Connector assembly

Abstract

A connector assembly includes at least one signal transmission wire having signal contacts terminated to the signal transmission wire; a connector housing holding at least one signal contact and including a first connector half and a second connector half; wherein the halves comprise connecting means for connecting the two halves to each other; and a metal sleeve fitted around the connector housing and locked to the connector housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a high-speed data connector assembly and a method for assembling a high-speed data connector assembly. Background Art

[0002] An example of a high-speed data connector assembly for differential pair signal transmission is sold by a company called "Rosenberger Hochfrequencyztechnik GmbH & Co. KG" under the trademark -High-speed modular twisted pair data cables for sale.

[0003] Applications for this high-speed data connector include 4K camera systems, autonomous driving, radar, lidar, high-resolution displays, and rear-seat entertainment. Versions of this connector are designed to operate at frequencies up to 20 GHz while having a small package size.

[0004] In such high-speed applications, every tenth of a millimeter of the interconnecting channels and signal connectors should be within a certain data transmission (differential) impedance bandwidth (typically 100 ± 5Ω) and should match the preceding and succeeding sections. To this end, in each of these sections, the metal parts of the inner or signal contacts and the outer or shielding layers, the insulating materials of the insulating elements, and the size and position of any air gaps must be balanced with each other. However, these components also need to meet other non-signal integrity requirements, particularly mechanical requirements. For example, it must be ensured that the high-speed data connector assembly is securely closed during assembly and remains securely closed during operation. Specifically, the closure must resist any vibration. In order to achieve secure closure of the high-speed data connector assembly, a simple and reliable assembly process must be provided.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a high speed data connector assembly that is easy and secure to assemble and provides a secure closure during operation. Summary of the invention

[0006] The above object is at least partially achieved by the subject matter of independent claim 1. Preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims, and a person skilled in the art may find indications of further suitable aspects of the invention in the overall disclosure of the application.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention relates to a connector assembly comprising at least one signal transmission wire having a signal contact terminated to the signal transmission wire; wherein the terminal is preferably a male terminal; a connector housing that holds at least one signal contact and comprises a first connector half and a second connector half; wherein the halves include a connecting device for connecting the two halves to each other; and a metal sleeve that fits around the connector housing and is locked to the connector housing.

[0008] The signal transmission wire provides a pathway for the electrical signal, while the connector housing protects the connection and ensures proper alignment of the signal contacts. The connection in halves is easy to assemble and disassemble, facilitating maintenance or replacement. The metal sleeve enhances the durability and electromagnetic shielding of the connector, protecting it from physical damage and interference. This design is very beneficial in high-frequency applications where signal integrity is important.

[0009] A further embodiment is achieved when the connector halves comprise a connection device suitable for a two-step assembly process, wherein the device comprises a pre-latch component adapted to engage with each other by moving the halves perpendicular to the mating axis, and a final latch component adapted to engage with each other by moving the first half relative to the second half parallel to the mating axis.

[0010] This two-step assembly process enhances the ease and robustness of connector assembly. The pre-latch components allow for initial alignment and temporary retention of the connector halves, making it easier to handle and properly position them. Once the pre-latch is arranged, the final latch component can ensure a secure and stable connection by locking the halves together along the mating axis. This approach is beneficial in environments where precise and reliable connections are required, such as where vibration and movement may otherwise disrupt the connection. The two-step process also simplifies the assembly procedure, thereby reducing the risk of misalignment and improving overall efficiency.

[0011] This embodiment is further improved when the final latching part of the first half includes at least one latching hole and the final latching part of the second half includes at least one latching arm, wherein the size of the latching arm is such that the latching arm does not fit into the latching hole when the connecting device moves perpendicular to the matching direction.

[0012] Such design features ensure that the connector halves are fully secured only when they are properly aligned along the mating axis. During the initial vertical movement, the latch arm remains outside the latch hole, preventing premature or incorrect latching. This prevents potential misalignment and ensures that the final latch mechanism is properly engaged only when the halves move parallel to the mating axis. This construction enhances the reliability and integrity of the connection, making it particularly useful in applications that require a precise and secure connection. The defined dimensions of the latch arm and hole provide a fail-safe mechanism that ensures that the assembly process follows the intended two-step sequence, thereby reducing assembly errors and improving overall product quality.

