High-frequency terminal for high-frequency connectors and method for improving the quality of signal integrity of male high-frequency connectors or high-frequency plug-in connectors

Abstract

To improve the signal integrity quality of male high frequency connector and / or high frequency plug-in connector for a vehicle sector.SOLUTION: As means of compensating for the deterioration of signal integrity caused by an air gap 4 between dielectrics 20 and 60 of a male high-frequency connector 2 and a female high-frequency connector 6 on the other side, and a high frequency compensation region 122 is provided apart from a contact portion 110 of a high-frequency terminal 10 of the male high-frequency connector 2 of a high-frequency plug-in connector 40.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a high-frequency terminal for a high-frequency connector, preferably for the vehicle sector, in particular a male high-frequency terminal.The present invention further relates to a method for improving the quality of the signal integrity of a male high-frequency connector and / or a high-frequency plug-in connector.The present invention further relates to a high-frequency connector, in particular a male high-frequency connector, a high-frequency plug-in connector, in particular a high-frequency coaxial plug-in connector or a high-frequency twisted pair plug-in connector, and an electrical entity, preferably for the vehicle sector, respectively. [Background technology]

[0002] In the electrical field (electronics, electrical engineering, electrical equipment, electrical energy technology, etc.), a large number of electrical connection devices or apparatuses, such as sockets, pins, and / or hybrid connectors (hereinafter referred to as (electrical) connectors (or mating connectors)), are known, which serve to transmit current, voltage, signals, and / or data over a wide range of currents, voltages, frequencies, and / or data rates. In the low-, medium-, or high-voltage range, and / or in the low-, medium-, or high-current range, particularly in the vehicle field, such connectors are installed in environments that are subject to mechanical stress, warm or hot environments, dirty environments, humid environments, and / or chemically reactive environments, and need to transmit power, signals, and / or data reliably continuously, repeatedly, and / or for a short period of time after a relatively long outage. Due to the wide range of applications, a large number of specially developed connectors are known.

[0003] Such connectors, and, where appropriate, their associated housings (e.g., in the case of a connection device or apparatus) or higher-level housings (e.g., in the case of a connection apparatus), can be installed in a power line, cable, cable tree, etc. (hereinafter referred to as an assembled (electrical) cable), or in an electrical equipment or device, such as a housing, lead frame, circuit board, etc., a (power) electrical component, an electro-optical component, or an electronic component, or a corresponding assembly, etc. (electrical entity).

[0004] When a connector (with or without a housing) is placed on a cable, power line, or cable tree, it is known as a flying (plug-in) connector or plug, socket, and / or coupling. When a connector is placed on an electrical, electro-optical, or electronic component, assembly, etc., it is also known as a connector device, e.g., a (mounting / plugging) connector, a (mounting / plugging) plug, or a (mounting / plugging) socket. Connectors in such devices are often also referred to as (plug) receptacles, pin connectors, pin strips, or headers.

[0005] Such connectors must ensure trouble-free electrical transmission, and the corresponding complementary parts (connector and mating connector) usually have locking and / or fastening devices for permanently and usually releasably locking and / or fastening the connector to the mating connector or the mating connector to the connector. Furthermore, they must firmly hold an electrical connection device for the connector, which may include, for example, the actual contact device (usually a terminal designed as a single piece or integrally, e.g., a contact element) or a contact device (usually a terminal designed from multiple pieces, two pieces, one piece, one piece, or integrally, e.g., a one-piece or multi-piece (crimped) contact device). In the case of pre-assembled electrical cables, such a connection device can be provided in the form of a connector (see above), i.e., without a housing, e.g., in a flying configuration.

[0006] There is a constant effort to improve electrical connectors and their terminals, particularly to make them more efficient and more economically designed and / or manufactured. In high-frequency technology (herein defined as frequencies above 3 to above 300 MHz and well into the gigahertz range (approximately 150 GHz)), rules other than those of traditional electrical engineering (herein defined as frequencies below approximately 3 MHz) apply, especially because the wave properties of electricity become important in high-frequency technology. High-frequency connectors are therefore very sensitive to longitudinal air gaps between the dielectrics contained in the mating high-frequency terminals of the associated high-frequency plug-in connector. This means that the air gap should be as small as possible so that it only slightly impairs the signal integrity of the high-frequency connection. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Therefore, high-frequency connectors must have only a small or very small tolerance range. For this reason, many high-frequency connectors are designed as screw-in high-frequency connectors, which allows the tolerances to be kept small and the air gaps that occur here to only extend over a short distance. However, compared to plug-in connectors, screw-in high-frequency connectors are very complicated to handle, require a long time to install, and are very expensive. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an effective, economical, and / or easily manufactured high-frequency connector that has reduced sensitivity to air gaps. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The object of the invention is achieved by the independent claims, namely by a method for improving the quality of signal integrity of a high-frequency terminal for a high-frequency connector, in particular a male high-frequency terminal, a male high-frequency connector and / or a high-frequency plug-in connector, preferably for the vehicle sector, as well as by a high-frequency connector, in particular a male high-frequency connector, a high-frequency plug-in connector, in particular a high-frequency coaxial plug-in connector or a high-frequency twisted pair plug-in connector, and an electrical entity, preferably for the vehicle sector, respectively. Advantageous developments, further features and / or advantages of the invention become apparent from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0009] The radio frequency terminal according to the present invention includes an electromechanical contact portion, a mechanical fastening portion, and an electromechanical joining portion, and the radio frequency terminal extends in the longitudinal direction. The contact portion serves to establish electromechanical contact between the radio frequency terminal and a mating radio frequency terminal, the fastening portion serves to fasten the radio frequency terminal to a dielectric or a housing, and the joining portion serves to establish further electromechanical contact of the radio frequency terminal. The fastening portion here can include the joining portion and / or can assist in the execution of the joining portion. Thus, the fastening portion and the joining portion can be housed in a common portion of the radio frequency terminal.

