Electrical connector and electrical connection assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical connector (2) comprising an insulating part (14) and at least one pair of inner conductor contact elements (15) for differential signal transmission. The pair of inner conductor contact elements (15) comprises a first inner conductor contact element (16) and a second inner conductor contact element (17), which extend through the insulating part (14) from a first end (18) to a second end (19) of the insulating part (14). The inner conductor contact elements (16, 17) have a contact section (20) at the first end (18) of the insulating part (14) for contacting an inner conductor of a corresponding mating connector, and a press-fit pin (21) at the second end (19) of the insulating part (14) for pressing into a metallized recess (11) of an electrical assembly (3).The inner conductor contact elements (16, 17) are each provided with exactly one support shoulder (23) through which an insertion force required to press the insertion pin (21) into the metallized recess (11) can be applied. The support shoulder (23) is formed along the central axis (M) of the inner conductor contact element (16, 17) between the contact section (20) and the insertion pin (21). The inner conductor contact elements (16, 17) also each have a support surface (24) facing away from the support shoulder (23), by means of which the inner conductor contact element (16, 17) is supported in the insulating part (14).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an electrical connector comprising an insulating part and at least one pair of inner conductor contact elements for differential signal transmission, wherein the pair of inner conductor contact elements comprises a first inner conductor contact element and a second inner conductor contact element extending from a first end of the insulating part to a second end of the insulating part through the insulating part, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] The invention also relates to an electrical connection arrangement comprising an electrical connector and an electrical assembly, in particular an electrical circuit board.

[0003] Various electrical connectors are known from electrical engineering. Electrical connectors are known to transmit electrical supply signals and / or data signals to corresponding mating electrical connectors. A connector or mating connector can be, in particular, a plug, a PCB connector, a panel-mount connector, a socket, a coupling, or an adapter. The terms "connector" and "mother connector," as used in the context of this invention, are representative of all variants.

[0004] Particularly high demands are placed on the robustness and safety of connectors for the automotive industry and for vehicles. A connector must withstand sometimes high stresses, such as mechanical loads, and remain reliably closed so that the electrical connection is not unintentionally interrupted, for example, during vehicle operation. Ensuring safety is paramount, especially for autonomous vehicle operation and driver assistance systems.

[0005] 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. Furthermore, to save space and weight, it is important to design the connectors to be as compact as possible.

[0006] Another requirement for connectors in the automotive industry is that they should be economically producible in high quantities and easy and reliable to assemble.

[0007] For transmitting high-rate data, an electrical connector often features a differential inner conductor contact pair. The quality of the signal transmission depends significantly on the contact resistance between the inner conductor contact elements and an electrical assembly connected to the connector, as well as on the matching of the characteristic impedance within the electrical connector. When connecting to the electrical assembly, especially a printed circuit board, the connector's suitability for mass production should also be considered, and the effort required to mount the connector to the electrical assembly should be minimized.

[0008] In practice, the electrical and mechanical contact between the inner conductor contact elements of the electrical connector and the electrical assembly is often achieved via a so-called interference fit or "press fit." For this purpose, press-fit pins are pressed into corresponding metallized recesses in the electrical assembly under a specific pressure. This creates a cold weld, resulting in a metallurgical bond between the press-fit pins and the recesses.

[0009] To ensure centered insertion and prevent cracking and breakage in the electrical assembly, the insertion pressure on each insertion pin should be as symmetrical as possible. In practice, the insertion pins are designed to have two opposing support shoulders to distribute the insertion force evenly.

[0010] It has been shown that, in particular, the directly opposing support shoulders of two inner conductor contact elements of a common inner conductor contact element pair have a significant capacitive influence on the characteristic impedance. This can reduce the suitability of the connector for transmitting particularly high-frequency electrical signals.

[0011] For technical background information, please refer to the following publications.

[0012] DE 10 2017 215 515 A1 relates to a contact element for forming an electrical connection between a circuit carrier in a control unit and a line in a connector, comprising a first subsection having a press-fit section for pressing into an opening of the circuit carrier, with at least one press-fit shoulder arranged at a distance from the press-fit section for applying a press-fit force directed in the direction of a first longitudinal axis of the first subsection, and with a second subsection having a second longitudinal axis for contacting the line, wherein the contact element is designed as a stamping element.

[0013] DE 10 2012 218 433 A1 relates to a contact arrangement and a contact element for such a contact arrangement, wherein the contact element has a press-fit section arranged at a first longitudinal end, which is designed to be pressed into the printed circuit board. Furthermore, the contact element has a contact section arranged at a second longitudinal end of the contact element opposite the first longitudinal end. In particular, the contact arrangement also has exactly one shoulder section, which is arranged between the contact section and the press-fit section, projects laterally from the contact section, and is designed to introduce a press-fit force into the press-fit section.

[0014] EP 3 618 194 A1 discloses an electrical connector according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0015] In view of the known state of the art, the object of the present invention is therefore to provide an electrical connector suitable for transmitting signals at high data rates, and preferably one that can be manufactured economically in mass production and is easy to assemble.

