External conductor contact element, connector assembly and assembly method for a connector assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to an outer conductor contact element (8) for a connector assembly (1), comprising at least one retaining stop (15) which, in a state of mounting the outer conductor contact element (8) on a support sleeve (11), is able to engage behind a cable-side end face (12) of the support sleeve (11) facing away from a front, free end of the outer conductor contact element (8) along the longitudinal axis (L) of the connector assembly (1). It is provided that the retaining stop (15) in the outer conductor contact element (8) is formed by a connector-side edge of a material recess (17) in the outer conductor contact element (8) facing the front, free end of the outer conductor contact element (8). Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the retaining stop (15) in the outer conductor contact element (8) is formed by a separate stop element (20) attached to the inner wall (19) of the outer conductor contact element (8).Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the fixing stop (15) in the outer conductor contact element (8) is formed by an embossing (21) in the outer conductor contact element (8) in the unmounted state.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an external conductor contact element for a connector arrangement, comprising at least one fixing stop which is able to engage behind a cable-side end face of a support sleeve, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] The invention further relates to a connector arrangement comprising a support sleeve and an outer conductor contact element.

[0003] The invention further relates to an assembly method for a connector arrangement, wherein an outer conductor contact element is mounted on a support sleeve in such a way that a fixing stop of the outer conductor contact element engages behind a cable-side end face of the support sleeve, according to the preamble of claim 11.

[0004] A wide variety of electrical connectors are known from electrical engineering. Electrical connectors are known to transmit electrical supply signals and / or data signals to corresponding mating connectors. A connector or mating connector can be a plug, a panel-mount connector, a socket, a coupling, or an adapter. The terms "connector" and "mating connector" used within the scope of the invention are representative of all variants.

[0005] Especially for connectors used in the automotive industry and in vehicles, high demands are placed on their robustness and safety. A connector must sometimes withstand high stresses, such as mechanical loads. Ensuring safety is paramount, particularly for autonomous vehicle operation and driver assistance systems.

[0006] During autonomous vehicle operation or when using driver assistance systems, large amounts of data from multiple cameras, various sensors, and navigation sources must be combined and transmitted, usually in real time. Operating numerous devices, screens, and cameras therefore requires a high-performance infrastructure within the vehicle's electronics. Consequently, the demands placed on connectors and cable connections within a vehicle regarding the required data rate are now very high. At the same time, to save space and weight, it is important to design the connectors to be as compact as possible.

[0007] To mount a connector onto a cable, it is common practice to crimp the cable and connector together at the connection point. The crimping force affects the mechanical holding force between the cable and the connector. However, crimping inherently involves a corresponding deformation of the cable and / or the connector components. This deformation can ultimately have a detrimental effect on the electrical properties of the connector assembly. Therefore, a compromise must generally be made between sufficient holding force and good electrical characteristics. Such a compromise can particularly hinder the suitability of robust connector assemblies for high-frequency applications.

[0008] To improve this situation, a connector assembly comprising a connector and a cable is proposed in generic DE 10 2017 006 767 A1. In this assembly, a support sleeve is attached to a section of the cable exposed by the cable sheath. A recess is formed between a cable-side edge of the support sleeve and the stripping edge of the cable sheath remaining on the cable. For assembly of the connector, its outer conductor contact element is crimped onto the cable and support sleeve in such a way that the outer conductor contact element penetrates the recess between the support sleeve and the cable sheath. This provides a positive connection along the longitudinal axis of the connector assembly, in addition to a frictional connection. The connector assembly can thus exhibit increased holding force while maintaining good electrical properties.

[0009] In practice, however, it has been shown that the fastening principle proposed in DE 10 2017 006 767 A1 requires a certain minimum wall thickness of the support sleeve for reliable operation. Because the support sleeve, together with the cable sheath, forms the indentation of the cable, the wall thickness of the support sleeve defines the depth of the indentation. Due to the manufacturing process, the corresponding indentation of the formed conductor contact element consists of several bends, each with a specific bending radius. With a thin support sleeve wall, successive bends of the conductor contact element can merge into one another. This can negatively affect the holding force of the positive-locking connection between the conductor contact element and the cable pre-assembled with the support sleeve.

[0010] For further technical background information, please refer to the following publications.

[0011] EP 0 986 135 A1 relates to a method for assembling a connector onto an electrical cable. It proposes first sliding a support sleeve onto the cable sheath and crimping it in place. Next, an outer conductor shield braid is wrapped over the support sleeve. A further contact body is then mounted onto the pre-assembled cable. This contact body is then crimped onto the support sleeve and the outer conductor shield braid. Finally, the cable, prepared in this way, is inserted into the connector housing.

