assembly (3) is received by the housing assembly (2) such that the housing assembly (2) forms a locking relationship between the outer conductor assembly (3) and the housing assembly (2) along a first translational degree of freedom (x) and / or along a second translational degree of freedom (y), wherein, when the at least one fastening tab (8) is in its basic state, the outer conductor assembly (3) is inserted into the housing assembly (2) by means of an assembly movement (M) extending along a third translational degree of freedom (z), and wherein, after the outer conductor assembly (3) has reached an end state in the housing assembly (2), the at least one fastening tab (8) is bent to its fastened state so as to form a locking relationship between the housing assembly (2) and the outer conductor assembly (3) at least along the third translational degree of freedom (z).

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