Coaxial cable distributor

A coaxial cable distributor, wherein three or more junction plugs (2) are fitted to the surface of a casing (1) having a hollow therein, the external contacts of the junction plugs (2) are electrically connected to each other through the casing (1), the center contacts of the junction plugs (2) are electrically connected to each other in the hollow of the casing (1), and at least two of the junction plugs (2) are rotated about the rotating axis in a direction orthogonal to the projected direction thereof from the surface of the casing (1) while maintaining the electrical connection between the external contacts and between the center contacts.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a technology effective to be applied to a coaxial cable distributor or a turnout for distributing signals transmitting a piece of coaxial cable into plural coaxial cables.

BACKGROUND ART

Heretofore, when a coaxial terminal such as a TV terminal provided on a wall surface and the like and plural TV receivers are connected by a coaxial cable, a distributor or an appliance called as a turnout is used.

In general, the distributor is fitted with three or more coaxial cable connecting terminals (hereinafter referred to as junction plug) comprising center contacts and cylindrical external contacts concentrically provided with the center contacts on a casing having a hollow therein. At this time, the casing is made of metal, and the external contacts of each junction plug are electrically connected to each other by the casing. Further, the center contacts are electrically connected to each other by printed circuit board and the like provided inside the hollow of the casing.

When the distributor is used, for example, one of the junction plugs and the TV terminal provided on the wall surface are connected by the coaxial cable, and the other junction plug provided in the distributor and the input terminal of the TV receiver are connected by the other coaxial cable. At this time, if the junction plugs provided in the distributor are three, since one junction plug is connected to the TV terminal on the wall surface, the remaining two junction plugs can be connected to two TV receivers.

Further, the turnout is also the same as the distributor, and is provided with several turnout point (output) junction plugs in addition to a pair of input junction plugs and output junction plugs.

The number of TV terminals provided on the wall surface and the like of the house is usually from one to several pieces for each room. Hence, when each TV terminal is connected to the terminal of each TV receiver, TV pictures can be watched only by the same number of TV receivers provided on the wall surface. On the contrary, in case a large number of TV receivers are installed in a room, the number of TV terminals on the wall surface must be increased according to the number of TV receivers installed.

Further, when the position of the TV terminal on the wall surface and the installation position of the TV receiver are kept away from each other, the laying of the coaxial cable tends to be complicated.

Hence, by using the coaxial distributor or the turnout, a large number of TV receivers can be installed. Further, by using the distributor or the turnout, the input terminals of plural TV receivers can be connected to the TV terminals in the vicinity, and the laying of the coaxial cable can be simplified.

Further, in addition to the case where an appliance such as the distributor or the turnout is used indoor as when the TV terminals and plural TV receivers are connected, the appliance is also used, for example, when the coaxial cable installed outdoor is led into plural rooms inside a building. At this time, the distributor or the turnout is, for example, fitted to the inside of a ceiling or the rear surface of the wall or the like, and one of the junction plugs is connected to the coaxial cable led from outdoor, and the coaxial cable connected to the remaining junction plugs is led to the walls of each room so as to be connected to the TV terminal fitted to each wall surface.

However, the junction plug of such a distributor fixes the external contact and the casing by screws and the like. That is, since the conventional distributor or the turnout is fixed in a leading direction of the connected coaxial cable, the distributor or the turnout matching with the leading direction of the coaxial cable must be selected. Hence, there has been a problem in that the conventional distributor or the turnout lacks a degree of freedom of the installation place, that is, versatility.

Further, when the coaxial cable is connected to the distributor or the turnout, it is usually after the distributor or the turnout are fitted to the wall surface, the floor surface, the ceiling, and the like that the coaxial cable is connected to the distributor or the turnout. At this time, when the junction plug provided in the distributor is protruded in parallel with the wall surface, there has been a problem in that operability is poor at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to the junction plug. Further, in case plural junction plugs come into line, when the interval between the junction plugs is narrow, there has been a problem in that operability is poor at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to the junction plug in the vicinity of the center.

Further, since the conventional distributor or turnout has the junction plug fixed to the casing, the leading direction of the connected coaxial cable is constant, and it is often the case that extreme bending is required for the laying of the cable. When the coaxial cable is extremely bent, however, there has been a problem in that noises tend to be generated due to change of characteristic impedance or central conductor and outer conductor become easily disconnected.

Consequently, an object of the present invention is to provide a technology capable of enhancing versatility of the coaxial cable distributor or the turnout.

Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a technology, which can enhance operability at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to the junction plug of the coaxial cable or the turnout.

Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a technology capable of preventing noises and the breaking of the coaxial cable due to extreme bending of the coaxial cable connected to the distributor or the turnout.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is configured by being fitted with three or more coaxial cable connecting terminals (hereinafter referred to junction plug) comprising center contacts and cylindrical external contacts concentrically provided with the center contacts on the surface of a casing having a hollow therein, wherein the external contacts of each junction plug are electrically connected to each other by the casing, and the center contacts are coaxial cable distributors electrically connected to each other inside the hollow of the casing, and from among the junction plugs, at least two junction plugs are the coaxial cable distributors rotating with a direction orthogonal to the projecting direction from the surface of the casing as an axis of rotation, while maintaining the electrical connection with the external contacts and the center contacts.

