Coaxial Connector Locking Bracket Prevents Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Movement of devices under test relative to RF/microwave test and measurement apparatuses can cause loosening or unscrewing of coaxial connectors, leading to inaccurate or ineffective calibration due to cable movement, compromising the quality of RF/microwave measurements.
Innovation Solution
A coaxial connector locking bracket is designed to engage with the coupling nut of a coaxial connector, featuring a locking member and an attachment to prevent rotation, ensuring the integrity of the connection between the coaxial connector and a test port connector, thereby maintaining calibration accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the DUT is moved relative to the RF/microwave test and measurement apparatus during testing, then the measurement flexibility is improved, but the coaxial connector connection integrity deteriorates due to cable movement causing loosening or unscrewing
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bracket is pre-installed on the coaxial connector before testing begins. This preliminary action ensures that when the DUT needs to be moved for different measurement positions, the connector is already secured and will maintain its connection integrity throughout the movement and testing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking bracket acts as an intermediary component between the coaxial connector and the test apparatus. It mediates the connection by providing an additional locking mechanism that prevents the connector from loosening during DUT movement, thus maintaining connection integrity while allowing measurement flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If the coupling nut is allowed to rotate freely for connection adjustments, then the ease of operation is improved, but the calibration accuracy deteriorates due to unintended rotation during testing
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bracket provides a dynamic locking mechanism that can be engaged or disengaged as needed. During initial connection and calibration, the bracket can be disengaged to allow free rotation and adjustment of the coupling nut for ease of operation. Once calibration is complete, the bracket is engaged to prevent unintended rotation, thereby maintaining calibration accuracy during subsequent testing and DUT movement.
Data Source
AI summary
A coaxial connector locking bracket supports a connection between a coaxial connector and a corresponding mating connector. The locking bracket includes a locking member at one end configured to engage a coupling nut of the coaxial connector and an attachment at an opposite end configured to fix a location of the locking bracket relative to the coaxial connector. The fixed location of the locking bracket is to prevent the coupling nut from rotating about an axis of the coaxial connector. The locking bracket further includes a body connected between the locking member and the attachment.