Method for producing a waveguide antenna and waveguide antenna

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a waveguide antenna (1), in which at least one antenna section (2a, 2b) of the waveguide antenna (1) is placed in a mold (3) and a casting material (4) is fed into the mold (3). The invention further relates to a waveguide antenna (1).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a waveguide antenna, in which at least one antenna section of the waveguide antenna is placed in a mold and a casting material is fed into the mold. The invention further relates to a waveguide antenna.

[0002] Waveguide antennas are known from the prior art. These usually comprise at least one antenna body, which must be assembled from several antenna sections. In the prior art, these antenna sections are usually glued together. Additionally or alternatively, at least one absorber and / or a connecting device is attached to the antenna body. This can also be done using an adhesive process. However, it is also known that the absorber and / or the connecting device is used to join individual components of the waveguide antenna.

[0003] For example, a waveguide antenna for a motor vehicle is known from DE 10 2021 122 758 A1. The waveguide antenna comprises a printed circuit board, an antenna body that is at least partially hollow and has at least one opening, a connecting device, and a cover. The connecting device comprises at least one connecting element, which connects the connecting device, the printed circuit board, the antenna body, and the cover. During the manufacturing of this waveguide antenna, the at least one connecting element is formed at one free end. This allows for a positive-locking connection of the individual parts. A disadvantage of this method is that all individual parts must first be manufactured separately and then joined together in a separate process step (by means of adhesive bonding and / or forming).

[0004] The object of the present invention is to eliminate the disadvantages known from the prior art.

[0005] The problem is solved by a method for manufacturing a waveguide antenna and a waveguide antenna with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous or preferred embodiments or further developments of the invention are characterized by the features of the dependent claims.

[0006] A method for manufacturing a waveguide antenna is proposed. The waveguide antenna is preferably designed as a waveguide antenna for a motor vehicle, more preferably as a vehicle waveguide antenna. The waveguide antenna can be used, for example, for radar sensors. Such waveguide antennas often comprise at least one antenna section, an antenna body, a circuit board, a connecting device, an absorber, and / or a heat sink. For example, the aforementioned components can be arranged and / or connected to one another, particularly in a sandwich construction.

[0007] In this method, preferably at least one antenna section of the waveguide antenna is placed in a mold. The at least one antenna section and / or several antenna sections form the antenna body. The antenna section and / or the antenna body is / are preferably at least partially hollow and / or include at least one opening. Radio waves, in particular high-frequency radar waves, can preferably be transmitted, sent, and / or received using the at least one antenna section and / or the antenna body. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one antenna section and / or the antenna body serves, for example, for radio wave guidance, frequency selection, and / or impedance matching.

[0008] Before, during, and / or after the insertion of at least one antenna section, a casting material is fed into the mold. This ensures a highly flexible manufacturing process. The casting material can conform to the at least one antenna section and / or form a positive-locking and / or force-locking connection with it. This simplifies the production of the waveguide antenna, as subsequent processing steps, such as the previously known methods of bonding and / or forming, can be eliminated.

[0009] It is advantageous if the at least one antenna section is at least partially overmolded, overmolded, injection-molded, cast, and / or cast through by the injection of the casting material. This can also be referred to as "overmolding." This improves the bond between the at least one antenna section and the casting material and / or increases the contact surface area. Overmolding, overmolding, injection-molded, casting, and / or casting allows the component properties of the at least one antenna section to be modified. Furthermore, this allows multiple antenna sections and / or other components to be connected to the at least one antenna section.

[0010] It also offers advantages if the casting material is supplied to the mold in a liquid, molten, and / or viscous state. This ensures an even distribution of the material within the mold and / or minimizes the formation of air pockets that could weaken the structure.

[0011] It is also advantageous if the casting material is supplied to the mold during and / or after the insertion of the at least one antenna section into the mold. This is particularly advantageous when overmolding and / or injection molding the at least one antenna section, as this allows the mold to be closed and / or the casting material to be injected under pressure.