Further, the present invention is a coaxial cable distributor, wherein the external contact of the rotating junction plug is configured by a joint for connecting the outer conductor of the coaxial cable or the outer conductor of the plug provided on the top end of the coaxial cable, and a hinged end in which an opening to lead out a projection having a circular bottom and the center contact outside of the external contact is provided, and wherein the casing is provided with a support for supporting the projection provided in the hinged end of the external contact.

According to these coaxial cable distributors, if the junction plug is within a rotational range, it is possible to freely set the leading direction of the connected coaxial cable. At this time, for example, if the rotational ranges of two junction plugs provided in one surface of the casing are 180 degree, the coaxial cable connected to each junction plug can be led to the same direction, a vertical direction, an opposite direction, and the like. Hence, comparing with the conventional distributor, a degree of freedom (versatility) of the installation place and the like can be enhanced.

Further, since the junction plug is rotated, after the coaxial cable distributor is fitted to the wall surface and the like, the coaxial cable can be connected, for example, in a state in which the junction plug is directed vertically to the wall surface and the like. Hence, operability is enhanced at the time of connecting the coaxial cable. Further, since the junction plug is rotated, for example, even when plural junction plugs are lined up, desired junction plugs alone are directed in a separate direction, so that the coaxial cable can be connected. Hence, even in case the interval between the junction cables is narrow, operability is good at the time of connecting the coaxial cable.

Further, since the junction plug is rotated and the leading direction of the coaxial cable can be changed, a degree of bending of the coaxial cable connected to the junction plug can be reduced. Hence, generation of noises and disconnection of the cable due to bending of the coaxial cable can be prevented.

At this time also, a shape of the casing of the coaxial cable, the total number of junction plugs and the number of rotating junction plugs, and a direction of the axis of rotation and rotational angle range of the rotating junction plug can be selected variously.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

To explain the present invention more in detail, a description will be made on the invention in accordance with the accompanying drawings.

In all the drawings for explaining the embodiments, the same reference numerals will be attached to the components having the same functions, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The present invention is configured to be fitted with three or more coaxial cable connecting terminals (hereinafter referred to junction plug) comprising center contacts and cylindrical external contacts concentrically provided with the center contacts on the surface of a casing having a hollow therein, wherein the external contacts of each junction plug are electrically connected to each other by the casing, and the center contacts are coaxial cable distributors electrically connected to each other inside the hollow of the casing, and from among the junction plugs, at least two junction plugs are the coaxial cable distributors , which rotate with a direction orthogonal to the projecting direction from the surface of the casing as an axis of rotation, while maintaining the electrical connection with the external contacts and the center contacts.

First Embodiment

FIGS. 1 to 12are schematic illustrations showing a schematic structure of the coaxial cable of a first embodiment according to the present invention, andFIG. 1(a) is a top plan view of the distributor, andFIG. 1(b) is a front view ofFIG. 1(a), andFIG. 1(c) is a left side view ofFIG. 1(b), andFIG. 2(a) is a front view showing a schematic structure of a junction plug, andFIG. 2(b) is a top view ofFIG. 2(a), andFIG. 2(c) is a view showing the internal structure of the junction plug and is a view seen from the line A to A′ ofFIG. 2(b), andFIG. 2(d) is a schematic illustration showing the internal structure of the junction plug and is a view seen from the line B to B′ ofFIG. 2(b),FIG. 3is a front view showing the internal structure of the distributor, andFIG. 4is a left side view showing the internal structure of the distributor, andFIG. 5is a front view showing the structure of a casing, andFIG. 6is a bottom view ofFIG. 5, andFIG. 7(a) is a top view showing the structure of a first junction plug fixing bracket, andFIG. 7(b) is a front view ofFIG. 7(a), andFIG. 7(c) is a right side view ofFIG. 7(b), andFIGS. 8(a) and8(b), andFIGS. 9(a) and9(b) are views for explaining a fitting method of the junction plug using the first junction plug fixing bracket, andFIG. 10(a) is a top view showing the structure of a second junction plug fixing bracket, andFIG. 10(b) is a front view ofFIG. 10(a), andFIG. 10(c) is a right side view ofFIG. 10(b), andFIGS. 11(a) and11(b), andFIGS. 12(a) and12(b) are views for explaining a fitting method of the second junction plug fixing bracket.

The coaxial cable distributor of the present first embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 1(a),1(b), and1(c), is fitted with five connecting terminals2(hereinafter referred to as junction plug) comprising center contacts and cylindrical external contacts concentrically provided with the center contacts on the surface of a metal made casing1. At this time, the casing1is provided with a step1C in a staircase pattern on a second surface1B contacting a first surface1A fitted with three junction plugs2, and the remaining two junction plug2are fitted to the step1C.

Further, an external contact201of the junction plug2, as shown inFIGS. 2(a),2(b),2(c), and2(d), is configured by an outer conductor of the coaxial cable or a joint201A for connecting an outer conductor of the plug fitted to the coaxial cable and a hinged end201B which becomes a support point of the rotation of the junction plug2. At this time, the hinged end201B is provided with a projection201C with a circular bottom. Further, the hinged end201B is provided with an opening for leading a center contact202A provided inside the joint201A outside of the external contact201. In the present first embodiment, the junction plug2is a female type, and the center contact202A, as shown inFIGS. 2(c) and2(d), is configured by a spring conductor, and a contact pin202B is inserted from the opening provided in the hinged end201B, and is connected to the center contact202A. Further, at this time, the center contact202A is supported in the center axis vicinity of the joint201A by a first bush203A and a second bush203B. Further, the portion connected with the center contact202A of the contact pin202B is supported on the axis passing through the center of the bottom face of each projection201C by a first spacer204A and a second spacer204B.

