RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63/401499 filed on August 26, 2022, the content of which is relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present specification generally relates to central conductors and radiofrequency connectors including central conductors, and, more specifically, to central conductors and radiofrequency connectors for forming compliant connections.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Transmission mediums for conveying information at radio frequencies (hereinafter “RF”), such as at microwave frequencies, are often particularly characterized by their relatively small size which is not only a consequence of the operation frequency range, but is also particularly attributable to the applications and environments of the systems in which they are employed. For example, such systems may be found in sophisticated aircraft in which the size and weight of electronics systems must be established as small and light to the extent reasonably possible.

[0004] An RF connector may take many forms (e.g., a bullet-type connector or blind mate connector, bent connector, or the like). An RF connector may have a housing and a central contact or conductor positioned within the housing. The RF connector may be formed from rigid bodies, which can be resistant to the application of axial and/or transverse loading, leading to tight engineering tolerances, increased manufacturing costs, and assembly challenges.

[0005] Accordingly, a need exists for alternative and more flexible RF connectors and central conductors to improve assemblability, manufacturing costs, and resilience to applied stresses.

SUMMARY [0006] RF connectors and central conductors having improved flexibility, resulting in improved assembly, manufacturing costs, and resilience are disclosed herein

[0007] In a first aspect Al, a central conductor for an RF connector includes a plastic elongate body and one or more conductive layers. The plastic elongate body extends between a first end and a second end, the first end of the plastic elongate body defining a first female connecting end configured to receive a male connector. The one or more conductive layers are coated on the plastic elongate body and define a conductive pathway from an inner surface of the first female connecting end to the second end. The first female connecting end is configured to radially stretch to compliantly grip the male connector.

[0008] In a second aspect A2 according to the first aspect Al, the second end defines a second female connecting end. In a third aspect A3 according to any preceding aspect, the inner surface defines a lumen extending from the first end to the second end. In a fourth aspect A4 according to any preceding aspect, each surface of the plastic elongate body is coated with the one or more conductive layers. In a fifth aspect A5 according to any preceding aspect, the first female connecting end comprises a funnel-shaped inlet. In a sixth aspect A6 according to any preceding aspect, the plastic elongate body defines one or more weep holes extending from an exterior surface of the plastic elongate body to the inner surface of the plastic elongate body within the first female connecting end. In a seventh Aspect A7, according to any preceding aspect, the plastic elongate body comprises a central portion coupled to the first female connecting end and a radial groove formed between the central portion and the first female connecting end, wherein the radial groove allows the first female connecting end to deflect relative to the central portion of the plastic elongate body. In an eighth aspect A8 according to any preceding aspect, the plastic elongate body comprises one or more bends between the first end and the second end such that the first end and the second are non-coaxial. In a ninth aspect A9 according to any preceding aspect, the plastic elongate body comprises a reduced diameter portion between the first end and the second end. In a tenth aspect A10 according to any preceding aspect, the plastic elongate body comprises an increased diameter portion between the first end and the second end. In an eleventh aspect Al 1 according to any preceding aspect, the plastic elongate body defines a radial slot extending along a portion of a diameter of the first female connecting end. In a twelfth aspect A12 according to any preceding aspect, the plastic elongate body defines a radial slot formed within the first female connecting end and having a length dimension parallel to a longitudinal axis of the plastic elongate body and a height dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the length dimension being longer than the height dimension. In a thirteenth aspect Al 3 according to any preceding aspect, the first female connecting end comprises a plurality of ridges formed on the inner surface. In a fourteenth aspect A14 according to any preceding aspect, a valley between adjacent ridges is rounded. In a fifteenth aspect Al 5 according to any preceding aspect, the first female connecting end comprises an exterior surface comprising a plurality of ridges. In a sixteenth aspect Al 6 according to any preceding aspect, the plastic elongate body defines one or more slots extending from the first end toward a central portion of the plastic elongate body.

[0009] In a seventeenth aspect Al 7, a radiofrequency (“RF”) connector for transmitting an RF signal includes a housing, the central conductor of any preceding aspect, and a dielectric mount. The central conductor is positioned within the housing. The dielectric mount mounts the central conductor within the housing.

[0010] In an eighteenth aspect Al 8 according to the seventeenth aspect Al 7, the central conductor is coaxially positioned within the housing. In a nineteenth aspect Al 7 according to the seventeenth aspect Al 7 or the eighteenth aspect Al 8, the central conductor is axially compressible.

[0011] In a twentieth aspect A20 a radiofrequency (“RF”) connector for transmitting an RF signal includes a housing, a central conductor, and a dielectric mount. The central conductor includes a plastic elongate body and one or more conductive layers. The plastic elongate body extends between a first female connecting end and a second female connecting end, each configured to receive a male connector. The one or more conductive layers are coated on the plastic elongate body and define a conductive pathway from an inner surface of the first female connecting end to the second female connecting end. Each of the first female connecting end and the second female connecting end are configured to radially stretch to compliantly grip the male connector positioned therein.

[0012] In a twenty -first aspect A21 according to the twentieth aspect A20, the central conductor is substantially symmetrical about a centerline.

