Connector assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a connector assembly. The connector assembly includes at least one elongated inner signal contact having a first connection portion, wherein the first connection portion includes a tubular main section and a funnel-shaped end section, and an insulating element, wherein the insulating element defines at least one elongated cavity designed to accommodate the elongated inner signal contact, wherein a maximum outer cross-sectional dimension of the funnel-shaped end section is greater than a minimum cross-sectional dimension of the elongated cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to connector assemblies, preferably for multi-GHz applications. Specifically, this disclosure relates to H-MTDs. ® (High Speed ​​Modular Twisted-Pair-Data) connector assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Rosenberger Hochfrequenztechnik GmbH & Co. KG established what is known as H-MTD. ® System. H-MTD ® The system's applications include 4K camera systems, autonomous driving, radar, lidar, high-resolution displays, and rear-seat entertainment. The system's connectors are designed to allow data transmission speeds up to 15 GHz or 20 Gbps while maintaining a small package size.

[0003] In such high-speed applications, every tenth of a millimeter of interconnect channels and signal connectors must be within a certain data transmission (differential) impedance bandwidth (typically 100 ± 5 Ω) and must be matched to the preceding and following sections. To this end, within each section, the internal contacts or signal contacts and the metal portions of the external contacts or shields, the insulating material of the insulating elements, and any air gaps need to be balanced in size and position with each other. However, these components also need to meet other non-signal integrity requirements, particularly mechanical requirements. For example, it is necessary to ensure that the male signal contact is always correctly guided into the corresponding female signal contact. Optimal electrical and mechanical connections between the male and female signal contacts are crucial for achieving high-speed data transmission.

[0004] Therefore, H-MTD needs to be provided. ® This type of connector assembly enables a more precise connection between male and female signal contacts.

[0005] The connector assembly according to this application meets this requirement. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides connector assemblies. Embodiments can be obtained from the specification and accompanying drawings.

[0007] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a connector assembly comprising: at least one elongated internal signal contact having a first connection portion, wherein the first connection portion includes a tubular main section and a funnel-shaped end section; and an insulating element defining at least one elongated cavity designed to receive the elongated internal signal contact, wherein the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension of the funnel-shaped end section is greater than the minimum cross-sectional dimension of the elongated cavity.

[0008] The connector assembly can be configured for high-speed data transmission. Specifically, the connector assembly can be an H-MTD for automotive applications. ® type.

[0009] The connector assembly described in this article is a female connector assembly, meaning that the internal signal contacts are female signal contacts. The internal signal contacts have a funnel-shaped end section that allows the insertion of pins, i.e., allows the insertion of male signal contact pins.

[0010] The internal signal contact is embedded in an insulating element, which can form a single-piece or multi-piece housing, particularly a double-piece housing. More specifically, the insulating element can define a cavity having a first cavity portion and a second cavity portion, the first cavity portion receiving a tubular main section of the internal signal contact, and the second cavity portion receiving a funnel-shaped end section of the internal signal contact. The cross-sectional dimensions of the first cavity portion, also known as the minimum cross-sectional dimensions of the cavity, can be substantially equal to the outer cross-sectional dimensions of the tubular main section, i.e., the tubular main section can be embedded in the first cavity portion, with an edge gap between the tubular main section and the insulating material defining the first cavity portion.

[0011] Because the internal signal contacts extend or open in a direction away from the tubular main section to form a funnel-shaped end section, the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension of the funnel-shaped end section is larger than that of the tubular main section. Therefore, the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension of the funnel-shaped end section is also larger than the cross-sectional dimension of the first cavity portion, i.e., the minimum cross-sectional dimension of the cavity, making it generally impossible for the internal signal contacts to be pushed along the length of the cavity.

[0012] It should be understood that in order to accommodate the funnel-shaped end section of the internal signal contact, the cross-sectional dimensions of the second cavity portion, also known as the maximum cross-sectional dimensions of the cavity, need to correspond at least to the maximum outer cross-sectional dimensions of the funnel-shaped end section, and are also greater than the minimum cross-sectional dimensions of the cavity.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the funnel-shaped end section may include a first end section component and a second end section component, wherein the first end section component and the second end section component are separated by two air gaps. The air gaps may be arranged diagonally, i.e., the two air gaps are arranged opposite each other. The first and second end sections of the funnel-shaped end section allow the funnel-shaped end section to unfold, thereby facilitating the insertion of the male signal pin. According to another embodiment, the funnel-shaped end section may be a machined end section or a stamped, rolled, or bent end section, wherein the first end section component and the second end section component are separated only by a small slit.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the insulating element may include at least one front opening configured to receive the funnel-shaped end section, and two bevels extending into an air gap such that the first end section member, the second end section member, and the two bevels define an inlet. In other words, the bevels may project radially into the front opening. The two bevels may be arranged diagonally opposite each other.

[0015] The front opening of the insulating element can be configured to receive a male signal contact, and the inlet is used to guide the male signal contact into the female internal signal contact of the connector assembly. The inlet can provide an introduction cone of at least approximately 360° to guide the male signal contact into the tubular main section of the female internal signal contact. Therefore, incorrect connection of the signal contacts, which could occur by inserting the male signal contact through the internal signal contact, can be prevented. Furthermore, damage to at least one of the male signal contact, the internal signal contact, and the insulating element can be avoided.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the funnel-shaped end section includes a first end section component and a second end section component, wherein the first end section component and the second end section component are separated by two air gaps, and wherein the insulating element includes at least one rib that engages one of the air gaps and thereby widens the funnel-shaped end section. By widening the funnel-shaped end section, the size of the inlet can be maximized. The two air gaps can be arranged diagonally opposite each other.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the insulating element and at least one elongated internal signal contact may each include at least one protrusion and at least one recess, wherein the protrusion and the recess are configured to cooperate to at least reduce or even prevent rotational and / or axial movement of the at least one elongated internal signal contact relative to the insulating element. The at least one protrusion may be a blocking element providing a forward stop and / or a rearward stop to the at least one elongated internal signal contact in the insulating element. Therefore, precise rotational control and movement limitation of the internal signal contact, as well as precise rigid rearward and forward stops of the internal signal contact, can be achieved.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the insulating element may include a control element, and at least one elongated internal signal contact may include an aperture that receives the control element when the connector assembly is correctly assembled. During assembly, the control element may be visible in the aperture of the at least one elongated internal signal contact when it reaches its correct end position. Therefore, the correct assembly of the at least one elongated internal signal contact within the insulating element can be easily visually confirmed.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the insulating element may include at least one clamping element configured to secure the wire to which the at least one elongated internal signal contact is connected.