[0010] According to the invention, in a final plug-in position subject to tolerances of a high-frequency plug-in connector consisting of a high-frequency connector with a high-frequency terminal and a mating high-frequency connector with a mating high-frequency terminal, the high-frequency terminal comprises, apart from its contact area, a geometrically developed high-frequency compensation area, by means of which degradation of the signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connector can and / or is partially compensated.

[0011] That is, the final insertion positions of the two high-frequency terminals (i.e. the high-frequency terminal according to the invention and the associated mating terminal in the high-frequency plug-in connector) of a plug-in-only (i.e. not (also) screw-type) high-frequency plug-in connector, which is composed of a high-frequency connector and a mating high-frequency connector, are (also) affected by the longitudinal tolerance of the high-frequency plug-in connector, just like in the case of other plug-in connectors. As a result, the final insertion positions, which are affected by this tolerance, affect the signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connector or to some extent degrade the signal integrity of the high-frequency signal connector (see below).

[0012] In this case, the tolerance of the contact area of ​​the high-frequency terminal can exceed 1.4 mm, depending on the type. Naturally, other tolerance conditions can also be handled by the present invention. In particular, in the case of high-frequency coaxial or twisted-pair plug-in connectors, such tolerances involve an annular air gap between the dielectric of the high-frequency terminal. This means that the associated high-frequency terminal plug-in connector is partially surrounded by the annular air gap. Because the annular air gap and the dielectric of two longitudinally adjacent high-frequency connectors have significantly different dielectric constants, this significantly affects the signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connector.

[0013] The high-frequency compensation region of the high-frequency terminal according to the present invention refers to a form or shape of the high-frequency terminal that, on the one hand, differs from the conventional form of the high-frequency terminal in the longitudinal direction before and / or after the high-frequency compensation region, and, on the other hand, has the ability to partially compensate (passively) for degradation of the signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connection. This allows for compensation of degradation of the signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connector. This means that, according to the present invention, the high-frequency compensation region according to the present invention addresses (static compensation) the potential degradation of the signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connector caused by an air gap between the dielectrics of the two high-frequency connectors. The high-frequency compensation region here acts as an impedance compensator, impedance compensation means, or impedance compensation material. The design of the high-frequency terminal according to the present invention helps match the impedance caused in this region by the air gap in the dielectrics, improving the high-frequency performance of the high-frequency plug-in connector.

[0014] The high frequency compensation region can be provided or arranged in the high frequency terminal at the mechanical fastening portion of the high frequency terminal. The high frequency compensation region can also be provided or arranged between the contact portions of the fastening portion of the high frequency terminal. The high frequency compensation region can also be provided or arranged as a dimensional change or diameter change in the high frequency terminal. Here, the high frequency compensation region can be arranged in the high frequency connector within the dielectric, and the compensation region acts as what can simply be a (positive lock and / or friction lock) fastening of the high frequency terminal to the dielectric.

[0015] The high-frequency compensation region can be provided or arranged on at least one surface, particularly two surfaces, or the entire surface of the high-frequency terminal. Here, the high-frequency compensation region can be divided into at least two shaped regions that together form the high-frequency compensation region. This applies, for example, to high-frequency compensation regions on two surfaces of the high-frequency terminal. Naturally, it is also possible to provide high-frequency compensation regions with three, four, or multiple surfaces. Furthermore, the high-frequency compensation region can be provided or arranged along a portion of the periphery or along the entire periphery of the high-frequency terminal.

[0016] Apart from the insertion area, the high-frequency compensation area and the joining area of ​​its contact part, the high-frequency terminal can be designed as a straight solid cylinder (male high-frequency terminal). The base area of ​​this solid cylinder can here be rectangular, in particular approximately square, elliptical, in particular approximately circular, prismatic, etc. The cross section of the high-frequency compensation area can be provided or arranged on the high-frequency terminal point-symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the high-frequency terminal or mirror-symmetrically with respect to the cross section of the high-frequency terminal.

