EP2469666A2 - Multimedia container - Google Patents

Abstract

The socket has a switching device (25) connected to an idle output-connection-unit (3) for a coaxial output cable in a switching position and switching over the cable, connected to the unit, in another switching position. A cable connection compartment is separated from a switching space by a base plate. An opening or hole is provided in the base plate and runs through an actuating- or triggering unit of an actuation device (125) of the switching device. The actuating- or triggering unit projects up to a region of the output-connection-unit.

Description

The invention relates to a multimedia box according to the preamble of claim 1.

So-called antenna doses are well known. In most cases, they are used as flush-mounted boxes. They have a device for connecting an input cable, usually in the form of a coaxial cable. If several multimedia or antenna outlets are to be connected in series one behind the other, a device for connecting an output cable is also formed on the can. Then, the supplied signals can be supplied for example in the form of television or radio programs via the respective input cable (coaxial cable) of the multimedia box and forwarded via the output cable to a respective next multimedia box.

About a provided in the multimedia box coupling device then the respective signals can be coupled out if at the relevant multimedia box one or more subscriber terminals, for example, to receive television programs or to receive radio programs etc. are to be connected.

At the most existing antenna sockets there are at least two interfaces available, usually two coaxial interfaces, namely to connect a TV and to connect a radio. The coaxial interfaces in the form of coaxial couplings are usually equipped so that one interface has a male configuration and the other interface has a female configuration.

Such antenna doses are ultimately multimedia doses. Multimedia doses usually include other interfaces and / or other types of interfaces, which need not necessarily be limited to coaxial interfaces for connecting coaxial cables. For example, sockets can be provided for connecting a telephone, modem, router or interfaces for connecting lightwave conductors (L-conductors). There are no restrictions in this respect.

In an antenna signal home distribution network several antenna sockets are usually connected in series. In such a strand of an antenna signal Hausverteilnetzes then a terminating resistor must be connected to the output of the last antenna box. For this purpose, specific terminating resistors are used, which can be connected and fixed, for example, in the cable bed for the output cable. Due to the wave resistance-compliant termination of the strand the highest possible return loss should be achieved.

Otherwise, it is basically also known in one With several series-connected antenna sockets, the last one to be installed is a terminal box, which is provided with an integrated terminating resistor instead of the output cable connection device. Without such a termination resistor in the last can, reflections would otherwise occur in the line that would help to adversely affect the signal.

A generic multimedia box is for example from the DE 199 38 074 A1 known. It comprises at least one connection device for connecting an input cable and a connection device for connecting an output cable. The socket is shielded and has a cable compartment and a circuit space, which are separated by a bottom plate.

A basically comparable junction box is also from the DE 198 29 653 A1 known.

The EP 0 447 660 A1 describes a connection device for data networks. This includes a switching device that switches a terminating resistor between an inner conductor and ground in the case of an unoccupied subscriber line device. If the subscriber line device is occupied, the connection between the inner conductor and ground is opened via the terminating resistor. This ensures a corresponding circuit in the immediate signal transmission path between the coaxial cable provided with a connector and the connection device.

From the DE 200 11 240 U1 is an automatic resistance adjustment means for distribution boxes as known remove. This will either automatically ground a connector on a junction box before connecting a cable, or ground will be removed after the cable is terminated. This is done by means of a metal spring, which is adjusted accordingly when connecting a equipped with a coupling coupler coaxial cable by an actuator.

In the DE 33 41 356 A1 a coaxial cable connector is shown and described. When the inner conductor is not inserted, the inner conductor contact part is connected to a terminating resistor. When the inner conductor is plugged in, in contrast, the terminating resistor is switched off.

The DE 101 07 100 A1 shows a plug-in device with integrated diagnostic and evaluation circuit, which also takes place with plugged cable, a switch for switching the cable with the diagnostic and evaluation circuit.

From the DE 90 00 935 U1 is a junction box with a connection device for a data network to be known as known. It includes a functional plug with a cable and a functional socket, which are coordinated with each other as a functional unit. In this case, several function sockets may be provided as output terminals in an embodiment of this publication.

Finally, that describes DE 11 64 521 A an antenna socket in which a terminator and a capacitor connected in series to the conclusion of a line can be taken as known.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an improved multimedia socket in general and an antenna socket in particular.

The object is achieved with the features specified in claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

The multimedia box according to the invention is characterized in that it comprises an integrated switching device. This switching device is designed so that it is actuated by an inserted and connected output cable, i. is forced in particular forced. If no output cable is connected, the multimedia socket acts e.g. as a terminal box with effective terminating resistor. However, if an output cable is connected, in which, for example, a coaxial cable is inserted, fixed and electrically contacted in the relevant cable bed, z. For example, an integrated switching device is forcibly operated, so that the multimedia box automatically becomes a through-can, which loop through the antenna signal.

By this measure, a single multimedia box can be used either as a through-outlet or as a terminal box. This construction ensures that the multimedia box according to the invention always acts as a terminal box in the delivery state. If an output cable is connected to the multimedia socket as mentioned above, the integrated switching device is actuated and the multimedia socket is switched to a through-socket. If a connected cable is again removed, the switching device is switched back to its initial position, so that the multimedia socket with respect to this cable connection again becomes a terminal box.

In this case, the invention can be realized particularly advantageously in that in the bottom, which separates the cable connection space of a circuit space in the multimedia box, an opening or bore 41a is inserted through which protrudes an actuating or triggering portion of the inventively provided actuator, to make the desired detection or wiring when the output cable is connected.

