Woven flat cable with common shielding

Abstract

The invention relates to a ribbon cable and to a system comprising a ribbon cable of this type. One embodiment of the ribbon cable (200) has: at least two data pair elements (100), wherein each of the at least two data pair elements (100) has two parallel electrical conductors which extend in a longitudinal direction, and wherein the at least two data pair elements are delimited by a non-conductive film (5); and a woven structure which is interlaced at least in sections with the at least two data pair elements and has at least one first thread (7) running in the longitudinal direction and at least one second thread (6) running in the transverse direction. The ribbon cable (200) has at least one electrically conductive element which lies outside the non-conductive film (5) of the at least two data pair elements (100). The at least one electrically conductive element extends in the longitudinal direction of the ribbon cable.

Description

[0001] BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 1 - APA-164 279

[0002] DRAFT

[0003] Woven flat cable with common shielding

[0004] The invention relates to a flat ribbon cable and a system with such a flat ribbon cable.

[0005] A ribbon cable, also known simply as a flat cable, is a multi-core cable in which the conductors are not bundled in a circle and arranged in a round insulating sleeve, but rather run parallel to each other. Typically, ribbon cables consist of numerous conductors that extend lengthwise, i.e., in the direction of travel, and can connect electrical components in this direction. Perpendicular to this direction, the individual conductors are arranged side by side. Ribbon cables are used, for example, because they exhibit particularly good flexibility in the longitudinal direction, i.e., around the transverse axis. They are therefore used, for instance, to connect multi-core signal lines in electrical assemblies and / or computers, often due to space constraints.

[0006] Flat ribbon cables are generally known from the prior art. Examples include US 2013 / 0062095 Al and EP 2 685 465 Al.

[0007] US 2013 / 0062095 Al relates to a flat cable with a plurality of parallel wires and a fiber element woven between the plurality of wires in the same direction as the plurality of wires. Each plurality of wires has an inner conductor with a fiber (filament) and a plurality of conductors around an outer circumference of the fiber, and insulation around an outer periphery of the inner conductor. The fiber element comprises an elastic polyurethane fiber.

[0008] In contrast, EP 2 685 465 Al relates to a flat cable and a cable harness. The flat cable has a plurality of electrical wires and an elongated fabric. The fabric is provided with crossing sections that are perpendicular to the plurality of electrical wires and that are arranged in an ascending and descending order along the plurality of electrical wires according to a specific rule. The fabric is further provided with parallel areas that are continuous with the crossing areas and overlap with the electrical wires that are positioned at the ends of the plurality of electrical wires. The fabric and BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 2 - APA-164 279

[0009] DESIGN: Electrical wires are tightly interwoven to prevent the fabric from moving along the longitudinal direction of the electrical wires relative to the electrical wires.

[0010] These flat cables have in common that they lack specific protection against ESD (electrostatic discharge) and EMI (electromagnetic interference), as such cables are typically used in protected environments. In contrast, ESD- and EMI-protected cables are usually round and encased in a metal braid and / or special metal foils for protection against such influences. Here, the foils protect against EMI, while the metal braids protect against ESD and provide equipotential bonding. However, due to their significantly improved flexibility compared to round cables, flat cables are also of interest outside of appropriately protected environments / enclosures.

[0011] However, incorporating a metal braid and / or corresponding foils into flat ribbon cables is not only particularly complex to manufacture, but also counteracts the desired high flexibility of the cables. Therefore, there is a need for ESD- and / or EMI-protected versions of flat ribbon cables that can at least almost completely maintain the high flexibility of these cables, as well as for systems that use such cables for connections.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the invention, a flat ribbon cable is proposed. The flat ribbon cable has at least two data pair elements. Each data pair element has two parallel electrical conductors. Thus, each of the at least two data pair elements has two parallel electrical conductors. Each of these two parallel electrical conductors extends longitudinally. The at least two data pair elements have a non-conductive film. This film delimits the respective data pair element in the radial direction, or, in other words, the at least two data pair elements are delimited by the non-conductive film.

[0013] A web structure is provided, at least in sections. The web structure serves to connect the at least two data pair elements. The web structure is interwoven with the at least two data pair elements, at least in sections. The web structure has at least one first thread and at least one second thread. The at least one first thread runs longitudinally. The at least one second thread runs transversely. Furthermore, BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 3 - APA-164 279

[0014] DRAFT

[0015] The ribbon cable contains at least one electrically conductive element. Preferably, the at least one electrically conductive element is not insulated. The at least one electrically conductive element can be located, in particular, within a region of the ribbon cable. The at least one electrically conductive element lies outside the non-conductive foil within the ribbon cable. The at least one electrically conductive element also extends longitudinally along the ribbon cable.