[0017] This preferably relates to all cross sections of the high-frequency compensation region or protrusion. The size, shape, and / or position of the cross section of the high-frequency terminal may be substantially the same in the longitudinal direction at least in the portion immediately before and / or after the high-frequency compensation region. The cross section of the high-frequency terminal or the cross section of the contact portion, fixing portion, and / or joining portion may be rectangular, in particular substantially square, or elliptical, in particular substantially circular, in design, except for the high-frequency compensation region.

[0018] The high-frequency compensation region can be disposed as a protrusion in the central portion of the high-frequency terminal. Depending on the design of the high-frequency terminal and its cross-section, the protrusion can be provided or disposed as a generally rectangular solid, a cuboid, possibly partially surrounding one or more faces, or the protrusion can have an elliptical, oval, or spherical shape. At least some or all of the cross sections of the longitudinal portions, protrusions, or shaped regions of the high-frequency compensation region can be identical and coplanar with one another in the longitudinal direction.

[0019] According to the invention, two substantially identical radio frequency terminals are provided, one of which has a larger compensation area or a compensation area of ​​larger dimensions configured for a higher frequency (see FIG. 8). The protrusion may further have a dimension or diameter that is completely or partially constant in the longitudinal direction. The protrusion may further comprise a bevel that is completely or partially inclined in the longitudinal direction. In particular, the radio frequency terminal may be designed as a radio frequency terminal that can only be plugged in, but cannot be screwed in. Here, the radio frequency terminal may be manufactured as a compressed wire, for example, by a punching and forming process (pressing process, stamping process, etc.) followed by a bending process.

[0020] The high-frequency terminal with the high-frequency compensation area or protrusion can be designed as one or a single piece of material. A single-piece design refers to a high-frequency terminal formed with only one component that can only be destructively separated. The component is manufactured from one starting piece (metal plate, blank, etc.) and / or from one starting mass (molten metal) that is necessarily one piece in itself. The components are held together from the inside by adhesion and / or bonding. A physically (adhesively) one-piece design refers to a high-frequency terminal design in which the individual components are physically fixed to each other (welded, soldered, glued, etc.) and preferably cannot be separated into individual parts without damaging one of the individual components. Here, additional adhesion can be achieved by friction and / or positive locking (not having a one-piece design).

[0021] A high-frequency terminal can be configured by the method for improving signal integrity according to the present invention. The high-frequency terminal can be configured as a contact device (see above) or a contact arrangement (see above), in particular as a pin terminal. Of course, if necessary, the high-frequency terminal can also be configured as a tab terminal, a hermaphroditic terminal, etc.

[0022] In a method for improving the quality of signal integrity according to the present invention (see also Figures 3 to 10), at least one uncompensated signal integrity of a high frequency plug-in connector is first determined in a preparatory step (see also Figure (1) and Figures 3 to 6) of the method for a high frequency plug-in connector that is improved by (and designed with) an air gap between the dielectrics of a male high frequency connector and a mating female high frequency connector. In a design step (see also Figure (2) and Figures 7 to 10) following the preparatory step, a high frequency compensation area is provided in the male high frequency terminal of the high frequency plug-in connector, spaced apart from its electromechanical contact parts, and the compensated signal integrity of the high frequency plug-in connector is determined, and dimensions of the high frequency compensation area are determined such that the quality of the compensated signal integrity is higher than the quality of the uncompensated signal integrity.

[0023] The method is preferably designed as a method for designing a partially impedance-compensated male high-frequency connector or a partially impedance-compensated high-frequency plug-in connector. According to the present invention, the high-frequency plug-in connector can be designed not as a conceptual high-frequency connector but as a simulated image of an actual high-frequency plug-in connector. Here, the high-frequency plug connector can already exist as a standardized high-frequency plug-in connector, for example, from a series for a specific application. This method can simulate, for example, a high-frequency plug-in connector that is subject to tolerances, in which the high-frequency terminal plug-in connector of the high-frequency plug-in connector is at least partially surrounded by an air gap between the dielectric. The air gap is preferably designed as an at least partially surrounding annular air gap.

[0024] In a preparation step, the TDR time signals of the multiple high-frequency plug-in connectors can be used to select the male high-frequency connector and / or high-frequency plug-in connector. Furthermore, in a preparation step, the operating dimensions, particularly the diameter, of the male high-frequency terminal and its associated screen conductor sleeve are matched to each other with respect to the desired impedance, thereby improving the quality of the male high-frequency connector and / or high-frequency plug-in connector. In a preparation step, the high-frequency connector and / or high-frequency plug-in connector is preferably designed for an impedance of 50 ohms. Of course, other impedances, such as 75 ohms, 93-125 ohms, etc., can also be used.