[0012] US 5,429,529 A relates to an electrical connector with an outer conductor contact element that is mounted on a pre-assembled electrical cable. Specifically, it proposes crimping a support sleeve onto an outer conductor braid and onto a cable jacket. After assembly in the housing, a sealing element is inserted between the cable and the housing.

[0013] EP 3 242 359 A1 also describes a mounting method for an outer conductor contact element on a pre-assembled electrical cable. For this purpose, a support sleeve is attached to the outer conductor braid of the cable, the cable braid is folded over the support sleeve, and then the outer conductor contact element is attached to the support sleeve and the outer conductor braid. The outer conductor contact element is pressed in an axial section such that the embossed features are able to engage behind a cable-side end face of the support sleeve.

[0014] In view of the prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide an external conductor contact element which in particular combines an improved holding force on a cable with advantageous electrical properties.

[0015] The present invention also aims to provide a connector arrangement that combines, in particular, an improved holding force of an outer conductor contact element on a cable with advantageous electrical properties.

[0016] Finally, it is also an object of the invention to provide an improved assembly method for a connector arrangement, in particular to increase the holding force of an outer conductor contact element on a cable.

[0017] The problem is solved for the outer conductor contact element by the features listed in claim 1. With regard to the connector arrangement, the problem is solved by the features of claim 6. With regard to the assembly method, the problem is solved by the features of claim 11.

[0018] The dependent claims and the features described below relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of the invention.

[0019] It is a provision for an external conductor contact element for a connector assembly.

[0020] The connector arrangement is described in more detail below and can in particular include an electrical connector (or individual connector components of the electrical connector) and an electrical cable on which the connector or the connector components of the connector are attached.

[0021] Preferably, the connector assembly or the connector of the connector assembly has, in addition to the outer conductor contact element, an inner conductor contact element, a support sleeve and optionally a housing assembly, as described below.

[0022] The outer conductor contact element can be mounted on the cable, in particular secured circumferentially (against twisting) and / or axially along the longitudinal axis of the connector assembly (against being pulled off the cable).

[0023] The outer conductor contact element can be formed in one piece or in multiple parts. Preferably, the outer conductor contact element is formed from at least one sheet metal part.

[0024] The outer conductor contact element can electrically and mechanically contact an outer conductor of the cable or at least be electrically connected to the outer conductor of the cable indirectly. The outer conductor contact element can be designed to electromagnetically shield internal connector components of the connector (for example, an inner conductor contact element) and / or to enable an electrical connection of the outer conductor of the cable with a corresponding outer conductor contact element of a mating connector.

[0025] The outer conductor contact element can have an interface at its front, free end for electrical and / or mechanical contact with a mating connector, in particular with a corresponding outer conductor contact element of a mating connector. The specific design of the interface can depend on the intended connector standard. The interface can, for example, have one or more spring tabs, preferably a so-called spring cage.

[0026] The outer conductor contact element can be designed to be mounted on a support sleeve and / or on an outer conductor of the cable and / or on a cable sheath of the cable, in particular to be press-fit, preferably crimp-fit.

[0027] The outer conductor of the cable can be, in particular, a braided cable shield made of interwoven individual wires. However, any type of outer conductor is generally possible.

[0028] According to the invention, the outer conductor contact element has at least one fixing stop which, in a state of the outer conductor contact element being mounted on a support sleeve, is able to engage behind a cable-side end face of the support sleeve facing away from a front, free end of the outer conductor contact element along the longitudinal axis of the connector arrangement.

[0029] The fixing stop, which preferably extends radially or largely orthogonally to the longitudinal axis, provides a positive locking connection for the outer conductor contact element in the axial direction. Particularly when the support sleeve is attached to the outer conductor of the cable in a known manner, this can provide sufficient holding force for the outer conductor contact element. If further connector components of the connector are connected to the outer conductor contact element, for example, a housing assembly of the connector, their holding force can also be improved.

[0030] In addition to the positive fit, a friction-fit connection between the outer conductor contact element and the support sleeve, the outer conductor of the cable, and / or the cable sheath can also be achieved by crimping, preferably by pressing. The existing positive fit may reduce the required crimping force, thereby minimizing or even completely preventing deformation of the support sleeve or cable. This can improve the electrical properties of the connector attached to the cable.

[0031] According to a first embodiment of the invention, the fixing stop in the outer conductor contact element is formed by a plug-side edge of a material recess incorporated into the outer conductor contact element, which faces the front, free end of the outer conductor contact element.

[0032] According to a second embodiment of the invention, the fixing stop in the outer conductor contact element is formed by a separate stop element attached to the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element before the outer conductor contact element is mounted.

[0033] According to a third variant of the invention, the fixing stop in the outer conductor contact element is formed by an embossing introduced into the outer conductor contact element in the unmounted state of the outer conductor contact element.

