Miniature RF connector plug, processing technology thereof and connector

Abstract

A micro RF connector plug, a micro RF connector plug assembly, and a method of processing the plug are described. The RF plug comprises an outer conductor (2) having an outer conductor loop (201) and having a plurality of pins (202) extending from the outer conductor loop and an axis passing through the outer conductor loop. An inner conductor (1) arranged within the outer conductor comprises a central pin (101) along the axis and an extension pin (102) in a direction perpendicular to the axis and extending through a gap between two adjacent pins of the outer conductor. The insulator (3) isolates the inner conductor from the outer conductor and includes an outer ring (301), an inner ring (302), and a base (303) connecting the outer ring and the inner ring. The outer conductor ring is embedded between the outer ring and the inner ring. The first and second locking structures (203, 304) are configured to securely connect the connector plug with the connector receptacle and lock the connector plug in a connection with the connector receptacle.

Description

[0001] Citations of Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Chinese application No. 202210862311.3, filed on July 20, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to the technical field of electrical connection devices, and in particular to a miniature radio frequency (RF) connector plug, a processing technology for the plug, and a connector. Background Art

[0004] Radio frequency (RF) connectors are used to connect and disconnect electrical signals. Their structure primarily consists of an RF cable, a connector plug, a connector receptacle, and a circuit board. The RF cable connects to the connector plug to form the male end of the connector. The connector receptacle connects to the circuit board to form the female end of the connector. With the rise of 5G mobile networks, RF connectors, such as those used in the automotive industry and other sectors, are becoming increasingly widespread, and are increasingly moving towards lower costs, greater compactness, and greater automation.

[0005] Figure 1 and Figure 2 FIG. 4 shows exemplary configurations of two common micro RF connector plugs currently on the market. Figure 1 The connector plug shown in has an outer conductor that is processed using a stretch film, and when the outer conductor is processed, a fixing structure is required to fix the outer conductor, resulting in a high total processing cost. Figure 2 The connector plug shown in the [ ] has an outer conductor made of zinc alloy, resulting in relatively high material costs. Due to these limitations of existing configurations, automated production can be difficult. Furthermore, with the outer conductor according to the prior art, both the inner and outer walls of the outer conductor comprise smooth cavities. Consequently, these structures may separate after the plug is inserted into the receptacle. Furthermore, it can be difficult to determine whether the plug is in place and properly connected or seated.

[0006] In view of the above and other considerations, the existing configuration of such a plug and socket is easy to separate after being plugged together and is not conducive to the automated production of the connector plug. It is hoped to provide a miniature RF connector plug, a processing technology for the plug, and a connector. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the aforementioned technical issues and other problems and to provide further advantages and features, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a miniature RF connector plug, a process for manufacturing the plug, and a connector. Various non-limiting and non-exclusive objectives of the embodiments of the present disclosure are to prevent the plug and receptacle from easily separating after being plugged together and to facilitate automated production of the connector plug.

[0008] According to some embodiments, a miniature RF connector plug is provided. The miniature RF connector includes an inner conductor, an outer conductor, and an insulator for isolating the inner conductor from the outer conductor. The outer conductor includes an outer conductor ring. A plurality of pins extend radially outward from the bottom end of the outer conductor ring and may be arranged circumferentially on the bottom end. The inner conductor includes a center pin arranged axially along the outer conductor ring and an extension pin arranged axially along the outer conductor ring. The extension pin is configured to extend from the gap between two adjacent pins toward the outside of the outer conductor ring. The insulator of the miniature RF connector plug includes an outer ring, an inner ring, and a base connecting the outer and inner rings. The outer ring is coaxially arranged with the inner ring, with the outer edge of the base connected to the bottom end surface of the outer ring, and the inner edge of the base connected to the bottom end surface of the inner ring. The outer conductor ring is embedded between the outer and inner rings and is configured to restrict movement of the outer conductor. A first locking structure is provided on the inner wall of the outer conductor ring. A second locking structure is provided on the outer wall of the outer ring. The first and second locking structures are configured to lock the connector receptacle and the connector plug inserted therein.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the first locking structure is an annular first groove having a first sidewall, a first upper wall, and a first lower wall. The first sidewall is arranged parallel to the axis of the outer ring. The first upper wall is inclined upward and forms an obtuse angle with the first sidewall, and the first lower wall is inclined downward and forms an obtuse angle with the first sidewall.