[0025] Furthermore, the preparation step may specifically configure the air gap between the dielectrics. Furthermore, the preparation step may select the dimensions, particularly the outer diameter, of the male high-frequency terminal. Here, it is practical to select a typical dimension for the high-frequency terminal (without calculation or simulation), e.g., a diameter of 0.4 mm. Additionally, the preparation step may determine the dimensions, particularly the outer diameter, of the screen conductor sleeve associated with the selected male high-frequency terminal.

[0026] In the design step, a plurality of high-frequency plug-in connectors can be referenced to identify male high-frequency connectors and / or high-frequency plug-in connectors that improve quality, and changes in the dimensions, particularly diameter, of the high-frequency compensation region are considered with respect to otherwise identical high-frequency plug-in connectors. Also in the design step, the air gap between the dielectrics can be reconfigured. Also in the design step, TDR time signals and / or S-parameters can be further referenced to evaluate the improvement in quality. Also in the design step, with respect to changes in dimensions, particularly diameter, the dimensions, particularly diameter, can be increased.

[0027] In the embodiment of the present invention, it is observed that at relatively low frequencies (see FIG. 8, below about 2.4-2.7 GHz), a larger high-frequency compensation area leads to a greater degradation of signal integrity. At relatively high frequencies (see FIG. 8, above about 2.4-2.7 GHz), a larger high-frequency compensation area leads to a greater improvement of signal integrity. Naturally, different embodiments have other results that can be checked by the method according to the present invention. Therefore, according to the present invention, for a given transmission speed, specific dimensions, possibly specific shapes (e.g., determined by dimensions), and / or possibly specific positions (e.g., determined by dimensions) of the compensation area are selected and configured in the high-frequency terminal accordingly.

[0028] In intermediate steps of the design process (see also Figures 9 and 10), impedance checks can be performed in relation to the desired impedance, and the geometry or dimensions of the male high-frequency connector, the high-frequency plug-in connector, and / or the high-frequency compensation area can be adjusted if necessary. The air gap is preferably designed according to the invention as a completely enclosing annular air gap. The method for improving the quality of signal integrity according to the invention is preferably carried out as a computer-aided simulation method. Of course, it is also possible to carry out the method according to the invention using real components, in which case the TDR time signal and S-parameters are measured rather than simulated.

[0029] The high-frequency connector according to the present invention comprises a screened conductor sleeve, a dielectric mounted in the screened conductor sleeve, and a high-frequency terminal fixed to the dielectric, the high-frequency terminal being designed according to the present invention and / or the high-frequency connector being or being designed by the method according to the present invention (see also the claims). Such a high-frequency connector is particularly suitable as a high-frequency coaxial plug-in connector or a high-frequency twisted pair plug-in connector. In particular, the high-frequency connector is designed as a pluggable-only, non-screwable high-frequency connector.

[0030] The high-frequency plug-in connector according to the invention comprises a male high-frequency connector and a female high-frequency connector, at least one of the high-frequency connectors being designed according to the invention and / or the high-frequency connector or the high-frequency plug-in connector being designed or constructed by the method according to the invention. The electrical entity according to the invention comprises a high-frequency connector or the high-frequency plug-in connector, the high-frequency connector and / or the high-frequency plug-in connector being designed according to the invention and / or the high-frequency connector or the high-frequency plug-in connector being configured or constructed by the method according to the invention.

[0031] Such entities may be configured as, for example, electrical devices, electrical equipment, assembled (pre-assembled) electrical high frequency cables, electrical assemblies, electrical circuit boards, electrical components, electrical modules, electrical devices, electrical equipment, electrical assemblies, electrical installations, electrical systems, and the like.

[0032] The present invention counters the degradation of signal integrity, also known as the terminal spacing effect, in high-frequency plug-in connectors, such as high-frequency coaxial or twisted pair plug-in connectors, thereby increasing the transmittable bandwidth of the associated high-frequency plug-in connector (improving signal integrity). In particular, the present invention reduces the negative effect of air gaps in the area of ​​the plugged-in high-frequency terminals on the achievable bandwidth at higher frequencies of the associated high-frequency plug-in connector (see also FIG. 8).

[0033] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings. The drawings are schematic and not to scale. Parts, elements, parts, units, components, and / or figures having the same, unique, or similar design and / or function are identified by the same reference numerals in the description of the drawings (see below), the description of the symbols, the claims, and the drawings. Possible alternatives, steady-state and / or motion state reversals, exemplary embodiments of the invention, or combinations of its components, figures, units, parts, elements, or parts, etc., not described, not shown, and / or not final in the description of the invention (see above) can further be derived from the description of the symbols and / or the description of the drawings.

