Rotating Connector for Microwave Cable Torsional Stress
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Microwave cables used in medical applications face issues such as heat absorption leading to localized heating and rigidity, which restricts user dexterity and increases costs due to fragility and unwanted electromagnetic radiation, necessitating a solution that enhances flexibility, mechanical protection, and reduces electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
A cable assembly with a coaxial cable design that includes a rotating connector apparatus allowing 360° rotation of the coaxial cable while maintaining electrical connection, a dual-shield configuration with different electrical potentials to prevent radiation, and an armour layer with a coiled spring for mechanical protection and thermal isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a thin microwave cable is used, then flexibility and user dexterity are improved, but power handling capability and loss performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cable system is divided into two distinct segments: a reusable high-performance coaxial cable with optimized power handling and a disposable applicator with integrated thin cable. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function - the reusable cable for power transmission and the disposable applicator for flexibility and patient contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a disposable applicator that includes a thin cable segment. This disposable component can be optimized for flexibility and low cost without compromising the overall system performance, as it is replaced after each use. The thin cable in the disposable applicator provides the needed flexibility while the expensive high-performance cable is reused.
2Power
If a larger diameter cable is used, then power handling capability is improved, but rigidity increases and user dexterity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cable system is divided into two distinct segments: a reusable high-performance coaxial cable with optimized power handling and a disposable applicator with integrated thin cable. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function - the reusable cable for power transmission and the disposable applicator for flexibility and patient contact.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the cable is electrically isolated from system ground, then safety is improved, but unwanted electromagnetic radiation increases
Solution Approach 1:
A conducting shield acts as an intermediary element between the floating microwave cable and the system ground. This shield provides a controlled path for electromagnetic energy, preventing spurious emissions while maintaining the electrical isolation required for patient safety. The shield is connected to system ground through controlled impedance pathways.
4Reliability
If connectors are fastened to cable ends, then electrical connection is improved, but torsional rigidity increases and cable fluidity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates dynamic elements that allow the connector assembly to rotate and flex with the cable during use. The connector maintains reliable electrical contact while accommodating cable movement, preventing torsional stress buildup that would otherwise restrict cable fluidity and user manipulation.
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 flexible and durable cable assembly that reduces heat-related issues, prevents unwanted radiation, and enhances user dexterity, while maintaining efficient energy delivery and compliance with safety standards.
Implementation Method 1
an armour layer with a coiled spring for mechanical protection
Implementation Method 2
an armour layer with a coiled spring for mechanical protection and thermal isolation
Implementation Method 3
a dual-shield configuration with different electrical potentials to prevent radiation
Implementation Method 4
the connector is configured to allow rotation of the coaxial cable around an axis, for example when the coaxial cable is electrically connected to the connector in the engaged state
Implementation Method 5
The dielectric filling of the cable possesses a loss property which absorbs energy creating heat
Data Source
AI summary
A connector apparatus for connecting to a cable assembly that comprises coaxial cable and at least one wire and/or fluid conduit and/or further layer, wherein the connector apparatus comprises a housing that houses a connector and at least one further connector, wherein the connector is configured to eiectrically connect to the coaxial cable when the connector apparatus and the cable assembly are in an engaged state, the at least one further connector is configured to connect to the at least one wire and/or fluid conduit and/or further layer when the connector apparatus and the cable assembly are in the engaged state, the connector is configured to allow free rotation relative to the connecto of the coaxial cable around an axis when the coaxial cable is electrically connected to the connector in the engaged state.