[0012] It is also advantageous if, particularly through hardening and / or cooling, a connecting element and / or an absorber is formed from the casting material. With the aid of the connecting element, at least two antenna sections can, for example, be joined together. The casting material can flow around and / or through the at least one antenna section in a liquid and / or viscous state. In the hardened and / or cooled state, the connecting element and / or the absorber can provide a positive-locking and / or force-locking connection to the at least one antenna section. This eliminates the need for subsequent gluing and / or joining by reshaping the two antenna sections.

[0013] The absorber can be used, for example, to shield and / or absorb radio waves. This prevents unwanted interference and / or reflections of the radio waves. This can be achieved, for example, by using absorber particles, especially metal and / or carbon particles, in the casting material, e.g., polypropylene. The connecting element and the absorber can also be formed from the casting material, either additionally or alternatively. Thus, the connecting element produced from the casting material can assume the properties of the absorber, and / or the absorber produced from the casting material can assume the properties of the connecting element. This functional integration allows for a reduction in the number of components required for the waveguide antenna.

[0014] It is also advantageous if at least two of the antenna sections, in particular a first antenna section and a second antenna section, are inserted into the mold and / or positioned relative to each other within the mold. This allows for flexible and / or precise alignment and connection of the at least two antenna sections. The at least two antenna sections positioned relative to each other can form the at least one antenna body, which is preferably at least partially hollow.

[0015] It is also advantageous if at least two of the antenna sections, in particular the first antenna section and the second antenna section, are placed and / or pressed against each other, preferably via corresponding system sections and / or along a stacking direction of the waveguide antenna. By placing the at least two antenna sections against each other, the at least partially hollow antenna body can be manufactured very easily. Thus, at least one of the antenna sections can comprise at least one hollow section, which preferably adjoins the at least one system section. For example, at least two of the antenna sections, in particular the first antenna section and the second antenna section, can each comprise corresponding hollow sections.By placing the at least two antenna sections next to each other, the at least one hollow section creates the at least one cavity, which is preferably limited by the corresponding system sections.

[0016] The at least two antenna sections typically exhibit manufacturing tolerances. These tolerances can be compensated for and / or reduced by joining and / or pressing the at least two antenna sections together. This allows for the creation of an antenna body that is as dimensionally stable as possible and / or connected by at least one connecting element and / or at least one absorber.

[0017] This tolerance compensation can therefore improve the reproducibility of the waveguide antenna.

[0018] It is advantageous if at least one antenna section is manufactured from an antenna material, e.g., polyphenylene sulfide, in a first forming step, particularly a first injection molding step. This enables the production of complex geometries. Additionally or alternatively, manufacturing the antenna section using the first forming step can ensure high production speed and / or good automation potential.

[0019] Advantages arise when the connecting element and / or the absorber are manufactured from the casting material in a second primary forming step, particularly a second injection molding step. This enables efficient integration of functional elements during the production process, which reduces production costs and / or effort.

[0020] It also offers advantages if at least one antenna section is manufactured in the first forming step, and the connecting element and / or the absorber are subsequently manufactured in the second forming step. It is also conceivable, either additionally or alternatively, that the at least one antenna section and the at least one connecting element and / or the at least one absorber are manufactured as a two-stage forming process, particularly an injection molding process. This allows for further improvement or increase in the automation of waveguide antenna production and / or the process speed.

[0021] It is also advantageous if the casting material, during feeding, at least partially encases and / or penetrates the at least one antenna section, particularly by means of a perforation in the at least one antenna section. This contributes to increased structural integrity and enables a strong bond between the casting material and the antenna section, thus improving the mechanical stability of the entire antenna. Encasing the at least one antenna section can additionally or alternatively improve its absorption properties.

[0022] Furthermore, it offers advantages if at least one of the antenna sections, particularly the first and / or second antenna section, is positively and / or materially bonded to the connection device and / or the absorber through the curing and / or cooling of the casting material. This connection method ensures high strength and durability of the connection, which increases the reliability of the waveguide antenna in demanding operating environments.

[0023] Advantages arise when the mold is secured by a first contact section, in particular a mold lid, to which at least one first antenna section is attached, and / or when a contact force is applied to at least one second antenna section by a second contact section, in particular a mold base. This ensures that the antenna sections remain in the desired position during the manufacturing process, resulting in higher manufacturing accuracy. Additionally or alternatively, tolerance compensation can be achieved in this way.