[0010] According to some embodiments, the second locking structure is an annular second groove having a second sidewall, a second upper wall, and a second lower wall. The second sidewall is angled relative to the axis of the outer ring. The top of the second sidewall is tilted toward the inner side of the outer ring, and the second upper wall and the second lower wall are each arranged horizontally.

[0011] According to some embodiments, a specific gap exists between the outer ring and the inner ring. The bottom end surface of the outer conductor ring is embedded in the gap, and the pins extend radially relative to the base. An inwardly extending bump is arranged on the top end surface of the inner wall of the outer ring, and the top end surface of the outer conductor ring abuts the bottom surface of the bump.

[0012] According to some embodiments, an annular groove is provided on the inner side wall of the outer ring. A protrusion is provided on the outer side wall of the outer conductor ring, and the protrusion corresponds to the annular groove and is embedded in the annular groove.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the outer ring and the inner ring are provided with partitions, which are arranged in a radial direction of the outer ring.

[0014] According to some embodiments, a square hole is provided at the central axis of the inner ring. A center needle is disposed within the square hole. A truncated cone is provided at the central axis of the top surface of the inner ring. A through hole is provided at the center of the truncated cone, communicating with the square hole. The diameter of the through hole within the truncated cone is smaller than the side length of the square hole.

[0015] According to some embodiments, a cutout is provided on a side wall of the outer conductor ring, and the cutout is arranged parallel to an axial direction of the outer conductor ring and extends through an inner wall and an outer wall of the outer conductor ring.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the pin is connected to the outer conductor ring through a rounded portion, and an opening is formed at the position of the rounded portion.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the pins include four first pins and one second pin. The four first pins are evenly distributed in a circumferential direction of the outer conductor ring, and the second pin is arranged opposite to the extension pin. The opening is formed at the rounded connection portion where the first pins connect to the outer conductor ring.

[0018] According to some embodiments, a rounded portion is provided at a connection position between the center needle and the extension needle, and a stepped portion is formed at a bottom end of the center needle.

[0019] The present disclosure further provides a micro RF connector. The micro RF connector includes a plug and a receptacle, wherein the plug utilizes the aforementioned micro RF connector plug. The receptacle includes a housing, an outer conductor, and an inner conductor, arranged in sequence from the outside to the inside. The housing is an insulator, and one sidewall of the housing is provided with an external hook. An internal latch is provided at the bottom end of the outer conductor of the receptacle, and the inner conductor of the receptacle contacts and electrically connects with the inner conductor of the plug. The external latch engages with a second locking structure, and the internal latch engages with the first locking structure.

[0020] The present disclosure also provides a processing technology for a micro RF connector plug, which is applicable to the above-mentioned micro RF connector plug. The process includes: forming an inner conductor and an outer conductor by continuous stamping; placing the inner conductor stamped out on the strip into the lower mold of the injection mold; and placing the outer conductor stamped out on the strip into the injection mold. The inner conductor and the outer conductor are arranged opposite to each other, the center pin of the inner conductor is arranged at the central axis of the outer conductor, and the bottom surface of the inner conductor is flush with the bottom surface of the outer conductor. The process also includes: arranging the upper mold of the injection mold and injection molding an insulator, wherein the insulator and the inner and outer conductors are injection molded into an integral molded part.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the strip used to form the inner conductor includes a first positioning portion and a first stamping portion. The first positioning portion has multiple positioning holes evenly spaced. The inner conductor is formed by stamping the first stamping component. The first stamping portion includes the inner conductor and a first guard pin, with a first guard pin positioned between every two adjacent inner conductors. The inner conductor's extension pin is connected to the first positioning portion.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the strip used to form the outer conductor includes a second positioning portion and a second stamping portion. The second positioning portion has multiple positioning holes evenly spaced. The outer conductor is formed by stamping the second stamping component. The processed second stamping portion includes the outer conductor and second guard pins, with a second guard pin positioned between every two adjacent outer conductors. The second pins of the outer conductors are connected to the second positioning portion.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the spacing between the positioning holes on the first positioning portion is equal to the spacing between the positioning holes on the second positioning portion.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the first protection pin includes a horizontal base plate, a vertical plate vertically connected to the base plate, and a reinforcement plate arranged at the top end of the vertical plate. The reinforcement plate is arranged horizontally and extends toward the first positioning portion, and the length of the reinforcement plate is shorter than that of the base plate.