[0016] The electrical conductors extending longitudinally in each of the at least two data pair elements are specifically designed to transmit electrical signals, currents, or similar information between different components. The longitudinal direction is, in particular, the direction in which the ribbon cable can connect electrical components. In other words, the longitudinal direction can refer to the direction along the longest dimension of the ribbon cable. The two parallel electrical conductors can be arranged side by side transversely to the longitudinal direction, i.e., almost perpendicular to it. Additionally or alternatively, the at least two data pair elements in the ribbon cable can be arranged side by side transversely to the longitudinal direction.However, if more than two data pair elements are used, it is also possible that only two data pair elements are placed next to each other and the other data pair elements are arranged on top of each other in one or more further levels.

[0017] The non-conductive film can be adhered or bonded to the outside of the respective data pair element, starting from the two parallel electrical conductors. The non-conductive film can be, for example, a plastic film, a tape, or in a similar form, such as tape-like. Materials used include thermoplastic polymers such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), although other plastics are also possible. The non-conductive film, for example, the adhesive version, insulates the individual data pair element from the outside and ensures low crosstalk and good signal integrity (SI performance).

[0018] The web structure, with at least two data pair elements, can form a cable, more precisely a ribbon cable. In particular, more than two data pair elements can be arranged side by side in a transverse direction, and the web structure can be interwoven with the data pair elements. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 4 - APA-164 279

[0019] DRAFT

[0020] The first thread can be designed and referred to as the warp thread, in accordance with the usual terminology in weaving technology. The second thread, which can run almost perpendicular to the longitudinal direction in the weave structure, can accordingly be designed and referred to as the weft thread. Both threads can have different properties, thicknesses, and materials, and thus different characteristics. During weaving, the first threads (e.g., warp threads) can be moved up and down, and the second threads (e.g., weft threads) can be passed from one side to the other. For example, the weft thread can first be passed over the data pair elements and then passed back under the data pair elements to its original side.In this way, the first and second threads can form a web structure that fixes the at least two data pair elements and the at least one electrically conductive element together.

[0021] The at least one electrically conductive element can, for example, be inserted into the ribbon cable without insulation. This element can comprise at least one wire, at least one strand, or at least one fiber, which may be uninsulated. In contrast, signal lines are typically insulated within a ribbon cable. Suitable materials for the conductive element include conductive materials such as metals (e.g., copper, aluminum, silver, or gold) or metal alloys (e.g., copper or aluminum alloys), as well as carbon fibers. The conductive element can function similarly to a metallic braid (e.g., copper braid) found in round cables and provide protection against ESD.

[0022] This offers several advantages. Firstly, the inclusion of at least one conductive element avoids a (very) rigid braid, which would counteract the desired high flexibility of the ribbon cable. Furthermore, the desired conductivity in the longitudinal direction can be easily adjusted via this at least one electrically conductive element, which may contain at least one wire, strand, or fiber. Additionally, the position of the wires, strands, or fibers incorporated as the at least one electrically conductive element within the ribbon cable can be easily varied. Sufficient space is available for this, particularly between the data pair elements, but also around them and / or along the longitudinal edges of the ribbon cable or the outer data pair elements.Finally, the introduction of, for example, BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 5 - APA-164 279.

[0023] The addition of electrically conductive elements to the weaving process is advantageous for production reasons, especially in woven flat ribbon cables. Otherwise, the individual data pair elements would first have to be connected via their existing woven structure (at least in some sections) and then, after the cable is manufactured, laboriously encased in a copper braid. It is simpler to place the desired number of conductive elements in the weaving machine along with the data pair elements from the outset and then weave them into the flat ribbon cable by moving at least one first thread (e.g., the warp thread) and at least one second thread (e.g., the weft thread), thus eliminating an additional process step.

[0024] Another advantage is that a metallic element running longitudinally between the data pairs further reduces crosstalk, as the metallic element forms a kind of "electrical barrier." This means that the crosstalk between the pairs is more effectively attenuated, resulting in a better signal-to-noise ratio.

[0025] The at least one first electrically conductive element can comprise the at least one first thread, for example, a warp thread, or be configured as the at least one first thread, for example, a warp thread. This refers to a configuration of the ribbon cable in which the at least one first thread, for example, a warp thread, is at least partially conductive and thus capable of performing the function of the incorporated at least one electrically conductive element. Configurations are possible in which no additional electrically conductive elements (i.e., in addition to the at least one first thread) need to be incorporated into the ribbon cable (the ribbon line). Instead, this function is entirely performed by the at least one first thread, e.g., the warp thread. However, designs are also possible in which at least one electrically conductive element can be present (e.g., a warp thread).B. a wire, strand, or additional fiber is inserted into the ribbon cable) and yet one or more of the at least one first thread, e.g., warp thread, are conductive. In this case, the ESD protection is provided partly by the conductive at least one first thread, e.g., warp thread, and partly by the one or more additional electrically conductive elements. Such designs are advantageous because they reduce the number or number of additional elements required in the ribbon cable. This further simplifies the weaving process, as it is not necessary to have to consider both BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 6 - APA-164 279.