[0013] This can be further improved when the final latching part of the second half comprises at least one latching arm and the latching arm comprises a latching hook, the hook comprising a corrugated locking surface and the latching hole comprising a complementary corrugated locking surface.

[0014] This enhanced final latch mechanism provides a stronger and more stable connection. The corrugated locking surfaces on both the latch hook and latch hole interlock when engaged, increasing friction and preventing accidental disengagement. This design is very beneficial in environments subject to vibration or mechanical stress, where maintaining a stable connection is important. The corrugated surface ensures a tighter grip, thereby enhancing the durability and longevity of the connection. In addition, this feature simplifies the assembly process by providing clear tactile feedback when the connector halves are properly secured, reducing the likelihood of incomplete or incorrect assembly.

[0015] This embodiment can be improved when a hook is arranged on the free end of the latch arm protruding laterally from the latch arm and the corrugated locking surface is arranged on the underside of the protruding part of the hook.

[0016] This configuration ensures a more effective and secure locking mechanism. The lateral positioning of the hook on the latch arm allows it to engage with the corresponding latch hole more effectively. The corrugated locking surface on the underside of the protruding hook enhances the grip and stability of the connection, thereby preventing it from disengaging due to vibration or mechanical stress. This design is beneficial in applications where a strong and reliable connection is required. The lateral arrangement also facilitates easier alignment and engagement during the assembly process, providing a clean and secure locking action. This design feature promotes the overall durability and reliability of the connector assembly, thereby ensuring consistent performance in harsh environments.

[0017] This can be even further improved when the corrugated locking surface is adapted to provide a snap connection when moved parallel to the mating axis.

[0018] This snap-on connection enhances the ease and reliability of the assembly process. As the connector halves move parallel to the mating axis, the corrugated locking surfaces on the latch hook and hole engage in a snap action, providing audible and tactile confirmation of a secure connection. The snap-on mechanism ensures a secure and stable lock, which is advantageous in environments subject to mechanical vibration or shock. The snap-on design also simplifies assembly and disassembly, allowing for quick and easy connection without the need for additional tools or fasteners. This feature improves assembly efficiency and reduces the risk of improper connection, thereby enhancing the overall reliability and performance of the connector assembly.

[0019] Another embodiment of the invention is realized when the final latching part of the first half comprises at least one latching hole, and wherein the latching hole is arranged in the housing of the first half in the form of an open slit in the housing wall, which is open in a direction opposite to the mating direction.

[0020] This open slit design of the latch hole facilitates easier and more secure engagement of the latch arm hook. When the connector halves are assembled, the latch arm is guided into the slit, thereby ensuring proper alignment and engagement of the corrugated locking surfaces. The open orientation of the slit, opposite to the mating direction, prevents accidental disengagement and ensures that the connection remains secure under mechanical stress or vibration. This design is useful in applications where the connector assembly may be subjected to repeated connection and disconnection cycles. The open slit provides an unobstructed path for the latch arm, thereby reducing the risk of misalignment and enhancing the overall reliability and durability of the connector assembly.

[0021] A further improvement is achieved when the first half and the second half comprise sliding surfaces to enable sliding movement between the first half and the second half, the sliding surfaces being configured and dedicated for sliding the halves into an interconnected configuration.

[0022] Such sliding surfaces are configured and manufactured to ensure smooth and precise alignment during the assembly process. When the halves are assembled together, the sliding surfaces guide them into the correct position, reducing the force required to achieve a secure connection. This feature is beneficial in applications where fast and reliable assembly is important. The sliding surfaces help prevent misalignment and ensure that the final latch components engage correctly, thereby enhancing the overall robustness and reliability of the connection. In addition, the sliding mechanism can reduce wear and tear on the connector components, thereby extending the life of the assembly and maintaining performance through repeated use. This design simplifies the assembly process, making it more efficient and less prone to errors, which is beneficial to both the manufacturing and maintenance environments.

[0023] This can be further improved when the metal sleeve comprises locking means to form a locked state between the metal sleeve and at least one of the first half and the second half, wherein the locking means preferably comprises at least one single-ended locking rod and / or at least one double-ended locking bow.

