DE202013105906U1 - Antenna proximity sensor - Google Patents

Abstract

Antenna proximity sensor, comprising a housing (12) with a tubular element (14) and with a cap (38) arranged on the tubular element (14), a first chamber (22) formed on the tubular element (14), a second Chamber (62) which is formed on the cap (38), a partition wall (60) between the first chamber (22) and the second chamber (62), a circuit arrangement (24) which is positioned in the first chamber (22) is, and a transmitter-receiver device (72) with an antenna device (64), wherein the antenna device (64) is positioned in the second chamber (62).

Description

The invention relates to an antenna proximity sensor.

From the EP 2 031 416 A1 a microwave proximity sensor is known, comprising a measuring head with a transmitter for microwave radiation, wherein the transmitter has such a power that distances between the measuring head and target are detectable below 15 m, and a receiver for reflected at a target object microwave radiation, a frequency modulation device, with which the frequency of microwave radiation emitted by the transmitter can be modulated, and an evaluation device with a mixing device, by which at least one mixing signal from a transmission signal and a received signal can be generated, wherein a distance between the measuring head and the target object can be calculated by evaluating the at least one mixing signal.

In the article "Development of a Microwave Proximity Sensor for Industrial Applications" by S. Fericean et al., IEEE Sensors Journal, Vol. 7, July 2009, pages 870-876 a microwave-based proximity sensor is described.

The object of the invention is to provide an antenna proximity sensor and, in particular, a microwave sensor which, with a simple production method, has an optimized housing of its components.

This object is achieved in that a housing is provided with a tubular element and with a cap disposed on the tube element, a first chamber, which is formed on the tubular element, is provided, a second chamber, which is formed on the cap provided is provided, a partition between the first chamber and the second chamber, a circuit arrangement which is positioned in the first chamber, is provided, and a transceiver device is provided with an antenna device, wherein the antenna device is positioned in the second chamber.

In the solution according to the invention, the antenna device and the circuit arrangement are arranged in different chambers, which are separated by the partition wall. The second chamber with the antenna device in turn is formed on the cap, through which the tubular element is closed at one end.

In this way, functional components of the antenna proximity sensor can be spatially separated. High frequency components for transmitting and receiving corresponding electromagnetic waves (particularly at microwave frequencies) can be positioned separately from the circuitry in the first chamber. It can thereby realize a high freedom from interference.

Furthermore, the corresponding antenna proximity sensor can be easily manufactured.

From a manufacturing point of view, it is favorable if the dividing wall is formed on the cap. This minimizes the number of required components. The cap can be produced, for example, by means of an injection molding process or the like with an integrated dividing wall.

Conveniently, a receiving space for the antenna device is formed on the cap, which is limited by a lid. In the production of the antenna proximity sensor, the antenna device can then be inserted into the receiving space in a simple manner, and the receiving space is then closed to the outside through the cover.

It is constructively advantageous if the cap is formed in two parts with the lid and a fixing region which is fixed to the tube element.

This makes it easy to close the pipe element and thus the housing. The number of components is minimized.

In particular, the receiving space is limited to the lid opposite by the partition wall. The partition then forms a bottom of the receiving space. The number of components can be kept low.

It is particularly advantageous if the lid is designed as a radome. As a result, the antenna device can be protected on the cap in an optimized manner. The lid is designed so that it is permeable to the corresponding electromagnetic transmission radiation and reception radiation.

It is also advantageous if the lid has an immersion area, which is immersed in the receiving space. As a result, the lid can be easily fixed to the cap. Furthermore, a radome can be realized in a simple manner.

It is favorable if the cover has at least one wing and, for example, has spaced-apart wings, which is immersed in a gap between a holder of the antenna device and a wall which delimits the receiving space. As a result, the lid can be easily fixed to the cap, without that additional form-fitting elements such as screws or the like must be provided. For example, if the gap is filled with a molding compound such as a casting resin, then during manufacture of the antenna proximity sensor, a wing may be immersed in the uncured composition, and curing will then provide an additional bonding area.

It is also advantageous if the cover has a wall which faces the antenna device and which bears against a holder of the antenna device and (in particular at a distance in the millimeter range) is spaced from the holder, wherein patches of the antenna device within a projection of Wall lie on the holder. As a result, it is possible to realize protection of transmission fields and reception fields (patches) of the antenna device via the wall of the cover, wherein the wall is in particular cylindrical and / or projects beyond a cover disk. The lid can be trained in a simple way as a radome.

It is advantageous if at least one bushing and in particular exactly one bushing is arranged in the dividing wall for a cable device and in particular for a flat cable, wherein in particular the bushing is designed as a slot. As a result, an electrical contact between the antenna device and the circuit arrangement in the first chamber can be realized in a simple manner.