[0016] The present invention also aims to provide an improved electrical connection arrangement that is preferably advantageously suited for use in high-frequency technology.

[0017] The problem is solved for the electrical connector with the features listed in claim 1. With regard to the electrical connection arrangement, the problem is solved by the features of claim 13.

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

[0019] An electrical connector is provided, comprising an insulating part or dielectric and at least one pair of inner conductor contact elements for differential signal transmission. The inner conductor contact element pair comprises a first inner conductor contact element and a second inner conductor contact element. The inner conductor contact elements extend from a first end of the insulating part to a second end of the insulating part through the insulating part. At the first end of the insulating part, the inner conductor contact elements have a contact section for contacting an inner conductor of a corresponding mating connector, and at the second end of the insulating part, they have a press-fit pin for pressing (particularly according to a so-called "interference fit") into a metallized recess of an electrical assembly.

[0020] The first end of the insulating element can be located, in particular, at the "front" end of the insulating element or at the front end of the electrical connector fitted with the insulating element. The second end of the insulating element can be located, in particular, at the "rear" end of the insulating element or at the rear end of the electrical connector fitted with the insulating element. The two ends can preferably be arranged at opposite ends (along the longitudinal or central axis) of the insulating element or of the electrical connector fitted with the insulating element.

[0021] The proposed press-fit technique is particularly well-known as a connection technology in the field of printed circuit boards and has proven effective for creating solderless electrical connections. In this technique, the outer diameter of the press-fit pins is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the metallized recesses. The resulting "over-compression" during the pressing process can be absorbed by deformation in the recess or in the press-fit pin itself. The resulting force preferably creates a metallurgical, cold-welded, or gas-tight connection.

[0022] Using an interference fit to connect the electrical connector to the electrical assembly can be advantageous, as it eliminates thermal stress on the components involved. Furthermore, press-fit connections can be manufactured very easily and quickly. Additionally, the gas-tight connection effectively counteracts aging and corrosion of the connector.

[0023] The insulating part is preferably formed in one piece, but can optionally also be formed in multiple parts. The insulating part may, for example, optionally include seals and / or fastening elements, such as snap-in elements.

[0024] Preferably, the insulating part is made exclusively of an electrically insulating or dielectric material. However, the insulating part can also include electrically conductive components, such as connecting elements for linking the connector to an electrical circuit board or to a corresponding mating connector, for example, spring tabs, screw elements, and / or locking elements.

[0025] The insulating part can be made partially, substantially, or preferably entirely of a plastic.

[0026] According to the invention, each inner conductor contact element has exactly one support shoulder through which an insertion force required to press the insertion pin into the metallized recess can be applied (directly or indirectly, preferably from a suitable assembly tool). The support shoulder is formed along the central axis of the inner conductor contact element between the contact section and the insertion pin. The inner conductor contact elements also have a support surface facing away from the support shoulder, by which the inner conductor contact element is supported in the insulating part.

[0027] The support shoulder preferably extends orthogonally to the central axis of the inner conductor contact element or along an orthogonal axis to the central axis of the inner conductor contact element. However, the support shoulder may also extend along an angle relative to the central axis that deviates from 90°.

[0028] The proposed inner conductor contact element is preferably designed asymmetrically.

[0029] By having each of the contact elements of the common inner conductor contact element pair have only a single support shoulder according to the invention, the capacitance input is advantageously reduced, which makes the electrical connector suitable for transmitting signals with a particularly high data rate.

[0030] In order to press the respective inner conductor contact element symmetrically into the metallized recess of the electrical assembly despite the shoulder being only on one side or despite its asymmetrical design, the support surface facing away from the support shoulder can advantageously serve to support the inner conductor contact element in the insulating part.

[0031] Preferably, the support surface is arranged directly opposite the support shoulder along the central axis of the inner conductor contact element. The support surface preferably extends over a larger axial section along the central axis of the inner conductor contact element than the support shoulder. This further improves the guidance of the inner conductor contact element within the insulating part and provides particularly good support for the inner conductor contact element.

[0032] The proposed electrical connector can be manufactured in a material-saving manner and therefore, not least, in a particularly economical way - while also being easy to assemble.

[0033] In a further development of the invention, the electrical connector may include an external conductor assembly. The external conductor assembly may comprise a first interface for the electrical and mechanical contacting of an external conductor of the corresponding mating electrical connector and a second interface for the electrical and mechanical contacting of the electrical assembly itself. The insulating element is preferably accommodated within the external conductor assembly and positioned with its first end in the first interface and with its second end in the second interface (or aligned with its first end towards the first interface and with its second end towards the second interface).

[0034] The external conductor assembly is preferably designed as a single piece, but may also be designed as a multi-piece assembly if necessary.

[0035] The external conductor assembly can optionally have a spring basket adjacent to the first interface for connection to the external conductor of a corresponding mating connector.

