Shielded Coaxial Connector Dynamic RF Ingress Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions fail to effectively limit the ingress of interfering radio frequency (RF) signals into cable television (CATV) systems, particularly at open coaxial cable connectors in homes, which can lead to signal distortion and noise.
Innovation Solution
A coaxial connector design with internal moving parts that activate enhanced shielding when the connector is left open, restricting RF signals until a mating connector is engaged, thereby preventing unwanted RF ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional connector shielding is used, then basic RF shielding is provided, but interfering RF signals can still ingress through open connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic shield assembly that moves between extended and retracted positions. When the connector is open, the shield extends to block RF ingress; when a cable is connected, the shield retracts to allow signal transmission. This dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction by adapting the shielding state to the connector's operational state.
Solution Approach 2:
The shield assembly is pre-positioned in an extended blocking state before connection occurs. This preliminary action of extending the shield prevents RF ingress from occurring in the first place when the connector is open, rather than requiring corrective action after interference is detected.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a metal cap is placed over unused connectors, then RF ingress is blocked, but service calls are required to install and remove caps
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system performs shielding automatically without human intervention. The shield assembly self-activates when the connector is open and self-deactivates when a cable is connected, eliminating the need for manual cap installation and removal by service technicians.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of caps with an automated mechanical system. The shield assembly uses spring mechanisms and cam followers to automatically transition between blocked and open states based on connector status, substituting human-operated caps with self-operating machinery.
3Ease of operation
If connectors are left open to avoid service calls, then ease of operation is improved, but RF ingress and signal distortion occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful open connector state into a beneficial condition by automatically activating the shield. The open connector state, which traditionally causes RF ingress, now triggers the shield to extend and block interference, transforming the problem state into a protected state.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector mechanism incorporates feedback through cam followers that detect whether a cable is connected. This feedback signal automatically controls the shield position - when no cable is detected, the shield extends to block RF; when a cable is detected, the shield retracts to permit signal transmission.
Data Source
AI summary
A coaxial connector has a selectively engageable radio frequency interference shield.