Push / pull interface for coaxial cable with secure ground connection

Abstract

A cable connector assembly may include a connector that may include a first body and a second body that may be configured to be coupled to the first body, and an adapter that includes a biasing portion. The bias portion may be configured to be coupled to the second body. The biasing portion may be configured to have a space configured to allow the biasing portion to elastically deform radially inward. The biasing portion may be configured to axially apply an axial biasing force to the second body. The biasing portion may be configured to apply an outward radial biasing force to the second body. The biasing portion may be configured to provide the axial biasing force and the radial biasing force to provide a secure ground connection between the connector and the adapter and to enable a push / pull connection between the connector and the adapter to be operated by a non-technical user.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 367,137, filed on June 28, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 356,096, filed on June 28, 2022, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Background Art

[0003] The present invention generally relates to interfaces for coaxial cable connections. More specifically, the present invention relates to interfaces for connectors (eg, axially compressible connectors for coaxial cables) and adapters that provide a secure ground connection while also providing a simple push / pull connection.

[0004] Coaxial cable is commonly used in the cable television industry to transmit cable television signals to television sets located in homes, businesses, and other locations.

[0005] An exemplary flexible coaxial cable includes a solid core or inner conductor (usually copper or copper-clad aluminum) surrounded by a flexible tubular outer conductor. The outer conductor is also typically made of woven copper or aluminum. A dielectric material or insulator separates the inner and outer conductors. The outer conductor is covered with a cable jacket or plastic sheath to provide protection against corrosion and weathering.

[0006] The ability of the connector to make a secure mechanical connection and a secure electrical connection with the adapter is desirable for long term performance and to facilitate proper signal transmission through the interface with minimal loss or interruption of the signal. Threaded interfaces including swivel cable connectors on connectors or adapters have been used to provide a method of connecting a cable to an interface port or other device without distorting the cable.

[0007] It may be desirable to provide an interface that overcomes one or more of the disadvantages of the other interfaces described above. That is, it may be desirable to provide an interface that has a robust mechanical connection and a robust electrical connection that also achieves these connections in a manner that is easily implemented by non-technical users. It may also be desirable to provide a structure that reduces RF leakage from the internal conductor and / or reduces RF noise reaching the internal conductor. Summary of the invention

[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure include a biasing member that can be configured to provide an axial biasing force and a radial biasing force to provide a secure grounding connection between a connector portion and an adapter portion and to enable a push / pull connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion to be operable by a non-technical user.

[0009] Embodiments of the present disclosure include a bias portion that can be configured to prevent a direct line-of-sight path through a space in the bias portion from outside the bias portion to a longitudinal centerline of the bias portion to prevent RF signals from passing through a direct path through a space from outside the connector assembly to a center conductor of a cable connected by the connector assembly, thereby reducing RF noise received by the center conductor.

[0010] The present disclosure provides a cable connector assembly, which may include: a connector part, which may include a compression member, a first body part, a second body part, and an external conductor engager, the compression member may have a rear end for accommodating a cable and a front end opposite to the rear end, the first body part may have a rear end and a front end opposite to the rear end, the rear end of the first body part may be configured to couple with the front end of the compression member, the second body part may have a rear end and a front end, the rear end of the second body part may be configured to couple with the front end of the first body part, the external conductor engager may be supported within the first body part and the second body part, the external conductor engager having a rear end part; an adapter part, which may have an adapter body part, a coupling part, and the coupling part may be configured to connect the adapter body part to a device; a bias part, which may be configured to be accommodated in the adapter body part and may be configured to couple with the second body part of the connector part. The biasing portion may include a plurality of biasing members; the plurality of biasing members may be configured to be separated by a plurality of spaces, the plurality of spaces may be configured to allow the plurality of biasing members to elastically deform radially inward; the second body portion may include an adapter accommodating portion, the adapter accommodating portion may be configured to accommodate the plurality of biasing members; the plurality of biasing members may be configured to axially apply a biasing force to the adapter accommodating portion so as to bias the biasing portion toward the rear end of the second body portion; the biasing force may be configured to resist an external separation force for separating the adapter portion from the connector portion; the biasing member may be configured to apply a radial biasing force outward to the second body portion; and the plurality of biasing members may be configured to provide an axial biasing force and a radial biasing force to provide a secure grounding connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion and to allow a push / pull connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion.

[0011] In an embodiment, the cable receiving end may include a cable receiving opening configured to receive a coaxial cable.

[0012] Embodiments also include an engagement surface on the adapter body portion that may be configured to receive a tool for connecting the adapter body portion to the device.

[0013] Embodiments also include a center conductor accommodating portion, which can be configured to be accommodated in the bias portion and the adapter body portion, the center conductor accommodating portion can be configured to accommodate the center conductor of the coaxial cable at the front end of the adapter portion, the center conductor accommodating portion can be configured to accommodate a second conductor from the rear end of the adapter portion, and the center conductor accommodating portion can be configured to electrically connect the center conductor of the coaxial cable and the second conductor.

[0014] In an embodiment, the plurality of biasing members may extend from a front end of the adapter portion.

[0015] In an embodiment, the second body portion may include an inner surface and a ramp portion, and the ramp portion may be configured to extend radially inward from the inner surface toward a central axis of the connector portion.

[0016] In an embodiment, the adapter receiving portion may be configured to be adjacent to the ramp portion on a rear side of the ramp portion.