[0020] According to one embodiment, at least one elongated internal signal contact may include a terminating element configured to receive a wire, and the insulating element may include at least one retaining element configured to secure the terminating element and / or the wire within the insulating element. The terminating element may include a pair of crimping wings or any other suitable terminating unit.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the insulating element may include a first insulating component and a second insulating component, wherein the first insulating component and the second insulating component together surround at least one internal signal contact. The terms "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish the two insulating elements. There are no limitations on the features of the first insulating component or the second insulating component; that is, all features of the first insulating component may also be features of the second insulating component.

[0022] According to an embodiment, one of the first insulating member and the second insulating member is configured to be radially mounted relative to at least one elongated internal signal contact, and the corresponding other of the first insulating member and the second insulating member is configured to slide axially onto at least one elongated internal signal contact.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the at least one elongated internal signal contact can be clamped in a first insulating component or a second insulating component.

[0024] According to an embodiment, the first insulating component or the second insulating component may include a press-fit element configured to secure the first insulating component to the second insulating component.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the first insulating member or the second insulating member may include at least one locking element configured to snap the first insulating member and the second insulating member together and thereby secure the first insulating member to the second insulating member. The locking element may provide a passive lock and / or an active lock.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the first insulating member or the second insulating member may include a pin, and the respective other of the first insulating member and the second insulating member includes a slot, wherein the slot is configured to receive the pin, and the pin is deformed and secured in the slot, thereby securing the first insulating member to the second insulating member.

[0027] According to an embodiment, the first insulating member or the second insulating member may include a groove, and the corresponding other of the first insulating member and the second insulating member may include a tongue received in the groove.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the first insulating member or the second insulating member may include a locking cavity, and the corresponding other of the first insulating member and the second insulating member may include a locking protrusion received in the locking cavity. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Exemplary implementations and functions of this disclosure are described herein in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0030] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of the connector; Figure 2A This is a perspective view of a connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Exploded view of the connector assembly; Figure 3A This is a perspective view of an internal signal contact according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3B This is a perspective view of an internal signal contact according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3C This is a perspective view of an internal signal contact according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4A This is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly in a partially assembled state; Figure 4B This is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly in a fully assembled state; Figure 5A This is a perspective view of the funnel-shaped end section of the internal signal contact; Figure 5B It is a cross-sectional view of the funnel-shaped end section; Figure 6A This is a perspective view of the front opening of the insulating element; Figure 6B It is a front view of the front opening with internal signal contacts; Figure 6C This is a front view of the inlet opening defined by the internal signal contacts; Figure 7AIt is a perspective view of a portion of an insulating element having internal signal contacts in a partially assembled state; Figure 7B It is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an insulating element having internal signal contacts in a partially assembled state; Figure 7C It is a perspective view of a portion of an insulating element having internal signal contacts in a fully assembled state; Figure 7D It is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an insulating element having internal signal contacts in a fully assembled state; Figure 8A This is a top cross-sectional view of the connector assembly; Figure 8B yes Figure 8A A cross-sectional side view of the connector assembly; Figure 8C This is a top cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to another embodiment; Figure 8D yes Figure 8C A cross-sectional side view of the connector assembly; Figure 8E This is a top cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to another embodiment; Figure 8F yes Figure 8E A cross-sectional side view of the connector assembly; Figure 9A It is a perspective view of a portion of an insulating element with internal signal contacts; Figure 9B It is a perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of an insulating element with internal signal contacts; Figure 9C It is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of an insulating element with internal signal contacts; Figure 10A This is a perspective view of a portion of an insulating element according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 10B It is a top view of a cross-section of a portion of an insulating element containing a conductor; Figure 11A This is a perspective view as part of another embodiment of an insulating element with internal signal contacts; Figure 11B This is a perspective view as part of another embodiment of the insulating element; Figure 12A This is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a first insulating component having an internal signal contact in a partially assembled state; Figure 12B This is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a first insulating component having an internal signal contact in a fully assembled state; Figure 12C This is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a second insulating component having an internal signal contact in its final position but not yet in a fully assembled state; Figure 12D This is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment having a first insulating component with internal signal contacts in a fully assembled state; Figure 13A This is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a first insulating component having two press-fit elements; Figure 13B This is a top view of the cross-section of the first insulating component; Figure 13C This is a cross-sectional view of the press-fit element that engages the second insulating component in the press-fit element; Figure 14A This is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a first insulating component having two press-fit elements; Figure 14B This is a top view of the cross-section of the first insulating component; Figure 14C This is a cross-sectional view of the press-fit element that engages the second insulating component in the press-fit element; Figure 15A This is a perspective view of a first insulating member having a locking element according to the first embodiment; Figure 15B This is a top view of the cross-section of the first insulating component; Figure 15C This is a cross-sectional view of the locking element that engages with the second insulating component; Figure 16A This is a perspective view of a first insulating member having a locking element according to a second embodiment; Figure 16B This is a top view of the cross-section of the first insulating component; Figure 16C This is a cross-sectional view of the locking element that engages with the second insulating component; Figure 17A It is a perspective view of a first insulating component with a pin and a second insulating component with a slit, which are in a partially assembled state; Figure 17B This is a perspective view of the first and second insulating components in a fully assembled state; Figure 18A It is a perspective view of the first insulating component with two tongues; Figure 18B It is a cross-sectional view of the first insulating component and the second insulating component, showing a tongue in the tongue portion located in a corresponding groove of the second insulating component; Figure 18C This is a magnified view of the tongue in the groove; Figure 18DThis is a cross-sectional view of a first insulating member having a tongue and a second insulating member having a slit, according to an optional embodiment; Figure 18E This is a magnified view of the tongue in the groove; Figure 19A This is a perspective view of the first and second insulating components according to another embodiment; Figure 19B This is a cross-sectional view of the first insulating component and the second insulating component; Figure 20A This is a perspective view of the first insulating component and the second insulating component; Figure 20B It is a perspective cross-sectional view of the first insulating component and the second insulating component; Figure 20C This is a cross-sectional side view of the first insulating component and the second insulating component; Figure 21A This illustrates the first step of installing the first insulating component into the internal signal contact; Figure 21B This illustrates the second step of mounting the first insulating component to the internal signal contact; Figure 21C The steps for mounting a second insulating component to an assembly of a first insulating component and an internal signal contact are shown. Figure 22A The steps for mounting the second insulating component to the internal signal contact are shown; Figure 22B The steps for mounting a first insulating component to an assembly of a second insulating component and an internal signal contact are shown. Figure 23A The steps for inserting the internal signal contact into the first insulating component are shown; Figure 23B This illustrates the steps for attaching a wire to an internal signal contact; Figure 23C The steps are shown to attach a second insulating component to an assembly of a first insulating component and an internal signal contact. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Figure 1 An exploded view of connector 10, particularly the female connector, is shown, comprising two elongated internal signal contacts 12 arranged substantially parallel to each other along the axial direction 14 of connector 10. The signal contacts 12 have a first connecting portion 16 and a second connecting portion 18. The first connecting portion 16 is used to connect connector 10 to a mating connector, particularly a male connector, and the second connecting portion 18 is used to connect the signal contacts 12 to a corresponding conductor 21 of cable 22. Conductor 21 may be a wire harness. Furthermore, conductor 21 may be embedded in wire insulation 20. The second connecting portion 18 may include a terminating element 24, which includes, for example, two crimping wings (in... Figure 3A and Figure 3B (as shown in the diagram), or it may have a welded portion having a weld opening 26 (in the diagram). Figure 3C (As shown in the figure). The welding opening 26 can be used to connect the signal contact 12 to the corresponding conductor 21 of the cable 22 by laser welding or ultrasonic welding. Alternatively, resistance welding can be used to connect the signal contact 12 to the corresponding conductor 21 of the cable 22.