[0013] These and additional features provided by the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood in view of the following detailed description, in conjunction with the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, where like structure is indicated with like reference numerals and in which:

[0015] FIG. 1A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0016] FIG. IB schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 1A taken along line 1B-1B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0017] FIG. 1C, schematically depicts a cross-sectional view taken along line 1C-1C of FIG. IB, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0018] FIG. ID schematically depicts an isometric view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 1 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0019] FIG. IE schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the RF connector taken along line 1E-1E of FIG. ID, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0020] FIG. 2A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0021] FIG. 2B schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 2A taken along line 2B-2B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; [0022] FIG. 2C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 2 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0023] FIG. 3A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0024] FIG. 3B schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 3A taken along line 3B-3B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0025] FIG. 3C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 3 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0026] FIG. 4A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0027] FIG. 4B schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 4A taken along line 4B-4B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0028] FIG. 4C schematically depicts an off-axis male connector uncoupled from a first female end of the central conductor of FIG. 4A, accordingly to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0029] FIG. 4D schematically depicts insertion of the off-axis male connector of FIG. 4C into the first female end of the central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0030] FIG. 4E schematically depicts flexibility of the first female end to align with the off-axis male connector of FIG. 4D, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0031] FIG. 4F schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor radially positioned within the housing; [0032] FIG. 5A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0033] FIG. 5B schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 5A taken along line 5B-5B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0034] FIG. 5C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 5 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0035] FIG. 6A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0036] FIG. 6B schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 6A taken along line 6B-6B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0037] FIG. 6C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 6 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0038] FIG. 7A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0039] FIG. 7B schematically depicts an axial view of the central conductor of FIG. 7A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0040] FIG. 7C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 7A taken along line 7B-7B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0041] FIG. 7D schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 7 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; [0042] FIG. 8A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0043] FIG. 8B schematically depicts an axial view of the central conductor of FIG. 8 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0044] FIG. 8C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 8A taken along line 8C-8C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0045] FIG. 8D schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 8 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0046] FIG. 9A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0047] FIG. 9B schematically depicts an axial view of the central conductor of FIG. 9 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0048] FIG. 9C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 9A taken along line 9C-9C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0049] FIG. 9D schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 9 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0050] FIG. 10A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0051] FIG. 10B schematically depicts an axial view of the central conductor of FIG. 10 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0052] FIG. 10C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 10A taken along line 10C-10C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; [0053] FIG. 10D schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 10 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0054] FIG. 11A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0055] FIG. 11B schematically depicts an axial view of the central conductor of FIG. 11 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0056] FIG. 11C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 11A taken along line 11C-11C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0057] FIG. 11D schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 11 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0058] FIG. 12A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0059] FIG. 12B schematically depicts an axial view of the central conductor of FIG. 12 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0060] FIG. 12C schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of the central conductor of FIG. 12A taken along line 12C-12C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0061] FIG. 12D schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 12 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0062] FIG. 13 A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0063] FIG. 13B schematically depicts a cross-sectional of view of the central conductor of FIG. 13 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; [0064] FIG. 13C schematically depicts a cross-sectional of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 13 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0065] FIG. 14A schematically depicts an isometric view of a central conductor, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0066] FIG. 14B schematically depicts a cross-sectional of view of the central conductor of FIG. 14 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0067] FIG. 14C schematically depicts a cross-sectional of an RF connector including the central conductor of FIG. 14A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] Referring generally to the figures, various embodiments of a central conductor of an RF connector are generally depicted. Each of the central conductors as described herein generally include a plastic elongate body and one or more conductive layers. The plastic elongate body generally extends between a first end and a second end, wherein the first end defines a first female connecting end configured to receive a male connector. The one or more conductive layers are coated on the plastic elongate body and define a conductive pathway from an inner surface of the first female connecting end to the second end. The first female connecting end is configured to radially and resiliently stretch to compliantly grip a male connector received therein. That is, by forming the central conductor from a plastic coated with one or more conductive layers, the central conductor may more compliantly grip a received male connector, thereby providing increased contact resulting in improved RF signal transmission. A compliant grip may also provide a more secure connection between the central conductor and the received male connector. For example, the central conductor according to the present disclosure may have improved Passive Intermodulation (PIM) and shock/vibration requirements. That is, due to the increased contact, the central conductor may be able to maintain connection to a received male connector in response to received shock/vibration both intermittent and sustained. [0069] Moreover, by forming the central conductor of plastic material, machining and material costs may be decreased. In particular, conventional RF connectors are formed of machined metal, which may be costly to purchase and process. Central conductors as provided herein may be more easily and/or cost-effectively manufactured (e.g., via injection molding, plastic machining, or the like). Forming the central conductor of plastic coated with one or more conductive layers also results in reduced weight, which is particularly desirable in industries where there may be strict weight limitations (e.g., aerospace applications). These and additional embodiments and benefits will be described in greater detail herein.