[0017] In an embodiment, the adapter accommodating portion can be positioned at a distance from the central axis of the connector that is greater than the distance from the inward-most portion of the ramp to the central axis of the connector, and the ramp portion can be configured to form a lip portion that can extend radially inward relative to the adapter accommodating portion.

[0018] In an embodiment, each biasing member may include an engagement portion that is an outermost portion of the biasing member.

[0019] In an embodiment, the engagement portion may be configured to contact the adapter receiving area, and the engagement portion may be configured to apply a radial biasing force to the adapter receiving portion.

[0020] In an embodiment, the biasing member may be configured to contact the ramp portion, and the biasing member may be configured to apply an axial biasing force to the ramp portion.

[0021] In embodiments, the biasing member may be configured to prevent a direct line of sight through an exterior of the biasing portion to a space between a longitudinal centerline of the biasing portion.

[0022] The present disclosure provides a cable connector assembly, which may include a connector portion, the connector portion may include a compression portion, a first body portion and a second body portion, the first body portion may be configured to be coupled to the compression portion, the second body portion may be configured to be coupled to the first body portion; an adapter portion, the adapter portion may include an adapter body portion and a biasing portion, the biasing portion may be configured to be accommodated in the adapter body portion. The biasing portion may be configured to be coupled to the second body portion; the biasing portion may be configured to be elastically deformed radially inward; the second body portion may include an adapter accommodating portion, the adapter accommodating portion may be configured to accommodate the biasing portion; the biasing portion may be configured to apply an axial biasing force to the adapter accommodating portion; the biasing portion may be configured to apply a radial biasing force outward to the second body portion; and the biasing portion may be configured to provide the axial biasing force and the radial biasing force to provide a secure grounding connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion, and to allow a push / pull connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion.

[0023] In an embodiment, the adapter portion may include a coupling portion, which may be configured to connect the adapter body portion to a device.

[0024] In an embodiment, the axial biasing force may be configured to bias the biasing portion toward the rear end of the second body portion.

[0025] In an embodiment, the axial biasing force may be configured to resist an external separation force acting to separate the adapter portion from the connector portion.

[0026] In an embodiment, the second body portion may include an inner surface and a ramp portion, and the ramp portion may be configured to extend radially inward from the inner surface toward a central axis of the connector portion.

[0027] In an embodiment, the adapter receiving portion may be configured to be adjacent to the ramp portion on a rear side of the ramp portion.

[0028] In an embodiment, the biasing portion may include an engagement portion, the engagement portion being an outermost portion of the biasing portion.

[0029] In an embodiment, the engagement portion may be configured to contact the adapter receiving portion, and the engagement portion may be configured to apply a radial biasing force to the adapter receiving portion.

[0030] In an embodiment, the biasing portion may be configured to contact the ramp portion, and the biasing portion may be configured to apply an axial biasing force to the ramp portion.

[0031] In an embodiment, the offset portion may be configured to prevent a direct line of sight path through a space in the offset portion between an exterior of the offset portion to a longitudinal centerline of the offset portion.

[0032] In an embodiment, the biasing portion may include a plurality of biasing members, and the plurality of biasing members may be configured to be separated by a plurality of spaces, and the plurality of spaces may be configured to allow the plurality of biasing members to elastically deform radially inwardly.

[0033] The present disclosure provides a cable connector assembly, which may include: a connector portion, which may include a first body portion and a second body portion that may be configured to be coupled to the first body portion; and an adapter portion, which may include a biasing portion. The biasing portion may be configured to be coupled to the second body portion; the biasing portion may be configured to allow the biasing portion to elastically deform radially; the biasing portion may be configured to apply a first biasing force to the second body portion; the biasing portion may be configured to apply a second biasing force to the second body portion; and the biasing portion may be configured to provide a secure grounding connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion, and allow a push / pull connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion.

[0034] In an embodiment, the second body portion may include an adapter receiving portion configured to receive the biasing portion.

[0035] In an embodiment, the first biasing force may be configured to resist an external separation force for separating the adapter portion from the connector portion.

[0036] In an embodiment, the second body portion may include an inner surface and a ramp portion, and the ramp portion may be configured to extend radially inward from the inner surface toward a central axis of the connector portion.

[0037] In an embodiment, the second body portion may include an adapter receiving portion, the adapter receiving portion may be configured to receive the biasing portion, and the adapter receiving portion may be configured to be adjacent to the ramp portion on a rear side of the ramp portion.

[0038] In an embodiment, the second biasing force is a radial force, the biasing portion may include an engagement portion, which is the outermost portion of the biasing portion, the engagement portion may be configured to contact the adapter accommodating portion, and the engagement portion may be configured to apply a radial biasing force to the adapter accommodating portion.

[0039] In an embodiment, the second biasing force is an axial biasing force, the biasing portion may be configured to contact the ramp portion, and the biasing portion may be configured to apply the axial biasing force to the ramp portion.

[0040] In an embodiment, the offset portion may include a space, and the offset portion may be configured to prevent a direct line of sight path through an exterior of the offset portion to the space between a longitudinal centerline of the offset portion.

[0041] In an embodiment, the biasing portion may include a plurality of biasing members.

[0042] In an embodiment, the biasing portion may include a plurality of spaces between the plurality of biasing members to allow the plurality of biasing members to elastically deform radially.

[0043] In an embodiment, the biasing portion may be configured to allow the biasing portion to elastically deform radially inwardly.