The solution according to the invention is particularly suitable for connecting coaxial cables. Because of the actuated switch when installing or removing a coaxial cable, a terminator provided in the multimedia socket can be switched on or off in a suitable size, usually in the order of magnitude of 75Ω, depending on whether the multimedia Can serves as a terminal or transit can.

However, the solution according to the invention is equally suitable for connecting other cables, for example, for connecting twisted pair cables, fiber optic cables, but also if the multimedia box z. B. has multiple outputs for connecting different cable types. In each case when a corresponding cable is connected to the respective output, the switching device provided according to the invention is forcibly actuated.

As mentioned, this switching device - especially for coaxial cables - a terminator can be switched on or off. In the case of other types of cables or even optical fibers but can also automatically by the forced operation switch device be detected whether an output cable is connected or not. Depending on the detected switch position, an evaluation and / or triggering of a sequential circuit desired for this switching state can then be effected by means of an electronic circuit provided in the multimedia socket.

The invention has a number of advantages.

From the description of the solution according to the invention it follows that it is sufficient to use only a single multimedia socket for different switching states. This leads to a significant reduction in the variety of types, since a universal multimedia can type is sufficient.

In particular, when using coaxial cables, the invention has the significant advantage that in the case of a terminal box no terminator must be mounted separately by the fitter on site. As a result, especially installation errors are avoided in a home distribution network, which could occur if, for example, terminators are confused (ie a wrong size terminator is mounted) or if by the responsible installer, for example, a terminator in one case with, in the other case without capacitive Separation is connected, especially in satellite reception systems, in which a DC voltage is provided via the inner conductor. Such faulty circuits could well have fatal consequences, especially in the case of satellite receiving systems, which would then flow over the terminator used without capacitive separation, an unacceptably high current.

In addition, no misuse by the end user can occur if, for example, he removes a connected coaxial output cable which leads to a next socket without mounting a terminating resistor. Because this makes the box in question automatically to the final socket by forced connection of an integrated and correctly dimensioned termination resistor.

In contrast to the prior art can also be ensured in the context of the inventive solution that especially in the wiring using coaxial cables in the case of a terminal box of the terminating resistor is optimized circuit technology and adapted to the clamping and contacting mechanism, so that a very high Return loss of high frequency signals can be achieved safely, in contrast to separately purchased and built terminators, which are not optimized for the clamping and contacting mechanism or can not be optimized due to their mechanical dimensions.

Figur 1a:

Ein erstes schematisches Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung bezüglich einer Multimedia-Dose, die als Enddose bei einem nicht angeschlossenen koaxialen Ausgangskabel wirkt;

Figur 1b:

eine entsprechende Darstellung zu Figur 1, jedoch für den Fall, dass an einem Ko- axialausgang ein Koaxialkabel angeschlossen ist und die Multimedia-Dose damit als Durchgangsdose wirkt;

Figur 2a:

eine entsprechende Darstellung zu Figur 1a, jedoch nicht unter Verwendung eines Ein-/Ausschalters, sondern eines Umschalters;

Figur 2b:

eine Darstellung entsprechend Figur 2a, jedoch für den Fall eines angeschlossenen Koaxialkabels;

Figur 3a:

eine schematische Draufsicht auf eine erfindungsgemäße Multimedia-Dose bei geöffnetem Kabelanschlussraum;

Figur 3b:

eine entsprechende Darstellung zu Figur 2a, jedoch in räumlicher Wiedergabe;

Figur 3c:

eine entsprechende Unteransicht der in Figur 3a und 3b gezeigten Multimedia-Dose bei abgenommenen schirmenden Gehäusebodens;

Figur 4a:

eine schematische auszugsweise Längsschnittdarstellung durch ein Betätigungselement 125 eines Schalters 25 in seiner geschlossenen Ausgangsstellung;

Figur 4b:

eine entsprechende Darstellung zu Figur 4a, jedoch bei geöffnetem Schaltkontakt;

Figur 4c:

eine vergrößerte Detaildarstellung einer blattförmigen Rückholfeder und der Betätigungseinrichtung 125 für die Schaltkontakte eines Schalters;

Figur 5:

ein zu Figur 4a abgewandeltes Ausführungsbeispiel unter Verwendung einer Schraubenfeder als Rückhol-Federeinrichtung;

Figur 6:

ein weiteres abgewandeltes Ausführungsbeispiel unter Verwendung zweier zusammenwirkender Kontaktfedern, die durch die Betätigungseinrichtung des Schalters trennbar sind;

Figur 7:

ein nochmals abgewandeltes Ausführungsbeispiel mit einer verstellbaren Kontaktzunge unter Bildung eines Ein-/Ausschalters;

Figur 8:

ein zu Figur 4a nochmals abgewandeltes Ausführungsbeispiel unter Verwendung eines Umschalters anstelle eines Ein-/Ausschalters für die erläuterte Schalteinrichtung;

Figur 9:

ein abgewandeltes Ausführungsbeispiel in schematischer Darstellung unter Verwendung eines Ein-/Ausschalters mit zwei zusammenwirkenden Kontaktzungen;

Figur 10a und Figur 10b:

ein abgewandeltes Ausführungsbeispiel in axialer Stirnseitenansicht auf ein angeschlossenes koaxiales Ausgangskabel unter Verwendung einer verschwenkbaren Betätigungs- und Auslöseeinrichtung unter Ermöglichung einer Detektion weiterer Merkmale bezüglich des angeschlossenen Ausgangskabels;

Figur 11:

ein weiteres abgewandeltes Ausführungsbeispiel in schematischer Darstellung mit einer galvanischen Auswertung unter Verwendung einer feststehenden, elektrisch leitfähigen stiftförmigen Betätigungseinrichtung; und

