Push-on RF Connector with Bayonet Locking for Vibration Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional push-on RF connectors fail to maintain signal integrity under harsh environments and vibrations, leading to unintentional de-mating and signal loss, particularly in high-frequency applications.

Innovation Solution

A push-on electrical connector system with a bayonet pin and blind latch track configuration, utilizing a resilient member to ensure positive locking and constant alignment of connector halves, maintaining signal integrity even under tensile forces and vibrations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional push-on RF connectors are used, then the connector size is small and installation is easy, but the connector becomes loose or de-mates under vibration and harsh environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into two functional segments: the push-on electrical connection segment for signal transmission and the bayonet locking segment for mechanical retention. This segmentation allows each segment to optimize its specific function while working together as a unified connector system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges two previously separate connection methods (push-on friction fit and bayonet locking) into a single integrated connector system. The bayonet locking mechanism is combined with the push-on electrical interface, allowing both easy installation and secure retention under vibration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of manufacture

If friction-fit or snap-on mating is used, then the connector can be easily assembled, but signal integrity is compromised under tensile strain and vibration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidsignal integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The bayonet locking mechanism performs a preliminary mechanical securing action before the push-on electrical connection is fully engaged. This preliminary locking action pre-establishes mechanical retention, preventing de-mating under subsequent tensile strain or vibration that might otherwise compromise signal integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient member provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining constant contact pressure between the push-on components. This continuous cushioning force compensates for dimensional variations and prevents loss of electrical contact under vibration, thereby maintaining signal integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Reliability

If a locking mechanism is added to push-on connectors, then connection stability under vibration improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance to de-matingVSAvoidconnector structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking function is extracted as a separate bayonet mechanism distinct from the push-on electrical connection. This extraction allows the locking mechanism to be optimized for reliability while the push-on portion remains simple for easy assembly, with both functions integrated in the final connector design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The bayonet locking mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical retention under vibration, guides alignment during assembly, and works in conjunction with the resilient member to maintain constant contact. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.

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

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 system provides a robust and reliable connection that maintains signal conductivity and integrity, resisting de-mating forces and ensuring consistent performance in adverse conditions while maintaining a traditional push-on form factor.

Implementation Method 1

a resilient member biased the bayonet pins into a latch track, providing a positive locking action

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The push-on core elements maintained constant contact and alignment

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP2826106B1Push-on electrical connector system and method for transferring an electrical signal therewith
Publication Date: 2019.07.03 CARLISLE INTERCONNECT TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • EP2826106B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2826106B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2826106B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A push-on connector system includes a male push-on bore with conductor pin and a female push-on core with socket. A second bore is configured forwardly of the male push-on bore, and a latch track is positioned in the second bore and forms at least one, and preferably a plurality of, inclined latch surfaces. A movable collar mounted rearwardly of the female push-on core includes at least one, and preferably a plurality of pins. The movable collar is configured for engaging the second bore, and is rotatable and axially slidable. The pins slide along the inclined latch surfaces to axially drive the movable collar into the second bore. A resilient member is coupled between the movable collar and female push-on core to bias the female push-on core into the male push-on bore.