[0026] The design requires handling both the data pair elements and the initially loose, at least one electrically conductive element. Such a configuration can also be advantageous for making the ribbon cable even more compact, as little or no additional space is needed for the at least one electrically conductive element. A further benefit of this design is cost savings, as the production process becomes simpler and less material is required.

[0027] Furthermore, the ribbon cable can additionally (i.e., in addition to the at least one electrically conductive element) have at least one further electrically conductive element, e.g., within the ribbon cable itself. This additional electrically conductive element can also be located outside the non-conductive foil and within the ribbon cable. Unlike the at least one electrically conductive element, this additional electrically conductive element can be positioned either longitudinally or transversely along the cable.In other words, the term "at least one additional electrically conductive element" can refer to either one or more further electrically conductive elements, which are particularly parallel to the at least one conductive element, or one or more further electrically conductive elements, which can be arranged particularly at right angles to the at least one first electrically conductive element. In this way, conductivity can be established in the transverse direction of the ribbon cable. The function provided in this manner is thus similar to that of a braid. However, the desired conductivity can be easily varied by adjusting the number of one or more additional electrically conductive elements incorporated.In particular, more elements can be incorporated into certain areas of the ribbon cable than in others, whereas a pre-made braid typically consists of a constant density and thus a predetermined number of conductive elements. Furthermore, this allows for the insertion of one or more additional electrically conductive elements at different locations within the cable, eliminating the need for a pre-made braid to be arranged around the outside of the ribbon cable. This offers the advantage that such elements have virtually no impact on the flexibility of the ribbon cable, or at least not as much as a pre-made braid, and additional stresses on these electrically conductive elements when the ribbon cable is bent can be minimized. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 7 - APA-164 279.

[0028] DRAFT

[0029] The at least one additional electrically conductive element can comprise at least one first thread, for example, the warp thread, and / or at least one second thread, for example, the weft thread. For example, the at least one additional electrically conductive element can be configured as either the at least one first thread, such as the warp thread, or as the at least one second thread, such as the weft thread. This depends on whether the at least one additional electrically conductive element is / is intended to be introduced longitudinally or transversely along the ribbon cable, according to the design options outlined. In other words, designs are conceivable in which all electrically conductive elements for ESD protection are provided via conductive first and / or second threads, such as warp and / or weft threads.However, this function can also be provided only partially via the first and / or second threads, for example, warp and / or weft threads, and additionally, one or more further electrically conductive elements can be introduced in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction. This can be particularly useful when a particularly high conductivity in one direction is desired. By introducing one or more additional electrically conductive elements, their cross-section can be altered independently of the potentially conductive first and / or second threads, such as warp and / or weft threads, thus influencing the conductivity.

[0030] Electrically conductive elements, both those inserted longitudinally and those inserted transversely, can also be electrically connected to one another. Thus, it is possible, for example, to connect at least one longitudinally inserted electrically conductive element via at least one transversely inserted electrically conductive element. For instance, the conductivity in the longitudinal direction can be further increased. Several longitudinally inserted electrically conductive elements can form a kind of overall conductor in the longitudinal direction. This is advantageous because particularly good conductivity in the longitudinal direction can be achieved without having to excessively increase the cross-section of the electrically conductive elements.Thus, such a configuration opens up the possibility of making the ribbon cable particularly flat and generating particularly high conductivity in, for example, the longitudinal direction, without reducing the flexibility of the ribbon cable through large cross-sections of the electrically conductive elements.

[0031] The at least one longitudinally extending electrically conductive element can be a fiber or contain one. Such a fiber can be between BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 8 - APA-164 279

[0032] The design of the non-conductive foil and the first and / or second threads can be / will each be inserted into an existing space in the ribbon cable. This allows the at least one electrically conductive element to be / be positioned in areas where the cross-section of the ribbon cable is only minimally affected by the insertion of the at least one electrically conductive element. If the at least two data pair elements that are jointly provided in the ribbon cable are, for example, designed in a rhombus-like shape, an inclined area of ​​the respective data pair element, or the area between two adjacent inclined areas of the data pair elements and the outer boundary of the ribbon cable formed by the first and second threads, e.g.,Warp and weft threads, when stretched, provide sufficient space to accommodate at least one electrically conductive element in the longitudinal direction without significantly affecting the width of the flat ribbon cable.

