Post-less Coaxial Connector Ferrule Compression
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coaxial cable connectors, such as F-connectors, require complex preparation and tools for installation, including stripping and folding of the outer braid, which is time-consuming and prone to errors due to the presence of posts that can damage the cable and require precise alignment, making the installation process difficult and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A post-less coaxial cable connector design featuring a coupling portion, retainer, body, and sealing ring that compresses radially to secure the coaxial cable without the need for a crimping tool, allowing for a simpler and more reliable installation process by eliminating the post and using a ferrule with flexible beams to grip the cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a post is used in the connector body to provide structural support and alignment, then the connector maintains structural integrity and alignment, but the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming due to the need for precise alignment and risk of cable damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the post component from the connector body entirely. The ferrule is designed to be inserted directly into the connector body without requiring a post for support, eliminating the alignment and cable damage issues associated with posts while maintaining structural integrity through the ferrule's direct engagement with the connector body.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into distinct functional components: the connector body, the ferrule, and the sealing ring. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently - the ferrule provides structural support and cable engagement, the sealing ring provides environmental protection, and the connector body provides the mounting interface - simplifying the overall assembly process.
2Strength
If a crimping tool is used to compress the ferrule radially to secure the cable, then the cable is firmly secured, but the installation requires specialized tools and increases process complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The ferrule is designed with flexible beams that can dynamically deform during installation. The ferrule starts in an expanded state for easy cable insertion, then transitions to a compressed state during assembly to secure the cable firmly. This dynamic behavior eliminates the need for external crimping tools while maintaining strong cable securing force.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferrule is designed to self-compress and self-secure the cable during the assembly process. The flexible beams automatically deform and lock onto the cable as the ferrule is inserted into the connector body, eliminating the need for external crimping tools and simplifying the installation process.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the ferrule is made rigid to maintain structural stability, then the connector provides stable support, but the ferrule cannot adapt to cable variations and may damage the cable during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The ferrule's physical parameters (shape, volume, rigidity) are changed dynamically during installation. The flexible beams allow the ferrule to transition from an expanded configuration during insertion to a compressed configuration during securing, adapting to cable variations while maintaining structural stability once installed.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferrule incorporates flexible beams that can bend and deform elastically. This flexibility allows the ferrule to adapt to different cable sizes and shapes during installation, preventing cable damage, while the overall ferrule structure maintains sufficient rigidity to provide stable support once the cable is secured.
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
This design simplifies the installation process by eliminating the need for complex preparation and tools, reducing the risk of damage to the cable and improving the ease of alignment, while maintaining a stable ground path and preventing RF signal ingress.
Implementation Method 1
a ferrule with flexible beams to grip the cable
Implementation Method 2
sealing ring that compresses radially to secure the coaxial cable
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~2B
Figure 3~3A
AI summary
A coaxial connector for coupling an end of a coaxial cable to a terminal is disclosed. The coaxial cable connector includes a body, a retainer, a coupler, a ferrule, and a shell. The retainer engages the body and rotatably engages the coupler. The ferrule slidingly engages at least a portion of the retainer and at least one portion of the body. The ferrule is adapted to engage at least a portion of the cable outer conductor. The shell slidingly engages at least a portion of the rear end of the body. A sealing ring engages the rear end of the body. Upon compression of the coaxial cable connector the sealing ring is adapted to engage the jacket of the coaxial cable.