[0024] Such locking means on the metal sleeve can enhance the stability and robustness of the connector assembly. The single-ended locking bar and the double-ended locking arch are designed to engage with corresponding features on the connector halves, thereby providing a secure attachment that prevents the sleeve from shifting or falling off during use. This is advantageous in applications where the connector assembly is exposed to mechanical stress or vibration. The locking mechanism can ensure that the metal sleeve remains in place, thereby contributing to the overall durability and electromagnetic shielding of the connector. The presence of these locking features also simplifies the assembly process by providing a clear and secure method of attaching the metal sleeve, thereby reducing the risk of improper installation and enhancing the reliability and performance of the connector assembly.

[0025] This embodiment is further improved when the locking device comprises a snap and / or a metal spring.

[0026] The inclusion of a snap and / or metal spring in the locking mechanism further enhances the ease and reliability of securing the metal sleeve to the connector half. The snap mechanism provides a quick and intuitive way to attach the metal sleeve, ensuring audible and tactile confirmation when the sleeve is properly locked in place. This feature reduces assembly time and minimizes the possibility of incorrect installation. The metal spring adds an extra layer of firmness by applying consistent pressure, maintaining the position of the sleeve even under vibration or mechanical stress. This combination is beneficial in high vibration environments where maintaining a stable and secure connection is very important. The snap and metal spring work together to ensure that the metal sleeve remains securely connected, thereby enhancing the overall durability, electromagnetic shielding and performance of the connector assembly.

[0027] A further improvement is achieved when at least one of the first half and the second half comprises locking means to form a locked state with the metal sleeve, wherein the locking means preferably comprises a recess and / or a projection, wherein the projection is preferably a hook.

[0028] The integration of this groove and protrusion mechanism, such as designing the protrusion as a hook, ensures that the metal sleeve is reliably and securely attached to the connector half. The recess provides a defined space for the hook to engage, thereby creating a stable locked state that prevents the sleeve from shifting or falling off during operation. This feature is particularly advantageous in environments subject to mechanical stress, where it is very important to maintain the integrity of the connection. The hook design allows for easy engagement and disengagement, thereby simplifying the assembly and maintenance process. The mechanism enhances the overall robustness of the connector assembly, ensuring that the metal sleeve remains securely attached, providing the necessary protection and electromagnetic shielding. The design also helps maintain the performance and service life of the connector by preventing accidental disconnection and ensuring a reliable connection at all times.

[0029] A further improvement is achieved when the metal sleeve comprises at least one embossing, preferably located on the outside of the metal sleeve.

[0030] Such embossed portions can ensure compatibility with standardized cavities, simplify the manufacturing process by eliminating the need for various curvatures and steps in the sleeve cross-section, thereby reducing production complexity and cost. The design maintains the inside of the sleeve close to the signal contact, thereby improving differential impedance matching and enhancing signal integrity. In addition, placing the polarization and front stop features on the metal sleeve rather than on the shell half increases the metal available for shielding, thereby providing better electromagnetic shielding and improved impedance matching. This integration enhances the overall performance of the connector assembly, particularly in high-speed data transmission and / or other sensitive electronic equipment applications. In a preferred embodiment, these embossed portions provide practical benefits, including manufacturing efficiency, cost reduction, and performance enhancement, making the connector design rugged and reliable for a variety of demanding applications.

[0031] A further improvement is achieved when the metal sleeve comprises two slots perpendicular to the mating axis and wherein the area between the slots is raised and configured and dedicated to form a latching connection with a raised portion of at least one connector half.

[0032] This design has multiple benefits: The raised areas between the slots provide a secure latching point, ensuring that cable pull forces are transferred to the housing collar behind the sleeve rather than directly to the metal sleeve, thereby preventing disengagement under tension. The integration of the housing collar behind the metal sleeve allows the primary and secondary latches of the cavity to hook securely behind this plastic collar, ensuring that cable pull forces are first applied to the housing, thereby protecting the metal sleeve. This arrangement enhances the structural integrity of the connector assembly, making it more resistant to mechanical stress, which is beneficial in environments with frequent handling, movement or high tension. These slots with raised areas can improve the durability and resistance to mechanical stress of the connector assembly, ensuring that cable pull forces are first absorbed by the housing, thereby protecting the metal sleeve and extending the service life and reliability of the connector assembly in demanding applications.

[0033] A further improvement can be achieved when at least one connector half comprises at least one triangular projection on the outside which is configured and intended to be pressed under the metal sleeve after assembly.