In particular, the passage is arranged on the cap between a body of the antenna device and a wall of the second chamber. As a result, for example, the cable device can be guided along one side of the body of the antenna device and in the receiving space, the cable device does not have to be bent or bent. In turn, a corresponding intermediate space in the cap can be filled with a molding compound such as a cast resin in a simple manner.

It is advantageous if a holder of the antenna device covers the passage, wherein the holder is spaced from the bushing. The holder can have several functions. In particular, it is designed as a carrier for patches of the antenna device and has a board shape. It can then also serve to hold the antenna device at least in one direction transverse to an axial direction.

It is advantageous if the second chamber has a shoulder and the antenna device has a holder which bears against a contact surface of the shoulder. As a result, the antenna device can be positioned in the second chamber in a simple manner and fixed at least in one direction transversely to an axial direction. The antenna device can be formed in a simple manner and the number of components needed to fix the antenna device in the second chamber can be minimized.

It is advantageous if the shoulder, the second chamber and the holder are adapted to one another such that the holder is positioned transversely to an axial direction and in particular in all directions transversely to the axial direction in a form-fitting manner in the second chamber. As a result, the proportion of components required for fixing can be minimized. The production of the antenna proximity sensor can be carried out in a simple manner. In particular, in the manufacture of the holder is brought into the receiving space and applied to the contact surface of the paragraph. As a result, a final positioning of the antenna device in the cap has already been achieved.

It is advantageous if one or more intermediate spaces between the antenna device and a wall of the receiving space are filled with a molding compound and in particular a casting resin and in particular filled. This provides a simple way of fixing the corresponding components in the receiving space, which are protected from mechanical and chemical influences.

In one embodiment, a receptacle for at least one circuit carrier of the circuit arrangement is arranged on the partition, which in particular comprises a groove and / or a contact surface. As a result, the at least one circuit carrier can be fixed to the cap in a simple manner. As a result, the antenna proximity sensor can be manufactured in a simple manner. The at least one circuit carrier is supported in a structurally simple manner in the tubular element on the cap.

Advantageously, the cap has at least one recess through which a tool can access a fixing region of the at least one circuit carrier on the cap. In particular, the recess is designed so that it can be accessed with a screwdriver on the fixation area. This makes it easy to fix the at least one circuit carrier to the cap, for example via screws.

It is also advantageous if at least one passage on the partition wall spaced from the receptacle and in particular parallel is positioned at a distance. The feedthrough serves to pass a cable device from the second chamber to the first chamber to the circuitry there. If the receptacle is spaced from the feedthrough, then the cable device, which is in particular a flat cable, can be easily guided with a minimized cable path. The production is simplified.

In one embodiment, a receptacle for a cable device, which electrically connects the antenna device and the circuit arrangement, is arranged or formed between the receptacle for the at least one circuit carrier and the at least one feedthrough. As a result, the electrical connection between the antenna device and the circuit arrangement of the first chamber can be produced in a simple manner during the production of the antenna proximity sensor. The result is a cable guide with minimized cable path.

In particular, the at least one circuit carrier is fixed to the cap and screwed in particular with this. As a result, the at least one circuit carrier can be supported in a simple manner on the cap. During manufacture, a combination of cap with fixed at least one circuit carrier can be inserted into the tubular element.

Advantageously, the cap has an immersion area which is immersed in the tubular element. As a result, a fixation or prefixing of the cap on the tube element can be achieved in a simple manner.

It is favorable if at least one lip is arranged on the immersion region. Through the lip, a frictional connection can be achieved during the manufacturing process in order to fix a final position of the cap on the tubular element. Furthermore, the at least one lip can also be designed as a sealing lip.

In particular, at least one recess is then formed on the immersion region, which has a receptacle for inserting at least one circuit carrier of the circuit arrangement and / or for at least partially accommodating a cable device and / or for forming an access region for a tool. As a result, the at least one circuit carrier can be fixed to the cap in a simple manner. A cable routing between the antenna device and the circuit arrangement is optimized. By providing the at least one recess as an access area for a tool, the connection can be made in a simple manner.

In particular, the cap is made of a plastic material. This is then particularly permeable to electromagnetic radiation in the relevant frequency range and in particular permeable to electromagnetic waves in the microwave range.

Advantageously, the antenna device is designed as a transceiver and in particular comprises a holder and a body. The antenna device then comprises a transmitting part and a receiving part. The main radio frequency exposure to electromagnetic waves can thereby be accommodated in the cap and there in the second chamber. If the antenna device comprises a holder and a body, then these can be easily fixed to the cap. The holder holds, for example, as a carrier patches of the antenna device and can serve for mechanical fixation of the antenna device in the second chamber. In particular, the body comprises a housing in which the electronic components necessary for the transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves are arranged.

In particular, the antenna device is designed as a microwave antenna device which transmits and receives electromagnetic waves in the microwave range.