Figur 12:

ein weiteres schematisch wiedergegebenes Ausführungsbeispiel, bei welchem ein angeschlossenes Ausgangskabel induktiv, kapazitiv, optisch oder magnetisch detektierbar ist, insbesondere durch einen entsprechenden Näherungsschalter.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to drawings. In detail:

FIG. 1a

A first schematic embodiment of the invention with respect to a multimedia box which acts as a terminal box on a non-connected coaxial output cable;

FIG. 1b

a corresponding representation too FIG. 1 However, in the event that a co- axial output a coaxial cable is connected and the multimedia box thus acts as a through-outlet;

FIG. 2a:

a corresponding representation too FIG. 1a but not using an on / off switch, but a changeover switch;

FIG. 2b:

a representation accordingly FIG. 2a , but in the case of a connected coaxial cable;

FIG. 3a:

a schematic plan view of a multimedia box according to the invention with an open cable connection space;

FIG. 3b:

a corresponding representation too FIG. 2a , but in spatial representation;

FIG. 3c:

a corresponding bottom view of in FIG. 3a and 3b shown multimedia box with removed shielding housing bottom;

FIG. 4a

a schematic partially longitudinal section through an actuating element 125 of a switch 25 in its closed starting position;

FIG. 4b:

a corresponding representation too FIG. 4a , but with the switching contact open;

FIG. 4c:

an enlarged detail of a leaf-shaped return spring and the actuator 125 for the switching contacts of a switch;

FIG. 5:

one too FIG. 4a modified embodiment using a coil spring as a return spring means;

FIG. 6:

another modified embodiment using two cooperating contact springs, which are separable by the actuator of the switch;

FIG. 7:

a further modified embodiment with an adjustable contact tongue to form an on / off switch;

FIG. 8:

one too FIG. 4a again modified embodiment using a switch instead of an on / off switch for the illustrated switching device;

FIG. 9:

a modified embodiment in a schematic representation using an on / off switch with two cooperating contact tongues;

FIG. 10a and FIG. 10b:

a modified embodiment in axial end view of a connected coaxial output cable below Use of a pivotable actuating and triggering device allowing detection of further features with respect to the connected output cable;

FIG. 11:

a further modified embodiment in a schematic representation with a galvanic evaluation using a fixed, electrically conductive pin-shaped actuator; and

FIG. 12:

another schematically reproduced embodiment in which a connected output cable is inductively, capacitively, optically or magnetically detectable, in particular by a corresponding proximity switch.

Based on FIG. 1a and 1b are first schematic embodiments of a multimedia box according to the invention shown.

In the FIGS. 1a and 1b is dashed lines the housing 1 of the multimedia box indicated, which, for example, a first means 2 for connecting an input cable 4 and a second means 3 for connecting an output cable 6 has.

The one input connection device 2 for connecting an input cable 4 comprises an inner conductor contact device 2a and an outer conductor contact device 2 B. A corresponding output connection device 3 with an inner conductor and outer conductor contact device 3a, 3b is ultimately also provided for connecting an output cable 6, as described below with reference to FIG FIG. 1b is explained in more detail.

In the drawing shown is indicated that in the embodiment shown in FIG FIG. 1b the input and the output cable 4, 6 each consist of a coaxial cable, whose ends are deposited accordingly, so that the associated inner conductor 13 and the outer conductor 15 on the outer insulation 17 sufficiently far beyond and corresponding to the multimedia socket to the mentioned connection devices. 2 , 3 in the inner and outer conductor can be connected.

Out FIG. 1a and 1b It can also be seen that the multimedia box in the housing 1 comprises a transformer or directional coupler 19, which decouples a portion of the supplied by the input cable high-frequency power through the Auskoppelstrecke 19b. This is provided in the embodiment at three user interfaces 23a, 23b and 23c, for example in the form of coaxial interfaces for connecting a television, radio, etc., for the connection of devices available.

FIG. 1a and 1b further show a switching device 25 associated with the output connection device 3, to which a terminating resistor 27 with or without a series-connected capacitor 29 is connected to terminate the transmission path.

The switching device 25 has an actuating device 125, over which the switching device 25 can be switched between the open and closed positions, preferably against the force of a spring device 26th

In the illustrated embodiment according to FIG. 1a If only one coaxial input cable 4 is connected to the input device 2, so that the switching device 25 automatically in their in FIG. 1a reproduced closed position, in which the mentioned terminating resistor 27 is effective with the optionally connected in series capacitor 29, since the opposite to the switch output of the terminating resistor 27 is grounded 28, thus electrically connected to the outer conductor 15 of the connected input cable 4. In addition, the terminating resistor 27 is connected at its opposite connection point via the capacitor 29 to the inner conductor 11 of the connected coaxial input cable 4.

In this case, therefore, the explained multimedia box acts as completed by the terminating resistor 27 Enddose.

Is now at the device 3 for connecting an output cable 6 in FIG. 1b shown also as the input cable 4 connected to a remote and exposed inner and outer conductors 13, 15 provided coaxial cable 6, this is an actuator 125 forcibly adjusted, so that the actuator 125, the switching device 25 against the force of a in FIG. 1a and 1b Not yet shown spring device 26 in the in FIG. 1b shown open position switches. In this position, the switching device 25 shown as on / off switch is disconnected from the terminator 27, so that in this case the multimedia box serves as a through-can, in which the high-frequency signals, ie the RF signals from the input cable 4 via the primary path 19a of the coupler 19 are transmitted to the output cable 6.