[0025] Advantageously, embodiments of the present disclosure provide advantages including, but not limited to, the following.

[0026] For example, in some embodiments, the connector plug according to the present disclosure is provided with a first locking structure on the inner wall of the outer conductor and a second locking structure on the outer wall of the insulator to achieve double locking. In addition, according to some embodiments, an annular groove can be provided on the inner wall of the insulator for locking with the outer conductor. After the connector plug is inserted into the socket, double locking is achieved by the first locking structure and the second locking structure. Advantageously, in some embodiments, the outer conductor and the insulator can be clamped by the annular groove so that the socket is not easily separated. According to some embodiments, the specific structure and / or shape of the first locking structure and the second locking structure can be defined, which can not only lock the socket while ensuring the strength of the insulator, but also facilitate pulling the plug out of the socket, thereby making it easy to use.

[0027] Advantageously, according to some embodiments, both the inner and outer conductors of the connector plug can be processed by continuous stamping. The processed inner and outer conductors can be positioned on a strip and positioned relative to one another in an injection mold. The insulator is injection molded, and the insulator, inner and outer conductors are injection molded into a single, integral molded part. Advantageously, the plug structure can be stable while eliminating the need for assembly, facilitating automated production and improving efficiency.

[0028] Furthermore, according to some embodiments, when the inner and outer conductors are processed, protective pins can be provided on the inner and outer conductor strips, which can improve the processing quality of the inner and outer conductors. Compared to prior art configurations, the scrap rate of the inner and outer conductors can be reduced by up to 80%. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a connector plug according to the prior art;

[0030] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of another connector plug according to the prior art;

[0031] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the external structure of a connector plug according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a connector plug according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 5 When observing along line AA Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the connector plug in FIG.

[0034] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an outer conductor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of an inner conductor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of an insulator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of an inner conductor strip according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0039] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of an outer conductor strip according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The technical aspects, solutions and advantages of the present disclosure will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the described embodiments are not all embodiments of the present disclosure, and other embodiments obvious to those skilled in the art are also intended to be covered by the present disclosure.

[0041] It should be noted that the directions or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," and "horizontal" are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are used only to facilitate the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure and to simplify the description. They do not indicate or imply that the devices or elements represented must have a specific position or must be constructed and operated in a specific position. Therefore, it should be understood that such directional language is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but is provided for the purpose of explanation and illustration.

[0042] refer to Figures 3 to 5 , shows a schematic diagram of a micro RF connector plug 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some non-limiting embodiments, the micro RF connector plug shown in this embodiment can be configured to be used with or operate in an automobile, farm equipment, robot, imaging device, etc. Figure 3 As shown in FIG, the micro RF connector plug 100 includes an inner conductor 1, an outer conductor 2, and an insulator 3 for isolating the inner conductor 1 from the outer conductor 2. Figures 4 and 5 As shown in FIG, the outer conductor 2 includes an outer conductor ring 201. A plurality of pins 202 extend radially outward from the bottom end of the outer conductor ring 201. The pins 202 may be arranged circumferentially around the bottom end of the outer conductor ring 201. The inner conductor 1 includes a center pin 101, which is arranged or oriented along the axial direction of the outer conductor ring 201. That is, the center pin 101 is centrally located within the outer conductor ring 201 and arranged along an axis passing through the center of the outer conductor ring 201. Extension pins 102 are arranged along the radial direction of the outer conductor ring 201 (e.g., extending radially outward from the axial direction). In other words, the extension pins 102 extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the center pin 101. The extension pins 102 may pass through the gap between two adjacent pins 202 of the outer conductor 2 or extend from the gap between two adjacent pins of the outer conductor toward the outside of the outer conductor ring 201.

[0043] Insulator 3 includes an outer ring 301, an inner ring 302, and a base 303 connecting outer ring 301 and inner ring 302. Outer ring 301 and inner ring 302 are coaxially arranged. The outer edge of base 303 of insulator 3 is connected to the bottom end surface of outer ring 301, and the inner edge of base 303 is connected to the bottom end surface of inner ring 302.

[0044] Outer conductor ring 201 is embedded between outer ring 301 and inner ring 302 of insulator 3. Thus, movement of outer conductor 2 is restricted. A first locking structure 203 is provided on the inner wall of outer conductor ring 201. A second locking structure 304 is provided on the outer wall of outer ring 301. First locking structure 203 and second locking structure 304 are used to lock the connector plug into the connector receptacle into which it is inserted.

