Multi-conductor cable connector having more than one coaxial cable and method thereof

A multi-conductor cable connector for coaxial cables is provided, the connector including a cable connection portion, wherein the cable connection portion receives a prepared multi-conductor cable having a plurality of conductive strands concentrically sharing a common central axis, and a multi-contact portion coupled to the cable connection portion, the multi-contact portion having a plurality of contacts non-concentrically aligned with the cable connection portion. The connector may also include elements configured to seize the coaxial cables, such as posts, a clamping element and a fastening member. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided. In one embodiment three contacts may be used with one of them electrically connected to the outer conductors of two coaxial cables while the other two contacts are to be electrically connected to center conductors of the two cables.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The following relates to multi-conductor communications, and more specifically to embodiments of a multi-conductor cable connector having more than one coaxial cable.

BACKGROUND

Traditional connectors for balanced audio cables, DMX lighting cables, mains power cables, and speaker cables have terminals/contacts which are non-coaxial and typically are connected to wire by soldering, set screw, or clamp. Often, multi-conductor cables have a pair of twisted wires surrounded by a braided shield. Common multi-conductor cable connectors utilize multiple electrically isolated terminals/contacts corresponding to the multiple conductive strands of the multi-conductor cable. Typically, each of the conductive strands of a multi-conductor cable is soldered to respective terminals/contacts of a corresponding common multi-conductor cable connector. Using a multi-conductor cable, such as a triaxial cable and a specially formed connector to effect proper alignment can avoid the hassles and problems associated with soldering; however, multi-conductor cables are somewhat inflexible and require the use of non-standard trimming tools which adds to the difficulty in preparing the multi-conductor cable, and adds to the complexity of the specially formed connectors.

Thus, a need exists for an apparatus and method for efficiently ensuring proper connection of the multiple conductive strands while maintaining the benefits of a coaxial cable, such as ease of preparation and RF shielding properties.

SUMMARY

A first general aspect relates to a multi-conductor cable connector comprising a cable connection portion, wherein the cable connection portion receives at least two prepared coaxial cables each having a plurality of conductive strands concentrically sharing a common central axis; and a multi-contact portion coupled to the cable connection portion, the multi-contact portion having a plurality of contacts non-concentrically aligned with the cable connection portion.

A second general aspect relates to a multi-conductor cable connector comprising a first post configured to receive a first prepared coaxial cable; a second post configured to receive a second prepared coaxial cable; a clamping element configured to seize the received first and second prepared coaxial cables; and a connector body disposed over the first post and the second post, wherein the connector body is in electrical communication with at least one conductive strand layer of the first and the second prepared coaxial cable to extend a shield through the connector; wherein the connector body surrounds a plurality of non-concentrically aligned electrical contacts.

A third general aspect relates to a multi-conductor cable connector device comprising: a first post, configured for receiving a portion of a first prepared coaxial cable, the first prepared coaxial cable having a center conductive strand and a conductive strand layer concentrically sharing a common central axis; a second post, configured for receiving a portion of a second prepared coaxial cable, the second prepared coaxial cable having a center conductive strand and a conductive strand layer concentrically sharing a common central axis; a clamping element configured to seize the first and second prepared coaxial cables; a connector body disposed over the first post and the second post; and a conductive member disposed within the connector body, the conductive member having a first opening for receiving a first electrical contact, a second opening for receiving a second electrical contact, and a third opening for receiving a third electrical contact; wherein the second electrical contact electrically communicates with the center conductive strand of the first coaxial cable to extend a first continuous electrical path through the connector, and the third electrical contact electrically communicates with the center conductive strand of the second coaxial cable to extend a second continuous electrical path through the connector.

A fourth general aspect relates to a multi-conductor cable connector comprising: a cable connection portion, wherein the cable connection portion receives at least two prepared coaxial cables having a plurality of conductive strands concentrically sharing a common central axis; a plurality of non-concentrically aligned electrical contacts; and means for coupling the plurality of non-concentrically aligned contacts to the cable connection portion to extend more than one continuous electrical path through the connector.

A fifth general aspect relates to a method of forming a multi-conductor cable connection, the method comprising providing a multi-conductor cable connector, the multi-conductor cable connector including: a cable connection portion, wherein the cable connection portion receives at least two prepared coaxial cable having a plurality of conductive strands concentrically sharing a common central axis; and a multi-contact portion coupled to the cable connection portion, the multi-contact portion having a plurality of contacts non-concentrically aligned with the cable connection portion; and mating the multi-conductor cable connector with a separate device having a corresponding plurality of mating electrical contacts to complete the electrical connection.

The foregoing and other features of construction and operation will be more readily understood and fully appreciated from the following detailed disclosure, taken in conjunction with accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A detailed description of the hereinafter described embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures. Although certain embodiments are shown and described in detail, it should be understood that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The scope of the present invention will in no way be limited to the number of constituting components, the materials thereof, the shapes thereof, the relative arrangement thereof, etc., and are disclosed simply as an example of embodiments of the present invention.