[0034] The triangular protrusions on the connector halves provide an important benefit, ensuring a secure locking mechanism without any play. The molded triangular protrusions and / or additional interference ribs can tightly lock the metal sleeve to the assembled housing halves, preventing any movement or shifting and maintaining the integrity and stability of the connection. By pressing the triangular protrusions under the metal sleeve, the design provides additional contact points and pressure, thereby enhancing the overall stability and robustness of the assembly, which is particularly beneficial in applications that are subject to vibration or physical stress. This secure locking mechanism improves performance and extends the service life of the connector assembly, making it ideal for environments where reliable and durable connections are important. The triangular protrusions enhance the locking mechanism of the metal sleeve, ensuring a stable connection and improving the durability and performance of the connector assembly in demanding applications.

[0035] Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for assembling a connector assembly, comprising the following steps: a) providing a connector assembly as described in any of the preceding claims; b) arranging at least one signal transmission cable in one half; c) performing a pre-latching step by moving the half perpendicular to the mating axis; d) performing a final latching step by moving the first half relative to the second half parallel to the mating axis; and e) sliding a metal sleeve over the first half and the second half; wherein, preferably after step d), the first half and the second half are interconnected; and wherein, preferably after step e), the metal sleeve is interlocked with at least one of the first half and the second half.

[0036] This connector assembly method has multiple benefits, ensuring a sequential and secure assembly, which enhances precision and reliability. By first arranging the signal transmission cable into one half, the method maintains the integrity of the signal path and improves overall performance. The pre-latching step ensures initial alignment and retention, while the final latching step secures the halves together, resulting in a strong and reliable connection required for stable and durable applications. Sliding a metal sleeve over the assembled halves as a final step simplifies the process, providing additional mechanical protection and electromagnetic shielding. The interlocking feature of the metal sleeve with at least one of the halves ensures that it remains securely in place even under mechanical stress. The method provides a practical and efficient method of assembling connectors, ensuring that all components are properly aligned and secured, thereby enhancing the reliability and performance of the connector assembly in demanding applications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Figure 1 : A three-dimensional view shows a connector assembly according to the present invention before assembly.

[0039] Figure 2A: Shown in a stereogram Figure 1 The first connector half.

[0040] Figure 2B : A detailed stereogram shows Figure 2A connector half.

[0041] Figure 3A : Shown in a stereogram Figure 1 The second connector half of the embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0042] Figure 3B : A detailed stereogram shows Figure 3A connector half.

[0043] Figure 4 : A metal sleeve according to the present invention is depicted in a stereoscopic view.

[0044] Figure 5 : A three-dimensional view shows another connector assembly according to the present invention before the metal sleeve is assembled.

[0045] Figure 6 : A top view depicts a metal sleeve assembled on a connector half according to the present invention.

[0046] Figure 7 : Another connector assembly after assembly is shown in a top view.

[0047] Figure 8 : Another embodiment of a connector assembly is depicted in a stereoscopic view.

[0048] Fig. 9 : A perspective view showing the metal sleeve during assembly Figure 8 connector components.

[0049] Fig.10 : The cross-sectional view shows Fig. 9 Assembly of the metal sleeve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The following sections will describe the present invention in detail, and reference will be made to the accompanying drawings to make it clearer. These descriptions represent examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Throughout the drawings and text, the same reference numerals represent the same components. These illustrations may not reflect actual sizes or proportions; for better understanding and visual convenience, the size, proportion and description of the components may be increased.

[0051] Figure 1The connector assembly according to the present invention before assembly is shown in a stereoscopic view. The connector assembly 1000 includes a metal sleeve 1100, which includes a metal spring 1102 and an outer embossed portion 1104. The first connector half 1200 and the second connector half 1300 form a connector housing. The first connector half 1200 includes a connecting device 1210, and the connecting device 1210 includes two latch holes 1212. The second connector half 1300 includes a connecting device 1310 with two latch arms 1312. The wire 1400 includes two terminals 1402. The mating axis A gives the mating direction of the connector assembly.