Further, the casing1has a hollow therein, and the five junction plugs2, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, have the external contacts201electrically connected to each other by the casing1. At this time, the external contact201and the casing1are connected so as to support the projection201C provided in the hinged end201B of the external contact201. Further, at this time, the joint between the casing1and the projection201C is fixed by a junction plug fixing bracket3.

Further, the center contacts202A are connected to each other by connecting the contact pins202B provided in each junction plug2to a printed circuit board4provided in the hollow of the casing1. At this time, the casing1is opened in the surface of one direction, and into this opened surface, the printed circuit board4is inserted, and the conductor patterns of the contact pin202B and the printed circuited board4are soldered, and after that, the opened surface is fitted with a back cover5.

Further, at this time, the casing1, as shown inFIGS. 5 and 6, is provided with a bearing1D for supporting the projection201C provided in the external contact201. Further, within the casing1, the portion to be fitted with the junction plug2is provided with a window1E opened in two or three directions.

The projection201C of the external contact201is borne by the bearing1D, and as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, the junction plug fixing bracket3is fitted to the casing1, so that the external contact2can be rotated with the projection201C of the hinged end as an axis of rotation.

Within the junction plug fixing bracket3, a bracket (hereinafter referred to as a first junction plug fixing bracket)3A, which fixes a junction plug2fitted to the first surface1A of the casing1, as shown inFIGS. 7(a),7(b), and7(c), is provided with a bearing301A which bears the projection201C of the external contact on two sides in parallel to a U shaped bracket. Further, the top end of a side provided with the bearing301A is provided with a projection302A. The projection302A, for example, as shown inFIG. 5, is a projection to be fitted into a groove1F. Further, a portion connecting each side in which the bearing301A is provided is provided with a screw cramp303A to be connected to the casing1.

When the junction plug2is fitted to the casing1by using the first junction plug fixing bracket3A, as shown inFIGS. 8(a) and8(b), andFIGS. 9(a) and9(b), the joint201A of the junction plug2is inserted into the window1E of the casing1, and the projection201C of the hinged end is borne by a bearing1D of the casing1. After that, the projection302A of the first junction plug fixing bracket3A is fitted into the groove1F of the casing1, and the projection201C of the hinged end is borne by the bearing301A, and the screw cramp303A is screwed, so that the projection201C of the external contact201is supported and fixed, and at the same time, the junction plug2can be rotated with the projection201C as an axis of rotation.

Further, a junction plug fixing bracket (hereinafter referred to as a second junction plug fixing bracket)3B, which supports and fixes the junction plug2fitted to the step1C of the casing1, as shown inFIGS. 10(a),10(b), and10(c), is provided with the bearing301B which bears the projection201C of the external contact on one surface of the metal plate. Further, the outside of the bearing301A of the plate is provided with, for example, a screw hole302B for fixing the second junction plug fixing bracket3B to the casing1and a hole303B for allowing the contact pin202B led from the junction plug2to pass through.

When the junction plug2is fitted to the casing1by using the second junction plug fixing bracket3B, as shown inFIGS. 11(a),11(b), and12(a) and12(b), the joint201A of the junction plug2is inserted into the window1E of the casing1, and the projection201C of the hinged end is borne by the bearing1D of the casing1. After that, the second junction plug fixing bracket3B is fitted into the casing1so that the contact pin202B of the junction plug2passes through the hole303B, and the projection201C of the hinged end of the junction plug2is borne by the bearing301B, and the screw cramp302B is screwed, whereby the projection201C of the external contact201is supported and fixed. At the same time, with the projection201C as an axis of rotation, the junction plug2can be rotated.

FIGS. 13 to 16are schematic illustrations for explaining the operation effect of the coaxial cable distributor of the present first embodiment.FIGS. 13(a) and13(b) are views for explaining the rotational range of the junction plug.FIG. 14(a) is a view for explaining one example of usage method.FIG. 14(b) is a top view ofFIG. 14(a).FIGS. 15(a),15(b),15(c), and16(a) are views for explaining another example of usage method, respectively.FIG. 16(b) is a right side view of the distributor ofFIG. 16(a). The arrow mark shown in each ofFIGS. 14(b),15(a),15(b),15(c), and16(b) is an arrow mark showing a transmitting direction of signals.

The coaxial cable distributor of the present first embodiment, as explained along withFIGS. 2 to 12, allows the projection201C provided in the external contact201of the junction plug2to be borne and supported and fixed by the bearings301A and301B, which are provided in the bearing1D of the casing1and the junction plug fixing bracket3. Further, at this time, within the casing1, the window1E provided in the step1C is opened in three directions, and the window1E provided in the first surface1A is opened in two directions. Hence, the junction plug2fitted to the step1C of the casing1, as shown inFIG. 13(a), can be rotated 180 degree with the projection201C as an axis of rotation. Further, the junction plug2fitted to the first surface1A of the casing1, as shown inFIG. 13(b), can be rotated 90 degree with the projection201C as an axis of rotation.