Referring to the drawings,FIG. 1Adepicts an embodiment of a multi-conductor cable100including embodiments of a multi-contact portion113and a cable connection portion114. The multi-conductor cable connector embodiment100may be a male connector101.FIG. 1Bdepicts an embodiment of a multi-conductor cable200having embodiments of a multi-contact portion213and a cable connection portion214. The multi-conductor cable connector embodiment200may be a female connector102. As depicted inFIG. 1A, connector100may include a multi-contact portion113coupled to the cable connection portion114. In one embodiment of a multi-conductor cable connector100, the multi-contact portion113may be coupled to the cable connection portion114in coaxial union (e.g. connected at an angle of 0° or) 180° with the cable connection portion114. In another embodiment, the multi-contact portion113may be coupled to the cable connection portion114by the use of an additional structural element. In still another embodiment, the multi-contact portion113may be partially coupled coaxially to the cable connection portion114. In still yet another embodiment, the multi-contact portion113may be connected to the cable connection portion114at an angle other than 0° or 180°.

A multi-conductor cable connector embodiment100has a first end1and a second end2, and can be provided to a user in a preassembled configuration to ease handling and installation during use. Multi-conductor cable connector100may be a XLR connector, XLR3 connector, any XLR-type connector, 3-contact connector, and the like. Embodiments of the connector100may have a cable connection portion114. Embodiments of multi-conductor cable connector100,200,300may include a cable connection portion114,214,314wherein the cable connection portion114,214,314receives at least two prepared coaxial cables10a,10beach having a plurality of conductive strands14a,14bconcentrically sharing a common central axis, and a multi-contact portion113,213,313coupled to the cable connection portion114,214,314the multi-contact portion113,213,313having a plurality of contacts110,120,130,210,220,230,310,320non-concentrically aligned with the cable connection portion114,214,314. The means for coupling the plurality of non-concentrically aligned contacts110,120,130,210,220,230,310,320to the cable connection portion114,214,314to extend more than one continuous electrical path through the connector100,200,300may include various embodiments disclosed herein, including the cable connection portion114,214,314coupled to a multi-contact portion113,213,313, configured to receive at least two coaxial cables10a,10b.

Referring now toFIG. 2, the cable connection portion114of a multi-conductor cable connector100may be operably affixed to a prepared end of at least two coaxial cables10a,10bso that the coaxial cables10a,10bare securely attached to the cable connection portion114. Coaxial cables10a,10bmay be the same or substantially the same type of coaxial cable design; however, embodiments of coaxial cables10a,10bmay be of different coaxial cable designs (e.g. different sizes, etc). The coaxial cables10a,10bmay each include a center conductive strand18a,18b, surrounded by an interior dielectric16a,16b; the interior dielectric16a,16bmay possibly be surrounded by a conductive foil layer15a,15b; the interior dielectric16a,16b(and the possible conductive foil layer15a,15b) is surrounded by a conductive strand layer14a,14b; the first conductive strand layer14a,14bis surrounded by a protective outer jacket12a,12b, wherein the protective outer jacket12a,12bhas dielectric properties and serves as an insulator. The conductive strand layer14a,14bmay be the radially outermost conductive strand layer of the cables10a,10b. For instance, the conductive strand layer14a,14bmay extend a grounding/shielding path providing an electromagnetic shield about the center conductive strand18a,18bof the first and second coaxial cables10a,10b. The multiple prepared coaxial cables10a,10bmay be prepared by removing the protective outer jacket12a,12band drawing back the conductive strand layer14a,14bto expose a portion of the interior dielectric16a,16b(and possibly the conductive foil layer15a,15bthat may tightly surround the interior dielectric16a,16b) and center conductive strand18a,18b. The protective outer jackets12a,12bcan physically protect the various components of the coaxial cables10a,10bfrom damage which may result from exposure to dirt or moisture, and from corrosion. Moreover, the protective outer jackets12a,12bmay serve in some measure to secure the various components of the coaxial cables10a,10bin a contained cable design that protects the cables10a,10bfrom damage related to movement during cable installation. The conductive strand layers14a,14bcan be comprised of conductive materials suitable for carrying electromagnetic signals and/or providing an electrical ground connection or electrical path connection. The conductive strand layers14a,14bmay also be conductive layers, braided layers, and the like. Various embodiments of the conductive strand layers14a,14bmay be employed to screen unwanted noise. For instance, the first conductive strand layer14amay comprise a metal foil (in addition to the possible conductive foil) wrapped around the dielectric16a,16band/or several conductive strands formed in a continuous braid around the dielectric16a,16b. Combinations of foil and/or braided strands may be utilized wherein the conductive strand layers14a,14bmay comprise a foil layer, then a braided layer, and then a foil layer. Those in the art will appreciate that various layer combinations may be implemented in order for the conductive strand layers14a,14bto effectuate an electromagnetic buffer helping to prevent ingress of environmental noise or unwanted noise that may disrupt broadband communications. The dielectric16a,16bmay be comprised of materials suitable for electrical insulation. The protective outer jacket12a,12bmay also be comprised of materials suitable for electrical insulation. It should be noted that the various materials of which all the various components of the coaxial cables10a,10bshould have some degree of elasticity allowing the cables10a,10bto flex or bend in accordance with traditional broadband communications standards, installation methods and/or equipment. It should further be recognized that the radial thickness of each of the coaxial cables10a,10b, protective outer jackets12a,12b, conductive strand layers14a,14b, possible conductive foil layer15a,15b, interior dielectric16a,16band/or center conductive strand18a,18bmay vary based upon generally recognized parameters corresponding to broadband communication standards and/or equipment.

