WO2010117890A2 - Compression connector for coaxial cable with staggered seizure of outer and center conductor and center conductor seizing mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

A coaxial cable compression connector includes a connector body having opposing first and second ends and a defined center passageway, an insulator disposed within the center passageway adjacent the first end of said connector body, and a compression sleeve movably connected to the second end of said connector body. In one version, the outer conductor of a prepared coaxial cable end and the center conductor are sequentially seized based on axial movement of the compression sleeve upon insertion of a prepared coaxial cable. The compression sleeve when axially moved from the second end to the first end sequentially enables a clamp to engage and seize each of the outer and center conductors. In another version, movement of the compression sleeve causes engagement of the center conductor of an engaged coaxial cable by a plurality of seizing elements disposed in relation to a conductive member into which the center conductor is advanced a predetermined distance.

Description

COMPRESSION CONNECTOR FOR COAXIAL CABLE WITH STAGGERED SEIZURE OF OUTER AND CENTER CONDUCTOR AND CENTER CONDUCTOR

SEIZING MECHANISM

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to USSN 12/421,855, entitled COMPRESSION CONNECTOR FOR COAXIAL CABLE WITH STAGGERED SEIZURE OF OUTER AND CENTER CONDUCTOR, filed April 10, 2009, and USSN 12/421,894, entitled COMPRESSION COAXIAL CABLE CONNECTOR WITH CENTER INSULATOR SEIZING MECHANISM, filed April 10, 2009, pursuant to applicable sections of 35 U.S.C. §119, wherein the entire contents of each of which are herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This application generally relates to the field of coaxial cable connectors and more specifically to a compression connector for various types of coaxial cable, the connector including a mechanism for reliably seizing each of the center and outer conductors of an inserted prepared coaxial cable end in a sequential fashion as well as a seizing mechanism for seizing at least one inner conductor of a coaxial cable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Coaxial cables are well known as a transmission medium that are installed on a widespread basis for purposes of carrying signals for modern communication networks, such as cable television (CATV) and computer networks, among others. It is also conventionally known to use various types of connectors in order to terminate a coaxial cable in order to connect the cable to various electronic devices such as televisions, radios, sound producing equipment and the like each having corresponding network connector ports. Typical coaxial cables are defined, such as 75 ohm and 50 ohm cables, by a center conductor, an outer conductor and an intermediate foam dielectric layer disposed therebetween, the outer conductor being covered by a protective sheath. The center conductor can be solid in terms of its construction or hollow as to various applications, thereby reducing material usage and stiffness. Coaxial cables can include smooth-walled and corrugated (spiral and annular) versions, depending on the application and signals to be carried.

[0004] When affixing a cable connector to a corrugated or other coaxial cable for termination thereof, it is necessary to provide both good electrical and mechanical contact between the cable connector and the center and outer conductors of the prepared coaxial cable end. Each of these types of coaxial cables face particular difficulties as to both mechanical and electrical interconnectivity, such as impedance matching, noise reduction and the like. It is also desirable to connect each of the center and outer conductors without having to reposition the cable connector during the connection operation. With regard to this, it may be required to seat the inner conductor first or alternatively seize the outer conductor first as opposed to attempting to seize each contemporaneously.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] According to one aspect, there is described a compression connector for a coaxial cable, said coaxial cable comprising a center conductor, an outer conductor and a dielectric layer disposed therebetween, said connector comprising: a connector body having opposing first and second ends and a center passageway defined therethrough; an insulator disposed within said center passageway adjacent said first end of said connector; a compression sleeve movably connected to the second end of said connector body; first means disposed in the center passageway for seizing said outer conductor; and second means disposed in the center passageway for seizing said center conductor. The compression sleeve is axially movable from the second end to the first end of the connector body to cause the first and second means to sequentially engage the cable such that seizure of the outer conductor of the cable occurs either before or after seizure of the center conductor.

[0006] In one version, the outer conductor of the prepared coaxial cable is seized prior to the center conductor. In another version of the herein described compression connector, the center conductor is seized prior to the outer conductor.

[0007] In one version, a clamp is provided to seize the outer conductor, the clamp including an outer portion in contact with an interior surface of the connector body. The clamp is caused to translate axially with the compression sleeve wherein the interior surface of the connector body includes a first diameter and a narrower second diameter separated by a transitional area. When the clamp is axially translated and traverses the transitional area, the clamp is caused to compress inwardly thereby seizing the outer conductor of the coaxial cable. [0008] The insulator retains a hollow conductive pin within an axial opening. According to one version, the conductive pin includes a collet portion extending outside the insulator that receives the center conductor of a prepared coaxial cable. The axial movement of the compression sleeve causes engagement between a drive member and the collet portion, causing the collet portion to be advanced into the opening of the insulator, the latter being in fixed relation relative to the connector body. As the collet portion is axially advanced by the drive member, the collet portion seizes the center conductor.

