Conductive Mounting Flange for Antenna Ground Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector assemblies for antennas lack a ground path, failing to electrically connect the ground shield of power cables to the antenna, which is essential for secure and efficient power transmission.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector assembly that includes a conductive mounting flange and ground fingers to establish an electrical connection between the ground shield of the power cable and the antenna, ensuring a complete ground path through the assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional electrical connector assemblies are used to interconnect electrical power cables to antennas, then the assembly structure is simple, but no ground path is provided through the assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting flange is designed to serve dual functions: mechanically mounting the connector assembly to the antenna and providing an electrical ground path. The flange includes both mounting components for mechanical attachment and conductive portions that electrically connect the cable shield to the antenna, merging structural and electrical functions into a single integrated component.
2Reliability
If additional electrical contacts are added to provide ground path, then ground connection is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting flange is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs mechanical mounting and electrical grounding functions. The conductive portions of the flange establish electrical connection with the cable shield and the antenna, eliminating the need for separate dedicated ground contacts while achieving reliable ground connection.
3Reliability
If the mounting flange is made electrically conductive to provide ground path, then ground transmission is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting flange is constructed using composite or multi-material design, combining electrically conductive materials for the conductive portions with non-conductive or differently treated portions for mounting functions. This allows different sections of the flange to have optimized properties for their specific functions while being manufactured as an integrated component.
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 secure and efficient electrical connection, ensuring reliable power transmission and reception by establishing a ground path, thereby enhancing the stability and performance of antenna systems.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting flange is electrically conductive and is configured to be electrically connected to a ground shield of the electrical power cable
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector provides electrical power to an antenna from an electrical power cable. The electrical connector includes a housing, and an electrical contact held by the housing. The electrical contact includes a mating segment and a mounting segment. The mating segment is configured to mate with a mating connector that terminates the electrical power cable. The mounting segment is configured to be electrically connected to the antenna. The electrical connector also includes a mounting flange having an opening therein. The housing is held within the opening of the mounting flange such that at least portion of the mounting flange extends outwardly from a periphery of the housing. The mounting flange includes at least one mounting component that is configured to secure the mounting flange to the antenna. The mounting flange is electrically conductive and is configured to be electrically connected to a ground shield of the electrical power cable.