Coaxial Connector Higher Order Mode Suppression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transmitting electromagnetic signals above 110 GHz face challenges with efficiency, directionality, cross-talk, and the fragility and high cost of coaxial connectors, which are not suitable for widespread use at high frequencies.
Innovation Solution
The development of a coaxial plug connector with planar or substantially planar faces for mating with signal transmission lines, incorporating an electrically thin resistive layer to suppress higher order modes, allowing for larger diameters and more robust connections capable of operating above 110 GHz without interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coaxial connectors are used for transmitting signals above 110 GHz, then signal transmission is enabled, but higher order modes cause interference and the connectors are fragile and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the connector, specifically using a larger diameter (e.g., 1.85 mm or 2.4 mm instead of 1 mm) to allow for more robust construction while incorporating specific dimensional ratios that suppress higher order modes. The connector dimensions are carefully selected to maintain single-mode operation above 110 GHz while enabling rugged build quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction with a dielectric material positioned between the inner and outer conductors, creating a composite structure that optimizes both electrical performance (suppressing higher order modes) and mechanical properties (increasing robustness). The dielectric material serves dual purposes: electrical isolation and structural reinforcement
2Object-generated harmful factors
If coaxial connector diameter is reduced below 1 mm to operate above 110 GHz, then higher order mode interference is reduced, but the connector becomes more fragile and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by increasing the connector diameter above 1 mm (using 1.85 mm, 2.4 mm, or other larger sizes) while carefully controlling the dimensional ratios between inner conductor, outer conductor, and dielectric material. This parameter change allows larger, stronger components to be used while maintaining suppression of higher order modes through optimized geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The composite structure with dielectric material enables larger diameter construction by providing electrical isolation and mechanical support, allowing the use of thicker-walled conductors and more robust overall construction without increasing higher order mode interference
3Reliability
If conventional coaxial connectors are used at frequencies above 110 GHz, then connection is achieved, but the connectors are fragile due to tight tolerances and precision requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the size parameters to larger dimensions (e.g., 1.85 mm, 2.4 mm outer diameters instead of 1 mm), which naturally reduces the relative impact of manufacturing tolerances and makes the connectors less sensitive to precision variations, thereby reducing fragility while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The dielectric material in the composite structure provides a buffer zone that reduces the sensitivity to dimensional variations in the conductors, allowing for more relaxed manufacturing tolerances while maintaining reliable electrical connection and suppressing higher order modes
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
The solution provides a robust, cost-effective, and efficient means to transmit signals at frequencies above 110 GHz by minimizing interference and maintaining a reliable connection, making it suitable for high-data-rate applications.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating an electrically thin resistive layer to suppress higher order modes
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes an electrical connector. The electrical connector is configured to electrically couple a signal transmission line to another signal transmission line. The electrical connector includes a first electrical conductor and a second electrical conductor. The first electrical conductor is disposed around a center axis. The first electrical conductor is disposed azimuthally symmetric around the center axis. The second electrical conductor is disposed around the center axis and around the first electrical conductor. The second electrical conductor is disposed azimuthally symmetric around the center axis. Faces on opposing ends of the electrical connector along the center axis are configured to mate the signal transmission line and the second electrical conductor in a first plane and the other signal transmission line and the second electrical conductor in a second plane.