[0034] The three variants mentioned above represent alternative solutions to the unified problem of the invention. The three variants are also related to each other in that an advantageous fixing stop is provided as an edge in the outer conductor contact element, preferably before the outer conductor contact element is mounted.

[0035] In particular, if more than one fixing stop is provided, the variants according to the invention can be combined with each other as desired.

[0036] All three variants according to the invention share the advantage that a support surface for the support sleeve can be formed in the outer conductor contact element, preferably a support surface with an orthogonal end face (relative to the longitudinal axis of the connector assembly). This axial support on the support sleeve ensures optimal retention of the outer conductor contact element (and thus the connector) on the electrical cable. In contrast to the prior art, a high holding force can be provided even if the wall thickness of the support sleeve or the indentation between the support sleeve and the cable sheath is only shallow. Since the fixing stop is not formed solely by crimping in the outer conductor contact element, the number of bending radii can be reduced, and optionally, a fixing stop without any bending radii in the relevant section can even be provided.According to the invention, for example, particularly robust connectors for high-frequency technology can be provided, whose support sleeves have only a small wall thickness, which also allows the connectors to be made particularly small.

[0037] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the material recess in the outer conductor contact element is designed as a partially annular circumferential slot.

[0038] The partially annular circumferential slot can, for example, describe a circular arc with a central angle of 10° to 180°, preferably 20° to 120°, more preferably 45° to 90°.

[0039] Multiple fixing stops can also be provided by several material recesses distributed along the circumference of the outer conductor contact element, preferably arranged at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor contact element. For example, two, three, four, five, six, or even more partially annular slots can be provided.

[0040] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the material recess is introduced into the outer conductor contact element in such a way that the outer conductor contact element forms a tab attached on one side, wherein the free, plug-side edge of the tab forms the fixing stop.

[0041] For example, a U-shaped material recess can be provided to form the tab.

[0042] Preferably, the plug-side edge of the tab has a linear or straight profile in order to form a fixing stop that covers as much of the front surface as possible.

[0043] If it is intended to form several fixing stops in the outer conductor contact element, several tabs can also be formed along the circumference of the outer conductor contact element, preferably arranged at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor contact element. For example, two tabs, three tabs, four tabs, five tabs, six tabs or even more tabs can be provided.

[0044] According to the first variant according to the invention, the outer conductor contact element is formed adjacent to the plug-side edge of the material recess in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0045] In particular, the fixing stop can be designed in a particularly advantageous way by reshaping the outer conductor contact element in the area of ​​the plug-side edge of the slot or the tab in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0046] Preferably, the outer conductor contact element is simultaneously reshaped accordingly during the crimping process on the support sleeve, which is generally already planned. However, the outer conductor contact element can also be reshaped accordingly in the unmounted state, adjacent to the connector-side edge of the material recess in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0047] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the separate stop element is a sheet metal element, a metal web and / or a wire part.

[0048] The stop element and the outer conductor contact element are preferably multi-part. Preferably, the stop element is positively connected to the outer conductor contact element, for example by clinching. However, another joining method is also possible, such as a metallurgical joining method.

[0049] If multiple fixing stops are provided in the outer conductor contact element, several stop elements can be provided (each designed as a sheet metal element, a metal web, and / or a wire section). The stop elements can be arranged distributed along the circumference of the outer conductor contact element on the inner wall, preferably along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor contact element at the same axial position. For example, two, three, four, five, six, or even more stop elements can be provided.

[0050] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the embossing introduced into the outer conductor contact element is designed as a partially annular bridge or as a completely ring-shaped circumferential bridge, which extends from the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0051] Preferably, the web is only partially ring-shaped; however, a fully ring-shaped web is also possible. The partially ring-shaped web can, for example, describe a circular arc with a central angle of 10° to 180°, preferably 20° to 120°, and more preferably 45° to 90°.

[0052] Multiple fixing stops can also be provided by several embossings distributed along the circumference of the outer conductor contact element, preferably arranged at the same axial position along the longitudinal axis of the outer conductor contact element. For example, two, three, four, five, six, or even more partially annular circumferential ridges can be provided.

[0053] The invention also relates to a connector arrangement comprising a support sleeve attached to an outer conductor of an electrical cable and an outer conductor contact element mounted on the support sleeve, in particular an outer conductor contact element as described above and below.

[0054] It is preferably possible for the connector assembly to include the electrical cable. Thus, within the scope of the invention, the electrical cable can be considered part of the connector assembly. However, the electrical cable can also be independent of the connector assembly.

[0055] Advantageously, a connector assembly with an outer conductor contact element featuring an integrated retaining stop can be provided, particularly by means of a material recess or clearance and subsequent forming of the outer conductor contact element. This optimizes the retaining force of the connector on the cable.