Referring now toFIGS. 3A-6B, embodiments of a cable connection portion114of multi-conductor cable100may include a first post40aconfigured to receive a first coaxial cable10a, a second post40bconfigured to receive a second coaxial cable10b, a clamping element70, a first insulator50a, a second insulator50b, and a fastener member60. Embodiments of a multi-conductor cable connector, such as embodiments100,200, may be fashioned so as to be either male or female. In other words, functional integrity and structural similarity of multi-contact connectability of the embodiments may be maintained, even if multi-conductor cable connector100was fashioned to be a female connector and multi-conductor cable connector200was fashioned to be a male connector. In particular, the cable connection portion114,214of connector embodiments100,200may share similar or substantially the same structural and/or functional aspects. Accordingly, embodiments of a cable connection portion214of multi-conductor cable connector200may include a first post40aconfigured to receive a first coaxial cable10a, a second post40bconfigured to receive a second coaxial cable10b, a clamping element70, a first insulator50a, a second insulator50b, and a fastener member60.

An embodiment of a cable connection portion114of connector100may include a first post40configured to receive a prepared portion of the first coaxial cable10a(or one of the at least two coaxial cables), and a second post40configured to receive a prepared portion of the second coaxial cable10b(or one of the at least two coaxial cables). The first post40aand the second post40bmay share the same structural and functional aspects; thus, the first and second post40a,40bis described as a singular component. However, those skilled in the requisite art should appreciate that connector100,200may include two or more posts for receiving two or more coaxial cables. The post40a,40bmay include a first end41a,41band an opposing second end42a,42b. Furthermore, the post40a,40bmay include a thicker portion45a,45bproximate or otherwise near the first end41a,41b, where the thickness of the post40a,40bis greater than other sections of the post40a,40b. The thicker portion45a,45bhas a first edge43aand a second edge44a,44b. The first and second edges43a,43b,44a,44bmay be perpendicularly aligned with the outer surface46a,46bof the post40a,40b, or may have any alignment or orientation that could provide a mating edge and/or surface for another component of the multi-conductor cable connector100,200. For example, the first and second edges43a,43b,44a,44bmay form a right angle with the surface46a,46bof the post40a,40b, or be a tapered surface to accommodate different shaped components. The first edge43a,43bmay be configured to make physical contact with a corresponding mating surface56a,56bof the first and second insulators50a,50b, respectively. For instance, the mating edge surface, such as first edge43a,43bof thicker portion45a,45bof the post40a,40bmay abut, contact, communicate, border, touch, press against, and/or adjacently join with a mating surface, such as mating edge56a,56b, of the respective insulators50a,50b. Furthermore, the thicker portion45a,45bof the post40a,40bmay be a raised portion, an annular extension, an oversized barrel portion, and the like, or may be a separate annular tubular member that tightly surrounds or generally substantially surrounds a portion of the post40a,40b, increasing the thickness of the post40a,40bfor that particular section.

Moreover, the post40a,40bshould be formed such that portions of a prepared coaxial cables10a,10b(as shown inFIGS. 5B and 6B) including the dielectric16a,16b(and possibly a conductive foil15a,15btightly surrounding the interior dielectric16a,16b), and center conductive strand18a,18bcan pass axially into the second42a,42band/or through a portion of the tube-like body of the post40a,40b. Moreover, the post40a,40bshould be dimensioned such that the post40a,40bmay be inserted into an end of the prepared coaxial cables10a,10b, around the surrounding the dielectric16a,16b(and possible conductive foil15a,15b) and under the protective outer jackets12a,12band the conductive strand layers14a,14b. Accordingly, where an embodiment of the post40a,40bmay be inserted into an end of the prepared coaxial cables10a,10bunder the drawn back conductive strand layer14a,14b, substantial physical and/or electrical contact with the conductive strand layer14a,14bmay be accomplished thereby facilitating electrical continuity through the post40a,40b. The post40a,40bmay be formed of metals or other conductive materials that would facilitate a rigidly formed post body. In addition, the post40a,40bmay be formed of a combination of both conductive and non-conductive materials. For example, a metal coating or layer may be applied to a polymer of other non-conductive material. Manufacture of the post40a,40bmay include casting, extruding, cutting, turning, drilling, knurling, injection molding, spraying, blow molding, component overmolding, or other fabrication methods that may provide efficient production of the component.

Referring still toFIGS. 3A-6B, an embodiment of a cable connection portion114of connector100may include a clamping element configured to seize, or otherwise clamp, the received first and second prepared coaxial cables10a,10b. Clamping element70may have a first end71, a second end72, an inner surface73, and an outer surface74. The clamping element70may be disposed around the received cables10a,10b. For example, the clamping element70may surround or partially surround the first and second coaxial cables10,10b, and the first and second post40a,40bconfigured to receive the cables10a,10b. The clamping element70may seize and/or clamp the received cables10a,10bfor operable alignment and/or positioning during compression by the fastener member60. For instance, the outer surface74clamping element70may provide a coopering engagement surface for the fastener member60to effectuate even compression of the connector100,200. In other words, the outer surface74of the clamping element70may cooperate with the inner surface63and ramped surface66of the fastener member60. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that various means to seize the coaxial cable10a,10bmay be implemented. Accordingly, the clamping element70may take various structural configurations to operably seize the cables10a,10b. Embodiments of the clamping element70may be a rubber or plastic grommet. For example, embodiments of the clamping element70may be a sleeved grommet disposed around the cables10a,10b. Additionally, the clamping element70may operably seize or otherwise clamp two or more coaxial cables10a,10bthat do not share a parallel or substantially parallel orientation. For example, a first coaxial cable10amay be received by clamping element70at a first angle/orientation, and a second coaxial cable10bmay be received by the clamping element70at a second, different angle orientation. The clamping element70may be formed of materials such as, polymers, bendable metals or composite materials that facilitate a semi-rigid, yet compliant component. Further, the clamping element70may be formed of conductive or non-conductive materials or a combination thereof. Manufacture of the clamping element70may include casting, extruding, cutting, turning, drilling, injection molding, spraying, blow molding, or other fabrication methods that may provide efficient production of the component.