[0070] Referring now to FIGS. 1A-1C, a central conductor 100 is generally depicted. The central conductor 100 is sized and shaped to be received within a housing of an RF connector as will be described in greater detail below. The central conductor 100 generally includes a plastic elongate body 102 with one or more conductive layers 120 disposed thereon (best illustrated in FIG. 1 C). The plastic elongate body 102 extends between a first end 104a and a second end 104b. The first end 104a defines a first female connecting end 106a. For example, the first female connecting end 106a may be defined by a first inlet 108a or orifice formed at the first end 104a. The second end 104b may define a second female connecting end 106b. As with the first female connecting end 106a, the second female connecting end 106b may be defined by a second inlet 108b or orifice formed in the second end 104b. Each of the first female connecting end 106a and the second female connecting end 106b are configured to receive a male connector, as will be described in greater detail herein.

[0071] Specifically referring to FIG. IB, a cross-section of the central conductor 100 taken along lines 1B-1B of FIG. 1 A is depicted. From this perspective, an internal structure of the central conductor 100 is generally depicted. In this embodiment, the central conductor 100 includes an inner surface 112 that defines a lumen 114 extending through the plastic elongate body 102. In the present embodiment, the lumen 114 is depicted as extending completely through the first end 104a and the second end 104b. Providing a lumen 114, which extends completely through the plastic elongate body 102 may provide for easier manufacturing and reduced material needs. However, in other embodiments, the lumen 114 may only extend along a portion of the plastic elongate body 102.

[0072] In the depicted embodiment, and with specific reference to FIG. IB, each of the first female connecting end 106a and the second female connecting end 106b may include a funnel-shaped inlet 116a, 116b leading into the lumen 114. The funnel-shaped inlet 116a, 116b, may taper inward toward a center portion 117 of the plastic elongate body 102 such that a cross-sectional area of the lumen 114 decreases from the respective inlet 108a, 108b a predetermined distance along the central conductor 100. The inwardly projecting taper may assist in insertion and connection to an inserted male connector. That is the funnel-shaped inlet 116a, 116b may ease insertion and guide the male connector to a proper fitting within the first female connecting end 106a and the second female connecting end 106b.

[0073] The central conductor 100 and/or lumen 114 may be substantially cylindrical as shown, though other shapes (e.g. square, rectangular, oval, etc. are contemplated and possible). The central conductor 100 and/or lumen 114 may extend along an axis 101 and be concentric therewith. For example, a center of the lumen 114 may be concentric with and extend along the axis 101. However, it is noted that in some embodiments, the central conductor 100 may be bent or otherwise shaped so as not to extend along a singular axis.

[0074] The plastic elongate body 102 may be formed of any plastic material. For example, the plastic elongate body 102 may be any plastic material capable of withstanding temperatures associated with conducting electrical (e.g., radiofrequency, microwave, or the like) signals. Example materials may include, but are not limited to, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polystyrene, nylon, polyethylene terephthalate, etc.

[0075] Referring now to FIG. 1C, a cross-section of a portion of the central conductor 100 taken along line 1C-1C of FIG. IB is illustrated in greater detail to depict an embodiment of the one or more conductive layers 120 on the plastic elongate body 102 that define a conductive pathway from the inner surface 112 of the first female connecting end 106a to the second end 104b. The one or more conductive layers 120 may include metal layers coated or deposited on the plastic elongate body 102. In embodiments, the one or more conductive layers 120 extend along all surfaces of the plastic elongate body 102. That is, each surface of the plastic elongate body 102 may be coated with the one or more conductive layers 120. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the one or more conductive layers 120 may only be deposited on portions of the plastic elongate body 102 to define discrete conductive pathways to the second end 104b. The one or more conductive layers 120 may include any number of materials capable of conducting electrical (e.g., radiofrequency, microwave, etc.) signals. For example, the one or more conductive layers 120 may include copper, gold, silver, platinum, nickel, or the like. In some embodiments, such as illustrated in FIG. 1C, the one or more conductive layers 120 may include a first conductive layer 120a, a second conductive layer 120b, and/or a third conductive layer 120c, each of which may be a metallic layer. Accordingly, in embodiments the one or more conductive layers 120 may include at least two conductive layers 120, at least three conductive layers 120, or the like. In embodiments, each of the three conductive layers 120a, 120b, 120c may include a different metal. In one nonlimiting embodiment, the first conductive layer 120a (e.g., the layer in contact with the plastic elongate body 102) may include copper, the second conductive layer 120b may include nickel, and the third conductive layer 120c may include gold. However, other combinations are contemplated and possible.

[0076] In embodiments, the one or more conductive layers 120 are collectively at least 0.1 pm thick or greater in the radial direction, such as between about 1 gm and about 10 gm thick. In embodiments, each of the one or more conductive layers 120 are at least 0.1 gm thick or greater in the radial direction. In some embodiments, such as where there are three or more conductive layers 120, the first conductive layer 120a may be thinner than the second and third conductive layers 120b, 120c. In some embodiments, each conductive layer 120a-120c may be the same thickness. In one embodiment, the first conductive layer 120a (e.g., a copper layer) may be about 1.5 pm thick or less, the second conductive layer 120b (e.g., a nickel layer) may have a thickness of between about 1.5 pm and about 5 pm, and the third conductive layer 120c (e.g., a gold layer) may about 1 pm thick or less. However, other thicknesses are contemplated and possible depending on the desired characteristics (e.g., compressibility, flexibility, etc.).