[0056] The support sleeve preferably includes a retaining element, for example a flexible tab or several flexible tabs, to apply a radially inward force to the cable or the outer conductor of the cable in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector assembly. This prevents the support sleeve from slipping on the cable.

[0057] The support sleeve can be crimped onto the outer conductor of the cable.

[0058] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the outer conductor of the cable, in particular an outer conductor of the cable designed as a cable shield braid, is at least partially wrapped over the support sleeve.

[0059] In this way, an advantageous electrical and mechanical connection or contact between the outer conductor of the cable and the outer conductor contact element of the connector can be enabled.

[0060] In a particularly preferred embodiment, it may also be provided that the outer conductor of the cable, in particular the cable shield braid, is folded over the support sleeve in such a way that a front, free end of the outer conductor or the cable shield braid protrudes beyond a cable-side edge of the support sleeve.

[0061] This further improves the holding force of the outer conductor contact element on the cable, as the outer conductor or the cable shield braid can be clamped between the fixing stop and the cable-side end face of the support sleeve. Axial forces subsequently acting on the outer conductor contact element along the longitudinal axis of the cable can thus be advantageously dissipated via the outer conductor or the cable shield braid. In this way, the outer conductor contact element can be attached to the cable without requiring deformation of the outer conductor or the cable shield braid along its longitudinal axis.

[0062] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the outer conductor contact element is pressed, preferably crimped, onto the support sleeve.

[0063] The outer conductor contact element can be pressed radially and / or axially with the support sleeve.

[0064] The outer conductor contact element can additionally be pressed, preferably crimped, to the cable sheath of the cable, the outer conductor of the cable and / or to other cable components of the cable (for example, a cable foil or insulation of an inner conductor of the cable).

[0065] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the connector arrangement may include an inner conductor contact element attached to an inner conductor of the electrical cable. Preferably, the inner conductor contact element extends at least partially along the longitudinal axis through the outer conductor contact element.

[0066] Particularly preferably, the connector arrangement can be designed coaxially, wherein the inner conductor contact element runs coaxially through the outer conductor contact element.

[0067] In one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that the connector arrangement has an insulating element arranged between the inner conductor contact element and the outer conductor contact element.

[0068] In one embodiment of the invention, the connector assembly may also include a housing assembly, preferably a housing assembly made of plastic. The housing assembly may have a receptacle for receiving at least one outer conductor contact element. Locking means may be provided for securing the at least one outer conductor contact element.

[0069] The connector according to the invention can be used particularly advantageously within a vehicle, especially a motor vehicle. The term "vehicle" describes any means of transport, in particular vehicles on land, water or in the air, including spacecraft.

[0070] Potential areas of application include autonomous driving, driver assistance systems, navigation systems, infotainment systems, rear-seat entertainment systems, internet connections, and Wireless Gigabit (IEEE 802.11ad standard). Possible applications include high-resolution cameras, such as 4K and 8K cameras, sensors, onboard computers, high-resolution displays, high-resolution dashboards, 3D navigation devices, and mobile communication devices.

[0071] However, the connector according to the invention is suitable for any application within the entire field of electrical engineering and is not limited to use in automotive engineering.

[0072] The electrical connector and plug connection are not limited to a specific connector type, and the invention is particularly suitable for connectors and plug connections for high-frequency technology. For example, connectors or plug connections of the type PL, BNC, TNC, SMBA (FAKRA), SMA, SMB, SMS, SMC, SMP, BMS, HFM (FAKRA-Mini), H-MTD, BMK, Mini-Coax or MATE-AX can be used.

[0073] The invention also relates to an assembly method for a connector arrangement. It is provided that an outer conductor contact element is mounted on a support sleeve attached to an electrical cable in such a way that a fixing stop of the outer conductor contact element engages behind a cable-side end face of the support sleeve, facing away from a front, free end of the outer conductor contact element, along the longitudinal axis of the connector arrangement.

[0074] According to a first embodiment of the assembly method according to the invention, the fixing stop is formed in the outer conductor contact element by creating a material recess in the outer conductor contact element. Preferably, an edge of the material recess facing the front, free end of the outer conductor contact element, on the connector side, is formed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connector assembly. The outer conductor contact element is formed in the direction of the longitudinal axis adjacent to the connector-side edge of the material recess. Preferably, the connector-side edge of the material recess is formed during the crimping of the outer conductor contact element onto the support sleeve.

[0075] According to a second variant of the assembly method according to the invention (alternatively or additionally to the other variants), it is provided that the fixing stop is formed in the outer conductor contact element by attaching a separate stop element to the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element before the outer conductor contact element is mounted.