[0024] It is also advantageous if, when applying the mold, in particular through the first contact section and / or the second contact section, at least one cavity adjacent to the at least two antenna sections is created for the casting material, so that by hardening and / or cooling of the casting material, the connecting device and / or absorber that connects the at least two antenna sections in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner can preferably be formed.

[0025] It is also advantageous if the adjacent antenna sections are connected to each other by at least two connecting sections of the connecting device and / or the absorber, spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction and / or adjacent to and / or in contact with the outer sides of the antenna sections, in a form-fitting and / or force-fit manner. This ensures a uniform distribution of the mechanical load, which improves the structural properties of the waveguide antenna.

[0026] Advantages arise if at least one connection section, particularly one projecting along the stacking direction, is created, especially by injection molding, on at least one of the connection sections. With the aid of this at least one connection section, the antenna section, the antenna body, the connection device, and / or the absorber can be connected to at least one printed circuit board and / or a mounting point of the vehicle. Direct injection molding of this connection section further contributes to the reduction of components in the waveguide antenna.

[0027] It is also advantageous if the absorber and / or the connecting device and / or the at least one antenna section is connected to a printed circuit board, particularly by means of a positive connection and / or the at least one connecting section. This enables efficient connection and integration of the waveguide antenna into the overall system. Any tolerances to the printed circuit board can be compensated for by means of the at least one connecting section. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the printed circuit board, together with the at least one antenna section, is placed in the mold and at least partially overmolded, overmolded, injection-molded, cast, overmolded, and / or cast through by the casting material.

[0028] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the circuit board includes at least one transmitter and / or one receiver. Integrating these units allows for a compact design and / or improves signal quality through direct coupling to the at least one antenna section. It is also advantageous if the at least one transmitter and / or the at least one receiver is configured to transmit and / or receive signals from the at least one antenna section.

[0029] Advantages arise when the casting material, particularly as a melt and / or liquid, is fed into the mold at a temperature preferably below the melting point of the at least one antenna section and / or the antenna material. This prevents undesirable melting and / or deformation of the at least one antenna section during the manufacturing process, thus ensuring the dimensional accuracy of the final product. Additionally or alternatively, this method helps to preserve the material properties of the antenna section, thereby improving the long-term stability of the antenna.

[0030] Advantages arise if at least one antenna section is at least partially coated, particularly with a metallic coating, during a coating step. The metallic coating can improve the conductivity and reflection properties of the antenna section, leading to better performance of the waveguide antenna. Furthermore, the surface coating can raise the melting point of the antenna section, making it more resistant to thermal stresses during the manufacturing process.

[0031] Furthermore, a waveguide antenna is proposed. The waveguide antenna is preferably designed as a waveguide antenna for a motor vehicle, more preferably as a vehicle waveguide antenna. The waveguide antenna can be used, for example, for radar sensors. The waveguide antenna is preferably manufactured according to a method as described above, wherein the aforementioned features can be present individually or in any combination.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, an absorber and / or a connecting device of the waveguide antenna comprises at least one connecting section arranged on and / or projecting from at least one connecting section, in particular along a stacking direction of the waveguide antenna, by means of which the absorber and / or the connecting device can be connected to a printed circuit board. This enables a stable and / or reliable connection between the components of the waveguide antenna and the printed circuit board, which improves the mechanical stability of the waveguide antenna.

[0033] It is also advantageous if the waveguide antenna comprises two antenna sections that, during normal use, are in contact with each other and / or form an antenna body that is at least partially hollow. This increases the efficiency of radio wave guidance within the waveguide antenna and / or improves the overall performance of the waveguide antenna. Additionally or alternatively, antenna bodies that are at least partially hollow, consisting of at least two antenna sections, are easier and / or less expensive to manufacture.

[0034] Advantages arise when the absorber and / or the connecting device includes two connecting sections spaced apart along the stacking direction. This configuration ensures a uniform distribution of mechanical loads and / or improves the structural properties of the antenna.