[0045] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the inner conductor 1 and the outer conductor 2 can both be made of a copper alloy. The copper alloy can provide good mechanical and electrical properties. In addition, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the plug and socket of the connector can be locked by means of the first locking structure 203 and the second locking structure 304. Therefore, when the connector plug is inserted into the socket, positive feedback or mechanical feedback can notify the user that the plug is correctly connected or in place. This can prevent poor contact due to improper assembly. In addition, these locking structures 203, 304 can generate a higher fixing force or locking force after insertion, thereby preventing the connector socket from separating. Thus, advantageously, the embodiments of the connector described herein can be used in harsh environments.

[0046] As shown and according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first locking structure 203 is an annular first groove. Figure 4 As shown in FIG, the first groove is defined by a first side wall 2301, a first upper wall 2302, and a first lower wall 2303. The first side wall 2301 is arranged parallel to the axis of the outer ring 301. The first upper wall 2302 is inclined upward and forms an obtuse angle with the first side wall 2301. The first lower wall 2303 is inclined downward and forms an obtuse angle with the first side wall 2301.

[0047] Similarly, in this illustrative configuration, the second locking structure 304 is an annular second groove. The second groove is defined by a second sidewall 3401, a second upper wall 3402, and a second lower wall 3403. As shown, a specific angle exists between the second sidewall 3401 and the axis of the outer ring 301. That is, the second sidewall 3401 is arranged at an angle relative to the axis of the outer ring 301 (or relative to the axis passing through the outer conductor). Therefore, the second sidewall 3401 is not arranged parallel to or perpendicular to the axis passing through the outer ring 301 (or the axis passing through the outer conductor). The top end of the second sidewall 3401 is arranged to be inclined toward the inside of the outer ring 301. The second upper wall 3402 and the second lower wall 3403 are each arranged horizontally or perpendicular to the axis of the outer ring 301.

[0048] According to some embodiments, there is a specific gap (e.g., spacing, interval, etc.) between the outer ring 301 and the inner ring 302. The bottom end surface of the outer conductor ring 201 is embedded in the gap. The pins 202 extend radially relative to the base 303. The top end surface of the inner wall of the outer ring 301 has an inwardly extending protrusion 305, such as Figures 4 and 5 The top surface of the outer conductor ring 201 may abut against the bottom surface of the protrusion 305 .

[0049] An annular groove 306 is provided on the inner side wall of the outer ring 301 ( Figure 8 A protrusion is provided on the outer side wall of the outer conductor ring 201 , and the protrusion corresponds to the annular groove 306 . The protrusion is embedded in the annular groove 306 to form the first locking structure 203 .

[0050] According to some embodiments, the outer ring 301 and the inner ring 302 are provided with a spacer 307 ( Figure 8 ), and the partition 307 is arranged along the radial direction of the outer ring 301.

[0051] A square hole is provided at the central axis of the inner ring 302. The center pin 101 of the inner conductor 1 can be arranged in the square hole. A frustum 308 is provided at the central axis of the top surface of the inner ring 302. A through hole is formed in the center of the frustum 308, which is arranged to communicate with the square hole, and the diameter of the through hole in the frustum 308 is smaller than the side length of the square hole. Therefore, the center pin 101 can be installed in and pass through the square hole (shaped to hold the center pin 101 in place) and the through hole of the frustum 308. A plurality of optional grooves 111 can be provided on the top surface of the inner ring 302. According to some non-limiting embodiments, the depth of the grooves 111 formed on the top surface of the inner ring 302 is approximately 0.1 mm. The purpose of these grooves 111 may be to control glue overflow within the grooves during injection molding, thereby improving the molding quality of the top surface of the inner ring and reducing burrs. A chamfer 113 inclined toward the central axis is provided at the edge of the top surface of the inner ring, which helps to make the overflowing glue flow inward and be controlled in the groove.

