Motorized RF Connection Port for Fast Stable Test Setup

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing measurement devices, such as oscilloscopes, face challenges in establishing stable connections with RF connectors, which are tedious and time-consuming, especially in robot-controlled setups, and hinder integration with automated systems.

Innovation Solution

A test and/or measurement device equipped with a connection port featuring a rotatable nut and an electric motor that automates the screwing process, allowing for easy attachment of external connectors without manual wrenching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual screwing of RF connectors is used, then stable connection is achieved, but connection time increases and automation becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidconnection time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connection port performs the screwing action automatically through an electric motor that rotates the nut, eliminating the need for manual operation. The system serves itself by converting electrical energy to mechanical rotation, achieving both time savings and reliable connections without human intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical screwing action is replaced by an electric motor system. The motor converts electrical energy to rotational mechanical energy, automating the nut rotation process and enabling integration with automated test systems while maintaining connection stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If manual wrenching of RF connectors is used, then connection stability is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidconnection ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection port automatically performs the tightening operation through the electric motor rotating the nut, eliminating the need for users to manually operate a wrench. The system handles the entire screwing process autonomously, greatly improving ease of operation while ensuring stable connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual wrenching operation is replaced by an automated electric motor system that rotates the nut. This substitution eliminates the need for users to apply manual torque, making the connection process simple and easy while maintaining reliable connection stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If manual screwing of RF connectors is used, then connection stability is achieved, but extent of automation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidautomation level
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The manual mechanical screwing process is replaced by an electric motor system that automatically rotates the nut. This substitution introduces electrical automation into the connection process, enabling integration with automated test and measurement systems while maintaining stable connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection port becomes self-actuating through the electric motor, which automatically performs the nut rotation and screwing operation. This self-service capability significantly increases the extent of automation, allowing the system to operate without manual intervention while ensuring reliable connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Facilitates simplified and stable connections, reducing manual effort and enabling seamless integration into automated systems.

Implementation Method 1

an electric motor which is coupled to the nut and which is configured to rotate the nut

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a nut comprising a screw thread for screwing on the external connector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS12510427B2Connection port for a test and/or measurement device
Publication Date: 2025.12.30 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • US12510427B2 patent drawing
  • US12510427B2 patent drawing
  • US12510427B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a test and/or measurement device, comprising a housing; and a connection port which is mounted to the housing and which is connectable to an external connector. The connection port comprises: at least one signal conductor configured to transmit and/or receive a signal to and/or from the external connector, and a nut comprising a screw thread for screwing on the external connector, wherein the nut is arranged rotatably around the at least one signal conductor. The test and/or measurement device further comprises an electric motor which is coupled to the nut and configured to rotate the nut.