[0035] It is also advantageous if the connecting sections of the absorber and / or the connecting device are preferably arranged on both sides of the outer surfaces of the antenna body and / or of the at least two adjacent antenna sections. This improves the mechanical coupling of the antenna sections and / or increases the stability of the entire construction, thus increasing the longevity and reliability of the antenna.

[0036] It is also advantageous if the outer surfaces of the antenna sections are designed as outer faces and / or spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction. This contributes to the reduction of reflections and / or losses, which further increases the efficiency of the waveguide antenna.

[0037] It is also advantageous if the at least one antenna section includes at least one opening formed at least partially along the stacking direction, so that a casting material for the production of the absorber and / or the connecting element can be fed through the at least one antenna section. This enables a precise and / or two-sided distribution of the casting material, thereby increasing the strength of the produced absorbers and connecting elements. Additionally or alternatively, the casting material can be fed through the opening through at least two antenna sections and / or cured on both sides. This further improves the stability of the connection, particularly the positive-locking connection. Additionally or alternatively, the openings and the casting material fed through them can increase the dimensional stability, as this allows for multiple and / or uniformly distributed connections.

[0038] It is also advantageous if the absorber and / or the connecting element on a front face of the waveguide antenna has at least one connecting section and / or at least one recess and / or at least one cover section encompassing at least one connecting section and / or at least one recess. The cover section allows the radio waves to be at least partially absorbed. The recesses can ensure controlled transmission of radio waves. This contributes to the reduction of unwanted reflections and / or scattering, which improves the efficiency and / or accuracy of the waveguide antenna. The cover section can also, or alternatively, protect sensitive areas of the waveguide antenna from external influences.

[0039] It is also advantageous if the absorber and / or the connection device on the rear side of the waveguide antenna includes at least one connection section and / or at least one connection section. This enables a stable mechanical connection of the waveguide antenna to other components, such as the circuit board, which improves the overall stability and / or reliability of the system.

[0040] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the absorber and / or the connecting device comprises a frame section, preferably extending along the stacking direction and / or adjoining at least one side face of the at least one antenna section. The frame section contributes to the structural reinforcement of the antenna and increases its mechanical stability, particularly under mechanical loads. Additionally or alternatively, the frame surrounds the at least two antenna sections. This allows, for example, unwanted reflections and / or scattering to be further reduced.

[0041] It is also advantageous if the frame section and / or at least one opening connects the at least one connecting section of the front and the at least one connecting section of the back. In this way, the positive-locking connection can be provided with the help of the frame section and the at least two connecting sections.

[0042] It is also advantageous if the at least two antenna sections comprise corresponding system sections. The corresponding system sections enable precise alignment and / or connection of the antenna sections.

[0043] It is also advantageous if the at least two antenna sections each include at least one opening. This allows the insertion of casting material and / or other connecting elements, thus achieving a simple positive fit. This can be done in addition to or as an alternative to the frame section. Additionally or alternatively, the connecting sections of the front and back can be joined using the at least one opening.

[0044] It is also advantageous if the at least two openings of the at least two antenna sections are configured to correspond and / or form a common opening in the antenna body. A common opening simplifies manufacturing and improves the mechanical coupling of the antenna sections, thereby increasing strength and / or stability.

[0045] It is also advantageous if at least one of the antenna sections, particularly within the at least one opening, comprises two opposing draft angles. This can support and / or improve the positive-locking connection of the at least two antenna sections. Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that the positive-locking connection is achieved solely by the two opposing draft angles. This can improve the mechanical stability of the waveguide antenna and / or simplify the positive-locking connection.

[0046] It is advantageous if corresponding openings in the two antenna sections have a first cross-section in the area of ​​the system sections and a second cross-section on the outside of the antenna sections. Different cross-sections allow for an optimized distribution of forces and / or ensure a positive connection.

[0047] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first cross-section differs from the second cross-section and / or the first cross-section is smaller than the second. This contributes to improved form-fitting of the connection and increases the mechanical strength of the waveguide antenna, thus improving the reliability and longevity of the final product.