After the coaxial cable distributor of the present first embodiment is fitted to the wall surface and the like, when the coaxial cables are connected to the junction plug2, for example, as shown inFIGS. 14(a) and14(b), all the coaxial cables7can be led out in a direction parallel with the surface6fitted with the distributor. At this time, the connection end of each coaxial cable7can be changed as occasion demands, and for example, as shown inFIG. 14(b), from among three junction plugs provided in the first surface1A of the casing1, the center junction plug can be taken for use of an input, and the remaining four junction plugs can be taken for use of an output.

Further, in the coaxial cable distribute of the present first embodiment, in addition to the method shown inFIGS. 14(a) and14(b), for example, as shown inFIG. 15(a), one of the junction plugs provided in the step1C of the casing1can be directed to a direction vertical to the surface6fitted with the distributor. Besides, for example, as shown inFIG. 15(b), one of the junction plugs provided in the first surface1A of the casing1can be also directed to the direction vertical to the surface6fitted with the distributor. Further, at this time, since each junction plug2can be rotated individually, as shown inFIGS. 14(a) and14(b), even when all the junction plugs2are directed to the same direction, only when the coaxial cable7is connected to each junction plug2as shown inFIGS. 15(a) and15(b), the direction of the junction plug2is changed, and therefore, operability can be enhanced at the time of connecting the coaxial cable7.

Further, since the junction plug2provided in the step1C of the casing1can be rotated 180 degree, as shown inFIG. 15(c), the coaxial cable7connected to the junction plug provided in the step1C can be led in a direction reverse to the leading direction of the coaxial cable7connected to the junction plug provided in the first surface1A of the casing1.

Further, in addition to this, for example, as shown inFIGS. 16(a) and16(b), in case a surface8vertical to a surface6in which the distributor is installed is in the vicinity of the distributor, the coaxial cable7connected to the junction plug2can be also led in a direction vertical to the surface6in which the distributor is installed.

If the coaxial cable distributor of the present first embodiment, in addition to other examples as shown inFIGS. 14 to 16, has each junction plug in a rotational range, it goes without saying that the leading direction of each coaxial cable7connected to each junction plug can be freely set.

For example, the junction plug2can be rotated, while maintaining mutual electrical connections between the external contacts201and the center contacts202A. Hence, the coaxial cables7connected to each junction plug2can be put in a state not only parallel or vertical to the surface6installed with the distributor, but also, for example, in a state declined 45 degree.

As described above, according to the coaxial cable distributor of the present first embodiment, since the junction plug2fitted to the casing1can be rotated, a degree of freedom of the leading direction of the coaxial cable is enhanced. Hence, comparing to the conventional distributor, its versatility is enhanced.

Further, since the junction plug2can be rotated, in case a distance between the surface fitted with the distributor such as a wall surface and the like and the junction plug2is short, and even in case plural junction plugs are lined up and the interval between the junction plugs is narrow, operability is good at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to the junction plug2.

Further, since the junction plug2is rotated, the bending of the coaxial cable connected to the junction plug2can be kept to a minimum. Hence, generation of noises and breaking of the cable due to the bending of the coaxial cable can be prevented.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 17is a schematic illustration showing a schematic structure of a coaxial cable distributor of a second embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 17(a) is a top view of the distributor, andFIG. 17(b) is a front view ofFIG. 17(a).

The coaxial cable distributor of the present second embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 17(a) and17(b), are fitted with three terminals (hereinafter referred to as junction plug)2connecting the coaxial cable on a surface of a metallic casing1having a hollow therein. Since the structure of each junction plug2is the same as the junction plug2as described in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

Further, the coaxial cable distributor of the present second embodiment is, for example, a distributor used by being fitted to a ceiling or a floor corner (corner portion), and the casing1, as shown inFIG. 17(a), has a shape such as providing a flat surface (hereinafter referred to as a third surface)1G by cutting an apex angle of an isosceles triangle. Further, the interior of the casing1is provided with a hollow, and this hollow is provided with a printed circuit board for electrically connecting the center contacts (contact pin) of each junction plug to each other. Further, at this time, since each junction plug2, for example, may be fixed to the casing1by using the first junction plug fixing bracket3A as described in the first embodiment, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Further, at this time, in the coaxial cable distributor of the present second embodiment, different from the first embodiment, if a portion fitted with the junction plug2of the casing1is provided with a window opened in three directions, as shown inFIG. 17(b), each junction plug2can be rotated 180 degree.

FIGS. 18 to 20are schematic illustrations for explaining an example of usage method of the coaxial cable distributor of the present second embodiment.FIGS. 18(a) and18(b) are views for explaining a first usage example, andFIGS. 19(a) and19(b) are views for explaining a second usage example, andFIGS. 20(a) and20(b) are views for explaining a third usage example.