[0044] In an embodiment, the biasing portion may be configured to axially apply an axial biasing force to the second body portion.

[0045] In an embodiment, the biasing portion may be configured to apply a radially outward radial biasing force to the second body portion.

[0046] The present disclosure provides a cable connector assembly, which may include: a connector portion, which may include a first body portion and a second body portion that may be configured to be coupled to the first body portion; an adapter portion, which may include a biasing portion. The biasing portion may be configured to be coupled to the second body portion; the biasing portion may be configured to elastically deform radially inward; and the biasing portion may be configured to prevent a direct line of sight path through a space in the biasing portion from the outside of the biasing portion to a longitudinal centerline of the biasing portion, so as to prevent a radio frequency signal from passing through a direct path from the outside of the connector assembly to the space of a center conductor of a cable connected by the connector assembly, thereby reducing radio frequency noise received by the center conductor.

[0047] In an embodiment, the biasing portion may include a plurality of biasing members, the plurality of biasing members may be configured to axially apply an axial biasing force to the second body portion, and the plurality of biasing members may be configured to apply an outward radial biasing force to the second body portion.

[0048] In an embodiment, the axial biasing force and the radial biasing force may provide a secure ground connection between the connector part and the adapter part, and the axial biasing force and the radial biasing force allow a push / pull connection between the connector part and the adapter part.

[0049] In an embodiment, the space may include a plurality of spaces, and a first space of the plurality of spaces may intersect with a second space of the plurality of spaces.

[0050] In an embodiment, the space may include a plurality of spaces, and a first space of the plurality of spaces may be parallel to a second space of the plurality of spaces.

[0051] In an embodiment, a first biasing member of the plurality of biasing members may be configured to have a first shape, a second biasing member of the plurality of biasing members may be configured to have a second shape, and the first shape and the second shape are different shapes.

[0052] Various aspects of the coaxial connector, as well as other embodiments, objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure, will be apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments thereof, which is to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary coaxial connector and adapter in a separated state according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of the connector and adapter in the separated state.

[0055] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of the connector and adapter in a separated state.

[0056] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of the connector and adapter in a connected state.

[0057] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary coaxial connector and adapter in a separated state according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0058] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of the connector and adapter in a separated state.

[0059] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of the connector and adapter in a connected state.

[0060] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of a connector and adapter in a connected state, including a coaxial cable.

[0061] Fig. 9 is an end view of an exemplary biasing body according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0062] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 A side view of the biasing body.

[0063] Fig.11 yes Fig. 9 The bias body is along Fig. 9 A side sectional view taken along section line XI-XI in FIG.

[0064] Fig.12 yes Fig. 9 The bias body is along Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along section line XII-XII in FIG.

[0065] Fig.13 yes Fig. 9 The bias body is along Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along section line XIII-XIII in FIG.

[0066] Fig.14 yes Fig. 9 The bias body is along Fig.10 A cross-sectional view taken along section line XIV-XIV in FIG.

[0067] Fig.15 is an end view of an offset body with radially oriented spaces. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] Embodiments of the present disclosure include a biasing member that can be configured to provide an axial biasing force and a radial biasing force to provide a secure grounding connection between a connector portion and an adapter portion, and to enable a push / pull connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion to be operable by a non-technical user.

[0069] Embodiments of the present disclosure include an offset portion that can be configured to prevent a direct line-of-sight path from outside the offset portion through a space in the offset portion to a longitudinal centerline of the offset portion, so as to prevent a direct path for RF signals from outside the connector assembly through the space to a center conductor of a cable connected by the connector assembly, thereby reducing RF noise received by the center conductor.

[0070] Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary connector / adapter interface assembly 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The connector / adapter interface assembly 100 includes a connector 300 and an adapter 200, which are configured to be connected to each other, while providing both electrical and mechanical connections between the connector and the adapter. Although embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described using the connector / adapter assembly 100, embodiments of the present disclosure include interfaces between other devices involving the connection of coaxial cables.

[0071] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the adapter 200 has a biasing portion 260 that is inserted into the connector 300 to hold the adapter 200 and the connector 300 together, thereby firmly maintaining an electrical and mechanical connection.

[0072] Figure 1 The connector 300 is shown in a state where the connector 300 is fully connected to the coaxial cable 10 . Figure 2 and Figure 3 The connector 300 is shown in a state where the coaxial cable 10 is inserted into the connector 300, but the connector 300 has not yet been compressed to Figure 1 In this example, the connector 300 has a compression member (eg, a compression ring 302) at the rear end of the connector 300, the compression member having an opening 301 configured to accommodate the coaxial cable 10. Figure 3 As shown, the coaxial cable 10 generally includes a solid center conductor 12, which is generally formed of a conductive metal (e.g., copper, copper-clad aluminum, copper-clad steel, etc.) through which electrical signals can be conducted. Surrounding the center conductor 12 is a dielectric 14, which insulates the center conductor 12 to minimize signal loss. The dielectric 14 also maintains a spacing between the center conductor 12 and an outer conductor or shield 18. The dielectric 14 is generally a plastic material (e.g., polyethylene), a fluorinated plastic material (e.g., polyethylene or polytetrafluoroethylene), a glass fiber braid, etc. The shield or outer conductor 18 is generally flexible and made of metal (e.g., aluminum or copper braid). An insulating cable jacket 20 may surround the outer conductor 18 to further seal the coaxial cable 10. The cable jacket 20 is generally made of plastic, such as polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polyurethane, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0073] The connector 300 includes a plurality of components that generally have a coaxial configuration around an axis defined by the center conductor 12 of the coaxial cable 10. A second body portion (e.g., nose portion 306) receives an outer conductor engager (e.g., post 312) in an axial bore from a rearward direction opposite to the adapter 200. The nose portion 306 is a conductive material, such as aluminum, brass, etc. The post 312 is a conductive material such as aluminum, brass, etc., and has a cylindrical portion 314 that extends in a rearward direction and includes an axial bore. The post 312 has a flange 336 that is configured to engage an inner wall of the nose portion 306. The flange 336 provides additional surface area for electrical contact with the nose portion 306. The cylindrical portion 314 extends rearwardly from the flange 336. The first body portion (e.g., outer body 304) is coupled to the post 312. When the coaxial cable 10 is inserted into the connector 300, the cylindrical portion 314 penetrates the coaxial cable 10 between the dielectric 14 and the outer conductor or shield 18. In the assembled state, the cylindrical portion 314 forms an electrically conductive connection with the outer conductor or shield 18.