Should the output cable 6 be removed again, would by the spring force of in FIG. 1a and 1b Not shown spring device, the actuator 125, the switching device 25 back into their in FIG. 1a switch shown closed position, so that then the box would be completed again by the termination device with the capacitor 29 and the terminator 27, thus thus automatically and forcibly again connected as a final socket.

This ensures that no incorrect operation results and in the case of an end box in the absence of output cable, the multimedia box always acts as a terminal box with effective terminating resistor 27. The aforementioned integrated terminating resistor 27 can be optimally adjusted with respect to its size, taking into account the clamping and contacting mechanism, so that a very high return loss is achieved.

Based on FIG. 2a and 2 B is a corresponding schematic representation reproduced, which differs from the embodiment according to FIG. 1a and 1b only differs in that no on / off switch is used as a switching device 25 (whose one switching contact always with the primary transmission path 19a between input device 2 and output device 3 is connected), but a switch, which is electrically connected depending on the switching position with either one switching contact 25a (under connection of the terminating resistor 27) or in its other switching position with the switching contact 25b, in which the terminating resistor is ineffective and the Can acts as a through-box. Then the RF signals coming from the input cable 4 are fed via the primary path 19a of the transformer / coupler 19 correspondingly into the output cable 6 for forwarding to a next multimedia socket.

Otherwise, the functionality is identical to FIG. 1a and 1b in which the terminating resistor 27 is preferably disconnected or connected with the additionally provided capacitor 29 (which is important in the case of satellite receiving systems in which DC components are also transmitted via the inner conductors).

Based on the FIGS. 3a to 3c the implementation is reproduced in more detail with the multimedia box according to the invention.

It is in the illustration according to FIG. 3a and 3b It can be seen, for example, that the multimedia box comprises a cable connection space 31, namely with two cable beds 33 provided with transverse ribs 32, once for connecting a coaxial input or coaxial output cable 4, 6, wherein in the area of the transverse ribs 32 the corresponding remote and exposed End region of the outer conductor 15 of a coaxial cable 4, 6 rests and is thus contacted with the electrically conductive housing 1, whereas the front side protruding inner conductor 11 in the inner conductor connection region Protrudes 34 and there mechanically clamped by a screw-operated clamping tongue 35 is known and can be electrically contacted. The structure is designed accordingly for the input and the output cable.

In other words, the inner conductor connection region 34 corresponds to the input as well as the output cable of the inner conductor contact device 2 a or 3 a, whereas the so-called cable bed 33 corresponds to the one on the hand FIGS. 1a to 1b described outer conductor contact means 2b and 3b corresponds (see FIGS. 1a to 2b ). In other words, the forms in FIG. 1a In plan view, left inner conductor terminal 34 with the cable bed 33 located in front of the input terminal device 2 for connecting an input cable 4 and in the FIGS. 3a and 3b right inner conductor connection region 34 with the upstream cable bed 33, the outer conductor connection device 3 for connecting an output cable. 6

The cable connection space 31 formed in this way can be closed in a high-frequency-tight manner by folding over an end cap 37, with the end cap 37 usually being held pivotably on the housing 1 of the multimedia socket by means of a plastic strap 38. Otherwise, the multimedia box is constructed like conventional antenna sockets, namely ultimately with a generally approximately cylindrical housing, which is closed at the bottom with a housing cover and in which the coaxial interfaces 23 are formed on the opposite terminal side and with an almost completely encircling mounting flange 39th provided with mounting holes 39a.

In the embodiment shown, two coaxial interfaces 23a and 23b are provided adjacent to a third interface 23c for the multimedia box, each comprising female (cylindrical) outer conductors 123b and concentric inner conductors 123a lying on the left with a male inner conductor 123a (male configuration ) and two in FIG. 3a and 3b right-hand or lower-lying sleeve-shaped inner conductors 123a (female configuration), via which corresponding coaxial plug-in or screw connectors (couplers) can be connected, for example, to connect a television or radio.

In the region of the cable bed 33 for connecting the output cable 6 is also the upper end of the here pin-shaped actuator 125 can be seen, which projects through a corresponding hole in the bottom plate 41 of the underlying RF-dense circuit space in sufficient axial length. As related to the FIGS. 1a to 2b already explained, while the actuator 125 is provided by a below the bottom plate 41 and in FIGS. 3a to 3c Not shown in detail spring device 26 is biased held in its initial position, in the case of non-connected output cable 6, the switching device 25 is in the closed position and the terminating resistor 27 is effective. The multimedia box is thus then in the state of a terminated by the terminating resistor 27 "Enddose".

Now is an output cable 6 in the corresponding in FIG. 3a and 3b right-hand cable bed 33 connected, ie a corresponding remote end of the coaxial cable Inserted 6 so that the outer conductor of the coaxial cable is electrically contacted via the electrically conductive transverse ribs 32 to the housing 1, the inner conductor 13 is electrically connected and fixed to the inner conductor connection point 3a, 34 after tightening the screw 42, and the hinged lid 37 folded and with the screw 37 'is fixed, thereby forcibly displaced axially over the bottom plate 41 projecting pin down against the force generated by a spring not shown in detail axially, thereby now by this translational displacement of the pin-shaped actuator 125 which below the bottom plate 41 in the there formed switching circuit 44 switching device 25 is switched so that the mentioned terminating resistor 27 is turned off. The multimedia box is now configured as a throughput box.

Figure 3c shows a corresponding perspective view of the multimedia box from its underside ago, with removed shielding housing cover, so that in the lower circuit space 44 lying a circuit board 46 is visible.