[0052] When assembling the connector assembly, the terminal 1402 is first placed in the second connector half 1300, and then the first connector half 1200 is moved onto the second connector half 1300 in a direction perpendicular to the mating axis A to enter the pre-latch position. Secondly, the two connector halves are moved relative to each other in the direction of the mating axis to the final latch position. The final latch position is reached when the locking arm is seated inside the locking hole 1212. Then, the metal sleeve 1100 is slid over the locked connector halves so that the metal spring 1102 forms a form-fitting connection with one of the connector halves.

[0053] Figure 2A The stereogram shows Figure 1 The first connector half 1200. The connecting device 1210 includes two latch holes 1212, each latch hole 1212 includes a corrugated locking surface 1214.

[0054] The corrugated locking surface 1214 in the latch hole 1212 provides additional friction and locking strength because the corrugated surface can mate with the second connector half (in the Figure 3A ) on the corresponding structures are engaged to form a reliable interlock that maintains signal integrity and mechanical stability.

[0055] Figure 2B A detailed stereogram shows Figure 2A connector half.

[0056] Figure 3A The stereogram shows Figure 1 The second connector half 1300. The connecting device 1310 comprises two latch arms 1312, each latch arm 1312 comprising a latch hook 1313 protruding laterally from the latch arm, the latch hook having a corrugated locking surface 1314. The corrugated locking surface is arranged on the underside of the protruding portion of the hook.

[0057] The corrugated locking surface 1314 on the latch arm 1312 can engage the first connector half (at Figure 2BThe corresponding corrugated surfaces in the latch hole of the connector (shown in FIG. 1 ) engage in a snap-fit ​​connection. This engagement can form a strong interlock that resists mechanical stress and vibration, thereby ensuring that the connector assembly remains securely fixed.

[0058] Figure 3B A detailed stereogram shows Figure 3A connector half.

[0059] Figure 4 A metal sleeve 4100 according to the present invention is depicted in a perspective view. The metal sleeve comprises four embossing portions 4104 arranged outside the sleeve and extending in the axial direction of the sleeve 4100 and a metal spring 4102.

[0060] The embossed portion 4104 can improve the grip and alignment of the sleeve 4100, thereby ensuring that it is securely mounted on the connector half without gaps. The external placement of the embossed portion simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining compatibility with standardized cavities. This design also eliminates the need for complex curvatures and steps in the sleeve cross-section, thereby reducing production costs. The metal spring 4102 integrated into the sleeve can ensure a tight fit around the connector half, thereby providing consistent pressure and enhancing the mechanical stability of the assembly. This spring mechanism prevents the sleeve from shifting or falling off under mechanical stress or cable pulling, promoting the overall durability and reliability of the connector assembly. By maintaining the inner side of the sleeve close to the signal contact, the design can improve differential impedance matching and signal integrity. In addition, the external embossed portion can allow polarization and front stop features to be integrated directly into the metal sleeve, rather than the shell half, thereby providing better electromagnetic shielding and further improving differential impedance matching.

[0061] Figure 5 Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in perspective view prior to assembly of the metal sleeve 4100. After a two-step assembly process, the connector halves 1200 and 1300 have been arranged in a final latched position around the wire 1400. In this configuration, the metal sleeve 4100 can simply slide over the connector halves.

[0062] After a two-step assembly process, the connector halves 1200 and 1300 are securely latched together around the wire 1400. The process involves first aligning and pre-latching the halves by moving them perpendicular to the mating axis, followed by a final latching step, i.e., moving them parallel to the mating axis. This ensures a secure and stable connection between the halves. Once the connector halves are in the final latched position, the metal sleeve 4100 can be easily slid over the connector halves. The design of the sleeve 4100 with its four axial embossings 4104 and the metal spring allows it to be securely assembled around the locked connector halves, providing additional mechanical stability and electromagnetic shielding.

[0063] Figure 6 Another metal sleeve 6100 assembled on a connector half according to the present invention is depicted in a top view. The metal sleeve 6100 includes two slots 6108 and a raised portion 6120 between the slots 6108. The metal sleeve is arranged on a first connector half 6200, and the connector half 6200 includes two triangular protrusions 6206 and a raised portion 6220. The raised portion 6220 of the connector half is arranged directly below the raised portion 6120 of the metal sleeve 6100.