[0074] The outer body 304 partially extends into the nose portion 306 and is restricted from moving in the axial direction relative to the nose portion 306. In an embodiment, a knurled or other engagement interface exists between the outer body 304 and the column 312 to prevent the column 312 from rotating relative to the outer body 304.

[0075] The compression ring 302 extends partially axially onto the outer body 304. During connection of the coaxial cable 10 to the connector 300, the coaxial cable 10 is inserted into the opening 301 in the compression ring 302 and contacts the post 312. The leading edge of the cylindrical portion 314 separates the outer conductor or shield 18 from the dielectric 14. In the assembled state, the center conductor 12 extends into the receiving opening 320 in the nose portion 306. The receiving opening 320 is configured to receive the biasing portion 260 of the adapter 200. In the assembled state of the connector 300, a conductive path is formed from the outer conductor or shield 18 through the post 312 and the nose portion 306.

[0076] The adapter 200 has a body 210 that includes an engagement surface 210, which in this example is a hexagonal (hex) surface 212. The engagement surface 212 is configured to receive a tool or a user's finger to facilitate rotation of the body 210. In this example, the body 210 includes a threaded portion 211 that is configured to engage a threaded portion of a device to which the adapter 200 is to be coupled. Rotation of the body 210 can facilitate connection of the adapter 200 to the connector 300 and engagement of the threaded portion 211 with the threaded portion of the device.

[0077] The adapter 200 has a biasing body 250 that is housed in the main body 210. In an embodiment, the biasing body 250 is press-fitted into the main body 210. The biasing body 250 has a biasing portion 260 that applies both a radial biasing force and an axial biasing force to the nose portion 306 of the connector 300. In this example, the biasing portion 260 is configured as a plurality of biasing members 262 that radially extend from the front end of the biasing body 250. The plurality of biasing members 262 are separated from each other by a plurality of spaces 264 that allow the plurality of biasing members 262 to bend radially inwardly toward the central axis of the adapter 200. Figure 3 As shown, the front dielectric 253 is located inside the bias body 250 . Figure 3 Also shown is a rear dielectric 213 located in the body 210 of the adapter 200. A center conductor connector 218 is located along the central axis of the adapter 200 and is located within the front dielectric 253 and the rear dielectric 213. The front dielectric 253 has an opening 256 that is configured to receive the center conductor 12 of the coaxial cable 10. The rear dielectric 213 has an opening 215 that is configured to receive a connector of a device to which the adapter 200 is to be connected.

[0078] The bias body 250 is a separate piece from the main body 210 , which allows the front dielectric 253 to be assembled inside the bias body 250 , the rear dielectric 213 to be assembled inside the main body 210 , and the center conductor connector 218 to be assembled inside both the front dielectric 253 and the rear dielectric 213 .

[0079] The center conductor connector 218 has a center conductor receiving portion 254 (e.g., such as a Milmax connector) at its front end, which is configured to receive and electrically connect the center conductor 12 of the coaxial cable 10. The center conductor receiving portion 254 has a constricted portion 252, which is configured to press radially inward against the center conductor 12 of the coaxial cable 10 to form a secure mechanical and electrical connection with the center conductor 12. In an assembled state, the center conductor 12 extends into the constricted portion 252 of the center conductor receiving portion 254. The center conductor connector 218 has a second conductor receiving portion 214 (e.g., such as a Milmax connector) at its rear end, which is configured to receive and electrically connect a conductor ("second conductor") of a device to which the adapter 200 is to be connected. The second conductor receiving portion 214 has a constricted portion 216, which is configured to press radially inward against the second conductor to form a secure mechanical and electrical connection with the second conductor. In the assembled state, the second conductor extends into the constricted portion 216 of the second conductor receiving portion 214 .

[0080] like Figure 3As shown, nose portion 306 has an inner surface 307. Ramp 322 extends radially inward from inner surface 307 toward the central axis of connector 300. An adapter receiving portion (e.g., receiving area 324) is formed adjacent to ramp 322 at the rear side of ramp 322. The distance of receiving area 324 from the central axis of connector 300 is greater than the distance of the innermost portion of ramp 322 from the central axis of the connector. As a result, ramp 322 forms a lip extending radially inward compared to receiving area 324. Figure 3 As shown, the biasing members 262 have an engagement portion 270 that is the outermost portion of each biasing member 262 .