Referring still toFIGS. 3A-6B, embodiments of a cable connection portion114of connector100,200may include a fastener member60. The fastener member60may have a first end61, opposing second end62, an inner surface63, and an outer surface64. In one embodiment, the fastener member60may be a compression ring or tubular cylindrical member. The fastener member60may be radially disposed over the clamping element70. For example, the outer surface74of the clamping element70may physically contact the inner surface63of the fastener member60. In addition, the fastener member60may comprise a central passageway65defined between the first end61and second end62and extending axially through the fastener member60. The central passageway65may comprise a ramped surface66proximate or otherwise near the second end62which may be configured to mate with outer surface74of the clamping element70. The ramped surface66may act to compress the outer clamping element70when the fastener member60is operated to secure at least two coaxial cables10a,10b. For example, the narrowing geometry will compress squeeze against the clamping element70and other components, when the fastener member60is compressed into a tight and secured position. The first end61of the fastener member60may extend an axial distance so that, when the fastener member60is compressed into sealing position, the fastener member or resides substantially within the connector body90. It should be recognized, by those skilled in the requisite art, that the fastener member60may be formed of conductive or non-conductive rigid materials such as metals, hard plastics, polymers, composites and the like, and/or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the fastener member60may be manufactured via casting, extruding, cutting, turning, drilling, injection molding, spraying, blow molding, component overmolding, combinations thereof, or other fabrication methods that may provide efficient production of the component.

In one embodiment, the manner in which the cable connection portion114may be fastened to the at least two coaxial cables10a,10bmay involve compaction of the clamping element70, for example, by operation of a fastener member60. For example, once received, or operably inserted into the connector100, the at least two coaxial cables10a,10bmay be securely set into position by compacting and deforming the outer surface74of clamping element70against the coaxial cables10a,10bthereby affixing the cable into position and sealing the connection. Compaction and deformation of the clamping element70may be effectuated by physical compression caused by a fastener member60, wherein the fastener member60constricts and locks the clamping element70into place.

Referring still toFIGS. 3A-6B, further embodiments of cable connection portion114may also include a first insulator50aconfigured to receive one of the electrical contacts, for example, the second electrical contact120,220, and a second insulator50bconfigured to receive an electrical contact, for example, the third electrical contact130,230. The first insulator50aand the second insulator50bmay share the same structural and functional aspects; thus, the first and second insulators50a,50bare described, in part as designated, as a singular component. However, those skilled in the requisite art should appreciate that connector100,200may include two or more insulators for receiving two more electrical contacts. The insulator50a,50bmay be a generally cylindrical member having an outwardly extending flange55a,55band a generally axial opening therethrough. The first insulator50amay be partially disposed within the second opening95bof the connector body90(or second opening34of the conductive member30) a distance until the bottom surface of the flange55acontacts the connector body90. The top surface of the flange55amay abut, contact, engage, etc., the first edge43aof the post40athat is disposed proximate the second opening95bof the connector body90(or the second opening34of the conductive member30). The first insulator50acan be press-fit within the opening95b(or34) to reduce or eliminate unwanted axial displacement within the opening. The second contact120,220may then pass axially through (or into) the first insulator50a. In other words, the first insulator50amay be radially disposed over the second contact120,220, wherein the first insulator50ais also axially disposed within the second opening95bof the connector body90(or opening34of the conductive member30). The axial opening through the first insulator50amay be sized to effectuate sufficient tightness, fitting, and/or tolerances with the second electrical contact120,220, while the first insulator50a(the body or the flange55a) may be sized to effectuate sufficient tightness, fitting, and/or tolerances within the opening95bof the connector body90(or opening34of the conductive member30). Similarly, the second insulator50bcan be press-fit within the opening95cof the connector body90(or opening35of the conductive member) to reduce or eliminate unwanted axial displacement within the opening95c,35. The third electrical contact130,330may then pass axially through (or into) the second insulator50b. In other words, the second insulator50bmay be radially disposed over the third electrical contact130,330, wherein the second insulator50bis also partially or fully axially disposed within the third opening95cof the connector body90(or opening35of the conductive member30). The axial opening through the first insulator50bmay be sized to effectuate sufficient tightness, fitting, and/or tolerances with the third electrical contact130,330, while the second insulator50b(the body or the flange55b) may be sized to effectuate sufficient tightness, fitting, and/or tolerances for the portion of the insulator50bwithin the opening95cof the connector body90(or opening35of the conductive member30.

Moreover, the first insulator50a,50bshould be made of non-conductive materials, such as an insulating material. Because the insulator50a,50bis made of insulating materials, the insulator50a,50bmay electrically isolate the electrical paths through the connector100,200. For example, the first insulator50amay electrically isolate the second electrical contact120,220or path from the conductive member30and either the first post40a(or the first conductive strand layer14a), while making physical contact with the connector body90(or the conductive member30) and the first post40a. The second insulator50bmay electrically isolate the third electrical contact130,330or path from the conductive member30and the second post40b(or second conductive strand layer14b), while making physical contact with the connector body90(or the conductive member30) and the second post40b. Manufacture of the insulator50a,50bmay include casting, extruding, cutting, turning, drilling, compression molding, injection molding, spraying, or other fabrication methods that may provide efficient production of the component.