It is also advantageous if the antenna device has a plurality of patches, which are designed in particular as flat fields or printed fields, and in particular the patches are arranged on a holder. It can thereby realize an antenna device with relatively small dimensions, the transmission fields and reception fields can be easily integrated into the cap.

It is advantageous if the circuit arrangement has at least one first circuit carrier and one second circuit carrier, which are arranged in the first chamber, wherein the second circuit carrier is spaced from the first circuit carrier. By providing a plurality of circuit carriers, electronic components with different functions or with different sensitivity to the radiation of high-frequency waves can be separated. For example, components are arranged on the one circuit carrier which are insensitive to high-frequency radiation and at a distance therefrom components which are more sensitive.

In one embodiment, the first circuit carrier is held on the cap. As a result, this is supported in the housing.

It is also advantageous if an electrical connection of the antenna proximity sensor to the first circuit carrier is mechanically and / or electrically connected. As a result, the number of components can be reduced and it results in a simplified manufacturability.

It is then furthermore favorable if the second circuit carrier is fixed to the first circuit carrier at a distance from it. This results in a simple manufacturability. It is possible to produce a combination cap with integrated antenna device and the circuit carriers, this combination then being introduced into the tube element.

In particular, circuit elements for digital signal processing are arranged on the second circuit carrier. These have a larger distance to the antenna device, which is arranged in the cap, wherein the first circuit carrier is seated on the cap.

In particular, high-frequency circuit elements are arranged on the first circuit carrier or circuit elements are arranged which are insensitive to high-frequency radiation (with frequencies in the microwave range).

Advantageously, circuit elements for controlling the transmitter-receiver device and in particular the antenna device and / or for signal processing and / or an output stage are arranged there on the first circuit carrier.

It is favorable if intermediate spaces in an interior of the first chamber and / or one or more recesses of the cap, which are open towards the interior, are filled with molding compound and in particular a hard foam and are in particular filled. As a result, the circuit arrangement is positioned positively in the tubular element. This results in optimized protection against mechanical and chemical influences.

It is favorable if a connection element lid is provided, which is immersed opposite the cap in the tube element and on which an electrical connection of the antenna proximity sensor is arranged. This results in a simple manufacturability. Through the connection element cover, the pipe element can be closed in the area of the connection.

In particular, the tubular element of the cap opposite to a contact surface for at least one circuit carrier of the circuit arrangement. As a result, the at least one circuit carrier can be supported in the tubular element.

Advantageously, the tubular element is made of a metallic material and is in particular in one piece. This results in a high mechanical stability. The tubular element can then be easily externally threaded to fix the antenna proximity sensor to an application.

The following description of preferred embodiments is used in conjunction with the drawings for further explanation of the invention.

Show it:

1 a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of an antenna proximity sensor according to the invention, in which a used during the manufacture of the antenna proximity sensor funnel is shown;

2 a partial perspective sectional view of the antenna proximity sensor according to 1 ;

3 a perspective view of a cap with arranged thereon circuit carriers of the antenna proximity sensor according to 1 ;

4 a partial perspective sectional view of an embodiment of a cap;

5 a plan view of the cap according to 4 in direction A;

6 an enlarged view of the area B according to 4 ;

7 a perspective view of an embodiment of an antenna device;

8th the antenna device according to 7 in a view corresponding to the direction C according to FIG 4 ;

9 a perspective view of an embodiment of a lid for closing the cap according to 4 ; and

10 a sectional view of an embodiment of a connector cover.

An embodiment of an antenna proximity sensor according to the invention, which in the 1 and 2 shown and there with 10 is designated comprises a housing 12 , The housing 12 in turn comprises a tubular element 14 , The pipe element 14 is cylindrical in the embodiment shown. It has a jacket wall 16 which is along an axial axis 18 extends and for example is formed rotationally symmetrical to this. The jacket wall 16 surrounds an interior 20 , The jacket wall 16 with the interior 20 forms a first chamber 22 which a circuit arrangement 24 receives.

Basically, the pipe element 14 also have a different shape than cylindrical.

At a first front end 26 is the pipe element 14 open, wherein an opening is circular, for example in cross section.

At one the first end 26 opposite second end 28 is the pipe element 14 also open and has, for example, a circular opening.

In one embodiment, the pipe element is 14 in the area of the second end 28 a neck 30 arranged, which is an example cylindrical wall 32 having. This wall 32 is opposite a wall 34 outside the neck 30 of the tubular element 14 reset, that is the wall 32 is to the wall 34 spaced. The opening at the second end 28 thus has a smaller diameter than the opening at the first end 26 ,

Within the jacket wall 16 that means in the interior 20 is at the transition from the wall 34 to the wall 32 a contact surface 36 educated. This contact surface 36 is annular, for example in the form of a circular ring.

At the first end 26 is the case 12 through a cap 38 closed. The cap 38 is on the pipe element 14 fixed.