[0081] Figure 4 The adapter 200 and the connector 300 are shown in a connected state. Figure 4 304, but it should be noted that before the connector 300 is connected to the adapter 200 (eg, Figure 1 As shown), the compression ring 302 will typically be pushed into the outer body 304. Figure 4 , the engagement portion 270 of the biasing body 250 is shown positioned within the receiving area 324 of the nose portion 306. In this position, the engagement portion 270 is positioned on the rear (inward) side of the ramp 322. Figure 4 In the position shown, due to the radially compressed state (and elastic properties) of the biasing member 262, the engagement portion 270 exerts an outward radial force on the ramp 322. This radial force pushes the biasing body 250 (and therefore the adapter 200) into the nose portion 306 by generating an axial force acting on the rear side of the ramp 322. This axial force creates a strong mechanical connection between the adapter 200 and the connector 300. The radial force (and axial force) between the engagement portion 270 and the ramp 322 (and the receiving area 324) creates a strong electrical connection (ground connection) between the biasing body 250 (and therefore the adapter 200) and the nose portion 306 (and therefore the connector 300).

[0082] Figure 4 An O-ring 220 is shown positioned between the nose portion 306 and the body 210. The O-ring 220 forms a waterproof or water-resistant barrier between the nose portion 306 and the body 210 to prevent water and / or other contaminants from entering the assembly. Axial compression of the O-ring 220 between the end surface 308 of the nose portion 306 and the surface 219 of the body 210 generates an axial biasing force that pushes the body 210 (and therefore the biasing body 250) relative to the nose portion 306. Figure 4 This biasing force keeps the engagement portion 270 of the biasing portion 262 firmly in contact with the rear side of the ramp 322, which creates a stronger electrical connection between the biasing portion 262 and the nose portion 306.

[0083] The described embodiments provide various advantages including a simple and reliable push / pull connection that provides a secure conductive path from the outer conductor of the coaxial cable 10 to the adapter 200 .

[0084] Figure 5 A stereoscopic view of an exemplary connector / adapter interface assembly 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The connector / adapter interface assembly 100 includes a connector 300 and an adapter 1200 that are configured to connect to each other while providing both an electrical connection and a mechanical connection between the connector and the adapter. An embodiment provides a push / pull interface that does not require tools to connect the connector 300 to the adapter 1200 and is configured to minimize RF leakage from the center conductor of the coaxial cable and / or RF noise entering the center conductor of the coaxial cable. Although embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described using the connector / adapter assembly 100, embodiments of the present disclosure include interfaces between other devices involving the connection of coaxial cables.

[0085] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the adapter 1200 has a biasing portion 1260 that is inserted into the connector 300 to hold the adapter 1200 and the connector 300 together, thereby firmly maintaining the electrical and mechanical connection. For clarity, Figures 5 to 7 Connector 300 is shown without the coaxial cable. Figure 8 The coaxial cable 10 is shown in an installed position in the connector 300, but the connector 300 has not yet been compressed to achieve Figure 1 In this example, the connector 300 is as shown and described above.

[0086] Adapter 1200 has a body 1210 that includes an engagement surface 1212, which in this example is a hexagonal surface 1212. Engagement surface 1212 is configured to accommodate a tool or a user's finger to facilitate rotation of body 1210. In this example, body 1210 includes a threaded portion 1211 that is configured to engage a threaded portion of a device to which adapter 1200 is to be coupled. Rotation of body 1210 can facilitate connection of adapter 1200 to connector 300 and engagement of threaded portion 1211 with a threaded portion of the device.

[0087] The adapter 1200 has a biasing body 1250 that is housed in the main body 1210. In an embodiment, the biasing body 1250 is press-fit into the main body 1210. The biasing body 1250 has a biasing portion 1260 that applies both a radial biasing force and an axial biasing force to the nose portion 306 of the connector 300. In this example, the biasing portion 1260 is configured as a plurality of biasing members 1262, 1264 extending from the front end of the biasing body 1250. The biasing members 1262, 1264 are separated from each other by spaces 1266, 1268 that allow the biasing members 1262, 1264 to bend inwardly toward the central axis of the adapter 1200. Figure 6 As shown, the front dielectric 1253 is located inside the bias body 1250. Figure 6 Also shown is a rear dielectric 1213 located in the body 1210 of the adapter 1200. A center conductor connector 1218 is located along the central axis of the adapter 1200 and is located within the front dielectric 1253 and the rear dielectric 1213. The front dielectric 1253 has an opening 1256 that is configured to receive the center conductor 12 of the coaxial cable 10. The rear dielectric 1213 has an opening 1215 that is configured to receive a conductor of a device to which the adapter 1200 is to be connected.

[0088] The bias body 1250 is a separate piece from the main body 1210 , which allows the front dielectric 1253 to be assembled inside the bias body 1250 , the rear dielectric 1213 to be assembled inside the main body 1210 , and the center conductor connector 1218 to be assembled inside both the front dielectric 1253 and the rear dielectric 1213 .

[0089] The center conductor connector 1218 has a center conductor receiving portion 1254 (e.g., such as a Milmax connector) at its front end, which is configured to receive the center conductor 12 of the coaxial cable 10 and form a wire connection therewith. The center conductor receiving portion 1254 has a constricted portion 1252, which is configured to press radially inward against the center conductor 12 of the coaxial cable 10 to form a secure mechanical and electrical connection with the center conductor 12. In the assembled state, the center conductor 12 extends into the constricted portion 1252 of the center conductor receiving portion 1254. The center conductor connector 1218 has a second conductor receiving portion 1214 (e.g., such as a Milmax connector) at its rear end, which is configured to receive and make a conductive connection with a conductor ("second conductor") of a device to which the adapter 1200 is to be connected. The second conductor receiving portion 1214 has a constricted portion 1216, which is configured to press radially inward against the second conductor to form a secure mechanical and electrical connection with the second conductor. In the assembled state, the second conductor extends into the constricted portion 1216 of the second conductor receiving portion 1214 .