[0077] The central conductor 100 may be formed through any manufacturing technique. For example, in some embodiments the plastic elongate body 102 may be formed via injection molding, compression, thermoforming, rotational molding, etc. Following formation of the plastic elongate body 102, the plastic elongate body 102 may be subjected to one or more coating procedures to apply the one or more conductive layers 120. For example, the one or more conductive layers 120 may be provided via metallization (e.g., sputtering, coating, or other deposition techniques).

[0078] Referring now to FIGS. ID and IE, the central conductor 100 is illustrated as mounted within a housing 12 as part of an RF connector 10. In the depicted embodiment, the RF connector 10 is depicted as a bullet-type connector. As used herein, a bullet-type connector may also be referred to as a coaxial connector, blind-mate connector, or the like, which may be used to transmit electrical signals (e.g., radiofrequency (RF), microwave, or the like). In addition to the central conductor 100 and the housing 12, the RF connector 10 may further include one or more dielectric mounts 30 (depicted in FIG. IE). In embodiments, the RF connector 10 may have a greater or fewer number of components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. When assembled, as shown, the axis 101 of the central conductor 100 may be coincident with an axis 11 of the RF connector 10. Other embodiments are contemplated and possible.

[0079] The housing 12 may generally extend radially around the axis 101 of the central conductor 100 such that the central conductor 100 is positioned coaxially within the housing 12. In embodiments, the housing 12 may be generally cylindrical, though other shapes (e.g., cubic, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.) are contemplated and possible. The housing 12 may define a first end 14a and a second end 14b opposite the first end 14a and a lumen 16 extending from first end 14a to the second end 14b such that both the first end 14a and the second end 14b are open such that the first end 104a and the second end 104b of the central conductor 100 are accessible through the first end 14a and the second end 14b of the housing 12.

[0080] The housing 12 may define one or more housing slits 17 (e.g., two or more housing slits 17, three or more housing slits 17, four or more housing slits 17, etc.) formed therein and extending from the first end 14a, the second end 14b, or both to a central hub 18. The one or more housing slits 17 may provide radial compliance to the housing 12, which may assist with axial insertion and allow for flexible radial connections between the first end 14a, the second end 14b, or both, and a received connector. The size of the one or more housing slits 17 may be based on the amount of desired engagement force. The one or more housing slits 17 may be evenly or unevenly distributed about the axis 101.

[0081] The central hub 18 may be arranged between the first end 14a and the second end 14b. The housing 12 may have an increased outer diameter at the central hub 18. In some embodiments, there may be another increased diameter region at the first end 14a, the second end 14b, or both. Transitions between regions of increased diameter may be stepped or sloped.

[0082] Referring to FIG. IE, in embodiments, the lumen 16 may have substantially constant diameter between the first end 14a and the second end 14b. In some embodiments, the lumen 16 may have a changing diameter. In embodiments, one or more connecting projections 13 may extend radially inward from the housing 12 to connect with the dielectric mount 30, described in greater detail below. For example, the one or more connecting projections 13 may extend radially inward at a longitudinally central location of the housing 12. The one or more connecting projections 13 may include a single ring extending uninterruptedly around an interior wall 15 of the housing 12. In some embodiments, multiple projections may be positioned radially about the interior wall 15.

[0083] The housing 12 may be formed of any material that is capable of withstanding temperatures associated with electrical signal transmissions. In embodiments, the housing 12 may be made from one or more conductive materials (e.g., copper, gold, silver, platinum, nickel, or the like). In some embodiments, similar to the central conductor 100, the housing 12 may be formed of plastic coated with one or more conductive layers. For example, the housing 12 may be formed of, but are not limited to, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polystyrene, nylon, polyethylene terephthalate, etc. The one or more conductive layers may include any number of materials capable of conducting electrical (e.g., radiofrequency, microwave, etc.) signals. For example, the one or more conductive layers may include copper, gold, silver, platinum, nickel, or the like.

[0084] The housing 12 may be formed through any manufacturing technique. For example, in some embodiments such as where the housing 12 is formed of plastic, the housing 12 may be formed via injection molding, compression, thermoforming, rotational molding, etc. In other embodiments, such as where the housing 12 is formed of a conductive metal, the housing 12 may be molded, machined, etc. One or more conductive coatings may be applied to the housing 12 via metallization (e.g., sputtering, coating, or other deposition techniques).

[0085] Still referring to FIG. IE, the one or more dielectric mounts 30 couple the central conductor 100 to the housing 12. For example, a dielectric mount 30 may be compressed between the central conductor 100 and the housing 12. The dielectric mount 30 may define one or more mating niches 32 configured to receive and mate with the one or more connecting projections 13 of the housing 12. The one or more mating niches 32 may include a single ring extending uninterruptedly around an exterior surface 31 of the dielectric mount 30. In some embodiments, multiple niches may be positioned radially about the exterior surface 31 of the dielectric mount 30. Accordingly, the dielectric mount 30 may maintain a position of the central conductor 100 within the housing 12. In some embodiments, it is noted that the dielectric mount 30 may be mated to the housing 12 and the central conductor 100 through other means in addition to or in lieu of that described above. For example, the dielectric mount 30 may be mounted to the housing 12 and/or the central conductor 100 via one or more adhesives, fasteners, interlocking components, or the like.