[0036] The outer conductor assembly is preferably made entirely of an electrically conductive material. However, the outer conductor assembly can also include electrically insulating components, such as seals and / or locking elements made of plastic. The outer conductor assembly is preferably designed to electromagnetically shield the connector components of the electrical connector. The outer conductor assembly is also preferably designed to provide an impedance-controlled electrical connection between the electrical assembly and the mating connector.

[0037] The outer conductor assembly can be made partially, substantially or preferably completely from a metal, preferably a metal sheet.

[0038] The outer conductor assembly is preferably designed in a sleeve shape to enclose electromagnetically shielded connector components of the electrical connector, in particular the inner conductor contact elements of a common inner conductor contact element pair.

[0039] The outer conductor assembly can have a straight, curved or angled path, in particular also a right-angled path for use in an angled connector.

[0040] For contacting the electrical assembly, the second interface of the outer conductor assembly can have multiple contact elements. In particular, the contact elements, like the inner conductor contact elements, can be designed as press-fit pins (for clarity, the press-fit pins of the outer conductor assembly are hereinafter also referred to as "press-fit contacts") for interference fitting in the metallized recesses of the electrical assembly. Alternatively or additionally, the contact elements can, for example, be designed as spring-loaded contact elements for insertion into the metallized recesses of the electrical assembly. Most preferably, a first group of contact elements can be designed as press-fit contacts and a second group as spring-loaded contact elements. In this way, the number orThe density of contact elements can be advantageously increased without risking assembly-related damage or breakage of the electrical assembly, such as a printed circuit board. The increased density of contact elements, or the reduction of the minimum distance between them, ultimately enhances the shielding effectiveness of the outer conductor assembly and reduces the contact resistance, thus enabling the use of an electrical connector for transmitting signals at even higher frequencies.

[0041] The electrical connector can also have multiple outer conductor assemblies, for example, two or more, four or more, or eight or more. Preferably, each outer conductor assembly electromagnetically shields exactly two inner conductor contact elements or one pair of inner conductor contact elements.

[0042] The outer diameters of the press-fit pins of the inner conductor contact elements and / or the press-fit contacts of the outer conductor assembly are preferably larger than the inner diameters of the corresponding metallized recesses of the electrical assembly. The resulting over-compression during the press-fit process can then be accommodated by the press-fit pin or the press-fit contact and / or the metallized recess.

[0043] The press-fit pins of the inner conductor contact elements and / or the press-fit contacts of the outer conductor assembly may have an insertion section at their free ends, the outer diameter of which is smaller than the inner diameter of the metallized recesses. The cross-section of the press-fit pin or press-fit contact may be designed to widen from this insertion section. This can facilitate the insertion of the press-fit pin or press-fit contact. Furthermore, this allows the insertion pressure required to press the press-fit pin or press-fit contact into the recess to increase steadily during the insertion process, which can further reduce the mechanical stress on the components involved.

[0044] In one embodiment of the invention, the press-fit pins of the inner conductor contact elements and / or the press-fit contacts of the outer conductor assembly may have an elastic deformation zone at least along a section of their longitudinal axis. The deformation zone is preferably formed by a central material recess. The press-fit pins or press-fit contacts may, in particular, have an elongated material recess or a slot or groove oriented along the longitudinal axis of the press-fit pin or press-fit contact. Several material recesses may also be provided, preferably distributed along the longitudinal axis of the respective press-fit pin or press-fit contact. However, the press-fit pin or press-fit contact may also be made of solid material.

[0045] In one embodiment of the invention, the outer conductor assembly can be formed in one piece, preferably from a stamped and bent part. The outer conductor assembly can, in particular, be formed in one piece with its contact elements. However, it is also possible for the outer conductor assembly and the contact elements to be formed in multiple parts. Manufacturing the outer conductor assembly in one piece from a sheet of metal can be particularly well suited for mass production.

[0046] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the outer conductor assembly, in particular the contact elements, and / or the inner conductor contact elements are made of aluminium bronze.

[0047] The outer conductor assembly and / or the inner conductor contact elements can be made of any metal or metal alloy (even different metals or metal alloys). For example, the outer conductor assembly and / or the inner conductor contact elements can be made of brass, bronze, and / or beryllium copper. However, the inventors have recognized that aluminum bronze can be particularly suitable for a good connection between the electrical connector and the electrical assembly.

[0048] The surface of the outer conductor assembly and / or the inner conductor contact elements can be bare, nickel-plated, tin-plated, gold-plated and / or palladium-plated.

[0049] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the electrical connector has an insulating housing assembly with a mechanical interface for connecting the electrical connector to the corresponding mating connector.

[0050] Preferably, the outer conductor assembly is received in the housing assembly (particularly preferably by positive locking and / or friction locking) and positioned with its first interface at the mechanical interface. However, a reverse arrangement is also possible, whereby the housing assembly is received in the outer conductor assembly, preferably by positive locking and / or friction locking.