[0076] According to a third variant of the assembly method according to the invention (alternatively or additionally to the other variants), it is provided that the fixing stop is formed in the outer conductor contact element by embossing the outer conductor contact element in its unassembled state.

[0077] The common feature of the inventive variants of the assembly method is that the outer conductor contact element can be advantageously pre-processed or prepared and is preferably subsequently deformed by a forming process, preferably a crimping process, such that the deformed area of ​​the outer conductor contact element forms an axial, end-face support surface for the support sleeve. This allows the holding force of the outer conductor contact element, and thus of the entire connector, on the (pre-assembled) cable to be improved compared to the prior art.

[0078] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the outer conductor contact element is manufactured or has been manufactured by a stamping and bending process.

[0079] Preferably, the stop element is attached to the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element after the outer conductor contact element has been manufactured as part of the stamping and bending process and before the outer conductor contact element is pushed onto the (pre-assembled) cable for assembly.

[0080] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the material recess is introduced into the outer conductor contact element before the outer conductor contact element is mounted on the support sleeve, preferably during the stamping and bending process.

[0081] However, it may also be provided that the material recess is introduced into the outer conductor contact element at the same time as the mounting of the outer conductor contact element on the support sleeve, for example by means of a pressing tool with an integrated punching element.

[0082] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the separate stop element is attached to the inner wall of the outer conductor contact element by means of clinching (also known as "clinching").

[0083] Features described in connection with the external conductor contact element according to the invention can, of course, also be advantageously implemented for the connector arrangement and the assembly method – and vice versa. Furthermore, advantages already mentioned in connection with the external conductor contact element according to the invention can also be understood as relating to the connector arrangement and the assembly method – and vice versa.

[0084] The invention also relates to an external conductor contact element for a connector assembly, comprising at least one fixing stop which, in a state of mounting the external conductor contact element on a support sleeve, is able to engage behind a cable-side end face of the support sleeve facing away from a front, free end of the external conductor contact element along the longitudinal axis of the connector assembly, wherein the fixing stop is already incorporated into the external conductor contact element in the unmounted state of the external conductor contact element, or wherein the external conductor contact element is at least pre-machined in the unmounted state to form the fixing stop. The claims and the features described in this description relate to advantageous embodiments and variants in this respect.

[0085] It should also be noted that terms such as "comprehensive," "exhibiting," or "with" do not exclude other characteristics or steps. Furthermore, terms such as "a" or "the," which indicate a singular number of steps or characteristics, do not exclude a plurality of characteristics or steps—and vice versa.

[0086] In a purist embodiment of the invention, however, it may also be provided that the features introduced in the invention with the terms "comprising," "comprising," or "with" are exhaustively listed. Accordingly, one or more lists of features within the scope of the invention may be considered complete, for example, for each claim. The invention may, for instance, consist exclusively of the features mentioned in claim 1.

[0087] It should be noted that designations such as "first" or "second" etc. are primarily used for the purpose of distinguishing between the respective device or process features and are not necessarily intended to indicate that features are mutually dependent or related to each other.

[0088] Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the values ​​and parameters described herein include deviations or fluctuations of ±10% or less, preferably ±5% or less, more preferably ±1% or less, and most preferably ±0.1% or less of the respective named value or parameter, provided that such deviations are not excluded in the practical implementation of the invention. The specification of ranges by initial and final values ​​also includes all those values ​​and fractions that are encompassed by the respective named range, in particular the initial and final values ​​and a respective mean value.

[0089] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the drawing.

[0090] The figures each show preferred embodiments in which individual features of the present invention are combined with one another. Features of an embodiment can also be implemented independently of the other features of the same embodiment and can therefore be readily combined by a person skilled in the art to form further meaningful combinations and subcombinations with features of other embodiments.

[0091] In the figures, functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0092] They show schematically: Figure 1 shows a connector arrangement with an outer conductor contact element according to the prior art in a perspective view; Figure 2 shows a perspective exploded view of advantageous components of a connector arrangement according to the invention; Figure 3 shows a first embodiment of an outer conductor contact element according to the invention with a partially annular circumferential slot for forming a fixing stop in a side view; Figure 4 shows the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 3 in a top view; Figure 5 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 3 in an assembled state in a perspective view; Figure 6 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 3 in a partially assembled state in a partially cut-away side view; Figure 7 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 3in an assembled state in a partially cut-away side view; Figure 8 a second embodiment of an external conductor contact element according to the invention with a tab for forming a fixing stop in a top view; Figure 9 the external conductor contact element of the Figure 8 in a side view; Figure 10 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 8 in a partially assembled state in a partially cut-away side view; Figure 11 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 8 in an assembled state in a partially cut-away side view; Figure 12 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 8 in an assembled state in a further side view; Figure 13 a third embodiment of an external conductor contact element according to the invention with a stop element for forming a fixing stop in a top view; Figure 14 the external conductor contact element of the Figure 13in a first partially assembled state in a partially cut-away side view; Figure 15 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 13 in a second partially assembled state in a partially cut-away side view; Figure 16 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 13 in an assembled state in a partially cut-away side view; Figure 17 a fourth embodiment of an external conductor contact element according to the invention with an embossing for forming a fixing stop in a side view; Figure 18 the external conductor contact element of the Figure 17 in a cutaway side view; Figure 19 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 17 in a partially assembled state in a partially cut-away side view; and Figure 20 the outer conductor contact element of the Figure 17 in an assembled state in a partially cut-out side view.