[0034] In the present invention, features (parts, elements, parts, units, components, functions, dimensions, etc.) can be defined as positive, i.e., as being present, or negative, i.e., as being absent. In this specification (description (see above, description of the invention (see below)), description of the figures (see below)), description of symbols, claims, drawings), negative features will not be explicitly described as features unless their absence is considered essential to the present invention. This means that an invention that has actually been made and is not interpreted by the prior art omits this feature.

[0035] The features of this specification may be applied not only in the manner described but also in different ways (separation, aggregation, substitution, addition, unique position, omission, etc.). Features in the claims and / or specification may be substituted, added, or omitted, particularly based on the reference signs and the features assigned thereto, or vice versa, in the description, sign descriptions, claims, and / or drawings. Features may thus be configured and / or specified in more detail in the claims.

[0036] Features herein can also be interpreted as optional features (in view of the (initially little known) prior art), i.e., each feature can be understood as an optional, optional, or preferred feature, i.e., a non-binding feature. Thus, a feature can be isolated from an exemplary embodiment, possibly including its surroundings, and this feature can then be transformed into a generalized inventive concept. The absence of a feature in an exemplary embodiment (a negative feature) indicates that the feature is optional with respect to the present invention. Furthermore, feature type terms can also be interpreted as general terms for features (which may include further hierarchical classification into subgenera), which allows for generalization of features, e.g., taking into account equivalent effects and / or equivalent values. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1] 1 is a cutaway perspective side view of a high-frequency plug-in connector as an image model of a high-frequency plug-in connector in a simulation method according to the invention; FIG. [Figure 2] 1, but clarifying the high-frequency compensation area performed in the simulation process of simulating the male high-frequency terminal of the high-frequency plug-in connector. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram of a simulated TDR time signal in a preparatory step of a simulation method for improving the signal integrity quality of male high frequency connectors and / or high frequency plug-in connectors. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram of S-parameters corresponding to the TDR time signal of FIG. 3 in a preliminary step of the simulation method. [Figure 5] 10 is a diagram of a TDR time signal selected in a preparation step as representative of a high-frequency plug-in connector for qualification purposes for further continuation of the simulation method. [Figure 6]6 is a diagram of the S-parameters corresponding to the TDR time signal of FIG. 5 as a representative of a high-frequency plug-in connector for quality improvement, used in continuing the simulation method. [Figure 7] 1 is a diagram of a simulated TDR time signal in a design step of a simulation method for improving the signal integrity quality of a male high frequency connector and / or a high frequency plug-in connector. [Figure 8] 8 is a diagram of S-parameters corresponding to the TDR time signal of FIG. 7 in the design step of the simulation method. [Figure 9] 10 is a diagram of a simulated TDR time signal for impedance check in the design step of the simulation method for quality improvement. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram of S-parameters corresponding to the TDR time signal of FIG. 9 for impedance check in the simulation method. [Figure 11] 1 is a detailed partial perspective side view of a high frequency plug-in connector, including a further expanded high frequency compensation area. [Figure 12] 1 is a detailed partial perspective side view of a high frequency plug-in connector, including a further expanded high frequency compensation area. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0038] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to various exemplary embodiments of a high-frequency plug-in connector 2, a mating high-frequency plug-in connector 6, and a high-frequency plug-in connector 40 consisting of the high-frequency plug-in connector 2 and the mating high-frequency plug-in connector 6, preferably for the vehicle sector (see FIGS. 1, 2, 11, and 12). Furthermore, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to various exemplary embodiments of a method for improving the signal integrity of a male high-frequency connector 2 and / or a high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6, 40, preferably for the vehicle sector (see FIGS. 3 to 10). While the present invention will be described and illustrated in more detail using preferred exemplary embodiments, the present invention is not limited by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, which are fundamental in nature. Those skilled in the art can derive other variations from the exemplary embodiments and / or the above (description of the invention) without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0039] The present invention can therefore be applied generally to corresponding electrical components and / or non-vehicle fields, such as the entertainment electronics field, the power engineering field, the electrical engineering field, etc., as well as very generally to industrial technology. This means that the present invention is generally applicable to electrical entities 1, 5 (see above). Terrestrial electrical energy technology and its derivatives in vehicles are an exception here. Only the spatial parts of the objects of the present invention necessary for the understanding of the present invention are shown in the drawings. The names of connector and mating connector, terminal and mating terminal, etc. are to be construed synonymously, i.e. can be interchangeable depending on the context.

[0040] Typically, insertion depth tolerances of the high-frequency connectors 2, 6 result in peaks in the impedance profile of the high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6; 40, e.g., from two high-speed data connectors with transmission speeds of over 1 GHz in the vehicle sector (see Figure 3). Electrical signals travel along electromagnetic paths from the high-frequency connector 2 / 6 via the high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6; 40 to the other high-frequency connector 6 / 2 and vice versa. The ideal prerequisites for such high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40 are a constant inner diameter and the same dielectric within the high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6; 40, e.g., with an impedance of 50 ohms (see above). This means that there are no reflections and very good signal integrity performance is ensured.