[0051] The mechanical interface of the housing assembly may include means for mechanical coding, in particular to ensure correct alignment of the connector and mating connector and / or to ensure that only approved mating connectors can be mechanically connected to the connector. The mechanical interface may include locking devices for locking between the connector and the mating connector. The mechanical interface may include one or more seals.

[0052] It may be provided that the outer conductor assembly protrudes from the housing assembly at a second (rear) end opposite the mechanical interface. This allows for a particularly simple mechanical and / or electrical connection to the electrical assembly (e.g., a cable, a device housing, or an electrical circuit board).

[0053] The electrically insulating housing assembly is preferably a single piece, but can optionally be made of multiple parts. The housing assembly may, for example, optionally include seals and / or fastening elements.

[0054] Preferably, the housing assembly is made exclusively of an electrically insulating material. However, the housing assembly can also include electrically conductive components, such as connecting elements for linking the connector to an electrical circuit board or to a corresponding mating connector, for example, spring tabs, screw elements, and / or locking elements.

[0055] The housing assembly can be made partially, substantially, or preferably entirely of a plastic material.

[0056] The outer conductor assembly can optionally have at least one mounting tab that can be bent from a neutral state to a fixed position, in order to secure the outer conductor assembly to the housing assembly during connector assembly. The proposed mounting allows for a substantial undercut between the housing assembly and the outer conductor assembly. This secures the housing assembly to the outer conductor assembly to a significant degree (or vice versa), preferably preventing it from being pulled forward or against the insertion direction of a corresponding mating connector. Alternatively, however, another type of fastening between the outer conductor assembly and the housing assembly can be provided, for example, an interference fit or fastening using mounting claws.

[0057] The housing assembly can optionally be configured to accommodate more than one outer conductor assembly, for example, two or more outer conductor assemblies, three or more outer conductor assemblies, four or more outer conductor assemblies. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one outer conductor assembly can be configured to shield several inner conductor contact elements separately from one another. Preferably, the outer conductor assembly is configured to shield each pair of inner conductor contact elements of a common inner conductor contact element pair from any other inner conductor contact elements or pairs that may be present.

[0058] In principle, the electrical connector can have any number of inner conductor contact element pairs; for example, one or more individual inner conductor contact elements can be added to an inner conductor contact element pair. Preferably, however, the electrical connector has one to six inner conductor contact element pairs, in particular exactly one inner conductor contact element pair, exactly two inner conductor contact element pairs, or exactly four inner conductor contact element pairs.

[0059] In addition to the insulating part, the insulating housing assembly, the outer conductor assembly and the inner conductor contact elements, the electrical connector may also have other connector components, such as seals or fastening elements for attachment to an electrical assembly (e.g. a cable or a printed circuit board).

[0060] In an advantageous further development of the invention, it can be provided that the support shoulder is directly adjacent to the press-fit pin along the central axis of the inner conductor contact element.

[0061] In this way, the pressing force can be applied particularly effectively and precisely.

[0062] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the first inner conductor contact element and the second inner conductor contact element are arranged and designed axially symmetrically along the longitudinal axis of the insulating part.

[0063] By arranging the inner conductor contact elements of a common inner conductor contact element pair in an axially symmetrical or mirror-symmetrical manner, the impedance of the connector can be controlled particularly advantageously.

[0064] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the support shoulder of the first inner conductor contact element and the support shoulder of the second inner conductor contact element extend in opposite directions, preferably along a common orthogonal to the respective central axis of the inner conductor contact element.

[0065] The inner conductor contact elements, when mounted in the electrical connector, can therefore preferably have "outer" support shoulders rather than "inner" support shoulders.

[0066] The support shoulders of adjacent inner conductor contact elements of a common inner conductor contact element pair preferably point in opposite directions, which further reduces capacitance and improves signal transmission. It has been shown that a particularly low capacitance is achieved when the support shoulders extend along a common orthogonal to the respective central axis of the inner conductor contact element.

[0067] According to the invention, the insulating part, the outer conductor assembly and / or the housing assembly has at least one contact surface for an assembly tool, via which the pressing force for pressing the press-in pins into the metallized recesses can be introduced from the assembly tool into the support shoulders.

[0068] The application of the pressing force via the insulating part, the outer conductor assembly, and / or the housing assembly is preferred. Preferably, the housing assembly has the contact surface.

[0069] Preferably, the contact surface is arranged in the insertion direction directly above the inner conductor contact element or the metallized recess.

[0070] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the insulating part has rib-like extensions on its inner side with a respective lateral contact surface facing the electrical assembly, against which the corresponding support shoulder for transmitting the press-in force rests.

[0071] The pressing force can be transferred particularly reliably into the corresponding support shoulder via the rib-like extensions.

[0072] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the lateral contact surface is recessed in the rib-like extension or formed behind a recess in order to provide a stop for the corresponding support shoulder.

[0073] A corresponding recess can provide a positive fit for the support shoulder on the contact surface. The inner conductor contact element can thus be optimally positioned and oriented on the contact surface with its support shoulder, preferably locked behind the recess.