[0090] like Figure 6 As shown, the biasing members 1262 , 1264 have an engagement portion 1270 , which is the outermost portion of each biasing member 1262 , 1264 .

[0091] Figure 7 and Figure 8 The adapter 1200 and the connector 300 are shown in a connected state. Figure 7 and Figure 8 304, but it should be noted that the compression ring 302 will generally be pushed into the outer body 304 before the connector 300 is connected to the adapter 1200. Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the engagement portion 1270 of the biasing body 1250 is shown positioned within the receiving area 324 of the nose portion 306. In this position, the engagement portion 1270 is positioned on the rear (inward) side of the ramp 322. Figure 7 and Figure 8In the position shown, due to the inwardly compressed state (and resilient nature) of the biasing members 1262, 1264, the engagement portion 1270 exerts an outward force on the ramp 322. This radial force pushes the biasing body 1250 (and therefore the adapter 1200) into the nose portion 306 by generating an axial force acting on the rear side of the ramp 322. This axial force creates a secure mechanical connection between the adapter 1200 and the connector 300. The outward force (and axial force) between the engagement portion 1270 and the ramp 322 (and the receiving area 324) creates a secure electrical connection (ground connection) between the biasing body 1250 (and therefore the adapter 1200) and the nose portion 306 (and therefore the connector 300).

[0092] Figure 7 and Figure 8 An O-ring 1220 is shown positioned between the nose portion 306 and the body 1210. The O-ring 1220 forms a waterproof or water-resistant barrier between the nose portion 306 and the body 1210 to prevent water and / or other contaminants from entering the assembly. The axial compression of the O-ring 1220 between the end surface 308 of the nose portion 306 and the surface 1219 of the body 1210 generates an axial biasing force that pushes the body 1210 (and therefore the biasing body 1250) relative to the nose portion 306. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The biasing force keeps the engaging portion 1270 of the biasing portions 1262, 1264 in firm contact with the rear side of the ramp 322, which creates a stronger electrical connection between the biasing portions 1262, 1264 and the nose portion 306.

[0093] Embodiments of the present disclosure utilize a configuration of a bias body 1250 that prevents a direct line-of-sight path from outside the bias body 1250 to the center conductor 12 of the coaxial cable 10. An example of a configuration of a bias body 400 is shown in FIG. Fig.15 4, the bias body has radially oriented spaces 410 between the plurality of bias portions that provide a direct line-of-sight path from the outside of the bias body 400 to the location of the center conductor of the coaxial cable. This direct line-of-sight path can provide a direct route for RF waves between the outside of the bias body 400 and the center conductor of the coaxial cable, which can result in a loss of signal strength and / or an increase in noise on the center conductor.

[0094] Fig. 9 An end view of the offset body 1250 is shown, and the offset body 1250 is shown without a direct line of sight path for light between the offset portions 1262, 1264. Fig. 9 As shown, spaces 1266, 1268 extend horizontally and vertically, rather than radially. Fig. 9The configuration shown in is only one example of a space that does not extend radially. Other configurations of the offset portion are such that the space does not extend radially and, therefore, does not result in a direct line-of-sight path for RF waves to and from the center conductor of the coaxial cable. Fig. 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing portion 1260 is made of eight biasing members 1262, 1264. Two spaces 1266, 1268 are formed parallel to each other and are positioned perpendicular to the other pair of spaces 1266, 1268. This configuration of the spaces 1266, 1268 allows the biasing members 1262, 1264 to have Fig. 9 Shape shown. Fig.10 A side view of the biasing body 1250 is shown, and the shapes of the biasing members 1262, 1264 are also shown. Fig.11 Shown along Fig. 9 12 is a cross-sectional view of the biasing body 1250 taken along the section line XI-XI in FIG. 12 and showing the radial cutouts 1265 in the biasing member 1264 (also in FIG. Fig. 9 ).

[0095] Figure 12 to Figure 14 Shown along Fig.10 2 and 3. Cross-sectional views of the biasing body 1250 taken along section lines XII-XII, XIII-XIII, and XIV-XIV are shown in FIG. Fig.12 12 is a cross-section taken at the minimum diameter portion 1280 of the biasing portion 1260, showing the shortest path length between the exterior of the biasing body 1250 and the center C of the biasing body 1250. Fig.12 It can be seen that there is no direct line of sight path through the center C of the bias body 1250 through either of the spaces 1266, 1268. This means that there is no direct line of sight path between the exterior of the bias body 1250 and the center conductor of the coaxial cable at its location in the bias body 1250.

[0096] Fig.14 12 is a cross-section taken at the maximum diameter portion 1284 of the biasing portion 1260, showing the longest path length between the exterior of the biasing body 1250 and the center C of the biasing body 1250. Fig.14 It can be seen that there is no direct line of sight path through the center C of the bias body 1250 through either of the spaces 1266, 1268. This means that there is no direct line of sight path between the exterior of the bias body 1250 and the center conductor of the coaxial cable at its location in the bias body 1250.