[0086] The one or more dielectric mounts 30 may be made from any dielectric material, which isolates or prevents, electrical conduction between the housing 12 and the central conductor 100. Dielectric materials include, but are not limited to Teflon, polyethylene, polyimide, polypropylene, polystyrene, etc.

[0087] As noted above, the central conductor 100 may be positioned centrically within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30. During use, a male connector may be inserted into the first female connecting end 106a and/or the second female connecting end 106b. The first and/or second female connecting ends 106a, 106b may be radially compliant to stretch around the received male connector to provide improved contact between the first and/or second female connecting end 106b and the male connector. For example, a conventional central conductor machined completely from metal, traditionally will only contact a received male connector at two contact points. However, by forming the central conductor 100 from plastic coated with one or more conductive layers, the radial compliance of the first and/or second female connecting ends 106a, 106b allows the central conductor to have greater contact with the received male connector. For example, contact may be between about 250 degrees to about 360 degrees, such as at least 270 degrees of contact with a received male connector.

[0088] Additional embodiments described below have additional and/or different characteristics. For example, each of the embodiments described below include a central conductor having an elongate plastic body and one or more conductive layers applied thereto to define a conductive pathway along the central conductor. The embodiments, described below have the same or similar benefits which provide a radially compliant first female connecting end and/or second female connecting end, thereby providing improved contact with a received male connector and a more secure connection. Similar numbers will be used to describe like components for ease of description.

[0089] Referring now to FIGS. 2 A and 2B another embodiment of a central conductor 200 is schematically depicted. As with the central conductor 100 described above, the central conductor 200 includes a plastic elongate body 202, which is coated is one or more conductive layers 220. Accordingly, the above-description of the central conductor 100 applies equally to the central conductor 200 unless otherwise noted. In particular, in the present embodiment, instead of a single lumen extending between the first end 204a and the second end 204b, the central conductor 200 includes a first lumen 214a that extends from the first end 204a thereby defining a first female connecting end 206a and a second lumen 214b extending from the second end 204b, thereby defining a second female connecting end 206b. The central conductor 200 between the first lumen 214a and the second lumen 214b (e.g., through the central portion 217), may be substantially solid. One or more weep holes 240 may extend radially from an exterior surface 203 of the plastic elongate body 202 to an inner surface 212 within the first lumen 214a and/or the second lumen 214b. The one or more weep holes 240 may improve manufacturability in ensuring even coating of the one or more metallic layers, and may provide increased transverse flexibility at the one or more weep holes 240. The one or more weep holes 240 may be round, oval-shaped, rectangular, square, or the like. It is noted that while the present embodiment depicts a first female connecting end 206a and a second female connecting end 206b, in some embodiments, there may only be one female connecting end.

[0090] As also depicted in the present embodiment, the central conductor 200 may include the central portion 217 formed between the first end 204a and the second end 204b, the central portion 217 may be an increased diameter portion 219 having an increased diameter relative to the first end 204a and the second end 204b. A transition between central portion 217 to the increased diameter portion 219 may be stepped, as depicted, or sloped.

[0091] Referring now to FIG. 2C the RF connector 10 now includes the central conductor 200 as opposed to the central conductor 100. That is the central conductor 200 is radially positioned within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30. It is noted that in the present embodiment, the one or more dielectric mounts 30 include a first dielectric mount 30a arranged on a first side of the increased diameter portion 219 and a second dielectric mount 30b arranged on the opposite side of the increased diameter portion 219. Additionally in the present embodiment, the dielectric mount 30 may extend alongside the central conductor 200 toward the first and/or the second end 204a, 204b. Such construction may provide additional support along the first end 204a and the second end 204b of the central conductor 200 and improved isolation of electrical signal traveling through the central conductor 200. [0092] Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B another embodiment of a central conductor 300 is schematically depicted. As with the central conductor 200, the central conductor includes a plastic elongate body 302, which is coated with one or more conductive layers 320. The plastic elongate body 302 may include a first female connecting end 306a at the first end 304a and/or a second female connecting end 306b at the second end 304b, and one or more weep holes 340 such as described above. Accordingly, the above-description of the central conductor 200 applies equally to the central conductor 300 unless otherwise noted. In particular, in the present embodiment, instead of an increased diameter portion extending between the first end 304a and the second end 304b, the central conductor 300 includes center portion 317 having a reduced diameter portion 319 between the first end 304a and the second end 304b, having a decreased diameter relative to the first end 304a and the second end 304b. A transition to the decreased diameter portion 319 may be slopped, as depicted, or stepped.

[0093] Referring now to FIG. 3C the RF connector 10 is depicted with the central conductor 300 positioned radially within the housing 12 via one or more dielectric mounts 30. In the present embodiment, the one or more dielectric mounts 30 is nested within the reduced diameter portion 319. By nesting the one or more dielectric mounts 30 within the reduced diameter portion 319, a single dielectric mount 30 may securely mount the central conductor 300 within the housing 12. For example, the central conductor 300 may be restricted from sliding with respect to the dielectric mount 30.

