Connector Holder Plate with Flexible Lock for Coaxial Cable Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for mounting coaxial cable connectors to outlet box assemblies are complex, insecure, and often require bending the cables with radii below the minimum recommended, leading to potential wear and an unsightly installation.

Innovation Solution

A connector holder plate with a flexible lock mechanism and circumferential flanges that secure the connector without forcing the cable to bend excessively, providing a snap-lock function to prevent displacement and hide internal components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional mounting methods using nuts and threads are used to fasten the connector, then the connector can be securely fixed to the cover plate, but the mounting process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector fixation securityVSAvoidmounting process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is segmented into modular components: the connector holder plate with integrated flexible lock members, the connector with circumferential flange, and the base frame. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall mounting process while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The flexible lock members are designed to automatically engage with the circumferential flange when the connector is inserted into the holder plate. The lock members flex outward during insertion and then snap back to secure the connector in place without requiring manual intervention, nuts, or threads, thereby eliminating complex fastening operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Area of stationary object

If the connector is mounted close to the wall using traditional methods, then space is saved, but the cable must be bent with a radius below the minimum recommended, causing wear and potential damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting space utilizationVSAvoidcable wear from excessive bending
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The connector holder plate is designed with a specific geometry that positions the connector at an optimal distance from the wall, creating additional spatial dimension for cable routing. The plate's structure includes recesses and protrusions that accommodate the cable's natural bending radius, allowing the cable to enter the connector without excessive bending against the wall surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If the connector mounting structure is made visible to the user, then installation and maintenance access is improved, but the aesthetic appearance of the outlet box assembly is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to internal componentsVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The connector holder plate is nested within the base frame of the outlet box assembly, with the plate's outer dimensions matching the internal cavity of the base frame. This nested arrangement allows the holder plate to be securely positioned while remaining hidden behind the cover plate, maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the outlet box while providing proper support and alignment for the connector.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Productivity

If a simple mounting structure is used, then installation is faster and easier, but the connector may become displaced during use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidconnector position stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible lock members are designed with specific material properties and geometric parameters that allow them to flex within a controlled range. The lock members have an optimized thickness and elasticity that enable them to deform during connector insertion and then maintain a secure locking force, preventing displacement while keeping the structure simple and fast to install.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 offers a stable, secure, and aesthetically pleasing mounting of coaxial cable connectors that prevent cable wear and keep internal components hidden, ensuring the connector remains fixed without tilting or being pushed into the wall.

Implementation Method 1

a first flexible lock member configured for being temporarily flexed from a first configuration to a second configuration by the circumferential flange during insertion of the connector into the first reduced size portion and to return to the first configuration when the part of the connector is received by the first reduced size portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3410541B1A connector holder plate, and a connector and a cable holding kit for an outlet box assembly
Publication Date: 2023.08.09 DKT AS
  • EP3410541B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~3
  • EP3410541B1 patent drawingFigure 4~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a connector holder plate for fixating a connector of a cable, such as a coaxial-cable, to a base frame fixed to a building wall, such connector and a cable holding kit comprising the connector holder plate and the connector. The connector holder plate comprising a through going aperture having a first reduced size portion configured for receiving a part of a first connection interface of the connector between a circumferential flange and a connector body, wherein the connector holder plate comprises a first flexible lock member configured for being temporarily flexed from a first configuration to a second configuration by the circumferential flange during insertion of the connector into the first reduced size portion and to return to the first configuration when the part of the connector is received by the first reduced size portion and for being manually temporarily flexed by the user from said first configuration to said second configuration to allow for removal of said connector from said first reduced size portion.