[0093] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a connector arrangement 100 according to the prior art. The connector arrangement 100 comprises an electrical cable 2 and an electrical connector 3 mounted on the cable 2.

[0094] The electrical cable 2 is designed as a coaxial cable and comprises a cable sheath 4, an outer conductor running beneath the cable sheath 4, which is designed as a cable shield braid 5, optionally a cable foil running beneath the cable shield braid 5 (not shown in the figures), insulation or a dielectric 6, and an inner conductor 7 extending through the dielectric 6. The invention is described below for use with the same type of cable. In principle, however, the invention can be suitable for use with any type of cable, for example, also for use with cables that are not coaxial and / or that have multiple inner conductors 7.

[0095] The electrical connector 3 has several connector components, of which in Figure 1 Only the outer conductor contact element 8 is shown. Further connector components, which may optionally be provided within the connector arrangement 1 according to the invention, are explained below.

[0096] The outer conductor contact element 8 is mounted on the cable 2 and is preferably fixed circumferentially or radially (around the longitudinal axis L of the connector assembly 100) and axially (along the longitudinal axis L of the connector assembly 100). Since the outer conductor contact element 8 is generally connected to the other connector components, a high holding force of the outer conductor contact element 8 on the cable 2 can define the mechanical stability of the entire connector 3.

[0097] In the area of ​​the front, free end of the outer conductor contact element 8, the outer conductor contact element 8 has an interface 9 for contacting a corresponding outer conductor contact element of a mating connector (not shown). The interface 9 of the outer conductor contact element 8 is Figure 1 and in the external conductor contact elements 8 shown in the exemplary embodiments, each designed as a spring basket, but can in principle be designed arbitrarily.

[0098] The outer conductor contact element 8 is connected to the cable 2 at its cable-side end. In the prior art, the cable 2 is held in place by a tapered section 10. A support sleeve 11 is also provided in the connection area (in Figure 1(not visible), which is crimped onto the outer conductor or the cable shield braid 5 of the cable 2. Starting from a rear, cable-side end face 12, the support sleeve 11, together with the cable jacket 4, forms a recess 13 on the cable 2 into which the outer conductor contact element 8 is able to penetrate due to a forming process during assembly. This allows for a positive fit along the longitudinal axis L of the connector assembly 100, in addition to a frictional fit. The holding force provided by the positive fit is greater the deeper the recess 13 is. In particular, for recesses 13 with only a shallow depth, only a small holding force can be provided. This is an aspect that is improved according to the invention.

[0099] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows a perspective exploded view of some advantageous components of a connector arrangement according to the invention.

[0100] As part of an assembly process for the connector assembly 1, the electrical cable 2 can first be pre-assembled. For this purpose, for example, the cable 2 can first be cut to a defined length. Subsequently, the cable jacket 4 of the cable 2 can be stripped to a defined stripping length, thus exposing the outer conductor or the braided shield 5 of the cable 2. Furthermore, the inner conductor 7 of the cable 2 can be exposed from its insulation or from the dielectric 6. A correspondingly pre-processed cable section is in Figure 2 depicted.

[0101] An inner conductor contact element 14 can be attached to the inner conductor 7 of the cable 2, preferably by pressing or crimping.

[0102] During pre-assembly, the support sleeve 11 can also be attached to the outer conductor or to the cable shield braid 5 of the cable 2, preferably by crimping or pressing. The cable-side end face 12 of the support sleeve 11 can preferably be spaced apart from the cable jacket 4 of the cable 2 in order to form the indentation 13 (see, e.g., Figure 5 and Figure 6 Optionally, the outer conductor of cable 2 or the cable shield braid 5 can be folded back over the support sleeve 11, at least partially, preferably completely. However, this is not shown in the figures for the sake of clarity.

[0103] The outer conductor contact element 8 can then be mounted onto the pre-assembled cable 2. The outer conductor contact element 8 can be mounted on the support sleeve 11 in such a way that a fixing stop 15 of the outer conductor contact element 8 is able to engage behind the cable-side end face 12 of the support sleeve 11 along the longitudinal axis L of the connector assembly 1 (as will be described below).