[0009] According to another aspect, there is provided a compression connector for a coaxial cable end, said coaxial cable end comprising an exposed center conductor extending from a distal end, an exposed outer conductor extending over an axial portion adjacent said exposed center conductor and a dielectric layer disposed therebetween, said connector comprising a connector body having opposing first and second ends and a center passageway defined therethrough, said center passageway having a first diameter and a different second diameter linked by a transitional section. An insulator is disposed within the center passageway adjacent said first end of said connector, as well as a compression sleeve that is movably connected to the second end of the connector body. A clamp disposed in relation to said compression sleeve is mounted for axial movement within the center passageway, said clamp having an external surface in contact with the interior surface of said center passageway and an internal surface that is configured for engagement with the center conductor of an engaged cable end. The connector also includes a conductive member disposed in an axial opening of said insulator, said conductive member having means for seizing said center conductor, said compression sleeve being axially movable from said second end to said first end to cause said clamp and said conductive member to sequentially engage the outer and center conductors of said cable and in which seizure of said outer conductor occurs either before or after seizure of said center conductor.

[0010] In one version, the means for seizing the center conductor includes a collet portion provided at one end of the conductive member. The collet portion is made up of a plurality of flexible fingers, the collet portion being disposed outside of the insulator. According to one embodiment, the collet portion is defined by a transition diameter that is tapered, this diameter being greater than that of the insulator opening. A drive element disposed in relation to the clamp engages and causes the collet portion to be driven into the insulator opening, closing the collet portion and thereby seizing the center conductor.

[0011] In yet another version, the means for seizing the center conductor includes a plurality of spring contacts that are disposed within the hollow interior of the conductive member. The conductive member is disposed within the insulator opening such that the center conductor is seized when the cable end is advanced a predetermined distance therein. In the instance of coaxial cables having more than one center conductor, a plurality of conductive pins are provided, each having the seizing means.

[0012] The positioning of the transitional surface and the drive element are arranged within the connector body so as to stagger or sequentially permit seizure of either the center conductor or the outer conductors of a prepared coaxial cable end. For example, the insulator can be fixedly attached in one version in which the clamp engages the outer conductor first and then the inner conductor. In another version, the insulator is movably disposed to permit seizure of the inner conductor by the insulator and then permit the clamp to engage the outer conductor. [0013] The above compression connector design is applicable for use with various types of coaxial cable, including but not limited to spiral corrugated, corrugated and smooth-walled coaxial cables.

[0014] According to yet another aspect, there is provided a connector for a coaxial cable end, said coaxial cable end comprising an exposed center conductor extending from a distal end, an exposed outer conductor extending over an axial portion adjacent said exposed center conductor and a dielectric layer disposed therebetween, said connector comprising a connector body having opposing first and second ends and a center passageway defined therethrough, said center passageway having a first inner diameter and a different second inner diameter linked by a transitional section; an insulator disposed within said center passageway adjacent said first end of said connector; a compression sleeve movably connected to the second end of said connector body; a clamp disposed in relation to said compression sleeve and mounted for axial movement within said center passageway, said clamp having an external surface in contact with the interior surface of said center passageway and an internal surface that is configured for engagement with the center conductor of an engaged cable end; and a conductive member disposed in an axial opening of said insulator, said conductive member having means for seizing said center conductor, said compression sleeve being axially movable from said second end to said first end to cause said clamp and said conductive member to sequentially engage the outer and center conductors of said cable and in which seizure of said outer conductor occurs either before or after seizure of said center conductor; a conductive member disposed in an axial opening of said insulator, said conductive member including at least one seizing element for seizing said center conductor, said compression sleeve being axially movable from said second end toward said first end to cause said clamp and said at least one seizing element to sequentially engage the outer conductor and inner conductors of said coaxial cable.

[0015] According to yet another aspect, a coaxial cable connector for terminating a prepared coaxial cable end is provided, the connector comprising a connector body having a center passageway, a compression sleeve mounted for axial movement at one end of said connector body and an insulator disposed in said center passageway, said insulator being disposed at an end of said body opposite from said compression sleeve. Means are provided for seizing an outer conductor of said prepared cable end as well as means for seizing a center conductor of said prepared cable end, said means for seizing a center conductor including a plurality of spring contacts radially disposed within a conductive member, said conductive member being disposed within an opening of said insulator, said center conductor engaging said spring contacts when advanced a predetermined distance into said conductive member.

[0016] The spring contacts can include, for example, a series of leaf springs equi- spaced from one another and extending into the confines of the hollow conductive member. In one version, the conductive member is a conductive pin secured within an opening of an insulator that is fixedly mounted within one end of the center passageway.

[0017] In one version, one or more conductive pins can be provided, each having spring contacts thereby enabling a coaxial cable having multiple center conductors to be seized.

[0018] In one version, the means for seizing the outer conductor includes a clamp having respective interior and exterior surfaces. The interior surface is annular and configured to engage the outer conductor layer of an engaged coaxial end, while the exterior surface is configured to engage the interior surface of the center passageway of the connector body. The center passageway is defined, according to this version, by adjacent axial sections having different internal diameters; namely, a first diameter adjacent a first end of the body and a second diameter which is smaller than the first diameter. The two internal diameters are linked by a transitional surface section, which is ramped or otherwise configured.

[0019] The clamp is caused to move axially based on corresponding axial movement of the compression sleeve toward the insulator. As the clamp encounters the transitional surface section, the clamp begins to compress, this compression being completed when the clamp axially traverses the second axial section. Preferably, the clamp includes a series of slots enabling the clamp to be compressed under the application of an inwardly applied radial force, as caused by the change in the center passageway diameters of the connector body.

[0020] The center conductor advances into the conductive pin as the cable end is advanced due to axial movement of the compression sleeve. The center conductor is seized once advanced a predetermined distance into the conductive pin, having encountered the spring contacts.