[0032] Internal signal contacts 12 are disposed within insulating element 28, which can form a dielectric housing. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the insulating element 28 comprises two spaced-apart insulating components, a first insulating component 28a and a second insulating component 28b, which together surround the internal signal contact 12. The first insulating component 28a and the second insulating component 28b can be attached to each other, for example, by a click-on connection, i.e., by a snap-fit ​​engagement. It should be understood that the first insulating component 28a and the second insulating component 28b can be attached to each other by other suitable connections, which will be described further below. Furthermore, it should be understood that the insulating element 28 can also be a one-piece insulating element 28 manufactured, for example, by injection molding, i.e., by secondary molding of the internal signal contact 12. In such an insulating element 28, undesirable air pockets can be minimized.

[0033] The first insulating member 28a performs the function of locking the signal contact 12 in the axial direction 14, such that when the connector 10 is connected to the mating connector, the internal signal contact 12 maintains its axial position. It should be understood that, additionally or alternatively, the second insulating member 28b may perform the function of locking the signal contact 12 in the axial direction 14.

[0034] The connector 10 also includes a first shielding member 31 and a second shielding member 33, both formed as half-shells, which together form an outer shielding contact 35. The outer shielding contact 35 surrounds the inner signal contact 12 and the insulating element 28 to provide shielding against interference signals. However, the outer shielding contact 35 can also serve as an electrical conductor for transmitting power. At the distal end 37 of the connector 10, the connector 10 includes a plurality of shielding contacts 39. At the proximal end 41 of the connector 10, the first shielding member 31 forms a cover 43. The second shielding member 33 forms a crimp portion 45 at the proximal end 41 of the connector 10 to mechanically and electrically connect the outer shielding contact 35 to the cable 22. Furthermore, the connector 10 includes an inner crimping collar 47 disposed around the cable 22.

[0035] The internal signal contact 12 and the insulating element 28 together form a connector assembly 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as... Figure 2A As shown. Figure 2B An exploded view of connector assembly 110 is shown.

[0036] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C A perspective view of internal signal contacts 12 according to various embodiments is shown. The internal signal contacts 12 extend generally parallel to each other. Each internal signal contact 12 has a first connection portion 16 for connecting the signal contact 12 to a mating signal contact and for connecting the signal contact 12 to a cable 22. Figure 1 The second connecting portion 18 of the corresponding conductor 21. The first connecting portion 16 has a tubular main section 29 defining a first central axis 98 and a funnel-shaped end section 30, wherein the tubular main section 29 may have a circular, particularly generally circular or elliptical, or polygonal cross-section. The second connecting portion 18 defines a second central axis 100, at which the central axis of the cable 22 is located. The distance A between the central axes 98 of the first connecting portions 16 may be equal to or greater than the distance B between the central axes 100 of the second connecting portions 18. Alternatively, the distance A between the central axes 98 of the first connecting portions 16 may be less than the distance B between the central axes 100 of the second connecting portions 18. In other words, the internal signal contacts 12 may be configured such that a pitch translation is possible. Each internal signal contact 12 may be configured such that the first central axis 98 and the second central axis 100 are parallel and spaced apart.

