Coaxial Cable Array Connection Frame for Circuit Board Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for connecting an array of coaxial cables to a circuit board are inefficient, lacking a structured and effective means to ensure proper alignment, electrical connection, and impedance matching.

Innovation Solution

A frame with aligned holes and raised ground pads is used to house cable ends, with contacts fitting into the holes to connect signal conductors to signal pads and outer conductors to the frame, ensuring electrical contact and impedance matching through the use of adhesive bonding, such as solder, and dielectric insulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional methods are used to connect coaxial cables to a circuit board, then the connection process can be completed, but the alignment precision and electrical connection reliability are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidelectrical connection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is segmented into distinct functional components: the circuit board with signal pads, the frame with precisely positioned holes, and contacts with cup structures. Each component performs a specific function in the connection process, allowing for optimized manufacturing precision at each stage while ensuring overall reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame is pre-configured with holes at precise locations before the connection process begins. The contacts are pre-formed with cup structures designed to receive and secure cable conductors. This preliminary preparation ensures that when cables are connected, the alignment precision is already established, eliminating the need for complex real-time alignment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If a structured frame with aligned holes is used to house cable ends, then the alignment and electrical connection are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, establishes precise alignment through pre-positioned holes, and creates electrical connections through integrated ground pads. The contacts also perform dual functions by both mechanically securing the cable conductors in the cup structures and establishing electrical pathways to the circuit board. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity while improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If adhesive bonding such as solder is used to secure contacts, then the electrical connectivity and impedance matching are ensured, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpedance matchingVSAvoidmanufacturing process simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesive material properties are specifically selected and controlled to achieve desired electrical characteristics. By adjusting parameters such as adhesive composition, thickness, and curing conditions, the impedance matching is optimized. This controlled parameter approach ensures reliable electrical connectivity while maintaining a manageable manufacturing process through standardized material specifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution provides a reliable and efficient method for connecting coaxial cables to a circuit board, ensuring proper alignment, electrical connectivity, and impedance matching, thereby facilitating stable signal transmission.

Implementation Method 1

adhesive bonding, such as solder

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS7484998B2Apparatus and method for connecting an array of cables to a circuit board
Publication Date: 2009.02.03 WINCHESTER ELECTRONICS CORP
  • US7484998B2 patent drawing
  • US7484998B2 patent drawing
  • US7484998B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides an apparatus and method for connecting an array of cables (e.g., coaxial cables) to a circuit board (e.g., the surface of the circuit board).