Universal Compression Tool for Coaxial Connectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing compression tools for coaxial cables require multiple tools or components to accommodate different connector sizes, leading to inefficiencies in installation and release, particularly with RG-11 F-type connectors, due to the inability to easily release finished cable/connector combinations without manual manipulation of split bases.

Innovation Solution

A tool with movable anvils and spring clips that accommodate various connector sizes without removable parts, allowing easy entry and exit of cables and providing suitable retention force, enabling radial movement for releasing the finished cable/connector combination without separate activation of spring clips, and assisting in initial connector seating through cable restraint and plunger actuation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate tools or removable components are used to accommodate different connector sizes, then adaptability to various connector sizes is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need to change parts and awkward release maneuvers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of different connector sizesVSAvoidrelease of finished cable/connector combination
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The compression tool employs a universal compression chamber with multiple fixed bearing surfaces that can accommodate various connector sizes (F-type, BNC, RCA and different RG cable sizes) without requiring removable inserts or plungers. The chamber is designed with bearing surfaces at different longitudinal locations that can engage different connector types simultaneously, eliminating the need for part changes while maintaining ease of operation.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The tool utilizes spring-loaded split bases that automatically adjust and engage with the cable during compression. The springs provide automatic engagement and release functionality, allowing the cable to be easily removed after compression by simply opening the handle, without requiring manual manipulation of the split bases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed bearing surfaces are provided for multiple connector sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport for various connector types including RG-11VSAvoidnumber of fixed bearing surfaces and components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple bearing surface functions into a single integrated compression chamber. The chamber includes first and second bearing surfaces that can simultaneously or alternatively engage different connector types, consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate tools or removable components into one fixed structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The compression chamber is segmented into different zones with bearing surfaces positioned at specific longitudinal locations. This segmentation allows different portions of the chamber to engage different connector types, enabling multi-size accommodation within a single unified structure rather than requiring multiple complete tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables efficient installation and release of compression connectors across different sizes and types without the need for multiple tools, improving user convenience and compatibility with various coaxial cable sizes, including RG-11 F-type connectors, by using movable anvils and spring clips that provide balanced retention and release functionality.

Implementation Method 1

The movable anvils have an aperture which defines a throat that is large enough to permit easy entry and exit of a cable and small enough to apply a suitable retention force so that a cable will not inadvertently come out of or move around in the aperture prior to compression

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

A compressive force then is applied to the ends of the connector to deform the connector and complete the installation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 3

The movable anvils each have a pair of movable spring clips

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring energy storage: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS7797827B2Method of seating a connector on a coaxial cable
Publication Date: 2010.09.21 IDEAL IND INC
  • US7797827B2 patent drawing
  • US7797827B2 patent drawing
  • US7797827B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for installing compression connectors of various sizes and types on the end of a coaxial cable utilizes a tool having a base mounting a pair of movable anvils for engaging two different lengths of connectors. The movable anvils define an aperture which is shaped to permit easy entry and exit of a cable while still applying a suitable retention force to an inserted cable. A slidably mounted plunger cooperates with the anvils to compress a connector. One of the anvils has an aperture size that permits the anvil to squeeze or pinch an inserted cable and thereby restrain a cable longitudinally during initial seating of the connector onto a cable by means of the plunger.