[0037] In another embodiment, such as Figure 3C As shown, the internal signal contact 12 and Figure 3A and Figure 3B The difference in the internal signal contact 12 is that a hook 103 is formed on the side surface of the first connection portion 16. The hook 103 helps to axially fix the internal signal contact 12 in the insulating element 28.

[0038] The second connection portion 18 of the internal signal contact 12 may include a solder opening 26. Figure 3C The welding opening 26 is configured to allow, for example, a laser beam to weld the conductor 21 to the internal signal contact 12. Alternatively, a terminating element 24 may be formed at the second connection portion 18, such that the internal signal contact 12 can be attached to the conductor insulation 20 of the cable 22. Figure 3A and Figure 3B ).

[0039] The internal signal contact 12 may include a signal contact portion 50. In one embodiment, the signal contact portion 50 may have an elliptical cross-section, such as... Figure 3A As shown. In another embodiment, the signal contact portion 50 may have a U-shaped cross-section, such as... Figure 3BAs shown. In another embodiment, the signal contact portion 50 may have a circular cross-section, such as... Figure 3C As shown. It should be understood that the shape of the signal contact portion 50 is not limited to... Figures 3A to 3C The shape shown is not specified. Instead, the signal contact portion 50 can have any suitable shape. The signal contact portion 50 can be configured to at least reduce or even prevent rotational and / or axial movement of at least one elongated internal signal contact 12 relative to the insulating element 28. The signal contact portion 50 can be defined as a blocking element that provides a forward stop and / or a rearward stop for at least one elongated internal signal contact 12 in the insulating element 28. Therefore, precise rotational control and movement restriction of the internal signal contact 12, as well as precise rigid rearward and forward stops of the internal signal contact 12, can be achieved. The signal contact portion 50 can also be configured to receive the conductor insulator 20.

[0040] Figure 4A and Figure 4B It shows a partially assembled state ( Figure 4A ) and fully assembled state ( Figure 4B The image shows a cross-sectional view of connector assembly 110. Connector assembly 110 includes at least one elongated internal signal contact 12, in this embodiment two internal signal contacts 12. Each internal signal contact 12 includes a first connecting portion 16 having a tubular main section 29 and a funnel-shaped end section 30. The tubular main section 29 may have a circular, particularly generally circular or elliptical, or polygonal cross-section. The funnel-shaped end section 30 extends from one end of the tubular main section 29 such that the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension C of the funnel-shaped end section 30 is greater than the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension C of the tubular main section 29.

[0041] At least one elongated internal signal contact 12 is housed within an elongated cavity 32 of an insulating element 28. A first portion of the cavity 32 is designed to formally accommodate a tubular main section 29, meaning the cross-sectional dimension of the first portion of the cavity 32 is approximately equal to the outer cross-sectional dimension of the tubular main section 29, and a second portion of the cavity 32 provides space for a funnel-shaped end section 30. In other words, the cross-sectional dimension D of the first portion of the cavity 32 (also referred to as the minimum cross-sectional dimension D of the cavity 32) corresponds to the outer cross-sectional dimension of the tubular main section 29, and the cross-sectional dimension of the second portion of the cavity 32 (also referred to as the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the cavity 32) is at least equal to or greater than the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension C of the funnel-shaped end section 30. Since the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension C of the funnel-shaped end section 30 is greater than the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension of the tubular main section 29, the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension C of the open funnel-shaped end section 30 is also greater than the cross-sectional dimension D of the first portion of the cavity 32, i.e., the minimum cross-sectional dimension D of the cavity 32. It should be understood that if the tubular main section 29 and the cavity 32 have a circular cross-section, then the dimensions described herein can be diameters.

[0042] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Perspective and cross-sectional views of the funnel-shaped end section 30 of the internal signal contact 12 are shown. The funnel-shaped end section 30 includes a first end section component 36 and a second end section component 38. The first end section component 36 and the second end section component 38 are separated by two air gaps 34, that is, there is a gap between the first end section component 36 and the second end section component 38. The first end section component 36 and the second end section component 38 can be arranged diagonally, that is, opposite to each other. Therefore, the two air gaps 34 can also be arranged diagonally, that is, opposite to each other.

[0043] like Figures 6A to 6C As shown, each cavity 32 terminates in a front opening 40 of the insulating element 28, which allows mating contacts to connect to internal signal contacts 12 disposed within the cavity 32. Each front opening 40 is configured to receive a funnel-shaped end section 30 of the internal signal contact 12. For example, two diagonally arranged bevels 42 extend into the front opening 40, and more specifically, into the air gap 34 received in the funnel-shaped end section 30 within the front opening 40.

[0044] When the funnel-shaped end section 30 is received in the front opening 40, the first end section member 36, the second end section member 38, and the two ramps 42 together define an inlet 44, which is configured to properly guide a mating male signal contact (not shown) into the female internal signal contact 12. The inlet 44 may form a 360° introduction cone, particularly having at least a substantially closed periphery, to guide the male signal contact into the internal signal contact 12. Depending on the geometry of the end section members 36, 38 and the corresponding ramps 42, the inlet may be circular, particularly circular or elliptical, or have a polygonal cross-section.

