Multi-Position Push-On Connector for RF and DC Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing push-on electrical connectors for RF and high-speed digital systems are typically single-position, requiring multiple connectors for applications needing multiple connections, which are cumbersome and do not provide means for making DC power connections, making these connections time-consuming, expensive, and ineffective.

Innovation Solution

A multiple position push-on electrical connector system with a housing having bores for coaxial cables and secured electrical conductors that transmit DC signals, allowing for simultaneous RF and DC power connections through the same connector, featuring a housing with bores for coaxial cables and insulated conductors that can be brazed or soldered onto devices for efficient power and signal transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If single-position connectors are used for RF connections, then RF signal transmission is achieved, but multiple separate connectors are needed for DC power connections, increasing device complexity and connection time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector functionalityVSAvoidnumber of connectors
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines RF signal transmission and DC power connection functions into a single multi-position connector assembly. The connector block integrates multiple connector positions where some positions accommodate RF coaxial connectors while other positions provide DC power terminals, eliminating the need for separate connectors and reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector block is designed as a universal interface that can simultaneously handle both RF signals and DC power connections. By incorporating multiple connector positions with different functionality within a single block, the system achieves multi-functionality, allowing one connector assembly to serve multiple purposes that previously required separate components.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple single-position connectors are used, then both RF and DC connections can be made, but the connection process becomes time-consuming and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection capabilityVSAvoidconnection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By merging multiple connector functions into a single integrated block, the patent enables simultaneous connection of both RF and DC components in one operation. The multi-position design allows all connections to be established at once during a single mating event, eliminating the sequential connection process that previously consumed time and increased labor costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If separate connectors are used for RF and DC connections, then specialized connections are achieved, but manufacturing cost and installation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges separate RF and DC connection components into a single manufactured unit. The connector block is produced as an integrated assembly with multiple positions, each optimized for its specific function (RF or DC). This unified manufacturing approach reduces the number of separate components that need to be sourced, assembled, and tested, thereby lowering overall manufacturing costs while maintaining the specialized connection capabilities required for reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS7416415B2Multiple position push-on electrical connector and a mating connector therefor
Publication Date: 2008.08.26 CORNING OPTICAL COMM RF LLC
  • US7416415B2 patent drawing
  • US7416415B2 patent drawing
  • US7416415B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multiple position push-on electrical connector has a housing and at least two sets of bores extending through the housing. The connector also includes a plurality of electrical conductors that extend beyond a first face of the connector and are electrically insulated from the housing. The electrical conductors are capable of transmitting DC signals through the connector. A multiple position push-on electrical mating connector has housing, a first set of bores extending through the housing and a plurality of electrical conductors for transmitting DC signals through the housing. The two connectors are preferably configured to mate with one another and communicate with a device to which the multiple position push-on electrical connector is connected.