The cap 38 is made of a plastic material.

The cap 38 includes a fixation area 40 which has an immersion area 42 in the pipe element 14 in the area of the first end 26 is immersed. At the immersion area 42 is a wall 44 arranged.

In one embodiment, the wall is 44 cylindrical. Between the immersion area 42 and the wall 44 is an annular contact surface 46 educated. In one embodiment, the abutment surface 46 the shape of a circular ring. A front page 48 of the tubular element 14 is at the contact surface 46 ajar, that is the cap 38 is supported by the contact surface 46 at the front 48 at the first end 26 of the tubular element 14 from. The part of the cap 38 which is between the contact surface 46 and an end 50 the cap 38 lies, with the end 50 the contact surface 36 in the interior 20 the jacket wall 16 is facing, is in the interior 20 immersed.

On an outside of the fixation area 40 the cap 38 are one or more lips 52 (See, for example 6 ) arranged.

In one embodiment, a first lip 52a and in the axial direction 18 spaced a second lip 52b arranged. The lip or lips 52 are particularly integral to the fixation area 40 educated.

In one embodiment, a lip is 52 formed by a wedge-shaped elevation, wherein a slope surface 54 ("inclined plane") at an acute angle to the outside of the fixation area 40 outside a lip 52 stands. A step 56 , from which the slope surface 54 goes out, for example, is parallel to the contact surface 46 and is closer to the contact surface 46 as the area where the slope surface 54 in the outside of the fixation area 40 outside the slope 54 passes.

The lip or lips 52 are circumferential to the fixation area 40 arranged.

The lip or lips 52 serve for frictional fixation of the cap 38 over the immersion area 42 if this in the pipe element 14 immersed, and to provide a seal and in particular fluid seal.

In the cap 38 is a recording room 58 educated. This recording room 58 is through the wall 44 limited. It has, for example, at least approximately a hollow cylindrical shape. The recording room 58 is to the interior 20 through a partition wall 60 limited. The dividing wall 60 is at the cap 38 educated.

In one embodiment, the partition is 60 through the fixation area 40 educated.

Through the wall 44 and the recording room 58 is at the cap 38 a second chamber 62 educated. The second chamber 62 takes an antenna device 64 on. The dividing wall 60 separates the second chamber 62 from the first chamber 22 ,

In the second chamber 62 is in the recording room 58 a paragraph 66 educated. This paragraph 66 has a contact surface 68 , which is annular. In one embodiment, the abutment surface 68 the shape of a circular ring.

The contact surface 68 is spaced to a floor 70 which the recording room 58 in the axial direction 18 to the interior 20 limited. The floor 70 is over the dividing wall 60 educated.

The antenna device 64 (See, for example, the 7 and 8th ) is part of a transceiver device 72 which partially in the first chamber 22 is arranged.

In particular, the antenna device 64 designed as a transceiver, which can emit and receive electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic radiation is in the high frequency range (VHF) and in particular in the microwave range. The frequency of the transmitted radiation is preferably in the range between 30 MHz and 300 GHz.

The antenna device 64 is then a microwave antenna device. In one embodiment, the antenna device comprises 64 a holder 74 , The holder 74 is designed for example as a flat plate and in particular board.

On the holder 74 is a plurality of antenna patches arranged and printed, for example. The patches 76 are formed as flat antennas. A lot of such patches 76 is connected in series and / or in parallel.

In one embodiment, the antenna device 64 on the holder 74 a first subarea 78 (first array 78 ) and a second subarea 80 (second array 80 ) on. At a subarea ( 78 or 80 ) are for example patches 76 as transmitting antennas and at the other part 80 respectively 78 Patches are arranged as individual receiving antennas.

Furthermore, the antenna device 64 a body 82 on which on the holder 74 is arranged. The body 82 has a housing 84 in which electronic components of the antenna device 64 are arranged. In particular, in the housing 84 of the body 82 Oscillators, amplifiers and mixers for the receiving part and for the transmitting part of the antenna device 64 arranged.

The holder 74 has both a width 86 as well as in one across the width 86 lying length 88 larger external dimensions than the housing 84 on. The holder has characterized on its underside 90 , which is opposite to the side where the patches 76 are arranged areas 92 on which over the body 82 protrude.

The antenna device 74 is in the recording room 58 arranged, the holder 74 with areas 92 at the contact surface 68 supported and based on it.

The holder 74 is in its shape to the receiving space 58 adjusted so that when he is on the contact surface 68 rests, a positive fixation in all directions transverse to the axial axis 18 is reached. An inside of the wall 44 locks a mobility of the antenna device 64 over the holder 74 in all directions transverse to the axial axis 18 ,

In one embodiment, the holder is 74 on opposite areas 92a . 92b ( 7 ) rounded adjusted to an inside of the wall 44 educated. On transverse sides 94a . 94b which are transverse to these areas 92a . 92b are the holder has 74 for example, a straight line.

