Deformable RF Interference Shield for Coaxial Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Noise ingress from RF signals and devices in the environment reduces signal quality and system performance in telecommunications, particularly when cables are not properly terminated, and existing mitigation methods are not always effective.
Innovation Solution
A deformable shield for coaxial connectors made of flexible material with a concave and convex conical section and a bellows section that deforms to fit over a female coaxial port, forming a seal to prevent RF interference ingress and egress, providing audible feedback upon proper application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional rigid shields are used, then RF interference protection is provided, but the shield cannot adapt to improper cable connections and noise ingress still occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The shield transitions from a rigid structure to a deformable one that can dynamically adapt its shape. The bellows section allows the shield to deform and conform to the connector geometry even when cables are improperly connected, maintaining RF interference protection while accommodating various connection states.
Solution Approach 2:
The shield employs a flexible bellows section that can deform to seal around the connector. This flexible structure maintains the protective function while adapting to different connection configurations, including improper connections where rigid shields would fail to provide adequate protection.
2Ease of manufacture
If the shield is made rigid for structural stability, then manufacturing is simplified, but the shield cannot provide audible feedback and proper sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The bellows section is designed to deform under compression, providing audible feedback when properly installed. This dynamic characteristic allows the shield to indicate proper connection status while maintaining ease of manufacture through a single-piece construction that integrates the feedback mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The bellows section generates audible vibration feedback when compressed during proper installation. This mechanical vibration provides tactile and auditory confirmation to the user that the connector is properly seated, enhancing reliability without complicating the manufacturing process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a deformable shield is used to adapt to improper connections, then adaptability improves, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The shield is divided into distinct functional sections: a rigid protective section for RF shielding and a flexible bellows section for adaptation. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specialized function - the rigid portion maintains structural stability and RF protection, while the bellows portion provides adaptability to connection variations.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the shield have different mechanical properties tailored to their specific functions. The rigid sections provide structural stability and RF interference protection, while the localized bellows section provides flexibility and adaptability. This local differentiation of material properties resolves the contradiction between overall structural stability and localized adaptability.
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 shield effectively reduces RF interference by up to 85%, improving signal quality and system performance by limiting the entry and exit of RFI, even when cables are not fully connected, and providing a clear indication of proper connection through audible feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible hollow body having opposed front and rear ends, a concave section of the body proximate the front end, defining an open mouth of the shield configured to receive a female coaxial port
Data Source
AI summary
A deformable shield for mitigating radio frequency interference with a male coaxial connector includes a flexible hollow body having opposed front and rear ends, a concave section of the body proximate the front end, defining an open mouth of the shield configured to receive a female coaxial port, and a bellows section of the body behind the concave section. The bellows section terminates at the rear end with another mouth configured to be fit upon the male coaxial connector.