In case the coaxial cable distributor of the present second embodiment, for example, as shown inFIGS. 18(a) and18(b), fits the distributor on the corner of the ceiling9, a pass through hole9A is provided in the ceiling9, and one piece of the junction plug2is connected to the coaxial cable7laid down in the rear side of the ceiling9, and the coaxial cable7connected to the remaining two junction plugs can be connected to the terminals of the indoor TV receivers and the like. At this time, the coaxial cable7at the indoor side, for example, as shown inFIGS. 18(a) and18(b), can be allowed to crawl along the joints of the walls8A and8B of the ceiling9. Further, at this time, similarly to the conventional distributor, when the junction plug2is fixed to the casing1, operability is poor at the time of connecting the coaxial cable7to the junction plug2. In the meantime, in case of the distributor of the present second embodiment, since the junction plug2can be rotated, when the coaxial cable7is connected, the junction plug2can be directed in a direction vertical to the ceiling9, that is, in a normal direction of the ceiling9, and therefore, operability can be enhanced at the time of connecting the coaxial cable7.

Further, though the illustration is omitted, since the junction plug2connected with the coaxial cable7of the indoor side can be also directed in a normal direction of the ceiling9, even when one or both sides of the coaxial cable7of the indoor side are desired to crawl along the joints of the walls8A and8B, the bending of the coaxial cable7can be kept to a minimum.

Further, when the coaxial cable distributor of the present second embodiment is used, not only the usage method as shown inFIGS. 18(a) and18(b) is followed, but also, for example, as shown inFIGS. 19(a) and19(b), and20(a) and20(b), each of the coaxial cable7connected to each junction plug2may be allowed to crawl along the joint of the ceiling9and the wall6A, the joint between the ceiling9and the wall6B, and the joint between the wall6A and the wall6B. In this case also, by allowing the junction plug2to rotate, the bending of the coaxial cable connected to each junction plug2can be kept to a minimum.

As described above, according to the coaxial cable distributor of the present second embodiment, since the junction plug2fitted to the casing1can be rotated, a degree of freedom of the leading direction of the coaxial cable connected to the junction plug2is enhanced. Hence, comparing to the conventional distributor, its versatility is enhanced.

Further, since the junction plug2can be rotated, in case a distance between the surface fitted with the distributor such as a wall surface and the junction plug2is short, and even in case plural junction plugs are lined up and the interval between the junction plugs is narrow, operability is good at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to the junction plug2.

Further, since the junction plug2is rotated, the bending of the coaxial cable connected to the junction plug2can be kept to a minimum. Hence, generation of noises and breaking of the cable due to the bending of the coaxial cable can be prevented.

Third Embodiment

FIGS. 21 and 22are schematic illustrations showing a schematic structure of a coaxial cable distributor of a third embodiment according to the present invention.FIG. 21(a) is a top plan view of the distributor, andFIG. 21(b) is a front view ofFIG. 21(a), andFIG. 21(c) is a left side view ofFIG. 21(b), andFIG. 21(d) is a right side view ofFIG. 21(b).FIG. 22(a) is a view showing the internal structure of the distributor, and,FIG. 22(b) is a view showing a structure of a junction plug fixing bracket.

A coaxial cable distributor of the present third embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 21(a) and21(b),21(c), and21(d), is fitted with four terminals (hereinafter referred to as junction plug)2for connecting a coaxial cable on the surface of a metal casing1. From among the junction plugs2, since three junction plugs2fitted to a first surface1A of the casing1are of the same structure as the junction plug2described in the first embodiment, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Since a junction plug2′ fitted to a second surface1B contacting the first surface1A of the casing1is of the same structure as the junction plug fitted to the conventional distributor, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Further, the casing1has a hollow therein, and the external contacts201of each junction plug2provided in the first surface1A of the casing1, as shown inFIG. 22(a), are electrically connected to each other by the casing1. At this time, the external contact201and the casing1are connected so as to support a projection201C provided in a hinged end of the external contact1. Further, at this time, a joint between the casing1and the projection201C is fixed by a junction plug fixing bracket3. The junction plug fixing bracket3, for example, as shown inFIG. 22(b), is provided with a bearing301C bearing each projection201C provided in the three junction plugs2and an opening303C allowing each contact pin202B to pass through on one surface of the metal plate. Since the fixing method at this time is the same as the fixing method by the second junction plug fixing bracket3B described in the first embodiment, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Further, the center contacts202A of each junction plug2provided in the first surface1A of the casing1are electrically connected to each other by connecting a contact pin202B provided in each junction plug2to a printed circuit board4provided in the hollow of the casing1. At this time, the casing1is opened in one surface direction, and from this opened surface, the printed circuit board4is inserted, and the conductor patterns of the contact pin202B and the printed circuit board4are soldered, and after that, the opened surface is fitted with a back cover5.

FIG. 23is a schematic illustration for explaining the operation effect of the coaxial cable distributor of the present third embodiment.

In the coaxial cable distributor of the present third embodiment, three junction plugs2provided on a first surface1A of the casing1, as shown inFIG. 23, can be rotated in the range of 180 degree, respectively. Hence, when the coaxial cable is connected to the junction plug2, all the cables can be led out in the same direction, and one or two cables can be led out in a reverse direction or in a vertical direction.