If the holder 74 at the contact surface 68 is present, then is between the transverse side 94a respectively 94b and an inside of the wall 44 one space each 96 formed (see, for example 4 ). Through this molding compound in the area below the holder 74 brought.

The recording room 58 is at a frontal end 98 through a lid 100 closed. This lid 100 is designed as a radome, which at least approximately closed protective cover for the antenna device 64 forms and protects them from external mechanical and chemical influences and is well-permeable to the electromagnetic radiation used (in particular microwave radiation).

In one embodiment, the lid 100 a dip area 102 on which he is in the recording room 58 is immersed. The immersion area 102 is cylindrical, for example. The immersion area 102 is through a jacket wall 104 formed, which is in particular cylindrical. This jacket wall 104 sits on a lid disc 106 ,

Between the jacket wall 104 and the cover disc 106 is a paragraph with a contact surface 108 educated. The contact surface 108 is annular and in particular circular. It lies at the front end 98 the wall 44 at.

On the jacket wall 104 are one or more lips 110 arranged, which serve for sealing and frictional fixation. In particular, the lip or lips 110 formed circumferentially.

The jacket wall 104 has a frontal end 112 , which is the cover disc 106 turned away.

The jacket wall 104 rests on the front end 112 on a top of the holder 74 from where the patches 76 are arranged, with a support surface outside the patches 76 lies. A projection of the jacket wall 104 on the holder 74 surrounds the patches 76 , These are through the jacket wall 104 protected.

In one embodiment, lies between the jacket wall 104 and the holder 74 a small distance, which lies in the millimeter range. This distance is, as will be explained in more detail below, if it is present, filled with molding material.

In one embodiment, on the jacket wall 104 at the front end 112 opposite wings 114a . 114b arranged. These protrude over a corresponding end face of the jacket wall 104 out. The wings 114a . 114b are in the interstices 96 between the inside of the wall 44 and the corresponding transverse sides 94a . 94b of the owner 74 immersed.

The circuit arrangement 24 and the antenna device 64 are via a cable device 116 connected. The cable device 116 is designed in particular as a flat cable. This flat cable comprises a plurality of wires, which are fixed relative to each other via a corresponding insulating sheath.

In one embodiment are at the bottom 90 of the owner 74 contacts 118 arranged. The cable device 116 is with these contacts 118 especially connected by soldering.

For example, an area 121 the cable device 116 along one side of the housing 84 guided.

In the dividing wall 60 is an implementation 120 arranged. The implementation 120 is designed as a slot. Through this implementation 120 is the cable device 116 carried out; the cable device 116 leads from the second chamber 62 to the first chamber 22 through the implementation 120 therethrough.

The implementation 120 with the submerged cable device 116 is sealed. The implementation 120 is between the body 82 and an inside of the wall 44 arranged. It is especially arranged so that starting from the contacts 118 the cable device 116 on the housing 84 is feasible and through the implementation 120 is feasible, without buckling or bending.

Through the seal on the bushing 120 is the recording room 58 fluid-tight with respect to the first chamber 22 ,

In intervals 122 the second chamber 62 between the antenna device 64 , and the inside of the wall 44 and the floor 70 a molding compound is arranged. In particular, these spaces are 122 filled with molding material and completely filled. The molding compound is in particular a casting resin or a rigid foam, which is or which is filled during manufacture.

The end 50 the cap 38 which the ground 70 is turned away, is in the interior 20 of the tubular element 14 positioned. At this end 50 is a recess 126 educated. The slot of the passage 120 flows into this recess 126 ,

At the recess 126 is a recording 128 for a first circuit carrier 130 educated. This recording 128 grasp a groove 132 which is slit-shaped. In this groove 132 is the first circuit carrier 130 inserted.

The first circuit carrier 130 is in particular designed as a flat board on which corresponding electronic circuit elements are arranged.

The recording 128 points to the groove 132 a wall 134 on, which in particular is just trained. The first circuit carrier 130 is with a bottom to this wall 134 created.

The first circuit carrier 130 is on the wall 134 with the cap 38 fixed. In one embodiment, spaced screws 136 provided (cf. 3 ), over which the first circuit carrier 130 on the wall 134 with the cap 38 is screwed.

The cap 38 has at the dip area 42 the screws 136 associated recesses 138 , A recess 138 is designed so that a tool (especially a screwdriver) on a screw 136 is accessible, according to the screwing of the first circuit substrate 130 on the wall 134 to carry out during manufacture. Through the recess 138 The tool can be dipped through to a screw 136 to be able to act on the corresponding fixation area.

It can also be provided that on the recess 126 a recording 140 (see. 5 ) for the cable device 116 is arranged.

The implementation 120 is transverse to the axial axis 18 spaced from the groove 132 , It is in particular parallel to the groove 132 arranged.