[0074] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the inner conductor contact elements with their support surfaces are supported in the insulating part by means of respective guide surfaces formed on the inside of the insulating part.

[0075] The guidance of the respective inner conductor contact element can preferably be achieved via a corresponding guide wall of the insulating part, which forms the guide surface.

[0076] The guide surfaces in the insulating part are preferably formed by the surface of an intermediate wall running between the inner conductor contact elements in the insulating part, which faces the respective inner conductor contact element or the respective support surface.

[0077] The guide surface or guide wall preferably extends at least over the entire axial extent of the support surface of the inner conductor contact element.

[0078] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the inner conductor contact elements are guided through the insulating part between the support surface and the rib-like extension.

[0079] The insulating part can advantageously provide a guide channel for the respective inner conductor contact element. This guide channel allows the inner conductor contact element to be optimally oriented and positioned within the insulating part, while simultaneously enabling the pressing force to be applied to the respective support shoulder with extreme precision and without damaging the component.

[0080] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the contact sections of the inner conductor contact elements are designed as pin contacts or as socket contacts.

[0081] In principle, the contact sections of the inner conductor contact elements can be designed in any way, although the specific design may depend in particular on the application area of ​​the electrical connector.

[0082] Preferably, the electrical connector is designed as a printed circuit board connector (plug or socket) or as a cable connector (plug or socket).

[0083] The electrical connector can preferably be designed as an angled connector. However, the electrical connector can also be designed as a non-angled connector.

[0084] The electrical connector can be configured, in particular, to provide a modular connector system, for example, an H-MTD connector. However, the electrical connector is not limited to a specific connector type, and the invention is particularly suitable for connectors used in high-frequency technology. These can also include, in particular, connectors of the types PL, BNC, TNC, SMBA (FAKRA), SMA, SMB, SMS, SMC, SMP, BMS, HFM (FAKRA-Mini), BMK, Mini-Coax, or MATE-AX.

[0085] 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 transportation, in particular vehicles on land, water, or in the air, including spacecraft. Possible 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). Potential applications include high-resolution cameras, for example, 4K and 8K cameras, sensors, onboard computers, high-resolution displays, high-resolution instrument panels, 3D navigation devices, and mobile communication devices.

[0086] The connector according to the invention is suitable for any application within the entire field of electrical engineering and is not to be understood as being limited to use in automotive engineering.

[0087] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the inner conductor contact elements can each be formed in one piece. However, the inner conductor contact elements can also be formed in multiple parts.

[0088] The invention also relates to an electrical connection arrangement comprising an electrical connector according to the preceding and following embodiments and an electrical assembly, in particular an electrical circuit board.

[0089] The electrical connection arrangement according to the invention can preferably be designed as a connection arrangement consisting of an electrical circuit board connector and an electrical circuit board. However, in principle, any connection arrangement consisting of an electrical connector and an electrical assembly can be provided, for example, an electrical cable connector attached to an electrical assembly designed as a cable, or an electrical device connector attached to a device housing of an electrical assembly.

[0090] An electrical connection arrangement can be advantageously provided in which the mounting of the electrical connector on the electrical assembly can be significantly improved.

[0091] Advantageously, the space requirement or size of the electrical connector can also be reduced, thus requiring less installation space on the electrical assembly.

[0092] The proposed electrical connection arrangement may be advantageously suited for the transmission of electrical signals at particularly high data rates.

[0093] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the metallized recesses are designed as vias and / or blind holes in the electrical assembly, in particular in the electrical circuit board.

[0094] Furthermore, a method for assembling an electrical connector, not according to the invention, is described, wherein at least one inner conductor contact element (in particular an inner conductor contact element according to the preceding and following embodiments) is inserted into a corresponding insertion of an insulating part of the electrical connector with a first end and is then bent along a guide channel of the insulating part.

[0095] Preferably, the inner conductor contact element is bent by 90° to form a one-piece inner conductor contact element for an angled connector.

[0096] It can preferably be provided that a support shoulder of the inner conductor contact element is brought into engagement with a lateral contact surface of a rib-like extension within the insulating part by the process of bending.

[0097] The insulating part, equipped with at least one inner conductor contact element, preferably with at least one differential inner conductor contact element pair (consisting of a first inner conductor contact element and a second inner conductor contact element), can preferably then be inserted into an outer conductor assembly of the connector and locked into place. Subsequently, the outer conductor assembly equipped with the insulating part can preferably be inserted into a housing assembly and attached to the housing assembly.

[0098] The further features of the present description and the patent claims relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of the assembly method.

[0099] Furthermore, an inner conductor contact element, not according to the invention, is described, wherein the inner conductor contact element has a press-fit pin at one of its ends for pressing into a metallized recess of an electrical assembly, and wherein the inner conductor contact element has a support shoulder formed on one side, via which a pressing force required for pressing in the press-fit pin can be introduced.

[0100] The further features of the present description and the patent claims relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of the inner conductor contact element.