[0033] In particular, at least one longitudinally extending electrically conductive element can be placed in a space that lies on a central axis of the ribbon cable. The central axis can be defined such that it is formed in the transverse direction. That is, the central axis can lie in a direction that is, in particular, perpendicular to the direction referred to as the longitudinal direction or the direction of the cable's greatest extent. In many common configurations where weft threads are used, the central axis thus corresponds to a direction that is, in particular, parallel to the weft threads. In this direction, the central axis can define the axis that intersects all data pair elements centrally, i.e., through their at least two parallel electrical conductors.In an arrangement of data pair elements where they are not only arranged side by side but also stacked on top of each other, each layer of data pair elements would form its own central axis. If at least one longitudinally extending electrically conductive element lies on this central axis, it is particularly advantageous because, in this area, bending the cable around the central axis results in very little compression and stretching of the electrically conductive element. This reduces the stress on the electrically conductive element and prevents damage, such as breakage.This ensures particularly reliable ESD protection for the ribbon cable, as an interruption of at least one electrically conductive element in the longitudinal direction negatively affects the ESD protection or, if only one electrically conductive element is present in the longitudinal direction, completely eliminates it. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 9 - APA-164 279.

[0034] DRAFT

[0035] The at least one electrically conductive element can consist of a metallic wire, strand, or carbon fiber, or it can incorporate a metallic wire, strand, or carbon fiber. The selected material plays a crucial role, particularly in terms of electrical conductivity, but also in the flexibility and / or weight of the at least one electrically conductive element. Therefore, depending on the configuration and / or customer requirements, various conductive materials can be used to optimally combine the properties of the ribbon cable and thus adapt it to the specific application.

[0036] The ribbon cable can also have an additional shielding foil. This shielding foil can be applied radially to the outside of the non-conductive foil. In other words, if the two parallel electrical conductors form the core of the at least one data pair element, the non-conductive foil can first be adhered and / or applied to the at least one data pair element in the direction of an increasing diameter, and further outwards in the direction of the increasing diameter, the additional shielding foil can be applied. The additional shielding foil can have at least a metallic component. It can be designed to shield against high-frequency interference from the outside. It can thus provide protection against EMI interference, i.e., for example, against electromagnetic interference, also known as radio interference.The conductive shielding foil, which is adhered to each data pair element, takes over the function of the overall foil shield familiar from round cables, where it can be located beneath a braided metal shield (e.g., copper braid). This offers the advantage that the overall foil shield can be omitted in flat ribbon cables with a braided weave structure, as such a shield is often difficult to implement due to the structure of the data pair elements (e.g., their diamond shape). Furthermore, applying an overall foil shield after weaving the data pair elements represents an additional process step, which can thus be avoided.

[0037] The additional shielding foil can also have at least one conductive and one non-conductive side. This refers to shielding foil configurations where, for example, a metallic layer is applied to a plastic layer. It is also possible to combine the additional shielding foil with the non-conductive foil. For this purpose, the non-conductive foil can, for example, be vapor-deposited with a metallic layer. This allows a single foil with one conductive and one non-conductive side to be created. In this way, functions are achieved. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 10 - APA-164 279

[0038] Design combining non-conductive and conductive foils. Multilayer foils, e.g., in a sandwich-like form, are also possible, where a metal layer is applied to a plastic foil, followed by another plastic layer, then another metal layer, and so on. The plastic components insulate the two metal layers from each other. This type of construction allows the properties of plastic insulation and shielding against high-frequency interference to be combined as desired. Plastic foils can also be used as carriers, making the application of the additional shielding foil to the non-conductive foil particularly easy due to the material pairing, and resulting in a particularly durable bond.

[0039] The conductive side of the additional shielding foil can be oriented radially outwards. This allows the shielding foil to block EMI interference before it penetrates the areas of the data pair element that are closer to the two parallel electrical conductors.

[0040] Similarly, the conductive side of the additional shielding foil can be in electrically conductive contact with at least one of the at least one electrically conductive element. This combines the functions of EMI and ESD protection. The additional shielding foil not only protects the respective data pair element from external high-frequency interference, but also connects the at least one electrically conductive element longitudinally to form a kind of overall shield. The result is increased longitudinal conductivity of the ribbon cable. This ensures a high level of ESD protection without requiring the at least one electrically conductive element to be connected via the at least one second thread, e.g., the weft thread, or via additional elements inserted transversely.This design is also advantageous from a production engineering perspective, as the data pair elements can be provided with a suitable shielding foil during their manufacture. When connecting the various data pair elements to form a ribbon cable, these previously applied shielding foils simply need to be brought into electrical contact with the longitudinally inserted at least one electrically conductive element. According to this design, non-conductive first and second threads, e.g., warp and weft threads, can be used, and yet adequate shielding against ESD and EMI influences can still be provided. Electrically conductive yarns are also often easier to process and potentially more cost-effective, as a wider range of materials is available. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 11 - APA-164 279.