[0097] Fig.13 12 is a cross-section taken at the mid-diameter portion 1282 of the offset portion 1260, showing the mid-path length between the exterior of the offset body 1250 and the center C of the offset body 1250. Fig.13 It can be seen that there is no direct line of sight path through the center C of the bias body 1250 through either of the spaces 1266, 1268. This means that there is no direct line of sight path between the exterior of the bias body 1250 and the center conductor of the coaxial cable at its location in the bias body 1250.

[0098] By configuring the bias body 1250 (e.g., as Figures 9 to 14 The bias body 1250 is configured to prevent a direct line-of-sight path from the outside of the bias body 1250 to the center conductor 12 of the coaxial cable 10, thereby avoiding a direct path for radio frequency waves between the outside of the bias body 1250 and the center conductor of the coaxial cable. As a result, the loss of signal strength and / or the increase of noise on the center conductor is reduced or substantially eliminated.

[0099] The described embodiments provide various advantages including a simple and reliable push / pull connection that provides a secure conductive path from the outer conductor of the coaxial cable 10 to the adapter 1200 while minimizing RF ingress and egress.

[0100] Although illustrative embodiments of the present invention have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to these precise embodiments and that various other changes and modifications may be made therein by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

[0101] Various modifications to the foregoing described and illustrated structures will now be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the specific disclosed scope of the present invention is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cable connector assembly, comprising: A connector portion, the connector portion comprising: a compression member having a rear end for accommodating a cable and a front end opposite to the rear end; a first body portion having a rear end and a front end opposite to the rear end, the rear end being configured to couple with the front end of the compression member; a second body portion having a rear end and a front end, the rear end being configured to couple with the front end of the first body portion; and an external conductor engager supported within the first body portion and the second body portion, the external conductor engager having a rear end portion; an adapter portion having an adapter body portion, a coupling portion configured to connect the adapter body portion to a device; a biasing portion configured to be received in the adapter body portion and configured to couple with the second body portion of the connector portion; wherein the biasing portion comprises a plurality of biasing members; wherein the plurality of biasing members are configured to be separated by a plurality of spaces, and the plurality of spaces are configured to allow the plurality of biasing members to elastically deform radially inward; wherein the second body portion includes an adapter receiving portion configured to receive the plurality of biasing members; wherein the plurality of biasing members are configured to axially apply a biasing force to the adapter receiving portion to bias the biasing portion toward a rear end of the second body portion; wherein the biasing force is configured to resist an external separation force for separating the adapter portion from the connector portion; wherein the biasing member is configured to apply a radial biasing force outwardly to the second body portion; and Wherein, the plurality of biasing members are configured to provide axial biasing forces and radial biasing forces to provide a secure ground connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion and to allow a push / pull connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion.

2. The cable connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The cable receiving end includes a cable receiving opening configured to receive a coaxial cable.

3. The cable connector assembly of any of the preceding claims, further comprising an engagement surface on the adapter body portion, the engagement surface being configured to receive a tool for connecting the adapter body portion to the device.

4. The cable connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a center conductor accommodating portion, the center conductor accommodating portion being configured to be accommodated in the biasing portion and the adapter body portion, the center conductor accommodating portion being configured to accommodate a center conductor of a coaxial cable at a front end of the adapter portion, the center conductor accommodating portion being configured to accommodate a second conductor from a rear end of the adapter portion, and the center conductor accommodating portion being configured to electrically connect the center conductor and the second conductor of the coaxial cable.

5. The cable connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The plurality of biasing members extend from a front end of the adapter portion.

6. The cable connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The second body portion includes an inner surface and a ramp portion configured to extend radially inward from the inner surface toward a central axis of the connector portion.

7. The cable connector assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The adapter accommodating portion is configured adjacent to the ramp portion on a rear side of the ramp portion.

8. The cable connector assembly according to claim 7, wherein: The adapter receiving portion is positioned a distance from the central axis of the connector that is greater than a distance from an inward-most portion of the ramp portion to the central axis of the connector, and the ramp portion is configured to form a lip portion that extends radially inwardly relative to the adapter receiving portion.

9. The cable connector assembly according to claim 8, wherein: Each of the biasing members includes an engagement portion that is an outermost portion of the biasing member.

10. The cable connector assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The engagement portion is configured to contact the adapter receiving area, and the engagement portion is configured to apply the radial biasing force to the adapter receiving portion.

11. The cable connector assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The biasing member is configured to contact the ramp portion, and the biasing member is configured to apply the axial biasing force to the ramp portion.

12. The cable connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The biasing member is configured to prevent a direct line-of-sight path through a space between an exterior of the biasing portion to a longitudinal centerline of the biasing portion.

13. A cable connector assembly, comprising: a connector portion, the connector portion comprising a compression portion, a first body portion configured to be coupled to the compression portion; a second body portion configured to be coupled to the first body portion; An adapter part, the adapter part comprising: The adapter body portion; a biasing portion configured to be received in the adapter body portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to be coupled to the second body portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to elastically deform radially inward; wherein the second body portion includes an adapter receiving portion, the adapter receiving portion being configured to receive the biasing portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to apply an axial biasing force to the adapter receiving portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to apply a radial biasing force outwardly to the second body portion; and Wherein, the biasing portion is configured to provide the axial biasing force and the radial biasing force to provide a secure ground connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion and to allow a push / pull connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion.

