Push-on Cable Connector with Compression Coupler and Latching Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coaxial cable connectors, such as F connectors, often result in poor signal transfer due to loose connections, which allow unwanted RF signals to ingress, causing unstable ground paths and intermittent failures, especially in self-install kits, leading to complaints of poor picture or data performance.
Innovation Solution
A push-on coaxial cable connector with a compression type coupler and a retention and release mechanism featuring a pivotable latching assembly that automatically engages and securely latches onto an equipment port, providing a resilient friction fit and ensuring reliable electrical and mechanical connection without the need for rotation, thus preventing RF ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional F connector with threaded coupler is used, then the connector can be securely attached to the equipment port, but the connection may become loose over time due to inadequate installation or vibration, allowing RF ingress and causing signal quality problems
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic push-on mechanism with a resilient coupler that can compress and expand. The coupler includes compression slots that allow it to deform radially inward when pushed onto the equipment port, creating a friction fit that maintains constant contact pressure. This dynamic capability ensures the connection remains tight despite vibrations or installation variations, preventing RF ingress while maintaining ease of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a push-on coupler for initial engagement, a latching assembly for securing the connection, and a release mechanism for disengagement. The latching assembly includes separate latches that engage with the equipment port independently, providing redundant security. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally, ensuring reliable connection without requiring precise manual tightening.
2Ease of operation
If a push-on mechanism with latching assembly is used, then automatic secure engagement is achieved, but the device complexity increases compared to traditional threaded connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a self-latching mechanism that automatically engages when the coupler is pushed onto the equipment port. The resilient coupler compresses during insertion and automatically triggers the latching assembly to secure the connection without requiring additional manual steps. The release mechanism is similarly simple, requiring only a small lifting motion to disengage the latches. This self-service approach maintains ease of operation while reducing the need for complex manual adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple functions into integrated components. The coupler serves both as the push-on engagement element and as the structural component that triggers the latching assembly. The latching assembly is integrated into the connector body rather than being a separate attachment, and the release mechanism is combined with the latching structure. This merging reduces the total number of separate parts while achieving secure automatic engagement, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
3Strength
If the coupler is made resilient with compression slots, then the connector provides a friction fit for secure attachment, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler's physical parameters are designed to change during operation. The compression slots allow the coupler to change its radial dimension dynamically: expanding outward during insertion to engage the equipment port, then compressing inward to create friction fit pressure. The resilient material properties are selected to provide appropriate force-deflection characteristics. By designing for controlled parameter changes rather than fixed dimensions, the system achieves strong retention while accommodating reasonable manufacturing tolerances through the material's elasticity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler incorporates flexible elements through compression slots that allow controlled deformation. These slots create hinge-like regions in the coupler wall that can bend radially without compromising structural integrity. The flexible sections enable the rigid-looking coupler to adapt to slight variations in equipment port dimensions while maintaining consistent contact pressure. This flexibility compensates for manufacturing tolerances in both the coupler and the equipment port, achieving reliable retention without requiring ultra-precise manufacturing.
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 solution provides a stable and reliable electrical connection, preventing RF ingress and ensuring consistent signal quality by securely attaching the coaxial cable to the equipment port, reducing the need for technician intervention and improving installation reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The coupler is adapted to receive a component, for example, such as an equipment port of an appliance, so that the component is resiliently friction fitted to the connector
Implementation Method 2
The coupler is radially inward biased allowing the coupler to provide a resilient friction fit function
Implementation Method 3
The latching assembly is adapted to automatically engage the equipment port, when it is received by the connector
Implementation Method 4
A spring clip provides the radially inwardly bias to the coupler
Data Source
AI summary
A cable connector comprising a coupler and a retainer having a base with an internal channel and a latching assembly is disclosed. The coupler has a first end, a second end, and a bore extending therethrough. The latching assembly comprises a beam having a first end and a second end. The latching assembly pivotably connects to the base and has a plurality of teeth extending radially inwardly through a latch slot towards the bore of the coupler. A spring clip radially inwardly biases the coupler. The coupler has at least one compression slot that responds to the radially inwardly bias of the coupler, compressing the coupler radially inwardly and, thereby, providing a resiliently friction fit function to the coupler.