Further, in case the interval among three junction plugs provided on the first surface1A of the casing1is narrow, and as conventionally, when these plugs are fixed to the casing1, operability is poor at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to a center junction plug2. In the meantime, in case of the coaxial cable distributor of the present third embodiment, since the junction plug2is rotated, if the center junction plug2is directed in a direction different from the junction plugs at both sides, the coaxial cable can be easily connected. Further, when the coaxial cable connected to each junction plug2is led out also in a direction parallel with the surface fitted with the coaxial cable distributor, only when the coaxial cable is connected, the junction plug2can be directed in a direction vertical to the surface fitted with the distributor, and the coaxial cable can be easily connected.

As described above, according to the coaxial cable distribute of the present third embodiment, since the junction plug2fitted to the casing1can be rotated, a degree of freedom of the leading direction of the coaxial cable is enhanced. Hence, comparing to the conventional distributor, its versatility is enhanced.

Further, since the junction plug2can be rotated, in case a distance between the surface fitted with the distributor such as a wall surface and the like and the junction plug2is short, and also even in case plural junction plugs are lined up and the interval between the junction plugs is narrow, operability is good at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to the junction plug2.

Further, since the junction plug2is rotated, the bending of the coaxial cable connected to the junction plug2can be kept to a minimum. Hence, generation of noises and breaking of the cable due to the bending of the coaxial cable can be prevented.

FIGS. 24 and 25are schematic illustrations for explaining application examples of the coaxial cable distributor of the third embodiment.FIG. 24(a) is a front view showing an example of the distributor, andFIG. 24(b) is a right side view ofFIG. 24(a).FIG. 25is a view showing a usage example.

In the third embodiment, as shown inFIG. 21(b), while a distributor has been shown as an example, in which the second surface1B contacting the surface (first surface)1A provided with the rotating junction plugs2is provided with another junction plug2′, the embodiment is not limited to such an example, but as shown inFIGS. 24(a) and24(b), the embodiment may be a distributor provided with another junction plug10on the rear surface1H of the first surface1A. At this time, the junction plug10provided on the rear surface1H of the first surface is, for example, rendered a male type junction plug.

While the coaxial cable distributor described in the third embodiment is, for example, a distributor presumed to be used when the coaxial cable connected to the TV terminal provided on the indoor wall surface is distributed to the periphery of the TV receiver and the like, it is not limited to such a distributor, but for example, there exists a distributor which distributes directly from the TV terminal provided on the wall surface. At this time, since the TV terminal provided on the wall surface and the like is, in general, a male type terminal, the male type terminal is required for the distributor. Hence, if the rear surface1H of the surface provided with the rotating junction plug2of the casing1is provided with the male type junction plug10, as shown inFIG. 25, the male type junction plug10can be connected to a TV terminal11embedded inside the wall surface8, and then, the casing1can be fixed to the wall surface8as it is. That is, by using the distributor as shown inFIGS. 24(a) and24(b), one TV terminal embedded inside the wall surface8can be increased to three TV terminals. Further, at this time, since the three TV terminals, as described in the third embodiment, can be independently rotated 180 degree, respectively, the versatility thereof is high, and moreover, the connection of the coaxial cable is easy. Further, generation of noises and disconnection of the cable due to bending of the coaxial cable can be also prevented.

Fourth Embodiment

FIGS. 26 to 31are schematic illustrations showing a schematic structure of a coaxial cable distributor of a fourth embodiment according to the present invention.FIG. 26(a) is a top view of the distributor, andFIG. 26(b) is a front view ofFIG. 26(a), andFIG. 26(c) is a right side view ofFIG. 26(b).FIG. 27is a view showing the internal structure of the distributor.FIG. 28(a) is a fragmentary front view of a junction plug fitting of a casing, andFIG. 28(b) is a left side view ofFIG. 28(a), andFIG. 28(c) is a bottom view seen from the line C to C′ ofFIG. 28(a).FIG. 29(a) is a fragmentary front view of a junction plug fixing bracket, andFIG. 29(b) is a left side view ofFIG. 29(a), andFIG. 29(c) is a rear surface view ofFIG. 29(a).FIGS. 30(a) and30(b), andFIGS. 31(a) and31(b) are views for explaining a fitting method of the junction plug.

The coaxial cable distributor of the present fourth embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 26(a),26(b), and26(c), is fitted with five terminals (hereinafter referred to as junction plug)2for connecting a coaxial cable on the surface of a metal casing1. Further, three from among the junction plugs2are fitted on a first surface1A of the casing1, and the remaining two junction plugs are fitted on a second surface1B and a fourth surface11contacting the first surface1A for one each, respectively. Since the five junction plugs2have the same structure as the junction plugs2described in the first embodiment, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Further, the casing1has a hollow therein, and the external contacts201of each junction plug2, as shown inFIG. 27, are electrically connected to each other by the casing1. At this time, since the connecting method of the external contacts201of the junction plug2fitted to the first surface1A and the casing1is, for example, the same as that by the junction plug fixing bracket3(3C) described in the third embodiment, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Within the casing1of the coaxial cable distributor of the present fourth embodiment, a portion in which the junction plug2of the second surface1B is fitted, as shown in FIGS.28(a),28(b), and28(c), is provided with a bottom corresponding to a projection201C of the external contact of the junction plug2, that is, a bearing1D having a circular bottom. Further, a portion fitted with the junction plug2is provided with a window1E opened in three directions. Further, the second surface1B, as shown inFIG. 28(b), is provided with an opening1J to make it easy to fit the junction plug2.