Hereinafter, the embodiment according to FIGS. 4a to 4c Reference is made, which shows a schematic representation of the switching device, in an abstract representation along the line IV-IV in FIG. 3a , wherein the sectional view shown exactly by the pin-shaped actuator 125 leads.

In the illustration according to FIG. 4a is a partial view of the mentioned base plate 41, above which the cable bed 33 for the output cable 6 is located.

At a distance below the bottom plate 41 is then in the control room 44, a printed circuit board 46 on which, for example, the terminating resistor 27, the capacitor 29 and, if necessary, other electronic components or components can be located.

The consisting of an electrically non-conductive material actuator 125 is pin-shaped and is slidably held by a bore 41a in the bottom plate 41 and an axially aligned bore 46a in the printed circuit board 46, wherein the pin-shaped switching device 125 has a radially projecting flange stop 125a, in the initial position shown in accordance with FIG. 4a abuts against the bottom plate 41, ie in the illustrated embodiment on the underside 41d of the bottom plate 41 or a separate stop formed thereon or associated therewith.

Further, a spring device 26, in this embodiment, as a leaf or strip spring 26a, is provided, which is at a distance fixed to the actuating device 125 at an attachment point 41c on the underside of the bottom plate 41, realized here by a rivet connection.

This leaf spring 26a pushes the switching device 25 against the bottom plate 41 in its initial position shown.

In this initial position, an electrically conductive switching spring 125c, which is fixedly connected to the actuating device 125, at corresponding contact points 25a, 25b on the underside 46c of the printed circuit board 46 resting contacted, about what, for example, an electrical connection from the inner conductor of the input cable 4 via the transmission path 19a with the aforementioned terminating resistor 27 depending on the application or configuration used with or without series-connected capacitor 29 is realized, the multimedia Can so connected as a final socket.

If now an output cable 6 is connected in the region of the cable bed 33, the end of a correspondingly exposed exposed coaxial cable 6 comes to lie parallel to the housing bottom 41, wherein when connecting the coaxial cable 6 then axial forces on the front or operating side 125d of the actuator 125 act, so that on these axial displacement forces the pin-shaped actuator 125 against the force of the spring means 26 of the in FIG. 4a shown position axially in the in FIG. 4b shown position, wherein the annular stop 125a lifts from the bottom plate 41. At the same time, the switching contacts 125c of a switch connection or switching bridge 125'c also move away from corresponding contact points 25a, 25b on the printed circuit board 46, ie they lift off from the contact points 25a, 25b, so that an in FIGS. 4a and 4b not shown in detail and preferably located on the printed circuit board 46 terminating resistor 27 is decoupled from the transmission path and is switched from the inner conductor of the input cable via the transmission path 19a to the inner conductor 13 of the output cable 6, the multimedia box is thus thus in a throughput state.

If the output cable were to be removed again, the Switching device automatically by the force of the spring device 26 in their in FIG. 4a shown starting position be switched back, in which even when connected input cable 4, the multimedia box then automatically acts again as a terminal box, so forcibly and functionally correct said termination 27 is switched on again.

In the embodiment shown, the actuating device 125 is located in the section of the output cable 6 to be connected, in which the outer conductor 15 is exposed. The actuating projection or the end face 125d of the switching device 25 could also be in that region of the end of the coaxial cable 6, in which now the inner conductor 13 projects freely or in which the coaxial cable is also provided with the outer insulation 17.

The switching contacts 125c are in an extractively three-dimensional representation together with the leaf-shaped spring device 26 with reference to FIG Figure 4c can be seen (without printed circuit boards and other parts), from which it can be seen that the two radially opposite switching contacts 125c via a central annular portion to form a switching bridge 125'c conductively connected and formed in the embodiment shown as a one-piece metal part or with a spring part, which preferably rests with appropriate light spring tension at the contact points 46.

Based on FIG. 5 is only schematically shown a modification in so far as not a leaf spring 26a, but a coil spring 26b is used, which is biased in this case under axial pressure, and is applied to the upper side 46d of the printed circuit board 46 is supported on the one hand and on the annular stop 125a of the actuating device 125 on the other hand, thus the actuating device 125, as in the preceding embodiment also in the in FIG. 5 shown initial position presses, for example, when not connected output cable of the mentioned terminating resistor 27 is effective.

Based on FIG. 6 a further modification is shown in which, for example, via two contact springs 48a and 48b, which are contacted at corresponding contact points 46 'of the printed circuit board 46, a permanent electrical connection to the terminating resistor 27 is made. The contact springs 48a and 48b are thus part of the switching device 25th

In this embodiment, in turn, the mentioned leaf spring 26a comparable to the embodiment according to FIGS. 4a and 4b is used, the actuator 125 ends below the angle converging and contacting contact portions 48a and 48b, wherein the actuator 125 is made of a dielectric material, that acts as an insulator.

Will now when connecting an output cable, comparable to the embodiment according to FIG. 4b , the pin-shaped actuator 125 axially displaced against the force of the spring means 26 down, the leading operating tip 125e (ie, the actuating head 125e) increasingly immersed in the space between the contact portions 48a and 48b, and it continues moved axially downwards so that the contact surfaces 48a and 48b are bent away from each other elastically, so that the contact is interrupted, so that in this switching position of the example mentioned terminator 27 is turned off, so the multimedia box here again in this switching state as a through-box acts.