[0052] like Figure 6 As shown in FIG, a notch 204 is provided on the side wall of outer conductor ring 201. The notch 204 is arranged or oriented parallel to the axial direction of outer conductor ring 201 and extends through both the inner and outer walls of outer conductor ring 201. A partition 307, disposed between outer ring 301 and inner ring 302, is embedded in the notch 204 of outer conductor ring 201. If both insulator 3 and outer conductor 2 were completely axially symmetrical components, outer conductor 2 would be susceptible to deflection and rotation during use, potentially leading to problems such as poor contact or pin misalignment. Therefore, the engagement between notch 204 and partition 307 prevents rotation between outer conductor 2 and insulator 3.

[0053] According to some embodiments, the pin 202 is connected to the outer conductor ring 201 through a rounded corner, and an opening 205 is formed at the position of the rounded corner. Figure 6 ). In this illustrative embodiment, the pins 202 are shown as four first pins 2201 and one second pin 2202. The four first pins 2201 are evenly arranged around the circumference of the outer conductor ring 201. The second pins 2202 are arranged opposite the extension pins 102, and they are respectively arranged on both sides of the outer conductor ring 201. That is, when assembled, the second pins 2202 and the extension pins 102 are arranged opposite to each other with respect to the central axis. The opening 205 is formed at the position of the rounded connection portion where the first pin 2201 is connected to the outer conductor ring 201. The opening is provided at the rounded portion connected to the first pin 2201 to facilitate rounded corner forming. That is, when the pin is bent as shown and described, the bending process of the pin can be improved and the dimensional stability can be increased.

[0054] refer to Figure 7 , shows a schematic diagram of the inner conductor 1. The inner conductor 1 includes a rounded portion provided at the connection point between the center pin 101 and the extension pin 102. A stepped portion 103 is formed at the bottom end of the center pin 101. As shown, the cross-section of the extension pin 102 is square (e.g., square, rectangular, etc.), the cross-section of the center pin 101 is circular, and the cross-section of the stepped portion 103 is square (e.g., square, rectangular, etc.). The structure of the stepped portion 103 may include square protrusions extending symmetrically on both sides of the center pin 101. The stepped portion 103 can be used to secure the inner conductor 1 inside the insulator 3. In other words, the shape of the stepped portion 103 can fit within the aforementioned through-hole (e.g., square hole and square through-hole).

[0055] Now refer to Figure 9 , shows a schematic diagram of a micro RF connector 500. Figure 9 As shown in FIG, a micro RF connector 500 includes a plug 501 and a receptacle 502. The plug 501 can be arranged in a manner similar to the micro RF connector plugs shown and described above. As shown, the receptacle 502 includes a housing 8, an outer conductor 9, and an inner conductor 10, arranged in order from the outside to the inside. The housing 8 of the receptacle 502 can be insulated or made of an insulating material. The housing 8 is provided with external hooks 801, such as those located at one or more locations on the inner sidewall of the housing 8. An internal latch 901 can be provided at the bottom end of the outer conductor 9 of the receptacle 502, and the inner conductor 10 of the receptacle can be arranged to contact and electrically connect with the inner conductor 1 of the plug 501. As shown, the external hook 801 engages with the second locking structure 304 of the plug 501, and the internal latch 901 engages with the first locking structure 203 (described above) of the outer conductor ring 201.

[0056] The embodiments of the present disclosure also relate to a processing technology for a micro RF connector plug, and the processing technology is applicable to the above-mentioned micro RF connector plug.

[0057] The process includes: forming a plurality of inner conductors 1 (for example, Figure 10 ) and the outer conductor 2 (e.g., as shown in Figure 11 (as shown in the figure). An inner conductor 1, stamped from a strip, is placed in the lower mold of an injection mold. An outer conductor 2, also stamped from the strip, is placed in the injection mold. The inner conductor 1 and outer conductor 2 are arranged opposite each other. The center pin 101 of the inner conductor 1 is positioned at the central axis of the outer conductor 2, and the bottom surface of the inner conductor 1 is flush with the bottom surface of the outer conductor 2. The upper mold of the injection mold is provided, and an insulator 3 is injection molded. The insulator 3, the inner conductor 1, and the outer conductor 2 are injection molded into a single integral molded part.

[0058] like Figure 10 As shown in , the strip material used to process the inner conductor 1 includes a first positioning portion 4 and a first stamping portion 510. A plurality of positioning holes 511 are evenly arranged on the first positioning portion 4. The inner conductor 1 is made by stamping the first stamping portion 510. The processed first stamping portion 510 includes the inner conductor 1 and the first protective pin 5. A first protective pin 5 is provided between every two adjacent inner conductors 1 along the first positioning portion 4. The extension pin 102 of the inner conductor 1 is connected to the first positioning portion 4. When the inner conductor 1 is processed, the first protective pin 5 prevents the inner conductor 1 from being deformed. Therefore, the processing accuracy of the inner conductor 1 can be improved. Therefore, the processing accuracy of the connector plug can be improved.