[0104] The outer conductor contact element 8 is preferably pressed onto the support sleeve 11, preferably crimped.

[0105] The outer conductor contact element 8 can preferably be manufactured by a stamping and bending process before being slid onto or mounted on the pre-assembled cable 2.

[0106] After mounting the outer conductor contact element 8 on the pre-assembled cable 2, the outer conductor contact element 8 can optionally be inserted into a receptacle of a housing assembly 16 and fixed in the receptacle, for example by snapping it into place.

[0107] Four advantageous embodiments of the invention are described below. It should be emphasized that the various variants for forming a fixing stop 15 can, in principle, be combined in any way, particularly if more than one fixing stop 15 is provided in the outer conductor contact element 8.

[0108] The Figures 3 to 7 Figure 8 shows a first embodiment of an external conductor contact element according to the invention. Figures 3 and 4 The figures show a section of the outer conductor contact element 8 in a single view. Figures 5 to 7 The figures show the outer conductor contact element 8 in states that are partially or fully mounted on the cable 2.

[0109] In the first embodiment, the fixing stop 15 of the outer conductor contact element 8 is formed by a plug-side edge of a material recess 17 formed in the outer conductor contact element 8, facing the front, free end of the outer conductor contact element 8. The material recess 17 is located in the Figures 3 to 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the slot is formed as a partially annular circumferential slot. The material recess 17 or the slot was already introduced into the outer conductor contact element 8 before its assembly, preferably during the stamping and bending process.

[0110] The fixing stop 15 can be reliably formed by the plug-side edge of the material recess 17 and can provide a high holding force even if the wall thickness of the support sleeve 11 is only small.

[0111] It may be provided that the plug-side edge of the material recess 17 or of the slot is formed in the direction of the longitudinal axis L of the connector arrangement 1 in order to form the fixing stop 15 (cf. Figure 6 and 7 The forming process can advantageously take place during the pressing of the outer conductor contact element 8 onto the support sleeve 11.

[0112] The Figures 8 to 12 show a second embodiment of the external conductor contact element 8 according to the invention, wherein the Figure 8 and 9 a section of the outer conductor contact element 8 in a single view and the Figures 10 to 12 the outer conductor contact element 8 in a partially assembled state ( Figure 10 ) and in an assembled state ( Figures 11 and 12 ) on the pre-assembled cable 2.

[0113] In the second embodiment, the fixing stop 15 is also formed by a material recess 17 incorporated into the outer conductor contact element 8. However, the material recess 17 is incorporated into the outer conductor contact element 8 in such a way that the outer conductor contact element 8 forms a tab 18 attached on one side, with the free, plug-side edge of the tab 18 forming the fixing stop 15.

[0114] For example, by reshaping the outer conductor contact element 8 during assembly, the fixing stop 15 can finally be formed, which is able to secure the outer conductor contact element 8 positively along the longitudinal axis L of the outer conductor contact element 8 or the connector arrangement 1.

[0115] The Figures 13 to 16 show a third embodiment of the external conductor contact element 8 according to the invention. Figure 13 shows a section of the outer conductor contact element 8 in a single view. Figure 14 and15 The outer conductor contact element 8 is shown during the progressive assembly or during the crimping process on the support sleeve 11. Figure 16 shows the outer conductor contact element 8 in its assembled state.

[0116] In contrast to the first two embodiments, the fixing stop 15 in the third embodiment is not formed by a material recess 17, but by a separate stop element 20 attached to the inner wall 19 of the outer conductor contact element 8. The stop element 20 can be attached to the inner wall 19 of the outer conductor contact element 8, for example, by clinching or by another method, preferably by positive locking. This is done while the outer conductor contact element 8 is still unassembled or before it is assembled.

[0117] In the Figures 13 to 16In the illustrated embodiment, the separate stop element 20 is designed as a sheet metal element. However, the stop element 20 can also be designed as a wire section or as another type of stop element 20.

[0118] Finally, the Figures 17 to 20 a fourth embodiment of the external conductor contact element 8 according to the invention. Figures 17 and 18 show a section of the outer conductor contact element 8 in a single view. Figure 19 shows the outer conductor contact element 8 in a partially assembled state on the pre-assembled cable 2; Figure 20 Figure 8 shows the outer conductor contact element 8 in a mounted state.

[0119] In the fourth embodiment, two fixing stops 15 are formed in the outer conductor contact element 8 by indentations 21 introduced into the outer conductor contact element 8 in its unassembled state. Preferably, the indentations 21 are introduced into the outer conductor contact element 8 during the stamping and bending process. The indentations 21 are designed as partially annular ridges in the outer conductor contact element 8. In principle, any number of indentations 21 can be provided, but for example, only a single indentation 21 is also possible. It is also possible to provide an indentation that forms a completely annular ridge.