[0048] Further advantages of the invention are described in the following exemplary embodiments. These show: Figure 1 to4 Schematic sectional views of a waveguide antenna and / or a mold, in particular in different process steps of a process for manufacturing the waveguide antenna, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] In the following description of the figures, the same reference symbols are used for features that are identical and / or at least comparable in the various figures. The individual features, their design, and / or mode of action are usually only explained in detail upon their first mention. If individual features are not explained again in detail, their design and / or mode of action corresponds to the design and mode of action of the already described features with the same or identical effect.

[0050] The Figures 1 to 4Figure 1 shows schematic sectional views of a waveguide antenna 1 and / or a form 3, particularly in different process steps of a method for manufacturing the waveguide antenna 1, according to an exemplary embodiment. The waveguide antenna 1 is preferably designed as a waveguide antenna 1 for a motor vehicle, preferably as a vehicle waveguide antenna. The waveguide antenna 1 can be used, for example, for radar sensors.

[0051] The Figure 1 shows two antenna sections 2a, 2b as examples of the

[0052] Waveguide antenna 1. The two antenna sections 2a, 2b are spaced apart from each other, particularly along a stacking direction 10 of the waveguide antenna 1. The at least two antenna sections 2a, 2b are not connected to each other. A mold 3 is also shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the mold 3 comprises a mold lid 14 and a mold base 15. The mold lid 14 and the mold base 15 are also spaced apart from each other in the illustrated embodiment, particularly along the stacking direction 10.

[0053] At least one of the antenna sections 2a, 2b can be coated, in particular with a metallic coating, by means of an additional, in particular preceding, process step. This process step can also be referred to as a coating step.

[0054] The mold 3 comprises, in particular on the mold lid 14, at least one first contact section 12. Additionally or alternatively, the mold 3 comprises, in particular on the mold base 15, at least one second contact section 13. With the aid of the at least one first contact section 12 and / or the at least one second contact section 13, the two antenna sections 2a, 2b, in particular the first antenna section 2a and the second antenna section 2b, can be positioned relative to each other within the mold 3 and / or brought into contact with each other and / or pressed together. This is illustrated in Figure 2.

[0055] As already described, the two antenna sections 2a, 2b can be connected to each other. For this purpose, the antenna sections 2a, 2b in the illustrated embodiment comprise corresponding connection sections 9. If the antenna sections 2a, 2b are connected to each other and / or pressed together using the contact sections 12, 13, tolerance compensation can be additionally or alternatively carried out.

[0056] In the Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the antenna sections 2a, 2b each comprise an outer surface 17, which can be configured as outer surfaces. Additionally or alternatively, the outer surfaces 17 of the antenna sections 2a, 2b, particularly also when in contact with each other (see figure), are Figures 2 to 4), spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction 10. Furthermore, it can be seen that the antenna sections 2a, 2b each have an opening 11. These openings 11 are designed such that, in the connected state of the two antenna sections 2a, 2b (see Figures 2 to 4 ) are arranged correspondingly to each other. Additionally or alternatively, the openings 11 in the area of ​​the plant sections 9 comprise a first cross-section 7 and / or in the area of ​​the outer side 17 a second cross-section 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cross-section 7 differs from the second cross-section 8, wherein the first cross-section 7 is preferably smaller than the second cross-section 8.

[0057] Furthermore, at least one of the antenna sections 2a, 2b comprises two opposing draft angles 30. In the illustrated embodiment, these draft angles 30 are arranged within the at least one opening 11. These draft angles 30 can support and / or improve the positive-locking connection, which will be explained in more detail later. For clarity, the reference numerals for the first cross-section 7 and the second cross-section 8, as well as for the draft angles 30, are shown in the Figures 2 to 4 Not shown. Nevertheless, the different cross-sections 7, 8 and the draft angles 30 are recognizable. These cross-sectional changes and draft angles 30 can improve or even provide the positive and / or material-fit connection.

[0058] Figure 2Figure 1 shows, as briefly described above, a process step in which the mold 3 is closed and / or the mold lid 14 rests against the mold base 15. This also brings the two antenna sections 2a, 2b into contact with each other and / or, in particular, presses them together with the help of the first contact section 12 and / or the second contact section 13. During this pressing action, a contact force is preferably applied and / or tolerances of the antenna sections 2a, 2b are compensated for.