[0094] Referring now to FIGS. 4 A and 4B another embodiment of a central conductor

400 is generally similar to central conductor 200 above. As with the central conductor 200, the central conductor 400 includes a plastic elongate body 402, which is coated is one or more conductive layers 420. The plastic elongate body 402 may include a first female connecting end 406a at the first end 404a and/or a second female connecting end 406b at the second end 404b, and one or more weep holes 440 such as described above. Accordingly, the abovedescription of the central conductor 200 applies equally to the central conductor 400 unless otherwise noted. In this particular, embodiment, the central conductor 400 includes a central portion 417 positioned between the first end 404a (e.g., the first female connecting end 406a) and the second end 404b (e.g., the second female connecting end 406b). A radial groove 416 is formed within the plastic elongate body 402 between the central portion 417 and the first end 404a (e.g., the first female connecting end 406a) and/or the central portion 417 and the second end 404b (e.g., the second female connecting end 406b). The radial groove 416 allows the first female connecting end 406a and/or the second female connecting end 406b to deflect relative to the central portion 417 of the plastic elongate body 402.

[0095] It is noted that while the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B include an increased diameter portion 419. The central conductor 400 need not include an increased diameter portion 419, but may have a substantially equal diameter along its length or may have a decreased diameter portion such as described above.

[0096] For example, 4C depicts an off-axis (e.g., unaligned with the axis 101 of the central conductor 400) male connector 40 having a connector axis 42. The male connector in FIG. 4C approaches the first female connecting end 406a of the central conductor 400. As shown in FIGS. 4D and 4E as the off-axis male connector 40 enters the first female connecting end 406a, the first female connecting end 406a begins to deform. As the off-axis male connector 40 becomes fully seated within the first female connecting end 406a, the radial groove 416 allows the first female connecting end 406a to bend or deflect away from the axis 101 to accommodate the off-axis male connector 40. Accordingly, where the connector axis 42 of the male connector 40, such as due to space tolerances, is unable to align with the axis 101 of the central conductor 400, the central conductor 400 may flexibly adjust to accommodate the constraints of the male connector 40.

[0097] Referring now to FIG. 4F, the RF connector 10 is illustrated with the central conductor 400 radially positioned within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30 similar to the embodiment described in greater detail with respect to FIG. 2C.

[0098] Referring now to FIGS. 5 A and 5B another embodiment of a central conductor 500 is schematically depicted. As with the central conductor 200 and other embodiments described above, the central conductor 500 includes a plastic elongate body 502, which is coated with one or more conductive layers 520. The plastic elongate body 502 may include a first female connecting end 506a at the first end 504a and/or a second female connecting end 506b at a second end 504b, such as described above. Accordingly, the above-description of the central conductor 200 and other embodiments applies equally to the central conductor 500 unless otherwise noted. In this particular, embodiment, the plastic elongate body 502 defines a radial slot 540 extending along a portion of a diameter of the first female connecting end 506a and/or the second female connecting end 506b. The radial slot 540 may extend radially through the plastic elongate body 502 to provide a radial opening into an interior of the first female connecting end 506a and/or the second female connecting end 506b. The radial slot 540 may act as a weep hole such as described above. The radial slot may have a length dimension parallel to the axis 101 of the plastic elongate body 502 and a height dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 101. In embodiments such as illustrated in FIG. 5 A and 5B, the height dimension may be longer than the length dimension. The radial slot 540 may provide additional resilience or flexibility in the radial direction to the first female connecting end 506a and/or the second female connecting end 506b which may reduce mating force needed for insertion of a male connector. In embodiments, the radial slot 540 may extend radially around the plastic elongate 502 between about 10 degrees to about 180 degrees, such as between about 30 degrees and 150 degrees, such as between about 45 degrees and about 90 degrees, though other arcs are contemplated and possible.

[0099] It is noted that in the present embodiment, the center portion 517 of the central conductor 500 includes a reduced diameter portion 519 such as described in embodiments above. However, it is noted that that present embodiment may not have a reduced diameter portion 519 but may instead include an increased diameter portion or in some embodiments neither (such as central conductor 100). FIG. 5C illustrates the RF connector 10 with the central conductor 500 positioned within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30.

[00100] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrated an embodiment of a central conductor 600 which differs from central conductor 500 in that it includes a radial slot 640 that has a length dimension greater than the height dimension. Such embodiments may provide increased transverse flexibility and/or longitudinal compressibility of the first female connecting end 606a and/or the second female connecting end 606b in addition to reduction in radial force needed for insertion of a received male connector. FIG. 6C illustrates the RF connector 10 such as described above, with the central conductor 600 mounted radially within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30. It is noted that while the present embodiment illustrates the central conductor 600 with a reduced diameter portion 619, in other embodiments, the central conductor 600 could have an increased diameter portion such as described above or neither an increased diameter portion or a reduced diameter portion.