As described herein above with respect to the cable connection portion114of embodiments of a multi-conductor cable connector100, similar structural and functional integrity may be maintained for similar component elements of a cable connection portion214of embodiments of a multi-conductor cable connector200. The various component elements of a cable connection portion114of a multi-conductor cable connector100, may be substantially similar in design and operability both separately and as assembled in a corresponding cable connection portion214of a multi-conductor cable connector device200.

Referring now to FIGS.3A and4-5B, embodiments of a multi-conductor cable connector100may include a multi-contact portion113. The multi-contact portion113may include a connector body90, a first contact110, a second contact120, and a third contact130. Multi-contact portion113may be any multi-conductor plug, such as an XLR, XLR3, any XLR type plug/cable, phone plug, audio plug, stereo plug, and the like.

Embodiments of a multi-contact portion113may include a connector body90. The connector body90may be in electrical communication with at least one of (or both) the conductive strand layer14a,14bof the first and second coaxial cables10a,10bto extend a continuous ground/shield through the connector100. The connector body90may have a first end91, a second end92, an inner surface93, and an outer surface94. The connector body90can have a generally axial opening from the first end91to a contact plate portion95, which includes a plurality of openings95a,95b,95c, and then another generally opening from the contact plate portion95to the second end92. In embodiments of the multi-contact portion113,213that include a separate conductive component, such as a conductive member30, to establish an electrical ground path, the inner diameter of the connector body90may be large enough to allow a conductive member30to pass axially through the second end92, or dimensioned such that the conductive member30may reside substantially within the connector body90proximate or otherwise near the second end92. Moreover, the connector body90may include an internal lip96located within the generally axial opening of the connector body90.

Moreover, the connector body90may include a plurality of openings95a,95b,95cconfigured to accommodate the plurality of electrical contacts110,120,130,210,220,230, and a portion of a first and second insulator50a,50b. For instance, the connector body90may include first opening95a, configured to receive a first electrical contact110,210. The contact between the first electrical contact110,210and the connector body90may extend a ground through the connector100,200. Embodiments of connector body90may include a second opening95b, configured to receive a portion of the first insulator50a, wherein the second electrical contact120,220enters the first insulator50a. The physical and electrical contact between the second electrical contact120,220(possibly via a first socket125) and the center conductive strand18aof the first coaxial cable10amay extend a first continuous electrical path through the connector100,200. Embodiments of the connector body90may include a third opening95c, configured to receive a portion of the second insulator50b, wherein the third electrical contact130,230enters the second insulator50b. The physical and electrical contact between the third electrical contact130,230(possibly via a second socket135) and the center conductive strand18bof the first coaxial cable10bmay extend a second continuous electrical path through the connector100,200. The plurality of openings95a,95b,95cmay be located on a portion of the connector body90, such as a contact plate95that extends radially inward towards a central axis of the connector100,200. The contact plate95is structurally integral with the connector body90, and may annularly extend around the inner surface93of the connector body90. In other words, a face, or surface, of the contact plate95may be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the inner surface93of the connector body90.

Furthermore, embodiments of the one or more openings95a,95b,95cof connector body90may have any orientation that may correspond with the structural positioning of the plurality of electrical contacts110,120,130, or210,220,230. Any of the openings95a,95b,95cmay be larger than the other. For example, the third opening95cmay have a larger diameter than the second opening95bto accommodate larger diameter contacts. Moreover, the connector100,200may have various non-concentric alignments of the electrical contacts110,120,130, or210,220,230. In one embodiment, the non-concentric alignment of the contacts110,120,130or210,220,230may resemble an isosceles or right triangle. Accordingly, the structural location of the openings95a,95b,95cof the connector body90may change to accommodate the various alignments of the plurality of electrical contacts, such as contacts110,120,130or210,220,230. Because there may be various non-concentric alignments of the contacts110,120,130, or210,220,230, the positioning of the openings95a,95b,95cmay vary. For example, in one embodiment, the second opening95band the third opening95care positioned in a side-by-side alignment. Because the first and second post40a,40bare in physical and electrical contact with the drawn back and exposed conductive strand layer14a,14b, respectively, the physical and electrical contact between at least one of (or both) the first post40a(e.g. thicker portion45a) and the second post40b(e.g. thicker portion45b) and the connector body90establishes and maintains a continuous electrical ground/shield path between the connector body90and at least one of (or both) the first post40aand the second post40a. Alternatively, physical and electrical contact between at least one of (or both) the conductive strand layers14a,14bof the first and second coaxial cables10a,10band the connector body90establishes and maintains a continuous electrical ground/shield path between the connector body90and at least one of (or both) the conductive strand layers14a,14bof the first and second coaxial cables10a,10b.