[0041] Due to the tolerances of the high-frequency connectors 2, 6, a dielectric air gap 4 is created between the dielectrics 20, 60 of the high-frequency connectors 2, 6 of the high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40 (see Figure 1). When an electrical signal reaches this air gap 4, an inductive peak is formed due to incorrect impedance matching in this area of ​​the high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40. This air gap 4 is unavoidable and has a significant negative impact on the high-frequency performance of the high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40. A typical axial tolerance range is approximately 1.4 mm, preferably with an additional overlap of approximately 1 mm of the included terminals 10, 50, to also ensure that the terminals 10, 50 can be securely plugged into each other (the length of the contact areas 110, 510 of the terminals 10, 50 is 2.4 mm or more).

[0042] Each of these high-frequency connectors 2, 6 comprises at least a radially outer screen conductor sleeve 30, 70, a dielectric 20, 60 provided radially inside the screen conductor sleeve 30, 70, and a high-frequency terminal 10, 50 provided radially inside the dielectric 20, 60. The screen conductor sleeve 30, 70 does not here need to constitute the radially outer boundary (housing, outer housing, etc.) of the high-frequency connectors 2, 6. In this case, the high-frequency connector 2 is designed as a male high-frequency plug-in connector 2 with an (internal) male high-frequency terminal 10, and the high-frequency connector 6 is designed as a mating female high-frequency plug-in connector 6 with an (internal) mating female high-frequency terminal 50.

[0043] The male high-frequency terminal 10 is divided in its longitudinal direction Lr into an electromechanical contact portion 110 having an insertion area 112 which is preferably rounded or inclined radially outward and free at the front, a mechanical fastening portion 120 in the dielectric 20, and an electromechanical connection portion 130 which can be designed, for example, as a press-fit portion, a soldered portion, a welded portion, a crimped portion, etc. In this case, the screen conductor sleeve 30 of the male high-frequency connector 2 is configured integrally with the header, although this is optional according to the invention.

[0044] The female high-frequency terminal 50 is divided in its longitudinal direction Lr into an electromechanical contact part 510 having an insertion area 512 which is preferably rounded or inclined radially inward and free at the front, a mechanical fastening part 520 in the dielectric 60, and an electromechanical connection part 530 which in this case can be designed as a crimping part, but can also be designed, for example, as a press-fit part, a soldered part, a welded part, etc. In this case, the screened conductor sleeve 70 of the female high-frequency connector 6 is configured as a crimpable screened conductor sleeve 70, which is optional according to the invention.

[0045] According to the invention, a compensation area 122 is provided in the male high-frequency terminal 10, which can and / or partially compensates for degradation in the signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6; 40, for example due to the tolerance-based final plug-in position of the high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6; 40, which is composed of the male high-frequency terminal 10 and the mating female high-frequency terminal 50.

[0046] The high-frequency compensation region 122 is preferably geometrically formed from a single piece of material and fixed to the male high-frequency terminal 10, or is configured integrally with the male high-frequency terminal 10. The compensation region 122 is particularly provided as a protrusion 122 of the high-frequency terminal 10. The compensation region 122 is preferably provided away from the contact portion 110 in the male high-frequency terminal 10. Here, the high-frequency compensation region 122 can be provided in the fixed portion 120, or between the contact portion 110 and the fixed portion 120 in the high-frequency terminal 10.

[0047] The high-frequency compensation region 122 can be provided or arranged on one face, two faces, or multiple faces, along a portion of the periphery, or along the entire periphery of the male high-frequency terminal 10. In Fig. 2, the male high-frequency terminal 10 has a rectangular or square cross section, and the compensation region 122 is provided on two faces (the upper and lower sides in Fig. 2 across the longitudinal direction Lr, and coplanar with the two longitudinal faces of the male high-frequency terminal 10). In Figs. 11 and 12, the male high-frequency terminal 10 has an oval, circular, or square cross section, and the compensation region 122 is provided along the entire periphery. Naturally, the compensation region 122 can also be provided along a portion of the periphery.

[0048] The appropriate dimensions or diameters of the compensation region 122 or of the male high-frequency terminal 10 in the compensation region 122 are determined by the quality improvement method according to the present invention. Here, the position of the compensation region 122 in the longitudinal direction Lr of the male high-frequency terminal 10 is essentially negligible, as is its position in the circumferential direction of the male high-frequency terminal 10. However, it is preferable that the radial dimensions of the compensation region 122 are important, for example, in one radial direction (one-sided compensation region 122), two opposing radial directions (two-sided, preferably symmetrical compensation regions 122), and all radial directions (compensation region 122 along the entire circumference).