[0059] like Figure 11 As shown in the figure, the strip material used to process the outer conductor 2 includes a second positioning portion 6 and a second stamping portion 610. A plurality of positioning holes 611 are evenly arranged on the second positioning portion 6. The outer conductor 2 is formed by stamping the second stamping portion 610. The processed second stamping portion 610 includes the outer conductor 2 and the second protective pin 7. A second protective pin 7 is provided between every two adjacent outer conductors 2 along the second positioning portion 6. The second pin 2202 of each outer conductor 2 is connected to the second positioning portion 6. When the outer conductor 2 is processed, the second protective pin 7 makes the outer conductor 2 less likely to deform. Therefore, the processing accuracy of the outer conductor 2 can be improved, thereby improving the processing accuracy of the connector plug.

[0060] According to some embodiments, the spacing between the positioning holes 511 on the first positioning portion 4 is equal to the spacing between the positioning holes 611 on the second positioning portion 6 .

[0061] like Figure 10As shown in FIG, each first protection pin 5 includes a horizontal bottom plate 521, a vertical plate 522 vertically connected to the bottom plate 521, and a reinforcing plate 523 arranged at the top end of the vertical plate 522. The reinforcing plate 523 is arranged horizontally (i.e., parallel to the first positioning portion 4). The reinforcing plate 523 extends toward the first positioning portion 4, and the length of the reinforcing plate 523 is less than the length of the bottom plate 521. Figure 11 As illustratively shown in FIG, the second protection pin 7 extending from the second positioning portion 6 and being a part of the second positioning portion may have a substantially similar structure.

[0062] Because the connector plug's insulator, inner conductor, and outer conductor are integrally molded using injection molding, the connector plug of the present disclosure requires no subsequent or additional assembly. Furthermore, this assembly / manufacturing process allows the connector plug to be manufactured to a significantly smaller size (e.g., compared to existing configurations). For example, but not limited to, the outer diameter of the insulator can be approximately 3.88 mm. This size can expand the connector plug's range of applications. Furthermore, this structure and assembly process facilitate automated production, improving production efficiency and reducing production costs.

[0063] The miniature, high-frequency radio frequency (RF) connectors, sockets, components, and assembly methods described above can be used for a variety of purposes, applications, and industries. For example, but not limited to, the disclosed configurations can be used in the automotive industry for data transmission, communications, and the like. In some configurations, the connectors and related components disclosed herein can be used for cameras in automobiles. In some configurations, embodiments of the present disclosure can be used for data connectivity in automobiles. According to some embodiments, the disclosed configurations can be used in agricultural equipment and / or robotic equipment (e.g., imaging, sensor data transmission, etc.). In some embodiments, the connectors and other components disclosed herein can be used in wireless communication devices (e.g., 5G, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, etc.), such as modems. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed embodiments and their variations can be used in any RF connector application and, therefore, the disclosed embodiments are not intended to limit them to any particular or specific use and / or application.

[0064] The above description only includes embodiments of the present invention, and these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structure or equivalent process changes made using the contents of the present invention description and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, shall be covered by the scope of patent protection of the present invention.

[0065] As used herein, the terms "about" and "substantially" are intended to include the degree of error associated with the measurement of a particular quantity based on the equipment available at the time of filing the application. For example, "about" can include a range of ±8% or ±5% or ±2% of a given value. Similarly, "substantially" embodies the concept of imperfection or non-ideality, thereby allowing for acceptable deviations suitable for a given feature and being acceptable as understood by those skilled in the art. The terms "at least one" and "one or more" should be understood to include any integer greater than or equal to one, i.e., one, two, three, four, etc. The term "plurality" should be understood to include any integer greater than or equal to two, i.e., two, three, four, five, etc. The term "connected" can include indirect "connections" and direct "connections."

[0066] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well. It should also be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" when used in this specification specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts, and / or combinations thereof.