[0021] As noted, the seizing engagement of each of the center and outer conductors of an engaged cable end can occur simultaneously or sequentially, wherein various types of coaxial cable can be utilized, including but not limited to spiral corrugated, annular or otherwise corrugated and smooth-walled coaxial cables.

[0022] According to yet another aspect, there is provided a coaxial cable connector for terminating a prepared coaxial cable end, said connector comprising a connector body having a center passageway, a compression sleeve mounted for axial movement at one end of said connector body, an insulator disposed in said center passageway, said insulator being disposed at an end of said body opposite from said compression sleeve; a clamp for seizing an outer conductor of said prepared cable end, a conductive member inserted into an axial opening of said insulator, said conductive member including a plurality of spring contacts radially disposed in relation to a conductive member wherein said center conductor engages said contacts when advanced a predetermined distance into said conductive member, thereby seizing the center conductor.

[0023] One advantage of the described coaxial connector is ease in manufacture and cost. Another advantage is that various coaxial cables can be used reliably. [0024] Another advantage is that a compression connector has been developed in which the center conductor can be secured out of sequence with that of the ground, which may be desirable in some attachment situations. For example, in the instance the coaxial cable were "live" at the time of connection, such sequencing would be preferable.

[0025] Yet another advantage is that a drive element is no longer necessary, such as those required in the above-noted compression connector design having a collet section that is driven into the body of an insulator. As a result, the former drive element portion can be integrated into the insulator design.

[0026] A still further advantage realized by the herein described connector is reduced insertion (compression) force that is required relative to the center conductor.

[0027] These and other features and advantages will become readily apparent from the following Detailed Description, which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Fig. l(A) is a perspective view of a spiral corrugated coaxial cable having an end prepared for engagement with coaxial cable connector;

[0029] Fig. l(B) is a perspective view of the spiral corrugated coaxial cable of Fig. l(A) with a portion of the dielectric layer removed;

[0030] Fig. l(C) is a perspective view of an annular corrugated coaxial cable having an end prepared for engagement with a coaxial cable connector;

[0031] Fig. l(D) is a perspective view of a smooth- walled coaxial cable having an end prepared for engagement with a coaxial cable connector;

[0032] Fig. l(E) is a perspective view of the smooth- walled coaxial cable of Fig. l(D) with a portion of the dielectric layer removed;

[0033] Fig. 2 is a sectioned side perspective view of a coaxial cable connector in accordance with one exemplary embodiment, illustrating a coaxial cable of Fig. l(B), the connector being shown in an initially compressed position;

[0034] Fig. 3 is a sectioned side perspective view of the coaxial cable connector of Fig. l(B), as shown in an intermediate engagement position; [0035] Fig. 4 is the sectioned side perspective view of the coaxial cable connector of Fig. 2, illustrating the connector in a fully engaged position;

[0036] Fig. 5 is an exploded assembly view of the coaxial cable connector of Figs. 2-4;

[0037] Fig. 6 is a sectioned side perspective view of a coaxial cable connector made in accordance with another exemplary embodiment, the connector having a coaxial cable end installed as shown in Fig. l(B), the conductor being shown in a partially engaged position;

[0038] Fig. 7 is the side sectioned perspective view of the coaxial cable connector of Fig. 6, illustrated in an intermediate engaged position; and

[0039] Fig. 8 is the side sectioned perspective view of the coaxial cable connector of Figs. 6 and 7, shown in a fully engaged portion;

[0040] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a coaxial cable connector made in accordance with another exemplary embodiment, the connector being shown prior to full installation of the coaxial cable; and

[0041] Fig. 10 is another perspective view of the coaxial cable connector of Fig. 9, illustrating the connector in a fully engaged position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The following description relates to certain exemplary embodiments of a compression conductor for use with various types of coaxial cable, including corrugated, spiral corrugated and smooth- walled coaxial cables. Throughout the course of this description, various terms are used in order to provide a suitable frame of reference with regard to the accompanying drawings. These terms, however, are not intended to constrict the definition or scope of the present invention, unless so specifically noted.

[0043] Turning to Figs. l(A) - l(E) and in order to provide a suitable background, there are depicted exemplary coaxial cables having cable ends that have been prepared for installation into a compression connector. Referring first to Fig. l(A), an exemplary prepared spiral corrugated coaxial cable 10 is defined by a center conductor 18 that is surrounded by an intermediate dielectric layer 16. An outer insulative jacket 12 is cut away to expose an axial section of a corrugated conductor layer 14 consisting of a plurality of protrusions and valleys formed in a spiral configuration. This layer 14 is also known and referred to throughout as the ground or outer conductor layer. Both the spiral corrugated conductor layer 14 and a portion of the intermediate dielectric layer 16 are cut away at the distal end of the cable 10, exposing an axial section of the exposed center conductor 18.

[0044] Another spiral corrugated coaxial cable 10' end is shown for termination onto a compression conductor in Fig. l(B). In addition to the outer insulative jacket 12 being cut away to expose an axial portion of the spiral corrugated conductor layer 14, the intermediate dielectric layer 16 is cored out leaving a hollow 58 extending beneath the outer conductor layer after both the corrugated conductor layer 14 and the dielectric layer 16 have been cut away from the center conductor 18.