[0049] The method is preferably implemented as a computer-aided simulation method. It is also possible to measure the actual high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40 rather than simulating the relevant data. To verify the quality of the high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40, enhanced by the air gap 4 between the dielectric 20, 60 of the male high-frequency connector 2 and the mating female high-frequency connector 6, the assembly is first converted into a computer model. Throughout the process, the air gap 4 remains configured and has a specific diameter, e.g., 0.35 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.45 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.55 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, or 1.0 mm.

[0050] In a preliminary step I of the method, the uncompensated signal integrity of at least one of the high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40 is determined with reference to this computer model. The male high-frequency terminal 10 and the high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40 should have a specific impedance, preselected here, for example 50 ohms. If this is not the case, the relevant diameter of the male high-frequency terminal 10 and the high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40 must be determined and the high-frequency terminal 10 and the high-frequency plug-in connectors 2, 6; 40 must be configured appropriately. This means that the male high-frequency connector 2 and / or the high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6; 40 must be configured for this impedance (see Figures 3 and 5, impedance before and after the induced peak) regardless of the air gap 4.

[0051] A typical diameter of the male high-frequency terminal 10, e.g., 0.4 mm or 0.5 mm, is preferably selected freely, and the geometry of the screen conductor sleeve 30 or header, particularly its inner diameter, is then determined for this impedance. This is done, for example, using the TDR time signals I-VI shown in Figure 3. The desired impedance of 50 ohms is located between signals III and IV, which indicates a specific geometry. This allows the relevant impedance geometry to be determined. Figure 4 shows the S-parameters corresponding to the TDR time signals I-VI.

[0052] Figure 5 shows the TDR time signal selected in preparatory step I for the desired 50 ohms (the TDR time signal between signals III and IV in Figure 3). Figure 6 shows the corresponding S-parameters, which are the reference S-parameters, based on which the compensation area 122 according to the invention must be measured. That is, Figure 6 now shows the reduction of attenuation for improved quality.

[0053] In design step II of the method, a geometrically determined high-frequency compensation area 122 is provided in the male high-frequency terminal 10, preferably spaced apart from its contact area 110, and the compensated signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connector is determined in a computer model. This is repeated for geometrically different high-frequency compensation areas 122. The overall results for two high-frequency compensation areas 122 (diameters of the high-frequency terminal 10 at the high-frequency compensation area 122 d = 0.6 mm and d = 0.8 mm) are shown in Figure 7 together with the results of preparation step I (without compensation). Design step II preferably follows preparation step I immediately after.

[0054] FIG. 8 shows S-parameters corresponding to the TDR time signal of FIG. 7. It can be seen that the larger the dimension or diameter of the high-frequency compensation area 122, the worse the performance at low frequencies than at high frequencies (see FIG. 8). The appropriate dimension or diameter of the compensation area 122 should be selected based on the requirements for the high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6; 40 being designed, particularly with regard to the transmission frequency. The simulation method further shows that the high-frequency performance at a specific frequency or frequency band (here, from approximately 2.4-2.7 GHz or more to 10 GHz or more, FIG. 8) can be improved by designing the high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6; 40 used, particularly the male high-frequency terminal 10 that can be formed thereby.

[0055] In an intermediate step (see FIGS. 9 and 10), an impedance check with respect to the desired impedance can be carried out in design step II. Here, the geometry or dimensions of the male high-frequency connector 2 can be adjusted, if necessary, in particular the diameter of the screen conductor sleeve 30 and / or the high-frequency compensation area 122 of the high-frequency plug-in connector 2, 6; 40. Following the simulation method according to the invention, the compensation area 122 can be further refined. This allows the compensation area 122 to have a diameter that is only partially constant in the longitudinal direction Lr and to further include a bevel (FIG. 11) or to consist entirely of a bevel (FIG. 12). Again, the compensation area 122 can be formed on one surface, two surfaces, multiple surfaces, along part of the periphery, along the entire periphery, etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0056] 1 Electrical Entity 2 (Electrical) High Frequency (Mating) (Plug-in) Connector 4 Air gap between dielectrics 20 and 60 5 Electrical Entities 6 (Electrical) High Frequency (Mating) (Plug-in) Connector 10 (internal) (male) high frequency (mating) terminal 20 Dielectrics 30 Screen sleeves sometimes designed integrally with the header 40 High-frequency plug-in connector consisting of high-frequency connector 2 and mating high-frequency connector 6 50 (internal) (female) high frequency (mating) terminal 60 Dielectric 70 Screen Sleeve 110 (electromechanical) (counterpart) contact part 112 preferably circular, angled insertion area 120 (mechanical) fastening part of dielectric 20 122 Compensation area, especially protrusion 130 (Electromechanical) Connection Parts 510 (electromechanical) (counterpart) contact part of dielectric 20 512 preferably circular, angled insertion area 520 (Mechanical) fixing part of dielectric 60 530 (Electromechanical) Connection Parts Lr Longitudinal direction of high frequency terminals 10, 50, etc.