The recording 140 is in particular between the implementation 120 and the groove 132 arranged.

The circuit arrangement 24 further comprises a second circuit carrier 142 which is like the first circuit carrier 130 in the first chamber 22 is positioned. The second circuit carrier 142 also includes a flat board.

In one embodiment, the second circuit carrier 142 parallel to the first circuit carrier 130 oriented. The second circuit carrier 142 is via appropriate pin elements 144a . 144b mechanically with the first circuit carrier 130 connected. The pin elements 144a . 144b also provide an electrical connection.

In one embodiment, the second circuit carrier is supported 142 with one end on the contact surface 36 from.

The first circuit carrier 130 points in the axial direction 18 a greater length than the second circuit carrier 142 , The first circuit carrier 130 juts into an interior of the neck 30 ,

The antenna proximity sensor 10 has a connection element 146 on, which on the first circuit carrier 130 in the area of the neck 30 sits and is mechanically and electrically connected to it. About the correspondingly provided connection 146 can be the antenna proximity sensor 10 be supplied with electrical energy and it can dissipate signals or couple signals.

It is a connection element cover 148 provided (see also 10 ), which the pipe element 14 at the second end 28 closes. The connection element cover 148 has a cover disc 150 from the one wall 152 projects. The wall 152 is in particular cylindrical and opposite to an outer side of the cover plate 150 reset. It is thus a contact surface 154 formed, which is annular and in particular circular.

The connection element cover 148 is made of a metallic material or a plastic material. It can be transparent or LED translucent or opalescent.

The wall 152 is in the neck 30 immersed, with the cover disc 150 over the contact surface 154 at the second end 28 of the tubular element 14 is created.

On the cover disc 150 is a neck 156 formed, which has a smaller diameter than the cover disc 150 having. In the neck 156 is the electrical connection 146 positioned.

A gap or spaces in the interior 20 of the tubular element 14 are filled with molding material and filled in particular. As a molding material is used for example in PU rigid foam.

During the manufacture of the antenna proximity sensor 10 is the corresponding molding material, for example via a funnel 158 ( 1 ), which at the neck 156 is positioned, introduced.

The circuit arrangement 24 is partially on the first circuit carrier 130 and partially on the second circuit carrier 142 arranged. The circuit arrangement comprises high-frequency components for the antenna device 64 and for example, digital signal processing circuit components. According to the invention, it is provided that high-frequency components are separated from such digital circuit components. High frequency components are at the first circuit carrier 130 arranged and digital components are on the second circuit carrier 142 arranged. In particular, on the first circuit carrier 130 Circuit elements for controlling the transmitter-receiver device 72 arranged (wherein a part of the transceiver device 72 then on the first circuit carrier 130 is positioned). Furthermore, circuit components for the signal conditioning and an output stage to the first circuit carrier 130 arranged.

An outside of the pipe element 14 can with an external thread 160 be provided to the antenna proximity sensor 10 over the pipe element 14 of the housing 12 to fix on an application.

The antenna proximity sensor 10 is made, for example, as follows:
A unit of the cap 38 with the circuit carriers 130 and 142 is produced. This is the combination of the first circuit carrier 130 and second circuit carrier 142 which are interconnected with the cap 38 on the wall 134 screwed. About the recess 138 This screwing can be performed easily with a tool.

At the first circuit carrier 130 is the cable device 116 arranged and in particular soldered. It is also possible that the cable device 116 prefabricated at the antenna device 64 is fixed and in particular soldered.

The cable device 116 is either starting from the antenna device 64 or starting from the first circuit carrier 130 through the implementation 120 carried out and it is then the soldering on the not yet fixed part. It is advantageous if the pre-assembly of the cable device 116 (the connection) to the antenna device 64 is done because the area of the connection with the first circuit carrier 130 through the recess 126 easier to access.

The recording room 58 with the antenna device arranged therein 64 , which to the contact surface 68 is applied, is filled with the molding material and in particular casting resin. In this molding compound then the lid 100 pressed in the appropriate position and thereby on the cap 38 fixed.

After curing, the combination of cap 38 with the circuit carriers 130 . 142 from the first end 26 forth in the pipe element 14 pushed. The connection element cover 148 is at the neck 30 fixed.

About the funnel 158 is molding compound and in particular a hard foam in the interior 20 brought.

The antenna proximity sensor according to the invention 10 works as follows:
The antenna device 64 emits microwaves via its transmitter. It also receives reflected microwaves via the receiving part. The transceiver of the antenna device 64 provides for transmission and reception, with corresponding control elements, in particular with their high-frequency components on the first circuit carrier 130 are arranged.

Electronic components are on the first circuit carrier 130 and the second circuit carrier 142 in the first chamber 22 arranged, which over the dividing wall 60 from the second chamber 62 are separated. This results in a minimal influence on these circuit components by transmitted and received microwave radiation.