[0045] Figure 7A and Figure 7B A portion of an insulating element 28 is shown, having an internal signal contact 12 in a partially assembled state of connector assembly 110. The insulating element 28 includes at least one rib 46 located in each cavity 32, wherein the rib 46 may be an extension of one of the ramps 42 in the direction of a first central axis 98 defined by the respective internal signal contact 12. When the funnel-shaped end section 30 of the internal signal contact 12 is inserted into the front opening 40, the rib 46 engages one of the air gaps 34, thereby widening the funnel-shaped end section 30. In the incompletely assembled state ( Figure 7A and Figure 7B The funnel-shaped end section 30 of the internal signal contact 12 does not contact the rib 46, and is therefore in a relaxed state.

[0046] Figure 7C A perspective view of a portion of the insulating element 28 is shown. Figure 7D A cross-sectional view is shown, showing the internal signal contact 12 in a fully assembled state of connector assembly 110. When the internal signal contact 12 is inserted into the insulating element 28, the funnel-shaped end sections 30, particularly the first end section member 36 and the second end section member 38, are pushed apart by ribs 46, as... Figure 7C and Figure 7D As shown.

[0047] Figures 8A to 8F A top and side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the connector assembly 110 are shown, wherein the insulating element 28 includes at least one protrusion 52 and at least one recess 54 for each internal signal contact 12. At least one corresponding internal signal contact 12 also includes at least one protrusion 56 and at least one recess 58, respectively. At least one protrusion 52 of the insulating element 28 engages with at least one recess 58 of the internal signal contact 12, and vice versa. In other words, the protrusions 52, 56 and the recesses 54, 58 are configured to cooperate to substantially prevent rotational and / or axial movement of the internal signal contact 12 relative to the insulating element 28. More specifically, the rotational and / or axial movement of the internal signal contact 12 relative to the insulating element 28 is reduced, minimized, or restricted to such an extent that only a significant amount of rotational and axial movement of the internal signal contact 12 relative to the insulating element 28 can occur.

[0048] The insulating element 28 may include two protrusions 52 for each internal signal contact 12, wherein one protrusion 52 of the insulating element 28 is disposed in front of the protrusion 56 of the internal signal contact 12, and the other protrusion 52 of the insulating element 28 is disposed behind the protrusion 56 of the internal signal contact 12, such as... Figures 8A to 8C As shown. The protrusion 52 of the insulating element 28 located in front of the protrusion 56 of the internal signal contact 12 can serve as a front stop or a rear stop, and the protrusion 52 of the insulating element 28 located behind the protrusion 56 of the internal signal contact 12 can serve as a rear stop. The front stop can reduce or even prevent axial movement of at least one elongated internal signal contact 12 relative to the insulating element 28 in the forward direction, i.e., in the direction toward the funnel-shaped end section 30 of the internal signal contact 12. The rear stop can reduce or even prevent axial movement of at least one elongated internal signal contact 12 relative to the insulating element 28 in the rearward direction, i.e., in the direction toward the second connecting portion 18 of the internal signal contact 12.

[0049] Figure 9AA perspective view of a portion of an insulating element 28 having two internal signal contacts 12 is shown, wherein each internal signal contact 12 includes an aperture 62 defined to receive a corresponding control element 60 of the insulating element 28. The control element 60 is configured such that when the connector assembly 110 is properly assembled, i.e., when the internal signal contacts 12 are properly inserted into the insulating element 28, the control element engages with the aperture 62. Figure 9B and Figure 9C The diagram shows the control element 60 inserted into the hole 62 of the U-shaped signal contact portion 50 of the internal signal contact 12. It should be understood that the hole 62, and therefore the control element 60, may also be located in other portions of the internal signal contact 12. The control element 60 is visible in the hole 62 of the internal signal contact 12 when the internal signal contact 12 reaches its end position during the assembly of the connector assembly 110. Therefore, visual control of the end position of the internal signal contact 12 is possible when the internal signal contact 12 is mounted in the insulating element 28.

[0050] Figure 10A and Figure 10B An insulating element 28 according to another embodiment is shown. The insulating element 28 includes at least one clamping element 48 located in each cavity 32, the clamping element 48 being configured to secure the wire insulator 20 and / or conductor 21 of the cable 22 (not shown) to the internal signal contact 12. To secure the wire insulator 20 or conductor 21 within the insulating element 28, the gap defined by the two opposing clamping elements 48 is smaller than the main diameter of the wire insulator 20 or conductor 21. Therefore, when the wire insulator 20 or conductor 21 is inserted into this gap, the wire insulator 20 or conductor 21 is clamped within the insulating element 28.

[0051] Figure 11A A perspective view of a portion of an insulating element 28 having two internal signal contacts 12 according to another embodiment is shown. Each internal signal contact 12 includes a terminating element 24, such as a pair of crimping wings, disposed at a second connection portion 18, wherein the terminating element 24 may be configured to secure a wire insulator 20 or a conductor 21 (e.g., a conductor) within the internal signal contact 12. The insulating element 28 includes at least one retaining element 64 for each internal signal contact 12, the retaining element 64 being configured to secure at least one of the respective terminating element 24, the respective wire insulator 20, the conductor 21, and the respective signal contact portion 50 within the insulating element 28. Each retaining element 64 may be designed as a snap-fit ​​arm, wherein two opposing retaining elements 64 may form a cavity configured to retain or secure the terminating element 24 or the wire insulator 20.

[0052] Figure 11BAnother embodiment of a portion of the insulating element 28 is shown, wherein the retaining element 64 is designed as a support that surrounds at least one of the terminal element 24, the wire insulator 20, the conductor 21, and the signal contact portion 50. The shape of the support can be adapted to the contours of the received element. For example, the support can define a circular cavity to receive the signal contact portion 50 of the internal signal contact 12.

