Coaxial Cable Connector With Snap-Fit Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coaxial cable connectors are troublesome to assemble, leading to a need for improved connection solutions that simplify the assembly process while maintaining effective electrical connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A coaxial cable connector design featuring a connector body with a threaded outer surface, radially protruding head portion, and guide protrusions, combined with dielectric and conductor components that utilize snap-fit mechanisms for quick and secure assembly, including flexible snap hooks and positioning guides to lock components in place, facilitating easy assembly and preventing unwanted movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional assembled connectors are used, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but assembly process becomes troublesome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple components (conductor, insulator, and connector body) into a single integrated connector assembly where the insulator is molded directly onto the conductor, and the connector body is formed as one piece with integrated locking features. This merging eliminates the need for separate assembly steps and reduces the overall assembly time while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with segmented functional features within a unified structure - the connector body includes separate but integrated elements such as the locking protrusion, the threaded portion, and the signal transmission path, allowing each function to be independently optimized while simplifying the overall assembly process.
2Device complexity
If conventional connectors with separate insulating layers and housings are used, then electrical insulation is provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating layer and connector housing are merged into a single molded component where the insulator forms an integral part of the connector body. This integration reduces the number of separate parts and assembly steps while ensuring reliable electrical insulation through the continuous insulating material that surrounds the conductor throughout its length.
3Productivity
If snap-fit mechanisms with multiple components are used, then quick assembly is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-fit locking mechanism is integrated directly into the connector body as a molded feature rather than a separate component. The locking protrusion is formed as part of the connector housing, which engages with a corresponding recess in the cable assembly. This integration ensures precise fitting through the molding process while enabling quick snap-fit assembly without requiring additional precision-machined parts.
Data Source
AI summary
A coaxial cable connector comprising a connector body, a dielectric component, and a conductor component is provided. The connector body has a threaded outer surface, a radially protruding head portion, and an altered hex-shaped end portion. The altered hex-shaped end portion and radially protruding head portion surround the first body opening end of the connector body. The connector body further comprises a through-hole having a radially inner protruding end portion on an inner surface of the first connector body end. The dielectric component has a cylindrical center tube, a radially protruding head end portion, and a plurality of flexible snap hooks. The plurality of flexible snap hooks slide along guide passageways of the radially inner protruding end portion of the through-hole, fittably hooking and locking against an annular inner lock back wall thereof. The first conductor component extends through the cylindrical center tube of the dielectric component.