14. The cable connector assembly according to claim 13, wherein: The adapter portion includes a coupling portion configured to connect the adapter body portion to a device.

15. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein: The axial biasing force is configured to bias the biasing portion toward a rearward end of the second body portion.

16. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein: The axial biasing force is configured to resist an external separation force acting to separate the adapter portion from the connector portion.

17. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein: The second body portion includes an inner surface and a ramp portion configured to extend radially inward from the inner surface toward a central axis of the connector portion.

18. The cable connector assembly according to claim 17, wherein: The adapter accommodating portion is configured adjacent to the ramp portion on a rear side of the ramp portion.

19. The cable connector assembly according to claim 18, wherein: The biasing portion includes an engagement portion, which is an outermost portion of the biasing portion.

20. The cable connector assembly of claim 19, wherein: The engagement portion is configured to contact the adapter receiving portion, and the engagement portion is configured to apply the radial biasing force to the adapter receiving portion.

21. The cable connector assembly according to claim 19, wherein: The biasing portion is configured to contact the ramp portion, and the biasing portion is configured to apply the axial biasing force to the ramp portion.

22. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein: The offset portion is configured to prevent a direct line of sight path through a space in the offset portion between an exterior of the offset portion and a longitudinal centerline of the offset portion.

23. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 13 to 22, wherein: The biasing portion includes a plurality of biasing members, and the plurality of biasing members are configured to be separated by a plurality of spaces configured to allow the plurality of biasing members to elastically deform radially inwardly.

24. A cable connector assembly, the cable connector assembly comprising: a connector portion including a first body portion and a second body portion, the second body portion being configured to be coupled to the first body portion; an adapter portion, the adapter portion comprising a biasing portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to be coupled to the second body portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to allow radial elastic deformation of the biasing portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to apply a first biasing force to the second body portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to apply a second biasing force to the second body portion; and Wherein, the biasing portion is configured to provide a secure ground connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion and to allow a push / pull connection between the connector portion and the adapter portion.

25. The cable connector assembly of claim 24, wherein: The second body portion includes an adapter receiving portion configured to receive the biasing portion.

26. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 24-25, wherein: The first biasing force is configured to resist an external separation force for separating the adapter portion from the connector portion.

27. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein: The second body portion includes an inner surface and a ramp portion configured to extend radially inward from the inner surface toward a central axis of the connector portion.

28. The cable connector assembly of claim 27, wherein: The second body portion includes an adapter receiving portion configured to receive the biasing portion, and the adapter receiving portion is configured to be adjacent to the ramp portion on a rear side of the ramp portion.

29. The cable connector assembly of claim 28, wherein: The second biasing force is a radial force, the biasing portion includes an engagement portion, the engagement portion is an outermost portion of the biasing portion, the engagement portion is configured to contact the adapter accommodating portion, and the engagement portion is configured to apply the radial biasing force to the adapter accommodating portion.

30. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein: The second biasing force is an axial biasing force, the biasing portion is configured to contact the ramp portion, and the biasing portion is configured to apply the axial biasing force to the ramp portion.

31. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein: The offset portion includes a space, and the offset portion is configured to prevent a direct line of sight path through an exterior of the offset portion to the space between a longitudinal centerline of the offset portion.

32. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 24 to 31, wherein: The biasing portion includes a plurality of biasing members.

33. The cable connector assembly of claim 32, wherein: The biasing portion includes a plurality of spaces between the plurality of biasing members to allow the plurality of biasing members to elastically deform radially.

34. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 24 to 33, wherein: The biasing portion is configured to allow the biasing portion to elastically deform radially inward.

35. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 24 to 34, wherein: The biasing portion is configured to axially apply an axial biasing force to the second body portion.

36. The cable connector assembly of claim 35, wherein: The biasing portion is configured to radially apply an outward radial biasing force to the second body portion.

37. A cable connector assembly, the cable connector assembly comprising: a connector portion including a first body portion and a second body portion, the second body portion being configured to be coupled to the first body portion; an adapter portion, the adapter portion comprising a biasing portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to be coupled to the second body portion; wherein the biasing portion is configured to elastically deform radially inward; and Wherein, the offset portion is configured to prevent a direct line-of-sight path through a space in the offset portion from outside the offset portion to a longitudinal centerline of the offset portion, so as to prevent a direct path of a radio frequency signal through the space from outside the connector assembly to a center conductor of a cable connected by the connector assembly, thereby reducing radio frequency noise received by the center conductor.

38. The cable connector assembly of claim 37, wherein: The biasing portion includes a plurality of biasing members configured to axially apply an axial biasing force to the second body portion, and the plurality of biasing members configured to apply an outward radial biasing force to the second body portion.

39. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 37-38, wherein: The axial biasing force and the radial biasing force provide a secure ground connection between the connector part and the adapter part, and the axial biasing force and the radial biasing force allow a push / pull connection between the connector part and the adapter part.

40. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 37 to 39, wherein: The space includes a plurality of spaces, and a first space among the plurality of spaces intersects with a second space among the plurality of spaces.

41. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 37 to 40, wherein: The space includes a plurality of spaces, and a first space among the plurality of spaces is parallel to a second space among the plurality of spaces.

42. The cable connector assembly according to any one of claims 38 to 41, wherein: A first biasing member of the plurality of biasing members is configured to have a first shape, and a second biasing member of the plurality of biasing members is configured to have a second shape, the first shape and the second shape being different shapes.

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