Claims

1. A high-frequency terminal (10) for a high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) for the vehicle sector, comprising: The high frequency terminal (10) includes an electromechanical contact portion (110), a mechanical fastening portion (120), and an electromechanical connecting portion (130), and extends in a longitudinal direction (Lr); Regarding the final insertion position that is affected by the tolerance of the high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) that is composed of the high-frequency connector (2) having the high-frequency terminal (10) and the mating high-frequency connector (6) having the mating high-frequency terminal (50), the high-frequency terminal (10) comprises, apart from its contact portion (110), a geometrically developed high-frequency compensation area (122), by which degradation of the signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) can be and / or is partially compensated, The entire high-frequency terminal (10) extends in the longitudinal direction (Lr), The high-frequency terminal (10) is fixed to a dielectric (20), The entire dielectric (20) extends in the longitudinal direction (Lr), The high-frequency compensation region (122) is a protrusion (122) provided or disposed along a portion or the entire periphery of the high-frequency terminal (10), The protrusion (122) includes a slope at least partially in the longitudinal direction (Lr). characterized in that High frequency terminal (10).

2. The high frequency compensation region (122) provided or disposed on the mechanically fastened portion (120) of the high frequency terminal (10), or provided or disposed between the contact portion (110) and the mechanical fastening portion (120), The high frequency terminal (10) according to claim 1.

3. The high frequency compensation region (122) The high frequency terminal (10) is provided or arranged as a change in size or diameter. The high frequency terminal (10) according to claim 1.

4. The entire cross section of the high frequency compensation region (122) is configured as the protrusion (122) in the central portion of the high frequency terminal (10), and The protrusion (122) has a partially constant diameter in the longitudinal direction (Lr). The high frequency terminal (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The high frequency terminal (10) is designed as a high frequency terminal (10) that can only be plugged in and cannot be screwed in, The high-frequency terminal (10) having the protrusion (122) as the high-frequency compensation area (122) is designed as one or an integral piece of material. The high frequency terminal (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A method for improving the quality of signal integrity of a high frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) for the vehicle sector, comprising: The high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) comprises a male high-frequency connector (2) having a dielectric (20) and a mating female high-frequency connector (6) having a dielectric (60), The entire male high frequency terminal (10) extends in the longitudinal direction (Lr), The male high frequency terminal (10) is fixed to the dielectric (20), and the entire dielectric (20) extends in the longitudinal direction (Lr), For the high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) designed with an air gap (4) between the dielectric (20) of the male high-frequency connector (2) and the dielectric (60) of the mating female high-frequency connector (6), at least one uncompensated signal integrity of the high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) is determined in a preparation step (I), In a design step (II) following the preparation step, a high frequency compensation area (122) is provided at the male high frequency terminal (10) of the male high frequency connector (2) of the high frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) away from its contact area (110), and the compensated signal integrity of the high frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) is determined; the high frequency compensation region (122) is dimensioned such that the compensated signal integrity is of higher quality than the uncompensated signal integrity; The high frequency compensation region (122) is a protrusion (122) provided or disposed along a portion or the entire circumference of the male high frequency terminal (10); The protrusion (122) includes a slope at least partially in the longitudinal direction (Lr). A method characterized by:

7. The method is designed as a design method for compensating the partial impedance of the male high-frequency connector (2) or the high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40), The method of claim 6.

8. characterised in that in the preparation step (I) of selecting the male high-frequency connector (2) and / or the high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40), TDR time signals of a plurality of high-frequency plug-in connectors (2, 6; 40) are referenced.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7.

9. In the preparation step (I), The air gap (4) between the dielectrics (20, 60) is configured.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8.

10. In the design step (II), the male high-frequency connector (2) and / or the high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) that improves quality is identified with reference to a plurality of high-frequency plug-in connectors (2, 6; 40); 10. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

11. In the design step (II), The air gap (4) between the dielectrics (20, 60) is configured, The improvement in quality is evaluated with reference to a TDR time signal and / or S parameters. The method of claim 6.

12. characterised in that in an intermediate step of the design step (II) an impedance check can be carried out in relation to the desired impedance and, if necessary, the geometry or dimensions of the male high-frequency connector (2), the high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) and / or the high-frequency compensation area (122) can be adjusted.

12. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 11.

13. A high frequency connector (2) for the vehicle field, comprising: The device comprises a screen conductor sleeve (30), the dielectric (20) attached to the screen conductor sleeve (30), and the high-frequency terminal (10) fixed to the dielectric (20), The high-frequency terminal (10) is designed according to any one of claims 1 to 5, High frequency connector (2).

14. A high-frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40) for the vehicle sector, comprising: The high-frequency terminal (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, High frequency plug-in connector (2, 6; 40).

15. An electrical entity (1 / 5) for the vehicle sector, comprising: The high-frequency terminal (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, Electrical entities.

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