Process for manufacture of sensors, and sensor so made, particularly a temperature sensor

Abstract

For manufacturing of sensors, especially temperature sensors, respectively two connection bridges spaced in the grid of a continuous carrier strip with contact pads for later electrical and mechanical connection with respectively one sensor element in the continuous carrier strip are at least partially injection molded around with plastic, such that on the connection bridges at least two plastic bodies arise arranged at a distance to each other. Between plastic bodies of respectively adjacent connection bridges, spacer elements made of plastic are formed in the same injection operation, while contact pads and ends of the connection bridges remain free of plastic. In connection with the injection operation, the edges of the carrier strip are separated from the connection bridges by punching. On the respective connection areas of two connection bridges, held together in pairs by means of plastic bodies, the actual sensor elements are installed and connected electrically and mechanically firmly with the contact pads by soldering. Subsequently, there follows a separation of sensors by detaching the spacer elements from the respective plastic bodies. A comparatively simple manufacturing process, as well as a function test, in the form of a multi-unit preform proves to be advantageous. Furthermore, by bending along the connection bridges, an adaptation to a customer-specific housing shape can be brought about.