When swinging back the actuator 125 - namely, when the output cable 6 is removed again - so that the operating tip 125e moves back into the in FIG. 6 shown starting position, wherein the elastic contact springs 48a and 48b to pivot back on each other due to the immanent elastic bias and contact each other, so that again an electrical connection to the terminator is made, so the box again acts as a terminal box.

Any other modifications are so far as possible for the switching device 25.

In FIG. 7 is an embodiment with a strip spring 26, 26 shown a, wherein here only one contact spring 25d is used, the rear portion mechanically bonded, for example, by soldering to the circuit board and electrically contacted and their leading portions 25c contactable with a contact 25a on the underside of the printed circuit board is. If the pin-shaped actuator 125 axially in the illustration according to FIG. 7 shifted downward (when an output cable 6 is connected as mentioned), the contact 125a of the contact tongue 25d lifts from the contact point 25a, thereby preventing, for example, the connection to a terminating resistor.

Generally speaking, therefore, within the scope of the invention for the switching device, an on / off switch 15 may be provided, which is always connected to the transmission path 19a and is only in the closed position with unoccupied output, with the connection of the terminating resistor 27, and the inlaid Output cable 6 is pivoted in its open position, so that the terminating resistor 27 is disconnected.

But it would also be possible, as based on FIG. 8 is shown schematically that as a switching device 25 is not an on / off switch but a switch is used which produces in the initial position shown by a connection or solder 25 'an electrical connection to the terminating resistor 27, wherein the switching contact 125c connected to the output cable. 6 through the in FIG. 8 downwardly displaced pin-shaped actuator (switching pin) is switched to its second position in which the corresponding contact 25h at the end of the contact spring 25d of the corresponding mating contact connects to the terminating resistor 27, lifts and a second contact 25e contacts the counter-contact 25a So that now an electrical connection on the primary transmission line 19 from the input 2 to the output 3 is made, the box thus forms a through-can in this state.

In FIG. 9 is one too FIG. 8 shown similar embodiment, in which case the leading end of the spring 25d has no electrical contact with the printed circuit board. By this structure, an on-off switch can be realized, which is suitable for the detection of whether an output cable is connected.

The mentioned embodiments have been explained in the case that coaxial cables are used as the input and output cables.

However, the invention is just as feasible if the connected cables, for example, consist of twisted pair cables, a fiber optic cable or any combination, especially if multiple inputs and outputs are provided. In all cases, the cables could be connected accordingly so that the respective switching pin 125 comes to rest radially to the cable in question, so when connecting the output cable in the radial direction to the cable an adjusting force is introduced to the actuating pin in the longitudinal direction to the desired switching make.

It would be with regard to FIG. 8 It is also possible that depending on the switching position, not a terminating resistor 27 is switched on or off, but that this is done only by pressing the corresponding switch contacts preferably on the circuit board detection, if connected to the relevant output of the multimedia box a corresponding cable or output cable is or not. Depending on this information, a specific further evaluation or circuit can be made, inter alia, in the multimedia box itself.

If, for example, several inputs and / or outputs are provided, then the solution according to the invention with the relevant switching device can also be provided separately for two or more of these outputs or even for all these outputs, so that they are determined separately for each output can be whether there is a corresponding cable is connected. If this output is provided for connecting a coaxial cable, a separate switching device with an associated separate terminating resistor can be provided in particular for each such coaxial output.

Basically, the switching device can also be designed differently, namely not as an axially displaceable actuating pin but as a pivoting lever, which is adjusted accordingly by an inserted and connected cable, etc.

If in this case an output cable 6 are inserted into the output switching device 3, the said pivot lever would be pivoted accordingly, about which then as well as in the other embodiments of the axially adjustable pin corresponding switching contacts could be actuated, which allow detection, whether an output cable is connected. In the case of a coaxial output cable, a corresponding terminating resistor can also be switched off again.

The switching can also be designed so that, depending on the deflection of the actuating or switching pin 125, for example, more than two switching positions can be realized. In other words, not only a switching position "not connected" to be detected when a coaxial output cable 6 is not connected, but for example, two other switching positions be detectable in which, for example, not only detectable that a coaxial output cable 6 is connected, but for example a coaxial output cable with "larger diameter" or in contrast with "smaller diameter" is connected.

This is schematically based on Figure 10a and Figure 10b shown, about what, for example, a pivotable about an axis 126 held actuating pin 125 is provided, which can preferably be pivoted against the force of a spring means 26 when inserting and connecting a coaxial output cable 6. When the output cable 6 is not connected, the pivotable actuating device 125 can be pivoted so far by the force of the spring 26 that the actuating device 125 abuts against a stop 127, for example, which is defined by the size and position of the passage opening 46a in the printed circuit board 46. In this case, the operation side 125d of the actuator would come to rest in the space in which an output cable 6 is usually connected. Is according to the illustration after FIG. 10b connected to an output cable 6 with a smaller diameter, the actuator 125 would be pivoted only at a lower angle. In contrast, a coaxial output cable 6 with a larger diameter according to the illustration FIG. 10a be connected, the actuator would be pivoted at a greater angle (here in each case in the current representation in a clockwise direction). The actuating device 125 can then cooperate with the aforementioned switch 25, whose switching contact is pressed in accordance with the Verschwenkwinkel of the actuating pin 15 different degrees, what the two different switching positions result, which allow a different evaluation. In other words opened Thus, this variant, the possibility that other features with respect to the connected output cable 6 can be detected, as explained, for example, the geometry properties of the connected output cable 6. It is also possible that here on the output cable 6 mounted codes determined and then evaluated by the different switching position. However, other detection criteria may also be detected, ie detected, by means of such a switching device and different sequential circuits triggered depending thereon.