[0120] As mentioned at the outset, any number of fixing stops 15 can, in principle, be provided in the outer conductor contact element 8. By way of example, two partially annular webs are described in the fourth embodiment to form two fixing stops 15. In principle, each of the shown fixing stops 15 can be present multiple times in each embodiment, and combinations of different types of fixing stops 15 are also possible within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. Outer conductor contact element (8) for a plug connector arrangement (1), comprising at least one fixing stop (15) which, when the outer conductor contact element (8) is in an assembled state on a support sleeve (11), is able to engage behind a cable-side end face (12) of the support sleeve (11) along the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug connector arrangement (1), said cable-side end face being remote from a front, free end of the outer conductor contact element (8). characterized in that the fixing stop (15) is formed in the outer conductor contact element (8) a) by means of a male connector-side edge of a material cut-out (17) that is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8), said male connector-side edge facing the front, free end of the outer conductor contact element (8), wherein the outer conductor contact element (8) is reshaped adjacent to the male connector-side edge of the material cut-out (17) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L); or b) prior to the outer conductor contact element (8) being assembled, by means of a separate stop element (20) that is fastened to the inner wall (19) of the outer conductor contact element (8); or c) by means of a stamped shaping (21) that is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8) when the outer conductor contact element (8) is in the unassembled state.

2. Outer conductor contact element (8) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the material cut-out (17) is formed in the outer conductor contact element (8) as an in part annular circumferential slit.

3. Outer conductor contact element (8) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the material cut-out (17) is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8) in such a manner that the outer conductor contact element (8) forms a tab (18) that is connected on one side, wherein the free, male connector-side edge of the tab (18) forms the fixing stop (15).

4. Outer conductor contact element (8) according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the separate stop element (20) is a sheet metal element or a wire part.

5. Outer conductor contact element (8) according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the stamped shaping (21) that is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8) is formed as an in part annular connecting piece that extends starting from the inner wall (19) of the outer conductor contact element (8) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L).

6. Plug connector arrangement (1), comprising an electrical cable (2), a support sleeve (11) that is fastened to an outer conductor (5) of the electrical cable (2), and an outer conductor contact element (8) according to one of claims 1 to 5 which is assembled on the support sleeve (11).

7. Plug connector arrangement (1) according to Claim 6, characterized in that the outer conductor (5) of the cable (2) is folded back at least in sections over the support sleeve (11).

8. Plug connector arrangement (1) according to Claim 7, characterized in that the outer conductor (5) of the cable (2) is folded back over the support sleeve (11) in such a manner that a front, free end of the outer conductor (5) protrudes beyond a cable-side edge of the support sleeve (11).

9. Plug connector arrangement (1) according to one of Claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the outer conductor contact element (8) is pressed, preferably crimped, onto the support sleeve (11).

10. Plug connector arrangement (1) according to one of Claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the plug connector arrangement (1) comprises an inner conductor contact element (14) that is fastened to an inner conductor (7) of the electrical cable (2), wherein the inner conductor contact element (14) extends at least in sections along the longitudinal axis (L) through the outer conductor contact element (8).

11. Assembly method for a plug connector arrangement (1), according to which an outer conductor contact element (8) is assembled on a support sleeve (11), which is fastened to an electrical cable (2), in such a manner that a fixing stop (15) of the outer conductor contact element (8) engages behind a cable-side end face (12) of the support sleeve (11) along the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug connector arrangement (1), said cable-side end face being remote from the front, free end of the outer conductor contact element (8). characterized in that the fixing stop (15) is formed in the outer conductor contact element (8) in that a) a material cut-out (17) Is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8) and a male connector-side edge of the material cut-out (17) is reshaped in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the plug connector arrangement (1), said male connector-side edge facing the front, free end of the outer conductor contact element (8), wherein the outer conductor contact element (8) is reshaped adjacent to the male connector-side edge of the material cut-out (17) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L); or b) prior to the outer conductor contact element (8) being assembled, a separate stop element (20) is fastened to the inner wall (19) of the outer conductor contact element (8); or c) when the outer conductor contact element (8) is in the unassembled state, a stamped shaping (21) is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8).

12. Assembly method according to Claim 11, characterized in that the outer conductor contact element (8) is produced by means of a stamping-bending process.

13. Assembly method according to Claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the material cut-out (17) is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8) prior to the outer conductor contact element (8) being assembled on the support sleeve (11), preferably is provided in the outer conductor contact element (8) during the stamping-bending process.

14. Assembly method according to any one of Claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the separate stop element (20) is fastened to the inner wall (19) of the outer conductor contact element (8) by means of a clinching process.

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