[0041] DRAFT

[0042] Furthermore, the ribbon cable can have at least one additional single conductor and / or conductor. This at least one conductor and / or conductor can also be located within the ribbon cable. A conductor is understood to be, in particular, an insulated wire or stranded wire. It, like non-conductive elements, can therefore be located outside the non-conductive foil. This additional conductor and / or conductor can be used, for example, to transmit additional signals that do not require shielding. However, this conductor and / or conductor is generally insulated and / or is at least not electrically connected to the at least one electrically conductive element. Such a design has the advantage that conductors requiring special shielding can be separated from those that do not.This also allows data pair elements to be saved, since otherwise another data pair element would have to be provided for an additional line to transmit another signal.

[0043] Optionally, the ribbon cable can be encased in a plastic braid or an extruded plastic sheath, for example to increase flame resistance or to insulate the ribbon cable from other components.

[0044] According to a second aspect of the invention, a system is proposed. This system comprises at least two electrical components and the ribbon cable according to the first aspect. The two components are connected by the ribbon cable. The connection is established such that the at least one electrically conductive element is in electrical contact with at least one housing of the two electrical components. This allows for potential equalization between at least one housing and the at least one electrically conductive element. In particular, this makes it possible to dissipate ESD currents to the at least one housing.

[0045] Furthermore, at least one housing that is electrically connected to at least one electrically conductive element of the ribbon cable can have a ground connection. This allows the ESD current on the cable to be diverted via the housing towards grounding.

[0046] The present invention will be further explained with reference to figures. These figures schematically depict: BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 12 - APA-164 279

[0047] DRAFT

[0048] Figure 1 shows a cross-section of a data pair element with optional screen film;

[0049] Figure 2 shows a cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a flat ribbon cable with four data pair elements, wherein the warp and / or weft threads take over the function of the electrically conductive elements;

[0050] Figure 3 shows a cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a flat ribbon cable with incorporated electrically conductive elements;

[0051] Figure 4 shows a cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a flat ribbon cable with incorporated electrically conductive elements and a single conductor and / or another conductor;

[0052] Figure 5 shows a cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a flat ribbon cable, wherein all data pair elements are provided with an additional shielding foil;

[0053] Figure 6 shows a cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a flat ribbon cable, wherein the data pair elements are only partially provided with an additional shielding foil and several individual conductors and / or other lines have been incorporated; and

[0054] Figure 7 shows a schematic sketch of a system in which a flat ribbon cable according to the invention connects the individual electrical components; and

[0055] Figure 8 shows a principle of a web structure by means of which the data pair elements and at least one electrical element are fixed to each other.

[0056] Specific details are set forth below, without limitation, to provide a complete understanding of the present invention. However, it is clear to a person skilled in the art that the present invention can be used in other embodiments that may differ from the details shown below. Furthermore, the figures serve only to illustrate embodiments. They are not to scale and are intended only to exemplify the general concept of the invention. For example, features included in the figures should by no means be considered necessary components. A flat ribbon cable made of specifically constructed data pair elements is also described below. The construction of the data pair elements is not limited to the specific construction described below. [A document from BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 13 - APA-164 279]

[0057] The design may differ from the specific details described below; however, a different structure is conceivable and possible.

[0058] Figure 1 shows a cross-section of an exemplary embodiment of a data pair element 100. The data pair element 100 has two conductors as two electrical conductors. Each of the two electrical conductors has a wire 1 and insulation 2. The insulation 2 surrounds the wire 1 in a circular shape. In other words, since the wire 1 is exemplary in having a circular cross-section, the insulation 2 is also cylindrical to enclose the wire 1. The insulation can be made of various materials. These include, among others, polyethylene (PE), expanded PE, polypropylene (PP), expanded PP, or fluoropolymers, in particular fluoroethylenepropylene (FEP), expanded FEP, or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In the exemplary assembly, the two electrical conductors are arranged parallel to each other. An optional inner sheath 3 can be provided around the two electrical conductors.The inner sheath 3 can be extruded or wrapped.

[0059] A shielding foil, optionally with one or more auxiliary wires 4, can be arranged around this inner sheath 3. For simplicity, this optional shielding foil, together with the one or more auxiliary wires, is uniformly designated by reference numeral 4. The shielding foil is in conductive contact with the auxiliary wires. The auxiliary wires can be arranged outside or inside the foil and are shown as externally located in Figure 1 by way of example. A non-conductive foil 5 (this foil can also be referred to as non-conductive foil 5) is arranged around this optional shielding foil with auxiliary wire 4. This non-conductive foil 5 is intended to fix the data pair element and thus hold it together.It also serves to isolate the associated data pair itself and to isolate it from other data pairs as well as from an overall shield, whereby the overall shield can be realized by at least one first and / or second electrical element and / or by an additional shielding foil 13.