Furthermore, connector body90may include an annular recess97located proximate or otherwise near the first end91. The connector body90may also include a tapered surface98which resides proximate or otherwise near the outer annular recess97. The combination of the annular recess97and the second inner diameter may lead to a smaller thickness proximate or otherwise near the first end91than the thickness proximate the second end92. Moreover, an opening99,199may be located on the outer rim of the connector body90proximate or otherwise near the first end91. The opening99may accept, receive, engage, interact with a shaft-like spline of a female type connector to ensure that the male multi-conductor cable connector101twists, moves, rotates, etc. with a female multi-conductor cable connector102when movement occurs. The opening99,199may be a notch, groove, channel, and the like. Additionally, a portion of the first, second, and third contacts110,120,130may be located within the general axial opening of the connector body90, while the remaining portion of the contacts110,120,130may enter the cable connection portion114. The connector body90may be formed of conductive or non-conductive materials, or a combination of conductive and non-conductive materials. For example the outer or external surface94of the connector body90may be formed of a polymer, while the remainder of the connector body90may be comprised of a metal or other conductive material to extend a shield through the connector100,200. Specifically, physical contact between the conductive portion of the connector body90and the first and second post40a,40b(or conductive member30) may extend a continuous RF shield through the connector100,200. The connector body90can be formed of metals (or other suitable conductive material) or a combination of metals and polymers. Embodiments of connector body90may be a male connector body190or a female connector body290. The male connector body190may be substantially similar to the structure and function of embodiments of connector body90described supra.

With reference now toFIGS. 3B and 3C, embodiments of a cable connection portion114may include a conductive member30. The conductive member30may have a first surface31and a second surface32, wherein the first surface31faces the first end1of the connector100,200, and the second surface32faces the second end2of the connector100,200. The conductive member30may be disposed within a generally axial opening of the connector body90, proximate the second end92of the connector body90. While operably configured (i.e. connector in a compressed position), the conductive member30can physically contact the connector body90to extend a continuous ground/shield through connector100,200. Embodiments of conductive member30may engage an internal lip96of the connector body90to extend a RF shield through the connector100,200, as shown inFIG. 3C. Moreover, the conductive member30may include a plurality of openings configured to accommodate the plurality of electrical contacts110,120,130,210,220,230, a first and second insulator50a,50b, and/or a portion of the first and second post40a,40b. For instance, the conductive member30may include first opening33, configured to receive a first electrical contact110,210. The contact between the first electrical contact110,210and the conductive member30may extend a ground through the connector100,200. Embodiments of conductive member30may include a second opening34, configured to receive a first insulator50aand a portion of the first post40aproximate the first end41a, wherein the second electrical contact120,220enters the first insulator50a. The physical and electrical contact between the second electrical contact120,220(possibly via a first socket125) and the center conductive strand18aof the first coaxial cable10amay extend a first continuous electrical path through the connector100,200. Embodiments of the conductive member30may include a third opening35, configured to receive a second insulator50band a portion of the first post40bproximate the first end41b, wherein the third electrical contact130,230enters the second insulator50b. The physical and electrical contact between the third electrical contact130,230(possibly via a second socket135) and the center conductive strand18bof the first coaxial cable10bmay extend a second continuous electrical path through the connector100,200.

Furthermore, embodiments of the one or more openings33,34,35of conductive member30may have any orientation that may correspond with the structural positioning of the plurality of electrical contacts110,120,130, or210,220,230. Any of the openings33,34,35may be larger than the other. For example, the third opening35may have a larger diameter than the second opening34to accommodate larger diameter contacts. Moreover, the connector100,200may have various non-concentric alignments of the electrical contacts110,120,130, or210,220,230. In one embodiment, the non-concentric alignment of the contacts110,120,130or210,220,230may resemble an isosceles or right triangle. Accordingly, the structural location of the openings33,34,35of the conductive member30may change to accommodate the various alignments of the plurality of electrical contacts, such as contacts110,120,130or210,220,230. Because there may be various non-concentric alignments of the contacts110,120,130, or210,220,230, the positioning of the openings33,34,35may vary. For example, in one embodiment, the second opening34and the third opening35are positioned in a side-by-side alignment. To achieve various non-concentric alignments of the contacts110,120,130, or210,220,230the structural positions of the connector body90and the conductive member30may have to be correspondingly modified to accommodate different contact110,120,130, or210,220,230alignments.

Additionally, the conductive member30may include an outer edge mating surface36which faces the inner surface93of the connector body90. While operably configured, the mating surface36may abut, contact, communicate, border, touch, press against, and/or adjacently join with the inner surface93of the connector body90to extend an electrical path, such as a RF shield through the connector body90. Because the first and second post40a,40bare in physical and electrical contact with the drawn back and exposed conductive strand layer14a,14b, respectively, the physical and electrical contact between at least one of (or both) the first post40a(e.g. thicker portion45a) and the second post40b(e.g. thicker portion45b) and the conductive member30(e.g. thicker portion45apress-fit within second opening34and/or thicker portion45bpress-fit within the third opening35) establishes and maintains a continuous electrical ground/shield path between the conductive member30and at least one of (or both) the first post40aand the second post40a. Alternatively, physical and electrical contact between at least one of (or both) the conductive strand layers14a,14bof the first and second coaxial cables10a,10band the conductive member30establishes and maintains a continuous electrical ground/shield path between the conductive member30and at least one of (or both) the conductive strand layers14a,14bof the first and second coaxial cables10a,10ba. Moreover, the conductive member30should be formed of conductive materials. Manufacture of the conductive member30may include casting, extruding, cutting, turning, rolling, stamping, photo-etching, laser-cutting, water-jet cutting, and/or other fabrication methods that may provide efficient production of the component.