[0045] Referring to Fig. l(C), a no n- spiral corrugated coaxial cable 10" is shown prepared for installation onto a compression conductor. This section of cable also includes an outer insulative jacket 12 that is cut away to expose an axial section of an outer corrugated layer 14", this layer being made up of a plurality of annular corrugations with valleys or slots therebetween. As in the preceding, the outer conductor layer 14" and intermediate dielectric layer 16 are also cut away to expose a center conductor 18 defining the distal end of the prepared cable 10". [0046] Fig. l(D) illustrates a smooth-walled coaxial cable 10'" also defined by an outer insulative jacket 12 that is cut away to expose an outer conductor layer 14'", the latter being different than each of the preceding versions in that this layer is defined by a smooth annular surface having no corrugations. As in the preceding, the outer conductive layer 14'" and the intermediate dielectric layer 16 are each cut away at the distal end of the cable to expose the center conductor 18.

[0047] Fig. l(E) depicts yet another smooth-walled coaxial cable version 10"". Like the preceding versions, the coaxial cable 10"" includes an outer insulative jacket 12, an outer conductive layer 14" like that of Fig. l(D), and a center conductor 18 in which the intermediate dielectric layer 16, Fig. l(D), is cored to define a hollow 58. Each of the foregoing cables are described with a solid center conductor. However and as noted above, the center conductor pin can alternatively be hollow. Cables having either form of center conductor can be used in conjunction with this application.

[0048] Referring to Figs. 2-5, a compression connector 20 made in accordance with a first embodiment is shown in a partially compressed position, the connector being defined by a body 22 having a nut 24 that is rotatably secured to one end 41 of the body according to this embodiment via an annular flange 26. An insulator 28 that is disposed within a defined center cavity or passageway 23 of the compression body 22 adjacent to the distal end 41 positions and retains a conductive pin 30 within a defined opening 56. The insulator 28 is fixedly disposed within the center passageway 23 according to this embodiment wherein an annular shoulder 47 engages the top surface of a cylindrical retaining section 27 of the connector body 22, the retaining section having a defined bore into which a distal portion of the insulator is snugly fitted.

[0049] At least a portion of the conductive pin 30 is hollow, the pin being defined by a pin portion 32 and a collet portion 34 at opposing ends, the pin extending through the insulator opening 56 with the collet portion 34 extending outwardly from the insulator 28. The collet portion 34 includes a set of electrically conductive contacts surrounded by a plurality of flexible finger sections or tines. A drive insulator or mandrel 36 is positioned for axial movement within the center passageway 23 between the collet portion 34 and a clamp 38, the mandrel having a through opening 37 that is axially aligned with the insulator opening 56.

[0050] In this version, the mandrel 36 includes a surface facing the proximal body end 42 that is essentially planar such that this surface can engage the dielectric layer 16 of an inserted cable end 10, Fig. l(A), and the clamp 38. In an alternate version, such as when a cable 10", Fig. l(B), is used, the surface of the mandrel 36 can include an extending portion (not shown) that is sized to extend into the hollow 58 of the cable.

[0051] In terms of assembly, the clamp 38 is positioned proximally from the drive mandrel 36 and is defined by a body made from a compliant material and having an interior annular surface 45 that is geometrically congruent to that of the spiral corrugations of the outer conductor layer 14 of the coaxial cable 10. That is, the interior annular surface 45 is defined by a plurality of protrusions and notches formed in a spiral configuration matching those of the outer conductor layer 14 of the coaxial cable 10. Referring to the exploded view of Fig. 5, a plurality of slots 39 are formed in an outer annular portion of the clamp, thereby permitting the clamp 38 to be compressed or squeezed radially inward under the application of an inwardly directed radial force. The clamp 38 is fitted within the center passageway 23 of the body 22 such that the outer annular surface 43 of the clamp is in intimate contact with the interior surface of the body 22, but allowing for axial movement thereof.

[0052] The compression sleeve 40 is defined by an exterior portion formed over an axial section of the connector body 22, as well as an extending drive portion 44 that engages into the connector 20 against an annular flange 46 of a drive ring 48, the latter being fitted between the clamp 38 and the compression sleeve and including an annular slot sized to receive the periphery of the connector body 22. An annular seal element 50 made preferably from an elastomer fits snugly against the outer insulative jacket 12 of the prepared coaxial cable 10 during installation to prevent external environmental influences (i.e., moisture, grit, etc.) from entering the interior of the compression connector 10.

[0053] Referring to Fig. 2, the end of the prepared spiral corrugated coaxial cable 10, Fig. l(A), is initially inserted into an opening 54 on the proximal end 42 of the connector 20 and into the center passageway 23 of the body 22 using a compression tool (not shown). During this initial insertion, the spiral corrugated cable 10 is initially twisted as it is inserted such that the spirals on the outer conductor layer 14 fit into the spirals in the interior annular portion of the clamp 38. At the same time, sufficient axial displacement has occurred in the direction shown by arrow a, permitting the center conductor 18 to advance along the central passageway 23, through the opening 37 in the mandrel 36 and into the collet portion 34 of the extending hollow conductive pin 30.