[0101] Features described in connection with the electrical connector according to the invention can, of course, also be advantageously implemented for the electrical connection arrangement – ​​and vice versa. Furthermore, advantages already mentioned in connection with the electrical connector according to the invention can also be understood as relating to the electrical connection arrangement – ​​and vice versa.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] It should be noted that terms such as "first" or "second," etc., are primarily used to distinguish between the respective device or process features and are not necessarily intended to indicate that these features are mutually dependent or related. Furthermore, the term "inner conductor" in the context of inner conductor contact elements / pairs should not be interpreted as requiring the presence of an outer conductor or outer conductor assembly.

[0105] In the context of the invention, a longitudinal axis or central axis can preferably be an axis of symmetry of the respective component.

[0106] 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.

[0107] The further features of the dependent claims as well as the features described in the present description relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of this connector.

[0108] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the drawing.

[0109] 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.

[0110] In the figures, functionally equivalent elements are labelled with the same reference symbols. They schematically illustrate: Figure 1 shows an electrical connection arrangement consisting of an electrical connector and an electrical assembly in a perspective view; Figure 2 shows the outer conductor assembly of the connector. Figure 1 in a perspective view; Figure 3 an insulating part of the connector of the Figure 1together with the inner conductor contact elements of a common inner conductor contact element pair guided therein in a perspective view; Figure 4 the two inner conductor contact elements of the connector of the Figure 1 in a single perspective view; Figure 5, the insulating part of the Figure 3 in a rear perspective view with a single inner conductor contact element; Figure 6 a perspective close-up of an inner conductor contact element of a second embodiment within the insulating part to illustrate the force transmission between the support shoulder and the contact surface of the rib-like extension in the insulating part; and Figure 7 the insulating part of the Figure 3 with inserted inner conductor contact elements according to Figure 6 in a rear view.

[0111] Figure 1Figure 1 shows an electrical connection arrangement 1 comprising an electrical connector 2 and an electrical assembly 3. In the exemplary embodiments, the electrical connector 2 is designed as a printed circuit board connector and the electrical assembly 3 as a printed circuit board. However, this is not to be understood as a limitation. In principle, any electrical connector 2 and any electrical assembly 3 can be provided within the scope of the invention. In the exemplary embodiments, the electrical connector 2 is designed as an angled connector, but in principle it can also be designed as a non-angled or straight connector.

[0112] The electrical connector 2 has an electrically insulating housing assembly 4 with a mechanical interface 5 for connecting the electrical connector 2 to a corresponding mating connector (not shown). The housing assembly 4 is formed in one piece from a plastic material.

[0113] The electrical connector 2 also has an outer conductor assembly 6 that is positively engaged in the housing assembly 4. For complete illustration, the outer conductor assembly 6 is shown in Figure 2 shown in a single illustration.

[0114] The fastening between the outer conductor assembly 6 and the housing assembly 4 can be arbitrary. In the exemplary embodiment, the outer conductor assembly 6 has two bendable fastening tabs 7. In their (not shown) basic state, the fastening tabs 7 allow for assembly movement to mount the housing assembly 4 onto the outer conductor assembly 6 along the longitudinal axis L of the housing assembly 4. In the illustrated bent fastening state, however, the fastening tabs 7 are able to positively lock the housing assembly 4 onto the outer conductor assembly 6. For this purpose, the housing assembly 4 has a fastening rib 8 (see figure). Figure 1 ), behind whose mounting edge the mounting tabs 7 engage.

[0115] The outer conductor assembly 6 has a first interface 9 for the electrical and mechanical contacting of an outer conductor of the corresponding electrical mating connector. The outer conductor assembly 6 also has a second interface 10 for the electrical and mechanical contacting of metallized recesses 11 of the electrical assembly 3 or the printed circuit board. For contacting the electrical assembly 3, the second interface 10 has a plurality of contact elements 12, 13 (see in particular the figure). Figure 2 ).

[0116] The electrical connector 2 also has an insulating part 14 and at least one pair of inner conductor contact elements 15 for differential signal transmission, as shown in Figure 3. The first inner conductor contact element 16 and the second inner conductor contact element 17 of the pair of inner conductor contact elements 15 are each formed in one piece and are connected together in Figure 4 depicted.

[0117] The insulating part 14 is incorporated into the outer conductor assembly 6 and positioned with its first end 18 in the first interface 9 and with its second end 19 in the second interface 10. The inner conductor contact elements 16, 17 of the common inner conductor contact element pair 15 extend from the first end 18 of the insulating part 14 to the second end 19 of the insulating part 14 through the insulating part 14.

[0118] The inner conductor contact elements 16, 17 have a contact section (for example, a pin contact 20, as shown) at the first end 18 of the insulating part 14 for contacting an inner conductor of a corresponding mating connector, and a press-fit pin 21 at the second end 19 of the insulating part 14 for pressing into a respective corresponding metallized recess 11 of the electrical assembly 3. The insulating part 14 allows the inner conductor contact elements 16, 17 to be sufficiently fixed in the electrical connector 2 and electrically isolated from the outer conductor assembly 6.