[00101] FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate yet another embodiment of a central conductor 700. As with the central conductor 200 or other embodiment described above, the central conductor 700 includes a plastic elongate body 702, which is coated with one or more conductive layers 720. The plastic elongate body 702 may include a first female connecting end 706a at the first end 704a and/or a second female connecting end 706b and the second end 704b, and one or more weep holes 740 such as described above. However, in the present embodiment the first female connecting 706a and/or the second female connecting end 706b have a plurality of ridges 750 formed on an inner surface 712 of the first female connecting end 706a and/or the second female connecting end 706b. The plurality of ridges 750 may be radially distributed about the central axis 101. There may be any number of ridges 750 such as two or more, three or more, six or more etc. In embodiments, the plurality of ridges 750 may decrease insertion forces needed to connect a male connector within the first female connecting end 706a and/or the second female connecting end 706b. As depicted via the axial view of FIG. 7B, a valley 750 between adjacent ridges may be angular such as to substantially resemble three sides of a parallelogram. However, other embodiments are contemplated and possible.

[00102] FIG. 7D illustrates the RF connector 10 with the central conductor 700 radially mounted within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30. It is noted that while the present embodiment illustrates the central conductor 700 with a reduced diameter portion 719, in other embodiments, the central conductor 700 could have an increased diameter portion such as described above or neither an increased diameter portion or a reduced diameter portion.

[00103] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate central conductor 800, which is substantially similar to central conductor 700 described above. However, in the present embodiment, a valley 852 between each ridge or the plurality of ridges 850 may be rounded such as oval-shaped or circular. The rounded valley 852 may provide improved manufacturability with smoother coating application. FIG. 8D illustrates the RF connector 10 such as described above, with the central conductor 800 radially mounted within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30.

[00104] FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate yet another embodiment of a central conductor 900. As with the central conductor 200 or other embodiment described above, the central conductor 900 includes a plastic elongate body 902, which is coated with one or more conductive layers 920. The plastic elongate body 902 may include a first female connecting end 906a at the first end 904a and/or a second female connecting end 906b and the second end 904b, and one or more weep holes 940 such as described above. In the present embodiment, instead of or in addition to a plurality of ridges being formed on the inside of the first female connecting end and/or the second female connecting end such as depicted in FIGS. 7A-8D, a plurality of ridges 950 may be formed on an exterior surface 903 of the first female connecting end 906a and/or the second female connecting end 906b. The plurality of ridges 950 may be arranged to run parallel to the axis 101 and may be radially spaced around the axis 101. As with the embodiments above, there may be any number of ridges, such as 2 or more ridges, 3 or more ridges, 5 or more ridges, etc. The plurality of ridges 950 may provide reduced force requirements for inserting a male connector into the first female connecting end 906a and the second female connecting end 906b.

[00105] FIG. 9D illustrates the RF connector 10 with the central conductor 900 positioned within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30. It is noted that while the present embodiment illustrates the central conductor 900 with a reduced diameter portion 919, in other embodiments, the central conductor 900 could have an increased diameter portion such as described above or neither an increased diameter portion or a reduced diameter portion. Additionally, it is noted that in some embodiments, an outer edge 905 of the first female connecting end 906a and/or the second female connecting end 906b may be chamfered as depicted.

[00106] Referring now to FIGS. 10 A- 10C, a central conductor 1000 is generally depicted. As with the central conductor 700, 800, or other embodiments described above, the central conductor 1000 includes a plastic elongate body 1002, which is coated with one or more conductive layers 1020. The plastic elongate body 1002 may include a first female connecting end 1006a at the first end 1004a and/or a second female connecting end 1006b and the second end 1004b, and one or more weep holes 1040 such as described above. The present embodiment further may include, though in other embodiments need not, a plurality of ridges 1050 formed on an inner surface 1012 of the first female connecting end 1006a and/or the second female connecting end 1006b. However, in the present embodiment, the central conductor further includes a plurality of radial grooves 1060 formed between the central portion 1017 (e.g., the reduced diameter portion 1019 as shown) and the first female connecting end 1006a and/or the second female connecting end 1006b. The plurality of radial grooves may radially circumscribe the plastic elongate body 1002 360 degrees and extend inward from the exterior surface 1031. It is noted that the plurality of radial grooves 1060 may be included in any of the embodiments described herein. The plurality of radial 1060 grooves may include two or more radial grooves, three or more radial grooves, etc. The plurality of radial grooves 1060 may be positioned proximate one another and allow for axial deflection of the central conductor 1000 such as described above with respect to central conductor 400 depicted in FIGS. 4A-4E. That is, where a male connector is in axial misalignment with the central conductor 1000, the first female connecting end 1006a and/or the second female connecting end 1006b may deflect from the axis 101 to receive the male connector. In the depicted embodiment, there is a first plurality of radial grooves 1060 positioned adjacent the first female connecting end 1006a and a second plurality of radial grooves 1060 positioned adjacent the second female connecting end 1006b, though other embodiments are contemplated and possible. By providing a plurality of radial grooves 1060, which may have a smaller width than, for example, the singular radial groove depicted in FIGS. 4A-4B, the amount of deflection may be tuned to increase or decrease the amount which the first female connecting end 1006a and/or the second female connecting end 1006b may deflect.

[00107] FIG. 10D illustrates the RF connector 10 such as described above, with the central conductor 1000 radially mounted within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30. It is noted that while the present embodiment illustrates the central conductor 1000 with a reduced diameter portion 1019, in other embodiments, the central conductor 1000 could have an increased diameter portion such as described above or neither an increased diameter portion or a reduced diameter portion.