[0054] It should be noted that the connector 20 is retained in a fixed and immovable position while the compression tool is in engagement therewith and during the time compressive force is applied in the direction shown by arrow a. Compression tool designs are known in the field to accomplish this type of stabilization and do not form an essential part of the present invention. [0055] Referring to Fig. 3 and following initial engagement, the clamp 38 advances axially per the direction shown by arrow a into the transitional surface area 52 of the connector body 22 and subsequently the smaller interior diameter of the center passageway 23. Due to the inclusion of the formed slots 39, Fig. 5, and by also manufacturing the clamp 38 from a relatively compliant material, the clamp is able to maintain contact with the interior surface of the connector body 22 and to elastically inwardly (radially) compress with respect to the primary axis of the body. This compression causes the interior annular surface 45 of the clamp 38 to engage directly or seize against the spirals of the outer conductor layer 14.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 4, further movement of the compression sleeve 40 and clamp 38 causes the drive mandrel 36 to axially advance in the direction shown by arrow a. This movement engages the distal surface of the mandrel 36 directly against the end of the collet section 34, causing the collet portion of the hollow conductive pin 30 to also axially advance into the defined opening 56 of the fixedly mounted insulator 38. Because the diameter of the insulator opening 56 is smaller than the outer diameter of the ramped exterior surface 35 of the collet portion 34, this axial movement causes the electrical contacts disposed within the flexible finger sections of the collet portion 34 to radially squeeze onto and permanently seize the center conductor 18 as shown in Fig. 4. Because the exposed center conductor 18 of the prepared cable end 10, Fig. l(A), has already advanced into the conductive pin 30, the conductor does not move axially relative to the pin during this phase of the clamping or seizing process. [0057] Figs. 6-8 depict an alternative embodiment of a compact compression connector 220 made in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, the center conductor 18 of a prepared cable end 10, Fig. l(A), is seized in advance of the outer conductive layer 14. [0058] The compression connector 220 according to this embodiment is defined by a body 222 that includes a center cavity or passageway 223, the body having adjacent axial sections with different interior diameters that are separated by a transitional section or area 252. This transitional area 252 can be defined by a ramped, convex, concave or other shaped configuration that provides gradual demarcation. The connector 220 further includes a nut 224 rotatably secured to a distal end 241 of the body 222 by means of an annular flange 226. It should be noted that the nut is used on the end 241 of the connector, though it will be readily apparent that other means could be provided for securing same (not shown). An insulator 228 disposed within the center passageway 223 of the connector body 222 positions and holds a hollow conductive pin 230 within a defined opening 256. In this version, the insulator 228 is movably supported within the center passageway 223, wherein an annular shoulder 247 of the insulator is in spaced axial relation to a cylindrical retaining section 227 of the connector body 222, the retaining section having a defined bore that is sized snugly to receive a distal portion of the insulator. [0059] The hollow conductive pin 230 includes a pin portion 232 and a collet portion 234 at opposing ends, the collet portion being made up of a set of electrical contacts disposed within a plurality of flexible finger sections or tines extending outwardly through the insulator opening 256. A drive insulator or mandrel 236 is positioned within the center passageway 223 between an end of the collet portion 234 and a clamp 238, the mandrel having a through opening 237 that is axially aligned with the insulator opening 256. The mandrel 236 can include a proximal surface that includes an extending portion sized to engage a hollow 58, Fig. l(B), of a cored cable end or as per this embodiment, the mandrel includes a substantial planar distal surface that engages the intermediate dielectric layer 16, Fig. l(A), and clamp 238, as described below. [0060] The clamp 238 is defined by an interior annular surface 245 that is geometrically congruent to the spiral corrugations of the outer conductor layer 14 of the coaxial cable 10, Fig. l(A). As in the preceding, the clamp 238 also preferably includes a plurality of slots (not shown) that are formed in an outer annular portion of the clamp, such that the clamp 238 can be compressed or squeezed radially inward, the outer annular portion being initially fitted in intimate contact with the interior surface of the body 222. A compression sleeve 240 is attached to the opposite end 242 of the body 222, the sleeve being configured for axial movement along with the clamp 238 and an annular elastomeric seal element 250.

[0061] The compression sleeve 240 includes a drive portion 244 that fits against an annular flange 246 of a drive ring 248 fitted between the clamp 238 and the compression sleeve. As in the previous version, the annular elastomeric seal element 250 fits snugly against the outer insulative jacket 12 of the corrugated coaxial cable 10 during installation thereof in order to prevent external environmental influences (i.e., moisture, grit, etc.) from entering the interior of the compression connector 10.

[0062] Referring to Fig. 6 and in operation, the prepared end of a coaxial cable 10, Fig. l(B), is inserted initially by means of a compression tool (not shown) into the opening 254 of the compression connector 220 but prior to full installation of the cable 10 within the connector. As in the preceding, the engaged spiral corrugated cable 10, Fig. l(A), must initially be twisted in order to align the outer conductor layer 14 with the features of the interior annular surface 245 of the clamp 238. However and in this embodiment and due to the spacing of the components, the exposed center conductor 18 extends through the opening 237 of the drive insulator 236 and fits within the collet portion 234 of the conductive pin 230 at this stage. The collet portion 234 surrounds the center conductor 18, but does not yet seize the center conductor 18 while in this position.

