Retractable RF Connector Eliminates Cables in Access Point Antenna
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RF connection structures in access point devices require cables and connectors, which increase installation complexity and can lead to noise and spur leakage due to gaps between cables and metal plates.
Innovation Solution
An RF connection structure without cables, where a connector is provided between the antenna and the main board through a separation plate, allowing signals to transmit from the antenna to the PCB board without additional through holes, thereby minimizing noise and spur leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If cables and connectors are used to connect antennas to the PCB board, then the antenna installation is enabled, but the installation complexity increases and noise/spur leakage occurs due to gaps between cables and metal plates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the cable component from the traditional antenna connection system. By removing the cable and using a direct connector mounted on the metal plate, the installation complexity is reduced while maintaining the electrical connection function between the antenna and PCB board
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the connector mounting function directly onto the metal plate structure. The connector is integrated with the metal plate through a through-hole, combining the shielding function of the metal plate with the connection function of the connector, thereby simplifying the overall structure and reducing installation steps
2Reliability
If cables are routed through the separation plate, then antenna connections are established, but noise and spur leakage increase due to gaps between cables and the metal plate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the cable from the signal transmission path and replaces it with a direct connector-to-PCB connection. This elimination of the cable component removes the source of gaps that cause noise and spur leakage, while maintaining reliable signal transmission through the integrated connector structure
Solution Approach 2:
The metal plate with integrated connector serves as an intermediary structure that provides both electromagnetic shielding and electrical connection. The connector is mounted through the metal plate, creating a continuous shielding structure that eliminates gaps and prevents noise/spur leakage while enabling signal transmission
3Ease of operation
If additional through holes are created in the separation plate for cable routing, then cable installation is enabled, but space usage is reduced and structural integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connector mounting function with the existing metal plate structure by utilizing a through-hole that serves dual purposes: providing mechanical support for the connector and maintaining electromagnetic shielding. This integration eliminates the need for additional through-holes, preserving space and structural integrity while enabling connector installation
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations of the present disclosure relate to radio frequency (RF) connection. In the implementations, an access point (AP) comprises an antenna module, a separation plate, a main board, and a connector. The antenna module is fixed on the first surface of the separation plate. The connector comprises an inner conductor and an outer conductor passing through a hole in the separation plate and connects the trace of the antenna module with the electronic components in the main board. The inner conductor and the outer conductor are retractable along a direction perpendicular to the main board. In this way, by directly connecting the antenna with the main board by a retractable connector, additional cables can be spared without sacrificing the mechanical performance of the connection structure.