[0060] Furthermore, Figure 1 shows an example of an additional shielding film 13 that may be present. This additional shielding film 13 has at least a metallic component. However, it can also be formed in layers. In this case, one layer typically consists of a plastic, for example PET, and the next layer of a metal, for example aluminum or copper. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 14 - APA-164 279

[0061] DRAFT

[0062] Plastic and metal layers can be arranged in multiple layers (e.g., two or more) in a sandwich-like structure. The additional shielding foil 13 is generally directly adjacent to the non-conductive foil 5. If the shielding foil 13 consists solely of a metallic component, this component can be applied directly to the non-conductive foil 5. However, if the additional shielding foil 13 comprises or consists of at least one plastic layer and one metallic layer, either the metallic layer or the plastic layer can be adjacent to the non-conductive foil 5. In other words, from the perspective of the electrical conductors, the metallic layer can be located either on the outside (i.e., radially towards increasing diameters) or on the inside.

[0063] Figure 2 shows a ribbon cable 200 in an exemplary embodiment with four data pair elements 100. A ribbon cable 200 can also comprise fewer data pair elements 100, e.g., two or three, or (significantly) more data pair elements 100. The data pair elements 100 in Figure 2 are arranged side by side in the transverse direction of the ribbon cable 200. This transverse direction forms a central axis M. This axis runs through the wires of the electrical conductors belonging to the data pair elements 100. It is also conceivable that two data pair elements 100 are arranged in each plane, and then a plurality of such planes of data pair elements 100 are arranged one above the other. In such a case, each plane of data pair elements 100 forms its own central axis M. The data pair elements 100 shown here have a cross-section as shown in Figure 1.Of the optional features (inner sheath 3, shielding foil with drain wire 4, and shielding foil 13), only the shielding foil 13 is not shown in Figure 2. Also shown in Figure 2 are the first threads 7 and the second threads 6. The first threads 7 extend longitudinally along the ribbon cable 200. The second threads 6, on the other hand, extend transversely along the ribbon cable, i.e., generally perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. In weaving technology, the first threads 7 are also called warp threads, and the transversely running second threads 6 are called weft threads. These terms will also be used in part below. The warp threads and the weft threads together form a woven structure present at least in sections of the ribbon cable. This structure is designed to fix the individual data pair elements 100 together and thus form a ribbon cable 200 from individual data pair elements 100.The warp and weft threads can be made of a wide variety of materials with varying properties, thicknesses, etc. For example, conductive yarns can be used in the warp and / or weft threads. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 15 - APA-164 279.

[0064] The design is being worked out. Figure 2 shows such an embodiment. Here, the four data pair elements 100 shown are fixed together by means of conductive warp and weft threads, thus forming a flat ribbon cable 200.

[0065] Figure 3 shows an embodiment in which one or more (in this example, three) electrically conductive elements 11 are inserted between the individual data pair elements 100. In the example from Figure 3, an electrically conductive element 11 is inserted between (numbering starts from the leftmost data pair element 100 in Figure 3) the first and second data pair elements, between the second and third data pair elements, and between the third and fourth data pair elements. At the endpoints, i.e., to the left before the first data pair element and to the right after the fourth data pair element, no additional electrically conductive elements 11 are arranged, by way of example. Likewise, electrically conductive elements could also be arranged only between the first and second data pair elements and / or the third and fourth data pair elements.In this case, the space between the second and third data pair element would remain without an additional electrically conductive element 11.

[0066] The electrically conductive elements 11 are arranged in Figure 3 between two data pair elements, approximately on the central axis M. This is merely an exemplary embodiment. The electrically conductive elements 11 could also be arranged in a different location. The space designated 8 in the respective data pair element 100 is particularly suitable for this purpose. This space 8 extends between the non-conductive foil 5 and the outer boundary of the ribbon cable 200. If this outer boundary is formed by the second thread 6 (e.g., the weft thread), the space 8 is located between the non-conductive foil 5 and the second thread 6. The electrically conductive elements 11, like the two parallel electrical conductors of the individual data pair elements 100, extend longitudinally along the ribbon cable 200.The electrically conductive elements 11 can, in exemplary embodiments, also be referred to as longitudinal wires, strands, or fibers. They can consist of various materials, in particular metals and / or carbon fibers. These additionally introduced electrically conductive elements 11 are intended to establish conductivity in the longitudinal direction of the ribbon cable 200. This enables the ribbon cable 200 to dissipate ESD currents in the longitudinal direction. In this embodiment, the first threads 7, which are also arranged longitudinally, can therefore be made of a non-conductive yarn. Thus, the electrical conductivity can be... BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 16 - APA-164 279.