The antenna device 64 is at the cap 38 protected arranged. By dividing the electronic circuit components on the first circuit carrier 130 and the second circuit carrier 142 and in particular by the division of high frequency components and digital signal processing components results in a minimized influence.

About the antenna proximity sensor 10 , which is operated in particular with microwave radiation, the approach of objects can be detected. In particular, the absolute distance to a measured object can be determined. Speed information and directional information relating to such a measurement object (targets) can also be achieved. Results of high accuracy can be achieved even in harsh environments (which are dirty or damp, for example). In the cap 38 is the antenna device 64 Optimally protected.

The antenna proximity sensor is operated, for example, with an FMCW method.

Regarding a possible operating procedure is on the DE 10 2007 042 954 A1 respectively EP 2 031 416 A1 referred to, which is expressly and fully incorporated by reference.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

 Antenna proximity sensor

12

 casing

14

 tube element

16

 outer wall

18

 Axial axis

20

 inner space

22

 First chamber

24

 circuitry

26

 First end

28

 Second end

30

 Support

32

 wall

34

 wall

36

 contact surface

38

 cap

40

 Freeze area

42

 Immersion region

44

 wall

46

 contact surface

48

 front

50

 The End

52

 lip

52a

 lip

52b

 lip

54

 sloping surface

56

 step

58

 accommodation space

60

 partition wall

62

 Second Chamber

64

 antenna means

66

 paragraph

68

 contact surface

70

 ground

72

 Transceiver means

74

 holder

76

 patch

78

 First section

80

 Second subarea

82

 body

84

 casing

86

 width

88

 length

90

 bottom

92a

 Area

92b

 Area

94a

 transverse side

94b

 transverse side

96

 gap

98

 Front end

100

 cover

102

 Immersion region

104

 outer wall

106

 cover disk

108

 contact surface

110

 lip

112

 Front end

114a

 wing

114b

 wing

116

 Wired Setup

118

 contacts

120

 execution

121

 Area

122

 gap

124

 gap

126

 recess

128

 admission

130

 First circuit carrier

132

 groove

134

 wall

136

 screw

138

 recess

140

 admission

142

 Second circuit carrier

144a

 pin element

144b

 pin element

146

 connection

148

 Terminal cover

150

 cover disk

152

 wall

154

 contact surface

156

 Support

158

 funnel

160

 external thread

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 2031416 A1 [0002, 0138]
• DE 102007042954 A1 [0138]

Cited non-patent literature

• "Development of a Microwave Proximity Sensor for Industrial Applications" by S. Fericean et al., IEEE Sensors Journal, Vol. 7, July 2009, pages 870 to 876 [0003]

Claims (39)