[0119] The outer conductor assembly 6 can serve, on the one hand, to electromagnetically shield the inner conductor contact elements 16, 17. The outer conductor assembly 6 can also function as an electrical outer conductor for transmitting an electrical reference signal during signal transmission.

[0120] For contacting the electrical assembly 3 or the circuit board, the contact elements 12, 13 of the outer conductor assembly 6 are divided into two groups (see figure). Figure 2 A first group of contact elements 12, 13 is designed as press-fit contacts 13 for interference fitting in the metallized recesses 11 of the electrical assembly 3 or the printed circuit board. A second group of contact elements 12, 13 is designed as spring-loaded contact elements 12 for insertion into the metallized recesses 11 of the electrical assembly 3 or the printed circuit board. The press-fit contacts 13 can, in particular, have an elastic deformation zone 22 along a section of their longitudinal axis LE, which is preferably formed by a central material recess in the form of a slot or needle eye, as shown.

[0121] The press-fit pins 21 of the inner conductor contact elements 16, 17 can be designed comparably (cf. for example, Figure 4 or Figure 6 The press-fit pins 21 can also have an elastic deformation zone 22. The elastic deformation zone 22 is located in the Figures 1 to 5 The embodiment shown is formed as a groove that does not extend completely through the material of the inner conductor contact element 16, 17. In the Figure 6 and 7 In the embodiment shown, the deformation zone 22 is designed as a continuous slot running completely through the material.

[0122] In the exemplary embodiment, the metallized recesses 11 are designed as vias in the electrical circuit board 3 and are not shown in detail. However, the metallized recesses 11 can also be designed as blind holes or recesses.

[0123] As can be seen in particular from Figure 4As a result, the inner conductor contact elements 16, 17 each have exactly one support shoulder 23. The press-in force required to press the press-in pin 21 into the metallized recess 11 can be introduced via the support shoulder 23. The support shoulder 23 is formed along the central axis M of the inner conductor contact element 16, 17 between the contact section 20 and the press-in pin 21. In the exemplary embodiments, the support shoulder 23 abuts the press-in pin 21 along the central axis M of the inner conductor contact element 16, 17 to improve the force transmission.

[0124] In the Figures 3 and 7The inner conductor contact elements 16 and 17 are shown together within the insulating part 14. The first inner conductor contact element 16 and the second inner conductor contact element 17 are arranged and configured axially symmetrically and mirror-symmetrically, respectively, along the longitudinal axis L of the insulating part 14. The support shoulder 23 of the first inner conductor contact element 16 and the support shoulder 23 of the second inner conductor contact element 17 extend in opposite directions along a common orthogonal O to the respective central axis M of the inner conductor contact elements 16 and 17. In this way, the characteristic impedance of the electrical connector 2 can be optimized.

[0125] In order to enable the most symmetrical and uniform force transmission possible despite the asymmetry of the individual inner conductor contact elements 16, 17, the inner conductor contact elements 16, 17 each have a support surface 24 facing away from the support shoulder 23 (see in particular Figure 4 ) on, via which the inner conductor contact element 16, 17 is supported in the insulating part 14.

[0126] In Figure 5The insulating part 14 with the first inner conductor contact element 16 is shown in a rear view. The second inner conductor contact element 17 is hidden for clarity. It can be seen that the insulating part 14 has rib-like extensions 25 on its inner side, each with a lateral contact surface 26 facing the electrical assembly 3, against which the corresponding support shoulder 23 rests to transmit the press-fit force. The lateral contact surface 26 is recessed in the rib-like extension 25 or formed behind a recess 27 to provide a stop for the corresponding support shoulder 23 and to further secure the inner conductor contact element 16, 17 within the insulating part 14 (see also Figure 6 ).

[0127] The inner conductor contact elements 16, 17 are supported by their support surfaces 24 via guide surfaces 28 formed on the inside of the insulating part 14. The guide surfaces 28 are formed on the surfaces of an intermediate wall 29 of the insulating part 14 facing the respective inner conductor contact element 16, 17. In the exemplary embodiments, the inner conductor contact elements 16, 17 are guided through the insulating part 14 between the support surface 24 and the rib-like extension 25. The insulating part 14 thus has a U-shaped guide for the inner conductor contact elements 16, 17, which fit into corresponding recesses 30 (see Figure 1). Figures 5 and 7 ) passes over.

[0128] For the assembly of the respective inner conductor contact element 16, 17, it can be inserted with its contact section 20 into the insertion 30 and then bent along the insertion 30 between the support surface 24 and the rib-like extension 25 until the support shoulder 23 has reached its final position below the contact surface 26.