[0064] The raised portion 6120 of the metal sleeve fits directly onto the raised portion 6220 of the first connector half, thereby ensuring a secure interlock and preventing any movement or displacement during use. The triangular protrusion 6206 on the connector half presses against the sleeve to form a tight fit without gaps, thereby enhancing the stability and mechanical integrity of the connector assembly and making it resistant to vibration and physical stress. The interlocking and tight fit provided by the raised portions 6120 and 6220 arranged inline with each other and the triangular protrusion 6206 ensure that the metal sleeve remains securely attached, thereby maintaining the overall durability and performance of the connector assembly.

[0065] Figure 7 The bottom view shows the assembled metal sleeve 1100. Figure 5 The metal sleeve slides over the assembled connector halves 1200, 1300, which accommodate the wire 1400. The metal sleeve 1100 includes a metal spring 1102, which forms a shape-locked state with the connector half 1300.

[0066] The metal spring within the sleeve forms a shape-locked state with the connector half 1300, ensuring that the metal sleeve is securely fixed in place, thereby preventing any displacement or loosening during use. After sliding the metal sleeve over the assembled connector halves 1200, 1300, this can enhance the stability and durability of the assembly, making the connector assembly resistant to vibration and physical stress. In addition, the metal sleeve provides mechanical protection for the housed wire 1400 and enhances electromagnetic shielding, thereby ensuring signal integrity and performance. By sliding the metal sleeve over the connector halves, the assembly process is simplified, wherein the shape-locked state formed by the metal spring ensures a secure assembly without the need for additional fasteners.

[0067] Figure 8Another embodiment of a connector assembly is depicted in a perspective view. The connector assembly 8000 includes a metal sleeve 8100, which includes a raised portion 8120. A first connector half 8200 and a second connector half 8300 form a connector housing. The first connector half 8200 includes a raised portion 8220, which can be assembled into the raised portion 8120 of the metal sleeve to form a form-fitting connection, which inhibits the movement of the metal sleeve after the metal sleeve is matched with the connector housing. The wire 8400 includes two male pin terminals 8402.

[0068] This design provides multiple benefits: The form-fit connection between the raised portions 8120 and 8220 forms a secure locking mechanism that prevents any movement of the metal sleeve, thereby enhancing stability and durability under mechanical stress or vibration. In addition, the wire and male terminal are securely contained and protected by the metal sleeve, thereby providing mechanical protection and improved electromagnetic shielding for high signal integrity and performance.

[0069] Fig. 9 The perspective view shows the metal sleeve during assembly. Figure 8 The first connector half 8200 and the second connector half 8300 form a connector housing by enclosing the wire and the terminal 8402. After the first connector half 8200 and the second connector half 8300 are connected to form the connector housing, the metal sleeve 8100 is slid on the housing so that the raised portion 8220 of the second connector half forms a shape-fitting connection with the raised portion 8120 of the metal sleeve 8100, thereby inhibiting the movement of the metal sleeve 8100 and thus fixing it to the housing.

[0070] This form-fit connection securely fixes the metal sleeve to the connector housing, preventing any movement or displacement during use. The assembly process ensures that the wire and terminal are securely contained, and the metal sleeve provides additional mechanical protection and electromagnetic shielding, thereby enhancing signal integrity and overall performance. This design simplifies the assembly process and ensures a strong and reliable connection.

[0071] Fig.10 Shown in side view Fig. 9 The first connector half 8200 and the second connector half 8300 form a connector housing by enclosing the wire and the terminal 8402. Once the first connector half 8200 and the second connector half 8300 are joined together to form the housing, the metal sleeve 8100 can be slid on the housing. The raised portion 8220 of the second connector half 8200 then forms a form-fitting connection with the raised portion 8120 of the metal sleeve 8100, thereby preventing movement and thus fixing the sleeve to the housing.

[0072] The form-fit connection prevents movement of the metal sleeve, thereby securely fixing it to the housing. Benefits of this design include a secure locking mechanism that prevents displacement or loosening during use, and additional mechanical protection and electromagnetic shielding provided by the metal sleeve, thereby enhancing signal integrity and performance.

