Thread-to-Compress Coaxial Connector Installation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coaxial cable connectors require specialized tools for installation, which can be costly and require proficiency, adding to the installer's inventory and maintenance expenses, and are not easily adaptable for secure mechanical interlock without uniform deformation.
Innovation Solution
A thread-to-compress connector system comprising a conductor engager, coupler driver, and compressor-body, where the coupler driver rotates to engage threads with an interface port, and the compressor-body slides to compress radially inward, securing the coaxial cable without the need for compression tools, facilitating easy installation and secure mechanical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specialized compression tools are used to install connectors, then secure mechanical interlock is achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector performs its own compression function through the torque drive member's rearward displacement during installation. The compressor body automatically compresses the radially compliant fingers against the coaxial cable without requiring external compression tools, making the system self-sufficient during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the compression function from separate external tools and integrates it directly into the connector structure. The compressor body and radially compliant fingers are built-in components that perform compression internally, eliminating the need for external compression devices.
2Manufacturing precision
If compression tools are used during installation, then proper uniform deformation is achieved, but installer training requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector structure itself ensures uniform deformation through its geometric design. The radially compliant fingers are arranged symmetrically around the central axis, and the compressor body applies force uniformly during installation, eliminating the need for installer skill to achieve proper alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The radially compliant fingers are pre-configured in a compressed state within the compressor body. During installation, as the torque drive member displaces rearwardly, this pre-configured compression is automatically activated, ensuring uniform deformation occurs by design rather than by installer technique.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized tools are carried for connector installation, then installation capability is ensured, but inventory and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the compression function with the connector body itself. The compressor body, radially compliant fingers, and torque drive member are integrated into a single installation unit that attaches directly to the connector, eliminating the need for separate compression tools in the installer's inventory.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque drive member serves multiple functions: it threads into the interface port for attachment, compresses the radially compliant fingers during installation, and secures the connector in place. This multi-functional design replaces multiple specialized tools with a single versatile mechanism.
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
Eliminates the need for specialized tools, simplifies the installation process, reduces costs, and ensures a secure mechanical interlock between the coaxial cable and interface port, maintaining connectivity under various forces and conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The radially compliant fingers are compressed radially inwardly by the compressor-body
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a conductor engager, coupler-driver and a compressor-body. A coupler is disposed over and engages a grounding end of the conductor engager while a torque drive member rotationally drives the coupler to threadedly engage an interface port. Threaded engagement of the coupler causes the conductor engager to move forwardly toward the interface port and the torque drive member to move rearwardly relative to the conductor engager. Rearward movement of the torque drive member causes a compressor to slide axially over plurality of radially compliant fingers of the compressor-body. The compliant fingers are displaced radially inward to compress a prepared end of the coaxial cable, i.e., an outer conductor and a radially compliant outer jacket, against a tubular-shaped retention end of the conductor engager. Compression of the prepared end connects the coaxial cable to the connector.