Antenna proximity sensor comprising a housing ( 12 ) with a tubular element ( 14 ) and with one on the pipe element ( 14 ) arranged cap ( 38 ), a first chamber ( 22 ), which on the tubular element ( 14 ), a second chamber ( 62 ), which on the cap ( 38 ) is formed, a partition wall ( 60 ) between the first chamber ( 22 ) and the second chamber ( 62 ), a circuit arrangement ( 24 ), which in the first chamber ( 22 ), and a transceiver device ( 72 ) with an antenna device ( 64 ), wherein the antenna device ( 64 ) in the second chamber ( 62 ) is positioned. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that the partition wall ( 60 ) on the cap ( 38 ) is formed. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that on the cap ( 38 ) a recording room ( 58 ) for the antenna device ( 64 ) formed by a lid ( 100 ) is limited. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 3, characterized in that the cap ( 38 ) is formed in two parts with the lid ( 100 ) and a fixation area ( 40 ), which on the tubular element ( 14 ) is fixed. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the receiving space ( 58 ) the lid ( 100 ) opposite through the dividing wall ( 60 ) is limited. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the lid ( 100 ) is designed as a radome. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the lid ( 100 ) an immersion area ( 102 ), which in the receiving space ( 58 ) is immersed. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the lid ( 100 ) at least one wing ( 114a . 114b ), which in a space ( 96 ) between a holder ( 74 ) of the antenna device ( 64 ) and a wall ( 44 ), which the receiving space ( 58 ) is limited, submerged. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of claims 3 to 8, characterized in that the lid ( 100 ) a wall ( 104 ), which of the antenna device ( 64 ) and which on a holder ( 74 ) of the antenna device ( 64 ) or spaced from the holder ( 74 ), where patches ( 76 ) of the antenna device ( 64 ) within a projection of the wall ( 104 ) on the holder ( 74 ) lie. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the partition ( 60 ) at least one implementation ( 120 ) for a cable device ( 116 ) and in particular for a ribbon cable, wherein in particular the implementation ( 120 ) is formed as a slot. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 10, characterized in that the bushing ( 120 ) between a body ( 82 ) of the antenna device ( 64 ) and a wall ( 44 ) of the second chamber ( 62 ) is arranged. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 11, characterized in that a holder ( 74 ) of the antenna device ( 64 ) the implementation ( 120 ), wherein the holder ( 74 ) spaced from the implementation ( 120 ). Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second chamber ( 62 ) a paragraph ( 66 ) and the antenna device ( 64 ) a holder ( 74 ), which at a contact surface ( 68 ) of paragraph ( 66 ) is present. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 13, characterized in that the shoulder ( 66 ), the second chamber ( 62 ) and the holder ( 74 ) are adapted to each other adapted to the holder ( 74 ) transverse to an axial direction ( 18 ) and in particular in all directions transverse to the axial direction ( 18 ) in the second chamber ( 62 ) is positioned. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of Claims 3 to 14, characterized in that one or more intermediate spaces ( 122 . 124 ) between the antenna device ( 64 ) and a wall ( 44 . 100 ) of the recording room ( 58 ) are filled with a molding material and in particular a casting resin and filled in particular. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the partition wall ( 60 ) a recording ( 128 ) for at least one circuit carrier ( 130 ) of the circuit arrangement ( 24 ) is arranged, which in particular a groove ( 132 ) and / or a contact surface. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 16, characterized in that the cap ( 38 ) at least one recess ( 138 ), through which with a tool on a Fixierungsbereich of at least one circuit carrier ( 130 ) on the cap ( 38 ) is accessible. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that at least one bushing ( 120 ) on the dividing wall ( 60 ) spaced from the receptacle ( 128 ) and in particular is positioned spaced parallel. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 18, characterized in that between the receptacle ( 128 ) for the at least one circuit carrier ( 130 ) and the at least one implementation ( 120 ) a recording ( 140 ) for a cable device ( 116 ), which the antenna device ( 64 ) and the circuit arrangement ( 24 ) electrically connected, arranged or formed. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that the at least one circuit carrier ( 130 ) on the cap ( 38 ) is fixed and screwed in particular with this. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cap ( 38 ) an immersion area ( 42 ), which in the tubular element ( 14 ) is immersed. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 21, characterized in that at the immersion area ( 14 ) at least one lip ( 52 ) is arranged. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that at the immersion area ( 42 ) at least one recess ( 126 . 138 ), which is a receptacle ( 128 ) for inserting at least one circuit carrier ( 130 ) of the circuit arrangement ( 24 ) and / or at least partially receiving a cable device ( 116 ) and / or to form an access area for a tool. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cap ( 38 ) is made of a plastic material. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the antenna device ( 64 ) is designed as a transceiver and in particular a holder ( 74 ) and a body ( 82 ). Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the antenna device ( 64 ) is designed as a microwave antenna device. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the antenna device ( 64 ) a plurality of patches ( 76 ), which are designed in particular as flat fields or printed fields, and in particular that the patches ( 76 ) on a holder ( 74 ) are arranged. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the circuit arrangement ( 24 ) at least one first circuit carrier ( 130 ) and a second circuit carrier ( 142 ), which in the first chamber ( 22 ), wherein the second circuit carrier ( 142 ) spaced from the first circuit carrier ( 130 ). Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 28, characterized in that the first circuit carrier ( 130 ) on the cap ( 38 ) is held. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that an electrical connection ( 146 ) of the antenna proximity sensor with the first circuit carrier ( 130 ) is mechanically and / or electrically connected. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of claims 28 to 30, characterized in that the second circuit carrier ( 142 ) on the first circuit carrier ( 130 ) is fixed to this spaced. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of claims 28 to 31, characterized in that on the second circuit carrier ( 142 ) Circuit elements for a digital signal processing is arranged. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of claims 28 to 32, characterized in that on the first circuit carrier ( 130 ) High-frequency circuit elements are arranged. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of claims 28 to 33, characterized in that on the first circuit carrier ( 130 ) Circuit elements for controlling the transceiver device ( 72 ) and in particular the antenna device ( 64 ) and / or arranged for signal processing and / or an output stage. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that intermediate spaces in an interior space ( 20 ) of the first chamber ( 22 ) and / or one or more recesses ( 138 ) of the cap ( 38 ) leading to the interior ( 20 ) are open, filled with molding material and in particular a rigid foam and in particular filled. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a connection element cover ( 148 ), which of the cap ( 38 ) opposite in the tubular element ( 14 ) is immersed and at which an electrical connection ( 146 ) of the antenna proximity sensor is arranged. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tubular element ( 14 ) of the cap ( 38 ) opposite a contact surface ( 36 ) for at least one circuit carrier ( 142 ) of the circuit arrangement ( 24 ) having. Antenna proximity sensor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tubular element ( 14 ) is made of a metallic material and in particular is in one piece. Antenna proximity sensor according to claim 38, characterized in that the tubular element has an external thread ( 160 ) having.

Images