Finally, it would also be conceivable, in particular when connecting a remote coaxial cable end, that an actuating pin 125 projecting axially on the coaxial cable end is axially displaced, for example, by the front end of the dielectric 14 provided between the inner and outer conductors of the coaxial cable when a cable is inserted in the cable bed. Finally, a lever projecting here could also be pivoted in contact with the front-side exposed end of the remote coaxial cable end. Any modifications are also possible in this respect.

It has already been mentioned that it proves to be favorable, especially in the case of coaxial cables, when the terminating resistor 27 and a capacitor 29, possibly connected in series, are arranged on the printed circuit board 46 for galvanic isolation. Alternatively, the terminator may be a wired component, which is either housed in the circuit space 44 of the multimedia box or in the cable connection compartment.

The placement of the terminating resistor on the printed circuit board 46 is particularly advantageous if the mentioned capacitive separation in the form of a capacitor 29 is provided or even required, since in this case, the resistors and capacitors required for this cost placed with other components on the circuit board and can be soldered.

If only the connection of the output cable to be detected, a particularly simple structure is possible even with the omission of the spring 26. Because in this case, a triggering device 1125a may be provided with a permanently installed switching pin 125, namely, when the switching pin 125 made of an electrically conductive material or at least coated with an electrically conductive material and thereby electrically insulated from the bottom plate 41 (electrically isolated) mounted in the region of the outer conductor of a coaxial cable to be connected and thereby electrically connected to the circuit board 46 is connected. This is based on the sectional representation according to FIG. 11 explained. Is according to FIG. 11 an output cable 6 is connected in the region of the output connection device 3, there is a direct electrical connection from the cable outer conductor 15 via the triggering section 125d to the printed circuit board 21 via the aforementioned electrically conductive switching or trigger pin 125, 125 '. This is the electrical resistance in this section very low and can be evaluated by an electrical circuit. If no output cable is mounted, this corresponds to the state of an opened switch. The corresponding schematic representation is based on FIG. 11 played. In the bottom plate 41 is a correspondingly larger passage opening 141a provided, within which now the mentioned insulation 143 is provided with a through hole 41a through which the electrically conductive and axially non-displaceable in this case, but fixed contact pin 125 protrudes and by the use of the surrounding insulation 143 of the electrically conductive base plate 41 galvanic is disconnected. The projecting also through a corresponding bore 46a in the printed circuit board 46 switching pin 125 is then electrically connected, for example by means provided on the underside 46c of the printed circuit board solder connection 145 with a corresponding connection point on the printed circuit board 46, what ultimately the direct electrical (galvanic) connection between a connected cable outer conductor 15 and the circuit board 46 can be produced.

In other words, the explained switching pin 125, which is also referred to as electrically conductive trigger pin 125 ', immovable and electrically isolated to the bottom plate 41 installed in the output cable outer conductor 15 and thereby electrically connected to a corresponding connection point on the circuit board 46. The presence of a connected output cable 6 can then be detected via the circuitry detection of, for example, an electrical resistance between outer conductor 15 of a connected output cable 6 via the switching or release pin 125, 125 'to the circuit board 46. The galvanic connection between the outer conductor 19 of a connected output cable 6 and the printed circuit board producing switching or release pin 125, 125 'is thus thus part of a so designed release device 1125a.

In the embodiments according to FIGS. 4a to 9 switching devices were shown in which a switching pin was deflected by a connected output cable from its rest position. Based on the last discussed embodiment according to FIG. 11 In contrast, a fixed switching pin has been used, which establishes a galvanic connection between the outer conductor 15 of a connected coaxial output cable 6 and a connection point on the printed circuit board 46, this electrical connection can then be evaluated accordingly to determine whether an output cable 6 connected is or not. Alternatively, the switching device may include an inductively, capacitively, optically and / or magnetically operating proximity switch 1125, that is to say a corresponding modified switching device 25, via which the switching process is triggered in the presence of a connected output cable 6. This is only an example FIG. 12 referenced, in which the switching pin 125 via a solder joint 145 - as in FIG. 11 - With a corresponding connection point on the printed circuit board 46 is electrically (galvanically) connected and thereby arranged axially stationary, although in a correspondingly large-sized recess 141a in the region of the bottom plate 41 (possibly also with the interposition of a circumferential insulation 143, similar to FIG. 11 ) which is arranged, for example, inductive, capacitive, optical or magnetic tripping device 1125b with a correspondingly operating proximity switch 1125. If an output cable 6 lying above it - as shown with reference to the other embodiments - would be connected by means of this tripping device 1125b, ie by the example inductive, capacitive, optical or magnetic-working switch 1125, a coaxial cable 6 located in the immediate vicinity (connected), in particular its outer conductor 15, are detected, so that a corresponding detection signal can be transmitted to the printed circuit board. Also in this case, the triggering device 1125b is electrically connected to the associated switch 1125 via a trigger pin 125 or a trigger line to the printed circuit board 46. The switch assembly in question can be anchored and supported by a pin-shaped base 125 on the printed circuit board 46, optionally also have a mechanical connection to the bottom plate 41.

A changeover from end to run mode and vice versa would be in deviation from the illustrated embodiments in principle and then possible, if a switching device 25 is provided in the multimedia box with, which is not forcibly operated when connecting an output cable, but the at is housed elsewhere and, for example, externally operable separately, namely, for example, by an externally accessible switch, button, slide switch, rotary switch or by using a coding on the output cable clamp etc. In all these cases, however, a malfunction would not be excluded because the switch could be operated or not operated, regardless of whether an output cable is actually connected or not. Compared with these possibilities, the solution according to the invention offers significant advantages.