[0053] Figure 12A A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the first insulating member 28a is shown, which has two internal signal contacts 12 in a partially assembled state. The first insulating member 28a can be radially mounted to the internal signal contacts 12. Figure 12B As shown, in the fully assembled state of connector assembly 110, the internal signal contact 12, particularly the signal contact portion 50, is clamped into the first insulating member 28a. For this purpose, the signal contact portion 50 may have a larger diameter than the first insulating member 28a. Figure 12A The corresponding cavity 66 has a larger cross-sectional size. By pressing the signal contact portion 50 into the cavity 66, the cross-sectional size of the signal contact portion 50 is reduced to the cross-sectional size of the cavity 66, such as... Figure 12B As shown. Furthermore, due to the reduced cross-sectional size of the signal contact portion 50, the wire insulator 20 or conductor 21 attached to the inner signal contact 12 is fixed within the signal contact portion 50. The second insulating member 28b of the insulating element 28 can then slide axially onto the inner signal contact 12 along the direction of the first central axis 98 defined by the inner signal contact 12, such that the inner signal contact 12 is completely surrounded by the first insulating member 28a and the second insulating member 28b. A detailed description of the assembly process will be provided below.

[0054] Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the internal signal contact 12 can be inserted into the second insulating member 28b, such as... Figure 12C As shown. More specifically, Figure 12C The internal signal contact 12 is shown in its final position within the second insulating member 28b, but it is not yet fully assembled because the first insulating member 28a is still to be installed. Therefore, by radially mounting the first insulating member 28a relative to at least one elongated internal signal contact 12 and the second insulating member 28b, an elongated internal signal contact 12 is clamped within the first insulating member 28a, as shown. Figure 12D As shown. By pressing the first insulating member 28a onto the signal contact portion 50, the cross-sectional size of the signal contact portion 50 is reduced to the cross-sectional size of the cavity 66. Therefore, as Figure 12D As shown, in the fully assembled state of connector assembly 110, the internal signal contact 12, particularly the signal contact portion 50, is clamped into the first insulating member 28a.

[0055] Figures 13A to 13C and Figures 14A to 14C Two embodiments of the first insulating member 28a having two press-fit elements 68 are shown. For example... Figure 13A and Figure 14A As shown, the press-fit element 68 can be formed as a cubic element with a protrusion 74 protruding from the surface of the cubic element. Each element of the second insulating member 28b can be formed as a cubic recess 76 configured to receive the press-fit element 68 of the first insulating member 28a. The cross-sectional dimensions of the cubic recess 76 can be substantially the same as the cross-sectional dimensions of the corresponding press-fit element 68 (excluding the protrusion 74). When the first insulating member 28a and the second insulating member 28b are radially mounted onto the internal signal contact 12, the press-fit element 68 is inserted into the corresponding cubic recess 76. The press-fit element 68 is secured in the recess 76 by the protrusion 74. More specifically, the press-fit element 68 needs to be pressed into the recess 76 because the protrusion 74 causes the cross-sectional dimension of the press-fit element 68 to be larger than the cross-sectional dimension of the recess 76. Depending on the arrangement of the protrusion 74, the radial force 70 ( Figure 13C ) or axial force 72 ( Figure 14C It acts between the first insulating component 28a, particularly the press-fit element 68, and the second insulating component 28b.

[0056] according to Figures 15A to 15C and Figures 16A to 16C In other embodiments shown, the first insulating member 28a has at least one locking element 78. The locking element 78 may be formed with a mushroom head 79 ( Figure 15A , Figure 15C ) or has a Y-shaped or fork-shaped head 81 ( Figure 16A , Figure 16C The second insulating member 28b includes a generally cubic locking recess 80 configured to receive the locking element 78 of the first insulating member 28a. The locking recess 80 may include a first recess portion 80a and a second recess portion 80b, such as... Figure 15C and Figure 16C As shown. The cross-sectional dimensions of the first recessed portion 80a can be substantially the same as the cross-sectional dimensions of the cubic locking element 78, i.e., the cubic locking element 78 fits into the first recessed portion 80a. The maximum outer cross-sectional dimension of the mushroom head 79 or fork head 81 is larger than the cross-sectional dimension of the first recessed portion 80a. Therefore, the locking element 78 needs to be pressed through the first recessed portion 80a of the locking recess 80 until the mushroom head 79 or fork head 81 reaches the second recessed portion 80b. The cross-sectional dimension of the second recessed portion 80b of the locking recess 80 is larger than the maximum outer cross-sectional dimension of the mushroom head 79 or fork head 81, and therefore also larger than the first recessed portion 80a, such that the first recessed portion 80a and the second recessed portion 80b of the locking recess 80 define a shoulder 82 at their transition. Figure 15C and Figure 16C When the locking element 78 is fully inserted into the locking recess 80, the mushroom head 79 or the fork head 81 is located on the shoulder 82, thereby securing the first insulating member 28a to the second insulating member 28b. Figure 15C and Figure 16C ).

[0057] Figure 17A An embodiment of a first insulating member 28a and a second insulating member 28b, respectively having a locking pin 84 and a locking slot 86, is shown in a partially assembled state of connector assembly 110. The locking slot 86 is configured to receive the locking pin 84. The locking slot 86 includes a first slot 86a and a second slot 86b. The cross-sectional dimensions of the first slot 86a of the locking slot 86 can be substantially the same as the cross-sectional dimensions of the locking pin 84, i.e., the locking pin 84 engages with the first slot 86a of the locking slot 86. Figure 17A The cross-sectional dimension of the second seam 86b is larger than that of the locking pin 84, such that the first seam 86a and the second seam 86b define the shoulder 90. Figure 17B The locking slot 86 can be similar to the locking recess 80 described above. When the locking pin 84 is fully inserted into the locking slot 86, the locking pin 84 can be deformed by means of a stamping tool 88. The stamping tool 88 presses against the free end of the locking pin 84, deforming the free end of the locking pin 84 into a mushroom head located on the shoulder 90, thereby securing the first insulating member 28a to the second insulating member 28b. Figure 17B The locking pin 84 can be deformed in a cold or hot state, that is, the locking pin 84 can be deformed by means of the stamping tool 88, and the locking pin 84 or the stamping tool 88 can be preheated or not.