[0067] Although the present disclosure has been provided in detail with reference to only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Rather, the present disclosure may be modified to incorporate any number of variations, changes, substitutions, or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described but commensurate with the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, although various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it should be understood that embodiments of the present disclosure may include only some of the described aspects and features. Accordingly, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited by the foregoing description, but only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A miniature radio frequency (RF) connector plug, comprising: an outer conductor comprising an outer conductor ring having a bottom end and a plurality of pins circumferentially arranged on the bottom end of the outer conductor ring and extending radially outward, the outer conductor defining an axis passing through the outer conductor; an inner conductor arranged inside the outer conductor, the inner conductor comprising: a center pin arranged along the axis of the outer conductor; and an extension pin arranged in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the outer conductor, wherein the extension pin passes through a gap between two adjacent pins of the outer conductor and extends toward the outside of the outer conductor ring; and an insulator arranged to isolate the inner conductor from the outer conductor, the insulator comprising an outer ring, an inner ring, and a base connecting the outer ring and the inner ring, wherein the outer ring and the inner ring are coaxially arranged, the outer edge of the base is connected to the bottom end surface of the outer ring, and the inner edge of the base is connected to the bottom end surface of the inner ring, wherein the outer conductor ring is embedded between the outer ring and the inner ring of the insulator; a first locking structure, provided on the inner wall of the outer conductor ring; and The second locking structure is provided on the outer wall of the outer ring, The first locking structure and the second locking structure are configured to securely connect the connector plug to the connector socket and lock the connector plug in the connection with the connector socket.

2. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1, wherein: The first locking structure is a first annular groove, which includes a first side wall, a first upper wall and a first lower wall, wherein the first side wall is arranged parallel to the axis of the outer conductor, the first upper wall is inclined upward and forms an obtuse angle structure with the first side wall, and the first lower wall is inclined downward and forms an obtuse angle structure with the first side wall.

3. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 2, wherein: The second locking structure is a second annular groove, which includes a second side wall, a second upper wall and a second lower wall, wherein the second side wall is angled relative to the axis of the outer conductor, the top end of the second side wall is arranged to be inclined toward the inner side of the outer ring, and the second upper wall and the second lower wall are each arranged horizontally or perpendicular to the axis of the outer conductor.

4. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1 , wherein: A gap is defined between the outer ring and the inner ring of the insulator; The bottom end surface of the outer conductor ring is located in the gap; The plurality of pins extend radially outward relative to the base of the insulator; A protrusion extending inward is arranged on the top end surface of the inner wall of the outer ring, and The top end surface of the outer conductor ring abuts against the bottom surface of the protrusion.

5. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 4, further comprising: an annular groove defined on the inner sidewall of the outer ring; as well as A protrusion is provided on the outer side wall of the outer conductor ring and corresponds to the annular groove, wherein the protrusion is engaged with the annular groove.

6. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1 , further comprising: a square hole defined at a central axis of the inner ring, wherein the center needle is disposed within the square hole; and a truncated cone disposed at a position where the central axis passes through the top surface of the inner ring, the truncated cone including a through hole aligned with and communicating with the square hole, Wherein, the diameter of the through hole of the frustum is smaller than the side length of the square hole.

7. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1 , further comprising a cutout formed on a side wall of the outer conductor ring, wherein The cutouts are arranged parallel to the axis of the outer conductor and extend through both the inner and outer walls of the outer conductor ring.

8. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of pins are connected to the outer conductor ring through rounded corners, and openings are formed at positions of the rounded corners.

9. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 8, wherein: The plurality of pins include four first pins and one second pin, wherein the four first pins are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction of the outer conductor ring, the second pin is arranged to extend in a direction opposite to the extension pin, and the opening is formed at the position of the rounded connection portion where the first pin is connected to the outer conductor ring.

10. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1, wherein: The center pin and the extension pin are connected by a rounded portion, and a stepped portion is formed at a bottom end of the center pin.

11. A miniature RF connector comprising a socket and the plug according to claim 1, wherein: The socket comprises: case; an outer conductor; and inner conductor, wherein the housing, the outer conductor and the inner conductor are arranged in order from outside to inside, Wherein, the shell is an insulator, and one side wall of the shell is provided with an external hook; An internal lock is provided at the bottom end of the outer conductor of the socket, and The inner conductor of the socket is arranged to contact and electrically connect with the inner conductor of the plug; The external hook engages the second locking structure, and The internal lock engages the first locking structure.

12. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1, wherein: The connector plug is configured for connection between components on a vehicle.

13. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1, wherein: The connector plug is configured for connection between components on farm equipment.

14. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1, wherein: The connector plug is configured for connection between components on a robotic assembly.

15. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 1, wherein: The connector plug is configured for connection between components on the camera.

16. The micro RF connector plug according to claim 15, wherein: The camera is part of the car.

17. A process for manufacturing a micro RF connector plug, comprising: One or more inner conductors are formed along the inner conductor strip by continuous stamping; One or more outer conductors are formed along the outer conductor strip by continuous stamping; placing the inner conductor punched out from the inner conductor strip into a lower mold of an injection mold; placing the outer conductor punched out of the outer conductor strip into the injection mold, wherein the inner conductor and the outer conductor are arranged opposite each other, the center pin of the inner conductor is arranged at the center axis of the outer conductor, and the bottom surface of the inner conductor is arranged flush with the bottom surface of the outer conductor; and An insulator is injection molded, wherein the insulator is injection molded as an integral molded part with the inner conductor and the outer conductor.

18. The processing technology for the micro RF connector plug according to claim 17, wherein: The inner conductor strip material comprises: a first positioning portion, on which a plurality of positioning holes are evenly arranged; and First stamping part, Wherein, the process includes: processing one or more inner conductors by stamping the first stamping portion; The processed first stamping part includes a plurality of the inner conductors and a plurality of first protection pins, wherein a first protection pin is provided between every two adjacent inner conductors, and the extension pins of the inner conductors are connected to the first positioning part.

19. The processing technology for the micro RF connector plug according to claim 18, wherein: The outer conductor strip comprises: a second positioning portion, on which a plurality of positioning holes are evenly arranged; and Second stamping part, Wherein, the process includes: processing one or more outer conductors by stamping the second stamping portion; The processed second stamping portion includes a plurality of the outer conductors and a plurality of second protection pins, wherein a second protection pin is provided between every two adjacent outer conductors, and the second pins of the outer conductors are connected to the second positioning portion; and The spacing between the positioning holes on the first positioning portion is equal to the spacing between the positioning holes on the second positioning portion.

20. The processing technology for the micro RF connector plug according to claim 18, wherein: Each of the first protection pins comprises: Horizontal base plate; a vertical plate vertically connected to the bottom plate; and a horizontal reinforcing plate arranged at the top end of the vertical plate opposite to the horizontal bottom plate, The reinforcing plate extends toward the first positioning portion, and the length of the reinforcing plate is smaller than the length of the bottom plate.

21. A micro RF connector plug assembly, comprising: One or more inner conductors arranged along the inner conductor strip; One or more outer conductors arranged along the outer conductor strip, wherein the number of the inner conductors is equal to the number of the outer conductors; wherein the inner conductor and the outer conductor are arranged opposite to each other and a center pin of each inner conductor is arranged at a center axis of a corresponding outer conductor, and a bottom surface of the inner conductor is arranged flush with a bottom surface of the outer conductor; and An insulator is injection molded with the inner conductor and the outer conductor to form an integral molded part.

22. The micro RF connector plug assembly of claim 21, wherein: The inner conductor strip material comprises: a first positioning portion, on which a plurality of positioning holes are evenly arranged; and The first stamping portion includes a plurality of the inner conductors and a plurality of first protection pins, wherein a first protection pin is provided between every two adjacent inner conductors, and the extension pins of the inner conductors are connected to the first positioning portion.

23. The micro RF connector plug assembly of claim 22, wherein: The outer conductor strip comprises: a second positioning portion, on which a plurality of positioning holes are evenly arranged; and The second stamping portion includes a plurality of outer conductors and a plurality of second protection pins, wherein a second protection pin is provided between every two adjacent outer conductors, and the second pins of the outer conductors are connected to the second positioning portion.

24. The micro RF connector plug assembly of claim 23, wherein: The spacing between the positioning holes on the first positioning portion is equal to the spacing between the positioning holes on the second positioning portion.

25. The micro RF connector plug assembly of claim 21, wherein: Each of the first protection pins comprises: Horizontal base plate; a vertical plate vertically connected to the bottom plate; and a horizontal reinforcing plate arranged at the top end of the vertical plate opposite to the horizontal bottom plate, The reinforcing plate extends toward the first positioning portion, and the length of the reinforcing plate is smaller than the length of the bottom plate.

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