Claims (20)

Multimedia box with the following features: - With at least one connection device (2) for connecting an input cable (4), - With at least one connection device (3) for connecting an output cable (6), with a cable connection space (31) and circuit space (44) shielded against electromagnetic radiation, wherein the cable connection space (31) is separated from the circuit space (44) by means of a base plate (41), characterized by the following further features the multimedia box comprises a circuit device (25), - The circuit device (25) is connected to unused output terminal means (3) for an output cable (6) in its one switching position, the switching device (25) is switched to its other switching position when the output cable (6) is connected to the output connection device (3), - In the bottom plate (41) has an opening or bore (41 a) is provided, and the opening or bore (41a) is penetrated by an actuating or triggering section (125b) of the actuating device (125) of the switching device (25), wherein the actuating or triggering section (125b) extends into the region of the outlet connecting device (3) projects. Multimedia box according to claim 1, characterized in that the switching device (25) is connected to its output circuit when the output cable (6) is not connected, in which one of the input terminal device (2) coming transmission line (19a) via a Terminating resistor (27) and preferably connected in series with a capacitor (29) to ground and / or the outer conductor (15) of the input cable (4) is connected. Multimedia box according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in the output terminal device (3) connected to the output cable (6) the switching device (25) is switched to its second switching position in which a terminating resistor (27) of the Transmission line (19a) is disconnected. Multimedia box according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the switching device (25) comprises a triggering device (1125a), in the form of an electrically conductive and with a connection point on a printed circuit board (46) electrically (galvanically) connected switching - or trigger pin (125, 125 '), the trigger portion (125d) is contacted at a connected coaxial output cable (6) with its outer conductor (15). Multimedia box according to claim 4, characterized in that the electrically conductive switching or release pin (125, 125 ') immovable and electrically isolated to the bottom plate (41) in the region of the outer conductor (15) of a connected output cable (6) installed and with the Preferably, the presence of a connected output cable (6) via a circuit-technical detection of the electrical resistance between the outer conductor (15) of a connected output cable (6) via the electrically conductive contact pin to the printed circuit board ( 46) is detectable. Multimedia box according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the switching device (25) comprises a triggering device (1125b) which comprises or comprises an inductively, capacitively, optically or magnetically operating proximity switch (1125), via which a connected output cable (1125b). 6) is detectable, which is preferably electrically connected via a release pin (125) or a trigger line to the printed circuit board (46). Multimedia box according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the switching device (25) comprises an actuating device (125) which is axially displaceable and is displaced axially by connecting the end of an output cable (6), wherein the actuating device ( 125) is preferably adjustable against the force of a spring device (26) when the output cable (6) is connected from its initial position into its at least one different switching position. Multimedia box according to claim 7, characterized in that the axially displaceable pin-shaped actuating device (125) relative to a in the output terminal device (3) connected to the output cable (6) is arranged either radially or at an angle to extend, such that the radial component larger is as the axial component. Multimedia box according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the switching device (25) comprises an actuating device (125) which is arranged pivotably about an axis (126) and / or held, about what preferably a different geometry property of the connected Output cable (6) via a different pivot position of the actuator (125) is detectable. Multimedia box according to one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the actuating device (125) interacts with its actuating or trigger section (125d) with the end of an output cable (6) connected in the output connection device (3). Multimedia box according to claim 10, characterized in that the actuating or trigger portion (125d) interacts with the exposed outer conductor (15) or the exposed inner conductor (11) or outer insulation (17) of an output cable (6) to be connected. Multimedia box according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the switching device (25) comprises an on / off switch. Multimedia box according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the switching device (25) comprises a switch. Multimedia box according to one of claims 6 to 11, characterized in that the multimedia box comprises a printed circuit board (46), in particular inside the housing (1), and in that on the printed circuit board (46) a detection circuit for detecting and / or Evaluation of the switching position of the switching device (25), wherein the switching device (25) allows at least two switching positions, namely a switching position in which the switching device (25) is closed and a further switching position in which the switching device (25) is opened or interrupted. Multimedia box according to one of claims 6 to 12, characterized in that the cable connection space (31) of the circuit space (44) separating the bottom plate (41) is electrically conductive or shielding. Multimedia box according to one of claims 6 to 15, characterized in that the actuating device (125) of the switching device (25) is designed pin-shaped and thereby through a bore (41a) in the bottom plate (41) and a further aligned bore (46a ) is guided axially displaceably in the printed circuit board (46), wherein the spring means (26) in the space between the bottom plate (41) and printed circuit board (46) is provided and the actuating means (125) to the preferably at its bottom plate (41) opposite Side (46c) of the printed circuit board (46) provided electrical contacting device with an opening and Closing function interacts. Multimedia box according to one of claims 6 to 16, characterized in that the multimedia box is designed so that it can be connected to a coaxial cable, twisted pair cables or an optical fiber existing output cable. Multimedia box according to one of claims 6 to 17, characterized in that the multimedia socket comprises at least two or more output connection devices (3), wherein at least two, several or all output connection devices (5) have a separate switching device (25). assigned. Multimedia box according to claim 18, characterized in that in the case of two or more output terminal devices (5), each of the provided switching devices (25) is associated with a separate terminating resistor (27), preferably with capacitors (29) connected in series. Multimedia box according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the switching device (25) at least three switching positions allows, namely a switching position when no output cable (6) is connected and two switch positions, depending on different geometry characteristics of the connected output cable ( 6) or different on the output cable (6) mounted encoder lead to a different switching position.

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