[0058] Figure 18A A first insulating member 28a with two tongues 96 is shown. A second insulating member 28b includes a corresponding slot 94 in which the tongues 96 can be received. The first insulating member 28a is secured to the second insulating member 28b by inserting the tongues 96 into their respective slots 94 and by allowing the first insulating member 28a to slide axially relative to the second insulating member 28b along a central axis 98 defined by the internal signal contact 12. Figure 18B and Figure 18C A cross-sectional view of the tongue 96, inserted into its associated slot 94, is shown. The maximum external dimension of the tongue 96 can be substantially the same as the maximum internal dimension of the slot 94, meaning the tongue 96 can be fitted into the slot 94. Figure 18D and Figure 18E In the alternative embodiment shown, the maximum outer dimension of the tongue 96 may be slightly larger than the maximum inner dimension of the groove 94. Therefore, the tongue 96 needs to be pressed into the groove 94 and slightly deformed when fully inserted into the groove 94.

[0059] Figure 19A , Figure 19B and Figures 20A to 20C Two embodiments of the insulating element 28 are shown, wherein a first insulating member 28a includes a locking cavity 104, and a second insulating member 28b includes a locking protrusion 106 received in the locking cavity 104. When the connector assembly 110 is properly assembled, the locking protrusion 106 extends into the locking cavity 104.

[0060] Figure 21A and Figure 21B The assembly is shown to have a bonding effect. Figures 14A to 14C The process of the connector assembly 110 of the insulating element 28 is as follows: First, the conductor 21 of the cable 22 is connected to the internal signal contact 12 by attaching the wire insulator 20 to the internal signal contact 12 by means of a terminating element 24 (e.g., a crimping wing). Then, the first insulating member 28a is radially mounted to the internal signal contact 12 such that the internal signal contact 12 is embedded in the cavity 32 of the first insulating member 28a. After the internal signal contact 12 is positioned in the cavity 32, the first insulating member 28a slides axially into place along the internal signal contact 12 in the direction of the central axis 98 defined by the internal signal contact 12. Figure 21B By sliding the first insulating member 28a along the direction of the central axis 98, if the rib 46 is provided in the front opening 40 of the first insulating member 28a, the funnel-shaped end section 30 of the inner signal contact 12 can optionally be widened by means of the rib 46, as described above. Subsequently, as described above, the second insulating member 28b is radially mounted to the inner signal contact 12 and fixed to the first insulating member 28a. Figure 21C ).

[0061] Figure 22A and Figure 22B An alternative process for assembling the connector assembly 110 described herein is illustrated. First, the conductor 21 of the cable 22 is attached to the internal signal contact 12 by means of a terminating element 24 (e.g., a crimping wing). Then, a second insulating member 28b is radially mounted to the internal signal contact 12 such that the internal signal contact 12 is embedded in the cavity 32 of the second insulating member 28b. Figure 22A After the internal signal contact 12 is fixed in the second insulating member 28b as described above, the first insulating member 28a is installed into the second insulating member 28b, as follows. Figure 22BAs shown. The first insulating member 28a is axially slid onto the inner signal contact 12 along the direction of the central axis 98 defined by the inner signal contact 12. By sliding the first insulating member 28a along the direction of the central axis 98 of the inner signal contact 12, the funnel-shaped end section 30 of the inner signal contact 12 enters the front opening 40 of the first insulating member 28a, and if a rib 46 is provided in the front opening 40, it is optionally widened by means of the rib 46, as described above. The first insulating member 28a is fixed to the second insulating member 28b in the manner described above, for example by means of the tongue 96 and the groove 94.

[0062] Figures 23A to 23C Another process for assembling connector assembly 110 is shown, particularly for internal signal contacts 12 with solder openings 26, to connect internal signal contacts 12 to conductors 21 of cable 22 by soldering, for example, laser soldering, ultrasonic soldering or resistance soldering. Figure 23A The step of inserting the internal signal contact 12 into the first insulating member 28a is shown. The internal signal contact 12 slides axially into the cavity 32 of the first insulating member 28a along the direction of the central axis 98 defined by the internal signal contact 12. Therefore, the internal signal contact 12 can be fixed in the first insulating member 28a by means of the aforementioned features, for example by means of the hook 103. After the internal signal contact 12 is fixed in the first insulating member 28a, the step of attaching the conductor 21 of the cable 22 to the internal signal contact 12 is performed, as follows. Figure 23B As shown. The conductor 21 is connected to the internal signal contact 12 by laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or resistance welding through the welding opening 26. Subsequently, the second insulating component 28b is attached to the first insulating component 28a. Figure 23C More specifically, the second insulating member 28b is radially mounted to the internal signal contact 12 and the first insulating member 28a. The second insulating member 28b is fixed to the first insulating member 28a in the manner described above.