[0129] To introduce the pressing force intended for pressing into the support shoulder 23, the insulating part 14, the outer conductor assembly 6 and / or the housing assembly 4 can have at least one contact surface 31 for a corresponding assembly tool. In the exemplary embodiment, the housing assembly 4 is provided to have a contact surface 31 (see Figure 1). Figure 1), which is located in the area above the press-fit pins 21 of the inner conductor contact elements 16, 17. In particular, it may be provided that the press-fit pins 21 of the inner conductor contact elements and the contact elements 12, 13 of the outer conductor assembly 6 are pressed simultaneously into the respective metallized recesses 11 of the electrical assembly 3 or the printed circuit board.

Claims

1. Electrical plug connector (2), having an insulating part (14) and at least one inner-conductor contact element pair (15) for differential signal transmission, wherein the inner-conductor contact element pair (15) comprises a first inner-conductor contact element (16) and a second inner-conductor contact element (17), which extend through the insulating part (14) from a first end (18) of the insulating part (14) to a second end (19) of the insulating part (14), wherein the inner-conductor contact elements (16, 17), in the region of the first end (18) of the insulating part (14), have a contact section (20) for contacting of an inner conductor of a corresponding counterpart plug connector and, in the region of the second end (19) of the insulating part (14), have a press-in pin (21) for pressing into a metal-plated recess (11) of an electrical assembly (3), characterized in that the inner-conductor contact elements (16, 17) have in each case exactly one support shoulder (23) via which a pressing-in force required for the pressing of the press-in pin (21) into the metal-plated recess (11) can be introduced, wherein the support shoulder (23) is formed between the contact section (20) and the press-in pin (21) along the central axis (M) of the inner-conductor contact element (16, 17), and wherein the inner-conductor contact elements (16, 17) have a respective support surface (24) which is averted from the support shoulder (23) and by way of which the inner-conductor contact element (16, 17) is supported in the insulating part (14), and wherein the insulating part (14), an outer-conductor assembly (6) of the electrical plug connector (2) and / or an insulating housing assembly (4) of the electrical plug connector (2), which has a mechanical interface (5) for the connection of the electrical plug connector (2) to the corresponding counterpart plug connector, has at least one engagement surface (31) for an assembling tool, by which engagement surface the pressing-in force for the pressing of the press-in pins (21) into the metal-plated recesses (11) can be introduced from the assembling tool into the support shoulders (23).

2. Electrical plug connector (2) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the outer-conductor assembly (6) has a first interface (9) for the electrical and mechanical contacting of an outer conductor of the corresponding electrical counterpart plug connector and a second interface (10) for the electrical and mechanical contacting of the electrical assembly (3), wherein the insulating part (14) is received in the outer-conductor assembly (6) and is oriented with its first end (18) toward the first interface (9) and with its second end (19) toward the second interface (10).

3. Electrical plug connector (2) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the outer-conductor assembly (6) is received in the housing assembly (4) and is oriented with its first interface (9) toward the mechanical interface (5).

4. Electrical plug connector (2) according to any of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the support shoulder (23) directly adjoins the press-in pin (21) along the central axis (M) of the inner-conductor contact element (16, 17).

5. Electrical plug connector (2) according to any of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first inner-conductor contact element (16) and the second inner-conductor contact element (17) are arranged and formed in axially symmetrical fashion along the longitudinal axis (L) of the insulating part (14).

6. Electrical plug connector (2) according to any of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the support shoulder (23) of the first inner-conductor contact element (16) and the support shoulder (23) of the second inner-conductor contact element (17) extend in opposite directions, preferably along a common orthogonal (O) relative to the respective central axis (M) of the inner-conductor contact element (16, 17).

7. Electrical plug connector (2) according to any of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the insulating part (14) has, on its inner side, rib-like extensions (25) with a respective lateral abutment surface (26) against which the corresponding support shoulder (23) bears in order to transmit the pressing-in force.

8. Electrical plug connector (2) according to Claim 7, characterized in that the lateral abutment surface (26) is formed so as to be recessed in the rib-like extension (25) or behind a set-back portion (27) in order to provide a stop for the corresponding support shoulder (23).

9. Electrical plug connector (2) according to any of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the inner-conductor contact elements (16, 17) are supported with their support surfaces (24) in the insulating part (14) via respective guide surfaces (28) formed on the inner side of the insulating part (14).

10. Electrical plug connector (2) according to Claim 7 and Claim 9, characterized in that the inner-conductor contact elements (16, 17) are led through the insulating part (14) in each case between the support surface (24) and the rib-like extension (25).

11. Electrical plug connector (2) according to any of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the contact sections of the inner-conductor contact elements (16, 17) are formed as contact pins (20) or as bushing contacts.

12. Electrical plug connector (2) according to any of Claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the inner-conductor contact elements (16, 17) are each of single-piece form.

13. Electrical connecting arrangement (1) having an electrical plug connector (2) according to any of Claims 1 to 12 and having an electrical assembly, in particular an electrical circuit board (3).

14. Electrical connecting arrangement (1) according to Claim 13, characterized in that the metal-plated recesses are formed as plated through-holes (11) and / or blind bores in the electrical assembly, in particular in the electrical circuit board (3).

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