Further, the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D) for fixing the junction plug2to be fitted to the second surface1B of the casing1, as shown inFIGS. 29(a),29(b), and29(c), is provided with a circular bearing301D and a screw hole302D to be fitted to the casing1. Further, one end of the junction plug fixing bracket3D is provided with a plate303D for blocking the opening1J of the casing1.

To fit the junction plug2on the second surface1B of the casing1by using the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D), as shown inFIGS. 30(a) and30(b), andFIGS. 31(a) and31(b), from among the projections201C provided in the external contact of the junction plug2, the projection from those in which the contact pin202B is not led out is borne by the bearing1D provided in the casing1. Further, the projection201C provided with the contact pin202B is borne by the bearing301D of the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D). At this time, if the bearing301D of the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D) is allowed to be penetrated, the contact pin202B and the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D) will not be brought into contact. In this state, if the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D) is fixed to the casing1by using the screw hole302D, the junction plug2can be rotated with the projection201C provided in the external contact as an axis of rotation. At this time, as shown inFIG. 30(a), if the window1E of the casing1is provided so as to be opened in three directions, the junction plug2can be rotated 180 degree. Further, at this time, by providing the opening1J in the casing1, it becomes easy to fit the junction plug2, but if the plug2is kept as it is, an electrical field (magnetic field) leaks from the opening1J. Hence, as shown inFIGS. 29(a),29(b), and29(c), the junction plug fixing bracket3D is provided with the plate303D, and by blocking the opening1J of the casing1by this plate303D, the leakage of the electrical field (magnetic field) can be prevented.

Further, when the junction plug2is fitted to a fourth surface1I of the casing1, since the fitting method may be the same as when it is fitted to the second surface1B, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Further, the casing1, as shown inFIG. 27, has an hollow provided therein, and the hollow is provided with a printed circuit board for electrically connecting the center contacts (contact pins) of each junction plug to each other. At this time, the casing1is opened in one surface direction, and from this opening, the printed circuit board4is inserted, and the conductor patterns of the contact pin202B and the printed circuited board4are soldered, and after that, the opened surface is fitted with a back cover5.

FIG. 32is a schematic illustration for explaining the operation effect of the coaxial cable distributor of the present fourth embodiment.FIG. 32(a) is a schematic illustration for explaining the operation of the junction plug fitted to the first surface of the casing, andFIG. 32(b) is a view for explaining the operation of the junction plug fitted to the second surface of the casing.

From among the coaxial cable distributors of the present fourth embodiment, the junction plug2fitted to the first surface1A of the casing1is, for example, the same as the junction plug2described in the third embodiment, and as shown inFIG. 32(a), can be rotated 180 degree with the projection201C as a point of support. Further, the junction plugs2fitted to the second surface1B and the third surface1I can be also, as shown inFIG. 32(b), rotated 180 with the projection201C as a point of support. Hence, a degree of freedom of the leading direction of the coaxial cable connected to each junction plug2is enhanced. Further, operability is good at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to each junction plug2.

As described above, according to the coaxial cable distributor of the present fourth embodiment, since the junction plug2fitted to the casing1can be rotated, a degree of freedom of the leading direction of the coaxial cable is enhanced. Hence, comparing to the conventional distributor, its versatility is enhanced.

Further, since the junction plug2can be rotated, in case a distance between the surface fitted with the distributor such as a wall surface and the like and the junction plug2is short, and even in case plural junction plugs are lined up and the interval between the junction plugs is narrow, operability is good at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to the junction plug2.

Further, since the junction plug2is rotated, the bending of the coaxial cable connected to the junction plug2can be kept to a minimum. Hence, generation of noises and breaking of the cable due to the bending of the coaxial cable can be prevented.

Fifth Embodiment

FIGS. 33 to 37are schematic illustrations showing a schematic structure of a coaxial cable distributor of a fifth embodiment according to the present invention.FIG. 33(a) is a top view of the distributor, andFIG. 33(b) is a front view ofFIG. 33(a), andFIG. 33(c) is a view showing the internal structure of the distributor.FIG. 34(a) is a fragmentary front view of a junction plug fitting of a casing, andFIG. 34(b) is a left side view ofFIG. 34(a), andFIG. 34(c) is a bottom view seen from the line D to D′ ofFIG. 34(a).FIG. 35(a) is a fragmentary front view of a junction plug fixing bracket, andFIG. 35(b) is a left side view ofFIG. 35(a), andFIG. 35(c) is a rear surface view ofFIG. 35(a). FIGS.36(a) and36(b), andFIGS. 37(a) and37(b) are views for explaining a fitting method of the junction plug.

The coaxial cable distributor of the present fifth embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 33(a) and33(b), is fitted with three terminals (hereinafter referred to as junction plug)2for connecting a coaxial cable on the surface of a metal casing1. At this time, two junction plugs are fitted to a first surface1A of the casing1, and the remaining one junction plug is fitted to a rear surface1H of the first surface1A. Further, since the two junction plugs2fitted to the first surface1A are of the same structure as the junction plugs described in the first embodiment, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Further, since a junction plug2′ fitted to the rear surface1H of the first surface is fitted to the casing by the same method as the conventional junction plug, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Further, the casing1has a hollow therein, and the external contacts201of each junction plug2, as shown inFIG. 33(c), are electrically connected to each other by the casing1.

