Coaxial Connector Assembly Floating Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coaxial connectors face challenges in achieving higher density while ensuring proper alignment during mating operations, which can lead to signal pin damage if not aligned correctly.
Innovation Solution
The coaxial connector assembly features a connector module with contact channels and a mounting frame that allows for floating movement, enabling rear-loading of coaxial contacts and alignment through a guide module with alignment features, and includes a backing plate and support structures to secure the connector module within the mounting frame, allowing limited lateral movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the density of coaxial contacts is increased, then the quantity of contacts per unit area is improved, but the difficulty of aligning opposing connectors during mating increases
Solution Approach 1:
A floating connector module is introduced as an intermediary element between the rigid mounting frame and the mating connector. This floating module acts as a mediator that can adjust its position to accommodate misalignments, enabling high-density contacts to mate successfully without direct rigid alignment between opposing connectors
Solution Approach 2:
The connector module is designed with floating capability, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position during mating operations. The floating module can move laterally and rotate slightly to compensate for alignment errors, transforming a static rigid structure into a dynamic adaptive system
2Quantity of substance
If the density of coaxial contacts is increased, then the quantity of contacts per unit area is improved, but the risk of signal pin damage during mating increases
Solution Approach 1:
The floating connector module provides a cushioning effect before actual contact is made between opposing connectors. The floating design allows for gradual approach and automatic alignment, cushioning against sudden impacts that could damage signal pins during the mating process
Solution Approach 2:
The floating connector module serves as a protective intermediary between the rigid mounting structure and the fragile signal pins. It absorbs and distributes mating forces, protecting the signal pins from direct impact damage while enabling high-density contact configuration
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid mounting is used to secure the connector, then the stability of the connector is improved, but the ability to accommodate alignment variations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into three distinct functional components: a rigid mounting frame for structural stability, a floating connector module for alignment accommodation, and a secure attachment mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function without compromising the others
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the mounting system have different mechanical properties: the mounting frame is rigid for stability, while the connector module is floating for adaptability. This local differentiation of mechanical properties allows the system to simultaneously achieve both stability and alignment accommodation
Data Source
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AI summary
A coaxial connector assembly (100) includes a connector module (102) having a connector body (126) having a first side (148) and a second side (149) the second side (149) including a first slot (164). The connector body (126) has contact channels (184) holding coaxial contacts (132). The coaxial connector assembly (100) includes a mounting frame (104) having a first side wall (152) and a second side wall (154) the second side wall (154) including a second slot (202) and the first side wall (152) having a blocking surface (163) supporting the connector body (126) in a recess (150). The second slot (202) is open to the recess (150). The coaxial connector assembly (100) includes a side support (700) removably received in the first (164) and second (202) slots. The side support (700) has a side support surface (210). The side support (700) passes through the second slot (202) and extends into the first slot (164) such that the side support surface (210) supports the second side (149) of the connector body (126) in the recess (150).