Modular RF and Optical Connector With Integrated Resonance Tuning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RF and coaxial connectors face challenges in efficient mounting and alignment on substrates, often requiring additional hold-downs or alignment pegs that occupy space and complicate the assembly process, while also struggling with resonance issues that require manual tuning or additional components like turning screws and bellow filters.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates a unified connector body with both surface mount tabs and through-hole or press-fit mount pegs, allowing for secure mounting without additional substrate crowding, and features a second RF connector with a curved bend and integrated conductive material within the ground structure to eliminate resonance modes without manual tuning, using a monolithic housing made from dielectric, conductive, or magnetic materials.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If traditional mounting methods with hold-downs or alignment pegs are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but substrate space is occupied and assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple mounting functions (alignment, securing, and grounding) into a single integrated mounting structure. The mounting structure includes integrated alignment features and securing elements that work together as one unit, eliminating the need for separate hold-downs or alignment pegs, thus reducing substrate space occupation and assembly complexity while maintaining mounting security

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides alignment through integrated alignment features, securing through built-in securing elements, and electrical connection through grounding contacts. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate components, reducing both substrate space requirements and assembly steps

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

2Reliability

If turning screws or bellow filters are added to eliminate resonance, then resonance issues are resolved, but device complexity and manual tuning requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresonance controlVSAvoidtuning element complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector body is designed with self-tuning features where the ground structure and mounting structure work together to automatically control resonance modes. The integrated design allows the connector to self-adjust and eliminate resonance issues without requiring external turning screws or bellow filters, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the resonance control function into the existing ground structure and mounting structure. The ground structure is designed to work in conjunction with the mounting structure to provide automatic resonance control, eliminating the need for separate tuning elements like turning screws or bellow filters, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining resonance control reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12051881B2Connector with linear coaxial, right angle coaxial and optical connectors
Publication Date: 2024.07.30 SAMTEC INC
  • US12051881B2 patent drawing
  • US12051881B2 patent drawing
  • US12051881B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Modular block type of board connector having two different types of RF connectors and an optical cable with an optical connector. A RF connector with built-in impedance tuning and automatic biasing.