[0067] The cross-section of the electrically conductive elements 11 can be varied in the longitudinal direction of the flat ribbon cable 200. This variation is therefore (unlike when using conductive yarns) independent of the conductivity of the first threads 7. For this purpose, the cross-section or the material of the electrically conductive elements 11 can be varied. If the individual electrically conductive elements 11 are to be connected to form a kind of overall shield, this can be achieved, as shown in Figure 3, via electrically conductive weft threads; alternatively, further elements (not shown in Figure 3) could also be introduced in the transverse direction between the weft thread and the non-conductive foil 5.

[0068] Figure 4 shows a further embodiment which, as previously indicated, has an electrically conductive element 11 only between the first and second data pair elements 100 and the third and fourth data pair elements 100. The space between the second and third data pair elements 100 is instead filled with a single wire and / or an additional conductor 12. Unlike the electrically conductive elements 11, the additional conductor 12 has its own insulation. This is because the additional conductor can transmit an additional signal, for example, a control signal, whereas the electrically conductive elements 11 are intended for dissipating ESD currents. Such an embodiment is particularly suitable when, in addition to the electrical conductors of the data pair element 100 (i.e.,(The two parallel electrical conductors, which comprise a wire 1 and insulation 2) require additional conductors, which, however, do not require special shielding or for which no further complete data pair element 100 is to be introduced. In this embodiment as well, the first threads 7 or the second threads 6 can consist of conductive or non-conductive yarn. If the longitudinally arranged first threads 7 are made of conductive yarn, this further increases the longitudinal conductivity of the ribbon cable 200. If, in addition or exclusively, the transversely arranged second threads 6 are made of conductive yarn, they can either additionally provide transverse conductivity of the ribbon cable 200 and / or connect the individual conductive elements in the longitudinal direction (i.e., the electrically conductive elements 11 and, if applicable, the first threads 7) to form an overall shield.

[0069] Figure 5 shows an embodiment in which the individual data pair elements 100 are each enveloped with the additional shielding film 13. For the properties of this shielding film 13, please refer to the description in Figure 1. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 17 - APA-164 279

[0070] DRAFT

[0071] This additional shielding foil 13 is designed to shield the two parallel electrical conductors in the data pair elements 100 against EMI interference. If this additional shielding foil 13 is designed such that the metallic portion is oriented radially outwards (i.e., away from wire 1 and insulation 2), the metallic portion of the additional shielding foil 13 can also be brought into electrically conductive contact with the electrically conductive elements 11.In such a constellation, the additional shielding foil 13 can not only shield the respective data pair element 100 against EMI influences, but also connect the electrically conductive elements 11 arranged in Figure 5 between the first and second data pair element 100, between the second and third data pair element 100 and between the third and fourth data pair element 100, thus creating an overall shield for the ribbon cable 200 from the individual electrically conductive elements 11.

[0072] Figure 6 shows a combination of the embodiments from Figures 4 and 5. In this embodiment, not all data pair elements 100 have an additional shielding foil 13. More precisely, the first and fourth data pair elements 100 are implemented without an additional shielding foil 13, and the signals transmitted via these lines are therefore more susceptible to EMI interference. Since, in this embodiment, the electrically conductive elements 11 are connected via the additional shielding foil 13, thus creating a kind of overall shield for the second and third data pair elements 100, this overall shield was deliberately interrupted by omitting the additional shielding foil 13 on the first and fourth data pair elements 100. This creates additional space to insert the further conductor 12 on the outer sides of the ribbon cable 200 (i.e., before the first data pair element 100 and after the fourth data pair element 100).

[0073] Figure 7 shows, by means of a schematic sketch, a system in which a ribbon cable 200 according to the invention connects the individual electrical components 501, 502. This system demonstrates how the ribbon cable 200 is used outside the protected housing of a first component 501 and a second component 502. This is possible because the ribbon cable 200 shown is a ribbon cable according to the invention. Such a cable has appropriate shielding against ESD and EMI influences and can therefore not only be used inside protected components but also connect such components 501, 502 to each other. When a ribbon cable according to the invention is used in such a system, at least one BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 18 - APA-164 279

[0074] The electrically conductive element 11 of the ribbon cable 200 is connected to at least one of the housings of the first component 501 or the second component 502, or possibly to both housings. This allows for equipotential bonding between the ribbon cable 200 and the respective housing. If the corresponding housing of the first component 501 or the second component 502 is also connected to ground (in Figure 7, the housing of the second component 502 is connected to ground), it is possible to dissipate any ESD currents that occur via the corresponding housing of the second component 502 to ground.

[0075] In summary, this document provides a flat ribbon cable with a novel design for use in ESD or EMI environments (environments with electrostatic discharge and / or electromagnetic interference, also known as radio interference).