[0073] List of reference numerals:

[0074] 1000,8000:Connector components

[0075] 1100,4100,6100,8100:Metal sleeve

[0076] 1102,4102:Metal spring

[0077] 1104,4104: Embossed

[0078] 1200,6200,8200: First connector half

[0079] 1210: Connecting device

[0080] 1212: Latch hole

[0081] 1214: Corrugated locking surface

[0082] 1300,8300: Second connector half

[0083] 1310: Connecting device

[0084] 1312: Latch arm

[0085] 1313: Latch hook

[0086] 1314: Corrugated locking surface

[0087] 1400,8400:Wire

[0088] 1402,8402:Terminal

[0089] 6108: Slot

[0090] 6120,8120: Raised part

[0091] 6206:Triangle

[0092] 6220,8220: Raised part

[0093] A:Matching axis

Claims

1. A connector assembly (1000), comprising: at least one signal transmission wire (1400), the signal transmission wire having a signal contact terminated thereto, wherein the terminal is preferably a male terminal; A connector housing for holding at least one signal contact and comprising a first connector half (1200) and a second connector half (1300); wherein the halves comprise connecting means (1210, 1310) for connecting the two halves to each other; A metal sleeve (1100) is fitted around the connector housing and locked to the connector housing.

2. The connector assembly (1000) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connector halves (1200, 1300) include a connection device suitable for a two-step assembly process, the device including a pre-latch component, which is suitable for engaging each other by moving the halves perpendicular to the mating axis, and a final latch component, which is suitable for engaging each other by moving the first half relative to the second half parallel to the mating axis.

3. The connector assembly (1000) according to claim 2, characterized in that: The final latching part of the first half includes at least one latching hole (1212), and the final latching part of the second half includes at least one latching arm (1312), the size of which is such that when the connecting device (1210, 1310) moves perpendicular to the matching direction (A), the latching arm (1312) does not fit into the latching hole (1212).

4. The connector assembly (1000) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The final latching component of the second half (1300) includes at least one latching arm (1312) and the latching arm includes a latching hook (1313), the hook includes a corrugated locking surface (1314) and the latching hole (1212) includes a complementary corrugated locking surface (1214).

5. The connector assembly (1000) according to claim 4, characterized in that: The hook (1313) is arranged on the free end of the latch arm (1312) protruding laterally from the latch arm, and the corrugated locking surface (1314) is arranged on the underside of the protruding part of the hook.

6. The connector assembly (1000) according to claim 5, characterized in that: The corrugated locking surface (1214, 1314) is adapted to provide a snap-fit ​​connection when moved parallel to the mating axis.

7. The connector assembly (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 6, characterized in that The final latching component of the first half includes at least one latching hole (1212), and wherein the latching hole is arranged in the shell of the first half in the form of an open slit in the shell wall, and the slit is open in a direction opposite to the matching direction.

8. The connector assembly (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The first half and the second half include sliding surfaces to enable sliding movement between the first half and the second half, the sliding surfaces being configured and dedicated to sliding the halves into an interconnected configuration.

9. The connector assembly (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The metal sleeve (1100) comprises a locking device to form a locked state between the metal sleeve (1100) and at least one of the first half and the second half, wherein the locking device preferably comprises at least one single-ended locking rod and / or at least one double-ended locking bow.

10. The connector assembly (1000) according to claim 9, characterized in that: The locking device includes a snap and / or a metal spring (1102).

11. The connector assembly (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that At least one of the first half and the second half comprises a locking device to form a locked state with the metal sleeve (1102), wherein the locking device preferably comprises a recessed portion and / or a protruding portion, wherein the protruding portion is preferably a hook.

12. The connector assembly (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The metal sleeve (1100) comprises at least one embossed portion (1104) preferably located on the outside of the metal sleeve.

13. The connector assembly (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The metal sleeve (1100) includes two slots (1108) perpendicular to the mating axis, and wherein the area between the slots (1108) is raised, configured and dedicated to form a latching connection with a raised portion (1120) of at least one connector half.

14. The connector assembly (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that At least one connector half comprises at least one triangular protrusion (1206) on the outside, which is configured and dedicated to be pressed under the metal sleeve (1100) after assembly.

15. A method of assembling a connector assembly (1000), comprising the steps of: a) providing a connector assembly (1000) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims; b) arranging at least one signal transmission cable in one half; c) a pre-latching step by moving the halves perpendicularly to the mating axis, d) performing a final latching step by moving the first half relative to the second half parallel to said mating axis; and e) sliding the metal sleeve (1100) over the first half and the second half; wherein, preferably after step d), the first half and the second half are interconnected; and Wherein, preferably after step e), the metal sleeve (1100) is interlocked with at least one of the first half and the second half.

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