Referring now to FIGS.4A and6A-6B, embodiments of a multi-conductor cable connector200is depicted. The multi-conductor cable connector embodiment200may have several similar features with a multi-conductor cable connector embodiment100. However, the embodiment of a multi-conductor cable connector200may be a female connector102. As such, the multi-conductor cable connector200may include a female connector body290.FIG. 4Bdepicts an embodiment of female type connector201. Embodiments of connector201can include a female connector body290sharing some structure and function of the connector body90, but may include additional or different structural and/or functional aspects. For instance, the female connector body290of connector201may include a spline located on the outer surface294of the female connector body290to ensure cohesive and concurrent movement between the male and the female connector101,102. The female connector body290of connector201may also include a contact receiver240, and a securing means221. The contact receiver240may include a plurality of openings that may accept, accommodate, receive, support, and/or guide a plurality of contacts, such as the first, second, and third contacts110,120,130. In most embodiments, the plurality of openings may include a first receptive contact opening226, which corresponds to the first contact110, a second receptive contact opening227, which corresponds to the second contact120, and a third receptive contact opening228which corresponds to the third contact130. The orientation of the first, second, and third receptive contact openings226,227,228may correspond to the non-concentric alignment of the contacts110,120,130. The contact receiver240may be positioned within or substantially within the female connector body290proximate a first end291. In other words, the female connector body290may surround or substantially surround the contact receiver240. In one embodiment, the contact receiver240fits snugly within the female connector body290. The contact receiver240should be formed of non-conductive materials, such as rubber or other polymeric material. Manufacture of the contact receiver240may include casting, extruding, cutting, turning, drilling, compression molding, injection molding, spraying, or other fabrication methods that may provide efficient production of the component.

Furthermore, embodiments of the female connector body290of connector201may include a securing means221. Securing means221may be a latching mechanism having a latch arm223and latch head224. Securing means221may be any other securing means operable with a multi-conductor cable connector. Embodiments of latch head224may have a ramped surface(s) to releasably engage the male connector body190. A lock button225may be operably associated with the latch arm223and latch head224to releasably secure the male multi-conductor cable connector101to the female multi-conductor cable connector102. The lock button225may be exposed and/or accessible on the outer surface294of the female connector body290. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that securing means221may be a variety of securing means typically associated with multi-conductor cables, such as XLR type cables.

Referring back to FIGS.3A and5A-5B, embodiments of a multi-contact portion113may include a first contact110, a second contact120, and a third contact130. A contact may be a conductive element that may extend or carry an electrical current and/or signal from a first point to a second point. A contact may be a terminal, a pin, a conductor, an electrical contact, and the like. Contacts110,120,130may have various diameters, sizes, and may be arranged in any non-concentric alignment throughout the connector100. Furthermore, a contact, such as the first, second, and third contacts110,120,130may be both female and male. The male electrical contacts may include spikes, or similar pointed protrusion, which may be configured to insert into the center conductive strand18a, as depicted inFIG. 6B. In contrast, the female electrical contact may include sockets, or similar receptacle, which may be configured to receive an exposed, protruding center conductive strand18b, as depicted inFIG. 9. Thus, electrical contacts which are male and female may include a socket element at one end to receive, and a spike element at the opposing end. Furthermore, a first contact110may extend a continuous electrical ground path through the connector100. In one embodiment, a first end, or portion, of the first contact110may be positioned within the first opening95aof the connector body90(or opening33of the conductive member30) of the male connector101, and a second end, or portion, may be inserted into the first receptive contact opening226of the female connector102. A second contact120may extend a continuous electrical path through the connector100. In one embodiment, a first end, or portion, of the second contact120may be positioned within the second opening95bof the connector body90(or the opening34of the conductive member30of the male connector101, and a second end, or portion, may be inserted into the second receptive contact opening227of the female connector102. Moreover, a third contact130may extend a continuous electrical path through the connector100. In one embodiment, a first end, or portion, of the third contact130may be inserted through the third opening95cof the connector body90(or the third opening35of the conductive member30) of the male connector101, and a second end, or portion, may be inserted into the third receptive contact opening228of the female connector102.

With continued reference to the drawings,FIGS. 5A-5Bdepict embodiments of a multi-conductor cable connector100which includes a multi-contact portion113and a cable connection portion114. Coupling the cable connection portion114with the multi-conductor multi-contact portion113may provide a plurality of electrical paths through the connector100while avoiding the hassles and dangers of soldering separate wires associated with the conductors. For example, the cable connection portion114involves straightforward coaxial cable10a,10bpreparation (e.g. drawing back the jackets12a,12bof each of the plurality of coaxial cables) instead of soldering methods, saving time during installation, while also achieving high strength, low stress bonding to the contacts110,120,130of the connector100. Furthermore, the multi-conductor multi-contact portion113non-concentrically aligned with the cable connection portion114reduces the possibility of mis-wiring the contacts of the connector100because the order of termination of the contacts, such that the first, second, and third contacts110,120,130, are “hard-wired” into the cable connection portion114(i.e. no need to spend time repeatedly executing precautionary steps to avoid mistakes while soldering). Using a two or more coaxial cables10a,10butilizes the benefits of shielding from external interference or cross-talk, but does not require a special prep tool as a triaxial or similar cable requires. In addition, coaxial cables reduce the size of the connector compared to a connector utilizing a triaxial cable, and the coaxial cables are more flexible than a triaxial cable.