[0076] Figure 8 shows an exemplary embodiment of a woven structure interwoven with two data pair elements 100 of the ribbon cable 200. Alternative woven structures are possible within the scope of the invention. A weft thread 6 running above the central plane and a weft thread 6 running below the central plane are inserted / fed from a left side / left edge (the side / edge with reference numeral 11 in Figure 8) of the ribbon cable 200 and then run at least nearly perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the ribbon cable 200 to the right side / right edge. At least nearly in the middle of the two data pair elements 100, the two weft threads 6 run between an upper and a lower warp thread 7 and are thus fixed by the two warp threads 7. At the right edge, the upper and lower weft threads 6 are each guided in such a way that they each form an upper and a lower loop 9.The weft threads 6 are guided back from the right edge to the left edge. At least nearly in the middle of the two data pair elements 100, the two weft threads 6 again run between the upper and lower warp threads 7 and are thus fixed by the two warp threads 7. At the left edge, the two weft threads 6 are guided along the longitudinal direction, crossed at a weft thread intersection point 11, and thus also fixed at the left edge. If the two weft threads 6 are now guided again from the left edge to the right edge and, on the way there, are fixed at least nearly in the middle between the two data pair elements 100 between the two warp threads 7, the weft threads 6 are each guided through the corresponding loops 9 and fixed by the loop 9 that was previously formed by the respective weft thread 6 itself. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 19 - APA-164 279.

[0077] The design was created. After the weft threads 6 have formed a loop 9 again and been guided from the right edge to the left edge, the process is repeated as long as necessary to form the desired weave structure. The weft thread 6 can run perpendicular to the longitudinal direction at regular, and in particular constant, intervals. Figure 3 shows only two such transverse runs as examples, although more than two such transverse runs are certainly possible. The weave structure shown as an example in Figure 8 fixes the two data pair elements 100 and the at least one electrically conductive element, which here is designed as at least one of the weft threads 6 and / or as at least one of the warp threads 7, to one another.

Claims

BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 20 - APA-164 279 DRAFT Patent claims 1. Flat ribbon cable (200) comprising: - at least two data pair elements (100), wherein each of the at least two data pair elements (100) has two parallel electrical conductors extending in a longitudinal direction and wherein the at least two data pair elements (100) are bounded by a non-conductive film (5); and - a web structure interwoven at least partially with the at least two data pair elements (100), comprising at least one first longitudinally extending thread (7) and at least one second transversely extending thread (6), wherein the ribbon cable (200) has at least one electrically conductive, preferably uninsulated, element which lies outside the non-conductive film (5) of the at least two data pair elements (100); and wherein the at least one electrically conductive element extends in the longitudinal direction of the ribbon cable.

2. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one electrically conductive element comprises the first thread (7) or the at least one electrically conductive element is designed as the first thread (7).

3. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the flat ribbon cable (200) additionally has at least one further electrically conductive element which lies outside the non-conductive foil (5) of the at least two data pair elements (100).

4. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to claim 3, wherein the at least one further electrically conductive element comprises the first thread (7) and / or the second thread (6) or the at least one further electrically conductive element is configured as the first thread (7) or the second thread (6).

5. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the at least one electrically conductive element and the at least one further electrically conductive element are in electrically conductive connection to each other. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 21 - APA-164 279 DRAFT 6. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one longitudinally extending electrically conductive element is or comprises a fiber which is inserted in an intermediate space between the non-conductive foil (5) and the first thread (7) and / or between the non-conductive foil (5) and the second thread (6).

7. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one longitudinally extending electrically conductive element is placed in an intermediate space which lies on a central axis (M) of the flat ribbon cable (200).

8. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one electrically conductive element consists of a metallic wire, a strand or carbon fibers or comprises a metallic wire, a strand or carbon fiber.

9. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an additional shielding foil (13) is or is applied radially outwards on the non-conductive foil (5).

10. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to claim 9, wherein the additional shielding foil (13) has at least one conductive and one non-conductive side.

11. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to claim 10, wherein the conductive side of the additional shielding foil (13) is directed radially outwards.

12. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to claims 9 to 11, wherein the conductive side of the additional shielding foil (13) is in electrically conductive contact with at least one of the at least one electrically conductive element.

13. Flat ribbon cable (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flat ribbon cable (200) has at least one further single conductor and / or one further line (12) which lies outside the non-conductive foil (5) of the at least two data pair elements (100); and wherein the at least one further single conductor and / or the at least one further line is not in any electrical connection to the at least one electrically conductive element. BizLink Industry Germany GmbH - 22 - APA-164 279 DRAFT 14. System comprising: at least two electrical components (501, 502); and the ribbon cable (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the components (501, 502) are connected to the ribbon cable (200); and at least one electrically conductive element is in electrical contact with at least one housing of the electrical components (501, 502).

15. System according to claim 14, wherein the at least one housing which is in electrical connection with the at least one electrically conductive element of the ribbon cable (200) has an earthing.

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