[0063] List of reference numerals

[0064] 10 connectors

[0065] 12 Internal signal contacts

[0066] 14 Axial Directions

[0067] 16 First connecting part

[0068] 18 Second connecting part

[0069] 20 Conductor Insulation

[0070] 21 conductors

[0071] 22 cable

[0072] 24 terminal components

[0073] 26 Welding Opening

[0074] 28 insulating elements

[0075] 28a First Insulation Component

[0076] 28b Second Insulation Component

[0077] 29 tubular main sections

[0078] 30 Funnel-shaped end section

[0079] 31 First shielding component

[0080] 32 cavities

[0081] 33 Second shielding component

[0082] 34 air gap

[0083] 35 shielded contact

[0084] 36 First end section component

[0085] 37 remote

[0086] 38 Second end section component

[0087] 39 Shielded Contacts

[0088] 40 opening

[0089] 41 Proximal

[0090] 42 bevel

[0091] 43 covers

[0092] 44 entrances

[0093] 45 Crimping Part

[0094] 46 ribs

[0095] 47 Crimped Rings

[0096] 48 clamping elements

[0097] 50 signal contact section

[0098] 52. Protrusions of insulating elements

[0099] 54. Recessed Insulation Components

[0100] 56. Protrusion of internal signal contact

[0101] 58 Recessed internal signal contact

[0102] 60 control elements

[0103] 62 holes

[0104] 64 holding elements

[0105] 66-cavity

[0106] 68 Press-fit components

[0107] 70 strength

[0108] 72 Force

[0109] 74 protrusions

[0110] 76 concave

[0111] 78 locking elements

[0112] 79 Mushroom Head

[0113] 80 locking recess

[0114] 80a First recessed portion

[0115] 80b Second Recessed Part

[0116] 81 Fork-shaped head

[0117] 82 Shoulder

[0118] 84 Locking Pin

[0119] 86 Locking Seam

[0120] 86a First seam

[0121] 86b Second seam

[0122] 88 stamping tools

[0123] 90 shoulder

[0124] 94 slots

[0125] 96 tongue

[0126] 98 central axis

[0127] 100 central axis

[0128] 103 hooks

[0129] 104 locking chamber

[0130] 106 Locking Protrusions

[0131] 110 connector assembly

[0132] The distance between the central axes of the first connecting parts A

[0133] The distance between the central axes of the second connecting parts B

[0134] Maximum outer cross-sectional dimension of the C-shaped end section

[0135] Minimum cross-sectional dimension of D slender cavity

Claims

1. A connector assembly (110), the connector assembly comprising: At least one elongated internal signal contact (12), the internal signal contact having a first connecting portion (16), wherein the first connecting portion (16) includes a tubular main section (29) and a funnel-shaped end section (30); and An insulating element (28) wherein the insulating element (28) defines at least one elongated cavity (32) which is designed to accommodate the elongated internal signal contact (12). The maximum outer cross-sectional dimension (C) of the funnel-shaped end section (30) is greater than the minimum cross-sectional dimension (D) of the elongated cavity (32). The funnel-shaped end section (30) includes a first end section component (36) and a second end section component (38), wherein the first end section component (36) and the second end section component (38) are separated by two air gaps (34), and The insulating element (28) includes at least one rib (46) that engages one of the air gaps (34) and thus widens the funnel-shaped end section (30).

2. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 1, wherein, The insulating element (28) includes at least one front opening (40) configured to receive the funnel-shaped end section (30), and two ramps (42) extending into the air gap (34) such that the first end section component (36), the second end section component (38), and the two ramps (42) define an entrance (44).

3. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 1, wherein, The insulating element (28) and the at least one elongated internal signal contact (12) each include at least one protrusion (52) and at least one recess (54), wherein the protrusion (52) and the recess (54) are configured to cooperate to at least reduce the rotation and / or axial movement of the at least one elongated internal signal contact (12) relative to the insulating element (28).

4. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 1, wherein, The insulating element (28) includes a control element (60), and the at least one elongated internal signal contact (12) includes a hole (62) that receives the control element (60) when the connector assembly (110) is properly assembled.

5. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 1, wherein, The insulating element (28) includes at least one clamping element (48) configured to secure the at least one elongated internal signal contact (12) to a conductor (21) or wire insulator (20).

6. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one elongated internal signal contact (12) includes a terminating element (24) configured to receive a wire insulator (20), and wherein the insulating element (28) includes at least one retaining element (64) configured to secure the terminating element (24) and / or the wire insulator (20) within the insulating element (28).

7. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 1, wherein, The insulating element (28) includes a first insulating component (28a) and a second insulating component (28b), wherein the first insulating component (28a) and the second insulating component (28b) together surround the at least one elongated internal signal contact (12).

8. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 7, wherein, One of the first insulating member (28a) and the second insulating member (28b) is configured to be radially mounted relative to the at least one elongated internal signal contact (12), and the other of the first insulating member (28a) and the second insulating member (28b) is configured to slide axially onto the at least one elongated internal signal contact (12).

9. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The at least one elongated internal signal contact (12) is clamped into the first insulating component (28a) or the second insulating component (28b).

10. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 7, wherein, The first insulating component (28a) or the second insulating component (28b) includes a press-fit element (68) configured to secure the first insulating component (28a) to the second insulating component (28b).

11. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 7, wherein, The first insulating member (28a) or the second insulating member (28b) includes at least one locking element (78) configured to engage the first insulating member (28a) and the second insulating member (28b) together, thereby securing the first insulating member (28a) to the second insulating member (28b).

12. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 7, wherein, The first insulating member (28a) or the second insulating member (28b) includes a locking pin (84), and the other of the first insulating member (28a) and the second insulating member (28b) includes a locking slot (86), wherein the locking slot (86) is configured to receive the locking pin (84), and the locking pin (84) is deformed and secured in the locking slot (86) to secure the first insulating member (28a) to the second insulating member (28b).

13. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 7, wherein, The first insulating member (28a) or the second insulating member (28b) includes a groove (94), and the other of the first insulating member (28a) and the second insulating member (28b) includes a tongue (96) received in the groove (94).

14. The connector assembly (110) according to claim 7, wherein, The first insulating member (28a) or the second insulating member (28b) includes a locking cavity (104), and the other of the first insulating member (28a) and the second insulating member (28b) includes a locking protrusion (106) received in the locking cavity (104).

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