Hydraulic Compression Tool for Coaxial Cable Connectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Installers face difficulty in applying sufficient axial force to secure coaxial cable connectors effectively, as off-axis forces do not properly deform the compression member, leading to incomplete closures with various connector types and cable sizes.

Innovation Solution

A hydraulic compression tool with an axially extendable ram and a detachable connector frame, featuring a cable cradle, sliding guide structure, and sleeve, which accommodates different cable sizes and connector types, ensuring proper compression and engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If manual compression force is applied by installer, then connector installation can be completed, but sufficient axial force cannot be applied to secure the connection properly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaxial compression forceVSAvoiddifficulty in applying force
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a hydraulic compression tool that uses hydraulic fluid pressure to generate and transmit axial compression force to the connector. The hydraulic system converts fluid pressure into mechanical force through a piston or ram mechanism, enabling the application of high axial compression force that cannot be achieved by manual effort alone. This resolves the contradiction by providing sufficient compression force while maintaining ease of operation through simple hydraulic actuation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

2Manufacturing precision

If off-axis force is applied during compression, then connector installation can be completed, but proper deformation of compression member cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproper deformation of compression memberVSAvoidforce application alignment
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a compression tool with a jaw or anvil as an intermediary component that contacts the connector body. This intermediary element is designed with specific geometric features (flat surfaces, alignment guides) that ensure force is transmitted axially through the compression member. The intermediary component acts as a mechanical interface that enforces proper force alignment, preventing off-axis loading and ensuring uniform deformation of the compression member onto the cable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If universal connector frame is designed to accommodate various cable sizes and connector types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of different cable sizes and connector typesVSAvoidconnector frame structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a universal connector frame assembly that can accommodate multiple cable sizes and connector types through adjustable components. The frame includes adjustable jaws or clamps that can be positioned to fit different cable diameters, and the compression tool is designed to work with various connector geometries. This multi-functional design allows a single tool to perform multiple installation tasks, achieving versatility without requiring separate specialized tools for each connector type or cable size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 tool ensures secure operative engagement of coaxial cables with connectors by applying the necessary axial force, accommodating various cable sizes and connector types, resulting in reliable connections.

Implementation Method 1

a hydraulic assembly having an axially extendable ram

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 2

Activating the hydraulic assembly can cause the ram to extend, which in turn can cause the sliding bar to move along the longitudinal axis of the cable connector compressing the compression member and connector body into operative engagement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force transmission: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS8595928B2Method for installing a coaxial cable connector onto a cable
Publication Date: 2013.12.03 JOHN MEZZALINGUA ASSOC LLC
  • US8595928B2 patent drawing
  • US8595928B2 patent drawing
  • US8595928B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method includes providing a cable connector and a compression tool that includes a hydraulic assembly, the hydraulic assembly having an axially extendable ram. The compression tool further includes a connector frame detachably attached to the hydraulic assembly, the connector frame having a cable cradle configured to accommodate the cable, and a sliding guide structure mounted to the connector frame assembly, the sliding guide structure comprising a sliding bar and one or more sliding guides, and a sleeve attached to the sliding bar. The method including locating the cable connector into the compression tool and disposing one end of the prepared cable into one end of the compression member, activating the hydraulic assembly, so that extending the axially extendable ram along the longitudinal axis causes the sliding bar to move along the longitudinal axis producing compression of a compression member and a connector body into operative engagement with the cable.