[0059] Figure 2The figure further shows that a casting material 4 is supplied to the mold 3. Preferably, the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b, in particular the two antenna sections 2a, 2b, are first placed into the mold 3, and during and / or afterwards, the casting material 4 is supplied to the mold 3. The casting material 4 is preferably introduced into the mold 3 in a liquid and / or molten and / or viscous state. In this way, the casting material 4 can encase the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b.

[0060] The casting material 4 is fed into the mold 3 such that the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b is at least partially overmolded, overmolded, injection-molded, cast over, and / or cast through. As shown in Figure 2, the casting material 4 penetrates at least one of the antenna sections 2a, 2b and / or the at least two antenna sections 2a, 2b, particularly by means of the opening 11 of the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b. It is further advantageous that the casting material 4 is fed into the mold 3 at a temperature below the melting temperature of the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b and / or of the antenna material from which the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b was manufactured. This prevents damage to and / or deformation of the antenna sections 2a, 2b.

[0061] The at least two antenna sections 2a, 2b are connected as already described. In the intended use of the waveguide antenna 1, this results in an antenna body 23 that encompasses the two antenna sections 2a, 2b and / or is at least partially hollow. The at least partially hollow antenna body 23 is indicated in the figures, but this is only a simplified embodiment. Figure 2It is further illustrated that the openings 11 of the two antenna sections 2a, 2b are configured correspondingly and / or form a common opening 11 in the antenna body 23. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the openings 11, preferably both openings 11, extends at least partially along the stacking direction 10. This allows the casting material 4 to be passed through the antenna sections 2a, 2b, particularly along the stacking direction 10.

[0062] Finally, it shows Figure 2, that by placing the mold 3 against the two antenna sections 2a, 2b, an adjacent cavity 16 is created for the casting material 4. This cavity 16 makes it possible to create a positive-locking and / or force-locking connection between the antenna sections 2a, 2b by hardening and / or cooling the casting material 4, preferably including at least one connecting device 5 and / or an absorber 6 (see Figures 3 and 4 ) can be formed. The cavity 16 is preferably created between the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b and the shape 3. The cavity 16 determines the subsequent shape of the at least one connecting device 5 and / or the at least one absorber 6 (see Figures 3 and 4It should be noted that in the illustrated embodiment, the reference numeral for the cavity 16 is shown multiple times. It is conceivable that the cavity 16 is formed as a single, continuous space. Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that several cavities 16 are formed, each of which is supplied separately with the casting material 4. Different casting materials 4 for different cavities 16 are also conceivable. The at least one cavity 16 preferably comprises a feed section by means of which the casting material 4 can be supplied.

[0063] Figure 3 shows another, in particular the Figure 1 and 2 The following process step of a method for manufacturing a waveguide antenna 1. In the exemplary embodiment, the casting material 4 has already been completely prepared according to the in Figure 2The cavity 16 shown is supplied with the material. Furthermore, mold 3 has been removed or is not shown. The casting material 4 has hardened and / or cooled, so that the casting material 4 is formed from the Figure 2 the connecting device 5 and / or the absorber 6 was formed. In the illustrated embodiment of the Figure 3 The connecting device 5 and the absorber 6 are, for example, the same component. The connecting device 5 allows the two antenna sections 2a and 2b to be connected. The absorber 6 can be used to shield and / or absorb radio waves.

[0064] As from Figure 3As can be seen, the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b, in particular the first antenna section 2a and / or the second antenna section 2b, is positively and / or materially connected to and / or by means of the connecting device 5 and / or the absorber 6 by the hardening and / or cooling of the casting material 4. In particular, the first antenna section 2a and the second antenna section 2b are positively and / or materially connected via the at least one connecting device 5 and / or the at least one absorber 6.

[0065] For example, the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b can be manufactured from the antenna material in a first forming step, in particular a first injection molding step. The connecting device 5 and / or the absorber 6 is formed from the casting material 4 in a second forming step, preferably a subsequent one, in particular a second injection molding step, as already described.

[0066] Figure 3 The figure further shows that the adjacent antenna sections 2a, 2b are positively and / or force-fit connected to one another by two connecting sections 18 of the connecting device 5 and / or the absorber 6, spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction 10. These connecting sections 18 are preferably arranged on the outer surfaces 17 of the antenna sections 2a, 2b and / or are in contact with the outer surfaces 17.