Within the casing1of the coaxial cable distributor of the present fifth embodiment, a portion to which the junction plug2of the first surface1A is fitted, as shown inFIGS. 34(a),34(b), and34(c), is provided with a bottom corresponding to a projection201C of the external contact of the junction plug2, that is, a bearing1D having a circular bottom. Further, a portion fitted with the junction plug2is provided with a window1E opened in three directions. Further, the first surface1A, as shown inFIG. 34(b), is provided with an opening1J to make it easy to fit the junction plug2.

Further, the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D) for fixing the junction plug2to be fitted to the first surface1A of the casing1, as shown inFIGS. 35(a),35(b), and35(c), is provided with a circular bearing301D and a screw hole302D for fitting the junction plug2to the casing1. Further, one end of the junction plug fixing bracket3D is provided with a plate303D for blocking the opening1J of the casing1.

To fit the junction plug2on the second surface1B of the casing1by using the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D), as shown inFIGS. 36(a) and36(b), andFIGS. 37(a) and37(b), from among the projections201C provided in the external contact of junction plug2, the projection from those in which the contact pin202B is not led out is borne by the bearing1D provided in the casing1. Further, the projection201C provided with the contact pin202B is borne by the bearing301D of the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D). At this time, if the bearing301D of the junction plug fixing bracket is allowed to be penetrated, the contact pin202B and the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D) will not be brought into contact. In this state, if the junction plug fixing bracket3(3D) is fixed to the casing1by using the screw hole302D, the junction plug2can be rotated with the projection201C provided in the external contact as an axis of rotation. At this time, as shown inFIG. 36(a), if the window1E of the casing1is provided so as to be opened in two directions, the junction plug2can be rotated 90 degree. Further, at this time, by providing the opening1J in the casing1, it becomes easy to fit the junction plug2, but if the plug2is kept as it is, an electrical field (magnetic field) leaks from the opening1J. Hence, as shown inFIGS. 35(a),35(b), and35(c), the junction plug fixing bracket3D is provided with the plate303D, and by blocking the opening1J of the casing1by this plate303D, the leakage of the electrical field (magnetic field) can be prevented.

Further, the casing1, as shown inFIG. 33(c), has a hollow provided therein, and the hollow is provided with a printed circuit board4for electrically connecting the center contacts (contact pins) of each junction plug to each other. At this time, the casing1is opened in one surface direction, and from this opening, the printed circuit board4is inserted, and the conductor patterns of the contact pin202B and the printed circuited board4are soldered, and after that, the opened surface is fitted with a back cover5.

FIG. 38is a schematic illustration for explaining the operation effect of the coaxial cable distributor of the present fifth embodiment.

The coaxial cable distributor of the present fifth embodiment, as shown inFIG. 38, can rotate the junction plugs2fitted to the first surface1A of the casing190 degree, respectively. Hence, the coaxial cables connected to the two junction plugs2can be led out in parallel or led out to be orthogonal to each other or led out in a direction reverse to each other. Further, since the rotating junction plug2can be rotated while maintaining electrical connection, it can be rotated at a loose angle not only parallel with or vertical to a projecting direction of the junction plug2fitted to the first surface1A, but also within 0 to 90 degree.

Further, in case the coaxial cables connected to each junction plug2provided on the first surface1A of the casing1are led out in parallel, when the junction plugs2are fixed as conventionally, and the interval between each junction plug2is narrow, operability is poor at the time of connecting the coaxial cables. In the mean time, in the case of the coaxial cable distributor of the present fifth embodiment, only when the coaxial cable is connected, the direction of the junction plug2can be changed, and therefore, operability is good at the time of connecting the coaxial cable.

As described above, according to the coaxial cable distributor of the present fifth embodiment, since the junction plug2fitted to the casing1can be rotated, a degree of freedom of the leading direction of the coaxial cable is enhanced. Hence, comparing to the conventional distributor, its versatility is enhanced.

Further, since the junction plug2can be rotated, in case a distance between the surface fitted with the distributor such as a wall surface and the like and the junction plug2is short, and even in case the interval between the junction plugs is narrow, operability is good at the time of connecting the coaxial cable to the junction plug2.

Further, since the junction plug2is rotated, the bending of the coaxial cable connected to the junction plug2can be kept to a minimum. Hence, generation of noises and breaking of the cable due to the bending of the coaxial cable can be prevented.

As described above, while the present invention has been specifically described based on the above described embodiments, the invention is not limited to those embodiments, and it goes without saying that various modifications are possible within the scope without departing from the spirit of the invention.

For example, in each of the above described embodiments, while a description has been made with the coaxial cable distributor cited as an example, the invention is not limited to this, and the turnout having the same structure as the distributor may be adapted to the present invention. In the case of the turnout also, as the junction plug to be fitted, if the junction plug described in the first embodiment is used, and the projection of the external contact is borne by the bearing of the casing and the bearing of the junction plug fixing bracket, the junction plug of the turnout can be also rotated, thereby acquiring the same effect as the distributor.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As described above, the coaxial cable distributor according to the present invention is high in the degree of freedom of the leading direction of a connected cable, and operability is also good, so that the extreme bending of the coaxial cable can be also prevented. Hence, it is usable at the place where the space is narrow and many coaxial cables must be connected.