[0063] Referring to Fig. 7, a compression tool (not shown) then axially advances the compression sleeve 240 by known means along the body 222 in the direction shown by arrow a, such that clamp 236 and drive mandrel 236 each translate toward the distal end 241 of the connector body 222, causing the drive mandrel to impinge against the collet portion 234 and forcing the collet portion into the insulator opening 256. Due to the tapered transition surface 235 of the flexible collet portion 234, the conductive electrical contacts within the collet portion are caused to close as the flexible fingers are acted upon by the insulator opening, permanently engaging the contacts with the exposed center insulator 18 and seizing same. In this embodiment, the clamp 238 has not yet reached the transitional area 252 of the connector body 222, and therefore the clamp 238 has not yet seized the outer conductor layer 14. Referring to Fig. 8, and as the clamp 238 reaches the transitional area 252, the clamp is caused to compress based on the slots and the compliant nature of the connector body, wherein the interior annular surface 245 engages or seizes the outer corrugated conductor layer 14 of the prepared cable end. In the meantime, the insulator 228 is caused to axially translate along with the drive element 236 and clamp 238 until the annular shoulder 247 engages the top surface of the cylindrical retaining section 227, fixing the insulator in place.

[0064] Referring to Figs. 9 and 10, there is shown a coaxial cable connector made in accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment.

[0065] The compression connector 320 according to this specific embodiment is defined by a connector body 322 having a nut 324 rotatably attached to a distal end 341 of the body by means of an exterior annular flange 326. For purposes of this discussion and for the sake of convenience, the terms "distal" and "proximal" are used in connection with opposing ends of the connector body 322. All components used in conjunction with this connector 320 therefore refer to distal or proximal aspects based on the preceding usage. The connector body 322 according to this version is defined by a center cavity or passageway 323 that retains an insulator 328, the latter being fixedly mounted within a distal body end 341 adjacent the annular flange 326. The insulator 328 in this specific version is fixedly secured to the connector body 322 by means of an annular shoulder 347 that engages the top surface of a cylindrical retaining section 327 of the connector body. According to this embodiment, the insulator 328 is further defined by a center opening 356 that positions and retains a hollow conductive pin 330 having a pin portion 332 at one end and a hollow portion 333 at an opposite or proximal end. The hollow portion 333 includes at least one seizing element 334. According to this specific embodiment, a plurality of seizing elements 334, such as leaf springs, each radially inwardly extending into the opening defined by the conductive pin 330, the spring contacts being circumferentially disposed. Three or more spring contacts are preferably provided. [0066] A drive insulator or mandrel 336 having an axial through opening 337 is also positioned within the center passageway 323 of the conductor body 322 between the insulator 328 and a clamp 338 initially disposed in relation to a proximal end 342 of the connector body 322. The clamp 338 according to this embodiment is defined by a cylindrical member having an interior annular surface 345 including a spirally wound configuration, matching that of the spiral corrugated outer conductor layer 14 of a prepared coaxial cable 10. The clamp 338 includes a plurality of protrusions sized to engage the spiral slots formed in the outer cable conductor layer 14. The clamp 338 includes a plurality of slots (not shown) formed on an outer annular portion 343, enabling the clamp to be radially compressed.

[0067] The connector body 322 is defined by a transitional surface section 352, the section being ramped or otherwise configured and linking the first interior diameter of the central passageway 323 with the second smaller diameter. A compression sleeve 340 is attached over the end 342 of the body 322 wherein a drive portion 344 of the sleeve fits against an annular flange 346 of a drive ring 348 for engagement therewith. The compression sleeve 340 further includes an annular slot that is sized to fit the periphery of the connector body 322. An annular elastomeric seal element 350 fits against the insulative outer jacket 14 of the prepared spiral corrugated coaxial cable 10 during termination of the cable. This seal element 350 prevents ingress of moisture or particulate matter into the interior of the connector 320 while further providing strain relief for the cable and increased cable retention in the connector, the seal element being axially movable, a proximal edge of the seal element being in abutting relation with an annular edge surface of the compression sleeve 340.

[0068] When the prepared spiral corrugated coaxial cable 10 is inserted into an opening

354 of the exemplary connector 320, the cable 10 is initially twisted such that the protrusions of the clamp 338 are fitted within the spirally wound slots of the outer conductor layer 14, as in the preceding prior art version. In the meantime, the exposed center conductor 18 is axially advanced through the center passageway 323 and through the opening 337 formed in the drive mandrel 336, which is sized to accommodate same. As the compression sleeve 340 is advanced in the axial direction shown by arrow a by a tool (not shown), the outer annular surface 343 of the clamp 338 initially moves also the first internal diameter of the connector body 322 and engages the transitional surface section 352. This engagement causes the clamp 338 to begin to compress radially inward based on the reduction in diameter and the slots provided in the clamp wherein this compression continues until the clamp advances to the second inner diameter, and in which inward compressive forces are caused to act upon the outer conductive layer 14, Fig. 10, of the cable end, seizing same The continued axial movement, shown by arrow a in Fig. 10, advances the mandrel 336 toward the insulator 328 wherein the center conductor 18 is advanced into the confines of the hollow conductive pin 330. Unlike the previous version, the conductive pin 330 according to this embodiment is fixedly attached within the insulator opening 356. Therefore, the center conductor 18 continues to axially advance until the spring contacts 334 are encountered. When the center conductor 18 has been advanced a predetermined axial distance, the spring contacts 334 directly engage and seize the center conductor 18. No additional compression or movement relative to the insulator 328 is required. As a result of the foregoing and since a drive element is not necessary in this design, the insulator 328 and the mandrel 336 can be made from a single component (not shown) as opposed to requiring individual components.