The electrical paths through the connector100,200are now further described with reference toFIG. 5B. A first electrical path or electrical ground path may be associated with the first contact110. The first and second coaxial cables10a,10binclude a conductive strand layer14a,14b, respectively, that carries an electrical current or signal, and may be drawn back and exposed, as depicted inFIGS. 2 and 9. While operably configured, the first and second post40a,40b, physically and electrically contacts the conductive strand layer14a,14bto extend a continuous electrical ground path between them. At least one of or both the first and second post40a,40bmay physically and electrically contact the connector body90(or a conductive member30) which may extend a continuous electrical ground path between them. Alternatively, at least one of or both the first and second conductive strand layers14a,14bmay physically and electrically contact the connector body90(or the conductive member30) which may extend a continuous electrical ground path between them. Moreover, an end of the first contact110physically and electrically contacts the connector body90(or the conductive member30) while inserted into the first opening95a(or first opening33). While in a mated position, as depicted inFIG. 7, the first contact110of a male connector101may be received by the first receptive contact opening226of the contact receiver240of a female connector102, extending a continuous electrical ground path therebetween.

A second electrical path through the connector100may be associated with a second contact120. A first coaxial cable10aof the two or more coaxial cables may include a center conductive strand18a, which carries an electrical current or signal, and may be surrounded by a dielectric16a, as depicted inFIG. 2. While operably configured, an end of the second electrical contact120is in electrical communication with the center conductive strand18a. In one embodiment, a spike of the contact120engages, pierces, pokes, etc., or pushes into the center conductive strand18a. In another embodiment, a first socket element125receives the center conductive strand18a, wherein the first socket125is press-fit or otherwise attached within the electrical contact120. While in a mated position, as depicted inFIG. 7, the second contact120of a male connector101may be received by the second receptive contact opening227of the contact receiver240of a female connector102, extending a continuous electrical path therebetween.

A third electrical path through the connector100may be associated with a third contact130. A second coaxial cable10bof the two or more coaxial cables may include a center conductive strand18b, which carries an electrical current or signal, and may be surrounded by a dielectric16b, as depicted inFIG. 2. While operably configured, an end of the third electrical contact130is in electrical communication with the center conductive strand18b. In one embodiment, a spike of the contact130engages, pierces, pokes, etc., or pushes into the center conductive strand18b. In another embodiment, a second socket element135receives the center conductive strand18b, wherein the second socket135is press-fit or otherwise attached within the electrical contact130, as depicted in. While in a mated position, as depicted inFIG. 7, the third contact130of a male connector101may be received by the third receptive contact opening228of the contact receiver240of a female connector102, extending a continuous electrical path therebetween.

Referring toFIG. 8, embodiments of a multi-conductor cable connector300may include a multi-contact portion313and a cable connection portion314; the multi-contact portion313may be coupled to the cable connection portion314. The cable connection portion314may receive one or more coaxial cables10a,10bas described supra. Embodiments of the cable connection portion314may be similar or substantially similar to the structure and function as provided for the embodiments associated with connector100,200.

However, connector300may include a multi-contact portion314having less than three electrical contacts, such as a connector having two electrical contacts. For example, a multi-contact portion313of a multi-conductor cable connector300may include a first contact310and a second contact320. In one non-limiting example, the first contact310and the second contact320may be banana plugs spaced apart from each other to correspond to a banana jack or banana receptacle on a speaker system. It should also be appreciated that a multi-contact portion of a multi-conductor cable connector may have more than three conductors, such as a connector having four electrical contacts. In embodiments having more than four electrical contacts, more than two coaxial cables may be received and utilized by a cable connection portion similar to the cable connection114as described herein

With reference toFIG. 9, connectors100,200,300may be configured to receive a first embodiment of a coaxial cable10a,10b, or receive a second embodiment of a coaxial cable11a,11b. The coaxial cable11a,11bmay share the same structure and features of coaxial cable10a,10b, except that coaxial cable11a,11bmay have a center conductive strand18a,18bwhich protrudes from the dielectric16a,16b. For instance, the center conductive strand18a,18bmay protrude and/or extend from the dielectric16a,16band enter a socket of a female type electrical contact. The coaxial cable11a,11bmay be prepared similar to the coaxial cable10a,10b, with further preparation of the coaxial cable11a,11bincluding stripping the dielectric16a(and potentially conductive foil layer) to expose a portion of the center conductive strand18a,18b.

Referring now toFIGS. 1-9, an embodiment of a method of forming a multi-conductor cable connector100,200,300connection is discussed. The method comprises a step of method of forming a multi-conductor cable connection, the method comprising: providing a multi-conductor cable connector100,200,300, the multi-conductor cable connector100,200,300including: a cable connection portion114,214,314, wherein the cable connection portion114,214,314receives at least two prepared coaxial cables10a,10bhaving a plurality of conductive strands14a,14bconcentrically sharing a common central axis; and a multi-contact portion113,213,313coupled to the cable connection portion114,214,314, the multi-contact portion113,213,313having a plurality of contacts110,120,130,210,220,230non-concentrically aligned with the cable connection portion114,214,314. An additional method step of forming a multi-conductor cable connector100,200,300includes mating the multi-conductor cable connector100,200,300with a separate device (not shown), the separate device having a corresponding plurality of mating electrical contacts (for mating with the contacts110,120,130or210220,230, or310,320,330), to complete the electrical connection, which completed electrical connection effectively extends through the embodiment of the multi-conductor cable connector100,200,300.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with the specific embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments of the invention as set forth above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims. The claims provide the scope of the coverage of the invention and should not be limited to the specific examples provided herein.