[0067] According to the representation in Figure 3 At least one of the connecting sections 18 comprises a connecting section 19 projecting along the stacking direction 10, which is and / or was produced in particular by injection molding. Thus, in the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 2 the cavity 16 is already formed in such a way that the corresponding connection section 19 is formed by supplying the casting material 4 into the mold 3.

[0068] It is further shown that the waveguide antenna 1 comprises two antenna sections 2a, 2b which, in the intended use of the waveguide antenna 1, are in contact with one another and / or form the at least partially hollow antenna body 23. The absorber 6 and / or the connecting device 5 have the two connecting sections 18 spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction 10, which are preferably arranged on both sides of the outer surfaces 17 of the antenna body 23 and / or of the adjacent antenna sections 2a, 2b.

[0069] Furthermore, it shows Figure 3The absorber 6 and / or the connecting device 5 on a front face 24 of the waveguide antenna 1 comprises at least one connecting section 18 and / or at least one recess 25 and / or at least one covering section 26. The covering section 26 contributes to at least partially absorbing radio waves. The at least one recess 25 can ensure and / or improve the transmittance of the absorber 6 and / or the connecting device 5. Preferably, the at least one recess 25 was created by the contact of the at least one first contact section 12 of form 3 with the first antenna section 2a.

[0070] Finally, in Figure 3The figure shows that the absorber 6 and / or the connecting device 5 on a rear face 27 of the waveguide antenna 1 comprises at least one connecting section 18 and / or the connection section 19. Additionally or alternatively, the absorber 6 and / or the connecting device 5 has a frame section 29 extending along the stacking direction 10 and / or adjoining at least one side face 28 of the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b. The frame section 29 and / or at least one opening 11 connects the connecting section 18 of the front face 24 to the connecting section 18 of the rear face 27. The frame section 29 can also influence the reception and / or transmission of radio waves.

[0071] Figure 4 shows another, in particular the Figures 1 to 3The following process step of a method for manufacturing a waveguide antenna 1. In this process step, a printed circuit board 20 was attached and / or arranged and / or fastened to the at least one connection section 19. Preferably, the printed circuit board 20 can be positively and / or force-fit connected to the absorber 6, the connecting device 5 and / or the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b by means of the connection section 19.

[0072] The circuit board 20 can, for example, comprise at least one transmitter 21 and / or one receiver 22. The at least one transmitter 21 and / or the at least one receiver 22 is / are configured for transmitting and / or receiving signals from the at least one antenna section 2a, 2b. For example, it is conceivable that the at least one transmitter 21 and / or the at least one receiver 22 is operatively connected to the hollow antenna body 23 by means of an opening (not shown). Reference symbol list

[0073] 1 Waveguide antenna 2 First antenna section 2 Second antenna section 3 Mold 4 Casting material 5 Connection device 6 Absorber 7 First cross-section 8 Second cross-section 9 System sections 10 Stacking direction 11 Opening 12 First contact section 13 Second contact section 14 Mold cover 15 Mold base 16 Cavity 17 Outer side 18 Connection section 19 Connection section 20 Circuit board 21 Transmitting unit 22 Receiving unit 23 Antenna body 24 Front 25 Recess 26 Cover section 27 Rear 28 Side surface 29 Frame section 30 Mold chamfer

Claims

1. Method for manufacturing a waveguide antenna (1) in which at least one antenna section (2a, 2b) of the waveguide antenna (1) is placed in a mold (3) and a casting material (4) is supplied to the mold (3).

2. Procedure according to the preceding claim, characterized by that which at least one antenna section (2a, 2b) is at least partially overmolded, overmolded, injected through, cast in, overcast and / or cast through by the supply of the casting material (4).

3. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that, in particular by curing and / or cooling, a connecting device (5) for connecting at least two antenna sections (2a, 2b) and / or an absorber (6) for shielding and / or absorbing radio waves is formed from the casting material (4), wherein at least one of the antenna sections (2a, 2b), in particular the first antenna section (2a) and / or the second antenna section (2b), is preferably positively and / or materially connected to the connecting device (5) and / or the absorber (6) by curing and / or cooling the casting material (4).

4. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by thatat least two of the antenna sections (2a, 2b), in particular a first antenna section (2a) and a second antenna section (2b), are inserted into the mold (3) and / or positioned relative to each other within the mold (3), wherein preferably the at least two antenna sections (2a, 2b) are placed against each other and / or pressed against each other, in particular via corresponding installation sections (9) and / or along a stacking direction (10) of the waveguide antenna (1).

5. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that The casting material (4) during feeding at least partially encases and / or penetrates the at least one antenna section (2a, 2b), in particular by means of a breakthrough (11) of the at least one antenna section (2a, 2b).

6. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by thatthe mold (3) by means of a first contact section (12) of the mold (3), in particular a mold lid (14) of the mold (3), on which at least one first antenna section (2a) and / or by means of a second contact section (13) of the mold (3), in particular a mold base (15) of the mold (3), to which at least one second antenna section (2b) is attached and / or a contact force is applied.

7. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that When applying the mold (3), to which at least two antenna sections (2a, 2b) are attached, at least one cavity (16) adjacent to the at least two antenna sections (2a, 2b) is created for the casting material (4), so that by hardening and / or cooling of the casting material (4) the connecting device (5) and / or the absorber (6) which connects the at least two antenna sections (2a, 2b) in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner can preferably be formed.

8. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that The antenna sections (2a, 2b) placed next to each other are connected to each other in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner by at least two connecting sections (18) of the connecting device (5) and / or the absorber (6) which are spaced apart from each other along the stacking direction (10) and / or adjacent to and / or abutting the outer sides (17) of the antenna sections (2a, 2b), wherein at least one connecting section (19) is preferably produced on at least one of the connecting sections (18), in particular projecting along the stacking direction (10), in particular by injection molding.

9. Waveguide antenna (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, with at least one antenna section (2a, 2b), characterized by that the waveguide antenna (1) is manufactured according to a method according to the preceding claims and / or thatan absorber (6) and / or a connecting device (5) of the waveguide antenna (1) comprises at least one connecting section (19) arranged on at least one connecting section and / or projecting from the at least one connecting section, in particular along a stacking direction (10) of the waveguide antenna (1), by means of which the absorber (6) and / or the connecting device (5) can be connected to a printed circuit board (20).

10. Waveguide antenna (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized by that the waveguide antenna (1) comprises two antenna sections (2a, 2b) which, in the intended use of the waveguide antenna (1), are adjacent to each other and / or form an antenna body (23) that is at least partially hollow.

11. Waveguide antenna (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by thatthe absorber (6) and / or the connecting device (5) on a front side (24) of the waveguide antenna (1) has at least one connecting section (18) and / or at least one recess (25) and / or at least one covering section (26) comprising at least one connecting section (18) and / or at least one recess (25).

12. Waveguide antenna (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the absorber (6) and / or the connecting device (5) on a rear side (27) of the waveguide antenna (1) comprises at least one connecting section (18) and / or at least one connecting section (19).

13. Waveguide antenna (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by thatthe absorber (6) and / or the connecting device (5) comprises a frame section (29) which preferably extends along the stacking direction (10) and / or adjoins at least one side surface (28) of the at least one antenna section (2a, 2b).

14. Waveguide antenna (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one antenna section (2a, 2b) comprises at least one opening (11) formed at least partially along the stacking direction (10), so that a casting material (4) for the production of the absorber (6) and / or the connecting device (5) can be passed through the at least one antenna section (2a, 2b), wherein preferably at least one of the antenna sections (2a, 2b), in particular within the at least one opening (11), comprises two opposing draft angles (30).

15. Waveguide antenna (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by thatcorresponding openings (11) of the two antenna sections (2a, 2b) in the area of ​​the system sections (9) comprise a first cross-section (7) and in the area of ​​the outside (17) of the antenna sections (2a, 2b) comprise a second cross-section (8), wherein the first cross-section (7) preferably differs from the second cross-section (8) and / or the first cross-section (7) is smaller than the second cross-section (8).

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