[0069] Seizure of the center conductor 18 and the outer conductor layer 14 of the coaxial cable 10 can be done nearly simultaneously based on the spacing of the transitional surface section 352 and the entrance end of the conductive pin 330 and incoming cable end or the relative spacings between the center conductor 18 and the spiral corrugated outer layer 14 can be suitably configured to provide simultaneous or delayed seizure (i.e., seizure of either the outer conductor 14 or the inner conductor 18 first relative to the outer conductor). It should be noted in passing, however, that the insulator 328 can be movably attached to the connector body 322 and offset axially (proximally) from the cylindrical retaining section 327 and/or the transitional surface section 352 can be located such that the above seizure can occur sequentially or in a staggered or delayed fashion.

[0070] Other versions can be contemplated embodying the herein described concept. For example, prepared ends of other types of coaxial cable having center and outer conductors can be terminated by means of the herein described connector design, including other corrugated (non- spiral) and smooth- walled cable ends. Twisting would not be required using either of these types of cables requiring direct axial movement alone in which a radially acting clamp seizes the outer conductor and the center conductor is seized by means of the spring contacts. Moreover, other means could be contemplated in which the outer conductor could be seized. For example, a two- part or two-stage connector could embody seizing contacts, such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 7,458,851, by way of example.

[0071] As noted, other forms of coaxial cable can be utilized for use with the compression connector described herein. That is, smooth-walled and/or other corrugated coaxial cables can be used with clamp designs configured for seizing the outer conductor layer 14 of the cable 10. [0072] In addition to the foregoing and also in combination therewith, the herein described compression connector can be used with still other coaxial cable configurations. For example, the fixed insulator and drive mandrel can each include multiple axial aligned openings in order to accommodate a prepared coaxial cable end having multiple center conductors. According to this version, annular and other forms of corrugated and smooth- walled coaxial cables can also have each of their outer and respective center conductors seized sequentially.

Parts List for Figs. 1-10

10 coaxial cable

10' coaxial cable

10" coaxial cable

10'" coaxial cable

10"" coaxial cable

12 outer jacket

14 spiral corrugated conductor layer

16 dielectric layer

18 outer conductor

20 compression conductor

24 body

26 annular flange

27 cylindrical retaining section

28 insulator

30 conductive pin

32 pin portion

34 collet portion

36 drive insulator or mandrel

37 opening, mandrel

38 clamp

39 slots

40 compression sleeve

41 end, distal

42 end, proximal

43 external surface, clamp

44 drive portion

45 internal surface, clamp

46 annular flange

47 annular shoulder

48 drive ring

50 elastomeric seal element

52 transitional surface

54 opening

56 opening, insulator

58 hollow

320 compression connector

324 body, connector

326 annular flange

327 cylindrical retaining section

328 insulator

330 conductive pin

332 pin portion

334 collet portion

336 drive insulator or mandrel 337 opening, mandrel

338 clamp

339 slots

340 compression sleeve

341 end, distal

342 end, proximal

343 external surface, clamp

344 drive portion

345 internal surface, clamp

346 annular flange

347 annular shoulder

348 drive ring

350 elastomeric seal element

352 transitional surface

354 opening

356 opening, insulator

320 connector, coaxial cable, compression

322 body, connector

323 center passageway, body

324 nut

326 annular flange

327 cylindrical retaining section

328 insulator

330 conductive pin

332 pin portion

334 seizing element(s)

336 drive insulator or mandrel

337 opening, mandrel

338 clamp

339 slots

340 sleeve, compression

341 end, body

342 end, body

343 outer annular portion, clamp

344 drive portion

345 interior surface, clamp

346 annular flange

347 annular shoulder

348 drive ring

350 elastomeric seal element

352 transitional surface section

354 opening, body

356 opening, insulator a direction of axial movement [0073] It will be readily apparent that still other variations and modifications are possible within the intended ambits of the present invention. For example, coaxial cables having a plurality of center or inner conductors could have these conductors effectively seized using a corresponding number of seizing elements disposed within the insulator 228 using a plurality of conductive pins. Other variations will become readily apparent from the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A compression connector for a coaxial cable end, said coaxial cable end comprising an exposed center conductor extending from a distal end, an exposed outer conductor extending over an axial portion adjacent said exposed center conductor and a dielectric layer disposed therebetween, said connector comprising: a connector body having opposing first and second ends and a center passageway defined therethrough; an insulator disposed within said center passageway adjacent said first end of said connector; a compression sleeve movably connected to the second end of said connector body; means disposed in the center passageway for seizing said exposed outer conductor; and means disposed in the center passageway for seizing said exposed center conductor, said compression sleeve being axially movable from said second end to said first end to cause each of said seizure means to sequentially engage said cable and in which seizure of said outer conductor occurs either before or after seizure of said center conductor.

2. A connector as recited in Claim 1, wherein said the interior surface of said center passageway is defined by a first axial section having a first inner diameter and a second axial section having a second inner diameter, said first and second axial sections being linked by a transitional surface section wherein said means for seizing said outer conductor includes a clamp which is caused to axially move with said cable end and said compression sleeve from said first axial section to said second axial section, said clamp having an interior surface that seizes said outer conductor when said clamp is axially moved from said first axial section.

3. A connector as recited in Claim 1, wherein said means for seizing said center conductor is provided in a hollow conductive member disposed in said insulator, wherein seizure occurs when said center conductor is axially advanced a predetermined distance into an opening of said insulator.

4. A connector as recited in Claim 3, wherein said means for seizing said center conductor includes at least one seizing element disposed within said hollow conductive member.

5. A connector as recited in Claim 3, wherein said means for seizing said center conductor includes a flexible collet portion of said conductive member, said conductive member being a pin that is axially movable within said insulator opening, said opening having a diameter smaller than the diameter of said collet portion wherein said collet section is initially disposed externally relative to said insulator.

6. A connector as recited in Claim 5, wherein said means for seizing said center conductor further includes a drive element disposed between said conductive pin and said compression sleeve, said drive element being axially movable to engage said collet portion and cause said conductive pin to move within said opening of said insulator.

7. A connector as recited in Claim 1, in which said center conductor is seized prior to said outer conductor.

8. A connector as recited in Claim 1, in which said outer conductor is seized prior to said center conductor.

9. A connector as recited in Claim 1, wherein said coaxial cable includes at least two center conductors, said center conductors being disposed in spaced parallel relation with each other.

10. A connector as recited in Claim 3, wherein said means for seizing said center conductor includes a hollow conductive member disposed within said opening of said insulator, said means further including at least one spring contact disposed within said hollow conductive member.

11. A connector as recited in Claim 1, wherein said coaxial cable is one of a spiral corrugated, corrugated and smooth-walled coaxial cable.

12. A connector as recited in Claim 2, wherein said transitional surface section is defined by at least one of a ramped and a curved configuration.

13. A connector for a coaxial cable end, said coaxial cable end comprising an exposed center conductor extending from a distal end, an exposed outer conductor extending over an axial portion adjacent said exposed center conductor and a dielectric layer disposed therebetween, said connector comprising: a connector body having opposing first and second ends and a center passageway defined therethrough, said center passageway having a first inner diameter and a different second inner diameter linked by a transitional section; an insulator disposed within said center passageway adjacent said first end of said connector; a compression sleeve movably connected to the second end of said connector body; a clamp disposed in relation to said compression sleeve and mounted for axial movement within said center passageway, said clamp having an external surface in contact with the interior surface of said center passageway and an internal surface that is configured for engagement with the center conductor of an engaged cable end; and a conductive member disposed in an axial opening of said insulator, said conductive member having at least one seizing element for seizing said center conductor, said compression sleeve being axially movable from said second end to said first end to cause said clamp and said conductive member to sequentially engage the outer and center conductors of said cable and in which seizure of said outer conductor occurs either before or after seizure of said center conductor.

14. A connector as recited in Claim 13, wherein said at least one seizing element includes a flexible collet portion formed at the end of said conductive member, said collet portion being initially disposed externally of said insulator.

15. A connector as recited in Claim 14, including a drive element disposed between said conductive member and axially movably engageable by said clamp, wherein said drive element engages and forces said collet section into said insulator opening to cause seizure of said center conductor.

16. A connector as recited in Claim 13, wherein said means for seizing the center conductor includes a plurality of spring contacts disposed within an opening of said conductive member.

17. A connector as recited in Claim 13, wherein said clamp seizes said outer conductor before said inner conductor is seized.

18. A connector as recited in Claim 13, wherein said clamp seizes said outer conductor after said inner conductor has been seized.

19. A connector as recited in Claim 13, wherein said coaxial cable is one of corrugated, spiral corrugated and smooth-walled coaxial cable.

20. A coaxial cable connector for terminating a prepared coaxial cable end, said connector comprising: a connector body having a first end, a second end and a center passageway between said first and second ends; a compression sleeve mounted for axial movement at said first end of said connector body; an insulator disposed in said center passageway, said insulator being disposed adjacent said second end of said connector body; means for seizing an outer conductor of said prepared cable end; and means for seizing a center conductor of said prepared cable end, said means for seizing a center conductor including a plurality of seizing elements radially disposed within a conductive member, said conductive member being disposed within an opening of said insulator, said center conductor engaging said spring contacts when advanced a predetermined distance into said conductive member.

21. A connector as recited in Claim 20, wherein said conductive member is a conductive pin having an opening sized to receive said center conductor.

22. A connector as recited in Claim 21, wherein said spring contacts include a plurality of circumferentially spaced leaf springs extending from an interior surface of said opening.

23. A connector as recited in Claim 22, wherein said means for seizing said outer conductor includes a clamp engaged for axial movement by said compression sleeve, said center passageway including a transitional surface between a first diametral section and a second diametral section.

24. A connector as recited in Claim 23, wherein said coaxial cable is one of a spiral corrugated, corrugated and smooth-walled coaxial cable.

25. A connector as recited in Claim 23, wherein said clamp includes a plurality of slots provided in an outer portion.

26. A connector as recited in Claim 20, wherein said outer conductor is seized contemporaneously with the seizure of said center conductor.

27. A connector as recited in Claim 20, wherein said outer conductor is seized prior to the seizure of said center conductor.

28. A connector as recited in Claim 20, wherein said outer conductor is seized after the seizure of said center conductor.

29. A connector as recited in Claim 20, wherein said conductive member is fixedly disposed within said insulator.