[00108] FIGS. 11 A-l 1C illustrate yet another embodiment of a central conductor 1100. As with the central conductor 200 and/or other embodiments describe herein, the central conductor 1100 includes a plastic elongate body 1102, which is coated with one or more conductive layers 1120. The plastic elongate body 1102 may include a first female connecting end 1106a at the first end 1104a and/or a second female connecting end 1106b at the second end 1104b. However, in the present embodiment, one or more slots 1140 are formed within the plastic elongate body 1102 extending from the first end 1104a and/or the second end 1104b toward a central portion 1117 such that the one or more slots 1140 are open-ended. The slot 1140 may extend from the exterior surface 1103 of the plastic elongate housing 1102 into an interior of the first female connecting end 1106a and the second female connecting end 1106b. The slot 1140 may provide additional radial flexure to the first female connecting end 1106a and/or the second female connecting end 1106b and provide reduced insertion forces for inserting a male connector. The slot 1140 may extend along the entire interior of the first female connecting end 1106a and/or the second female connecting end 1106b or only a portion thereof. [00109] FIG. 11D illustrates the RF connector 10 with the central conductor 1100 radially mounted within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30. It is noted that while the present embodiment illustrates the central conductor 1200 with a reduced diameter portion 1119, in other embodiments, the central conductor 1100 could have an increased diameter portion such as described above or neither an increased diameter portion or a reduced diameter portion.

[00110] Is it noted that in the embodiment of the central conductor 1100, there is not weep hole separate from the slot 1140. However, in other embodiments, a weep hole may be included.

[00111] FIG. 12A-12C illustrate a similar embodiment of a central conductor 1200 to the central conductor 1100 described above with respect to FIGS. 11 A-l ID. In the particular embodiment, the first female connecting end 1206a and/or the second female connecting end 1206b include two slots 1250a, 1250b positioned opposite one another. The slots 1250a, 1250b may similarly increase flexibility of the first female connecting end 1206a and the second female connecting end 1206b for receiving a male connector therein. Additionally, the slots 1250a, 1250b may not extend as deeply in an axial direction as illustrated above with respect to slot 1140. In the present embodiment, the slots 1250a, 1250b end at a position distal to a weep hole 1240, such as described above.

[00112] FIG. 12D illustrates the RF connector 10 such as described above, with the central conductor 1200 radially mounted within the housing 12 via the one or more dielectric mounts 30. It is noted that while the present embodiment illustrates the central conductor 1200 with a reduced diameter portion 1219, in other embodiments, the central conductor 1200 could have an increased diameter portion such as described above or neither an increased diameter portion or a reduced diameter portion.

[00113] In each of the above embodiments, the central conductor may be symmetric about a centerline. However, it is noted that in embodiments, the central conductor may not be symmetrical about a centerline and instead the ends of the central conductor may vary from one another.

[00114] FIG. 13A and 13B illustrate another embodiment of a central conductor 1300. The central conductor 1300 is similar to the above-described conductors in form and structure, accordingly the above description applies to the present embodiment unless otherwise noted. For example, the central conductor 1300 includes a plastic elongate body 1302, which is coated with one or more conductive layers 1320. The plastic elongate body 1302 may include a first female connecting end 1306a at the first end 1304a and/or a second female connecting end (not depicted) at the second end 1304b. The first female connecting end 1306a and/or the second female connecting end may take any form such as described herein.

[00115] However, in this embodiment, instead of being arranged along a single axis as described above, the central conductor 1300 is bent (e.g., between about 10 degrees to about 170 degrees, such as about 90 degrees). For example, the central conductor 1300 may include one or more bends 1303 between the first end 1304a and the second end 1304b such that the first end 1304a and the second end 1304b are non-coaxial. It is noted while only one bend is depicted the central conductor 1300 may include any number of bends, which may be chosen based on particular geometrical constraints of an application.

[00116] FIG. 13C illustrates an RF connector 10’. The RF connector 10’ is similar to the RF connector 10’ described above in material and form unless otherwise noted. For example, in the present embodiments the RF connector 10’ includes a housing 12’ and one or more dielectric mounts 30’. However, in the present embodiment, the housing 12’ is shaped to accommodate the bent shape of the central conductor 1300. It is noted that while the housing 12’ is illustrated as having separate components assembled together, in some embodiments, the housing 12’ may be formed of a single component. One or more dielectric mounts 30’ may position the central conductor 1300 within the housing 12’. In the depicted embodiment, two dielectric mounts 30a’ and 30b’ position the central conductor 1300 within the housing 12’ at the first end 1304a and at the second end 1304b. In the depicted embodiment, the second end 1304b of the central conductor 1300 may be mounted to a printed circuit board 80 for communication of electrical signals. In other embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 14C the second end 1304b may be a second female connecting end 1406b, which may be coupled to a male connector 40.

[00117] It is noted that while the present embodiment of FIGS. 13A-13C depicts only a single female connecting end, in embodiments, both ends of the central conductor 1300 may include a female connecting end. For example, FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate an embodiment of a bent central conductor 1400 with two female connecting ends 1406a, 1406b. As with the embodiments above, the plastic elongate body 1402 may include a center portion 1417. In the illustrated embodiment, the center portion 1417 includes a reduced diameter portion 1419 such as between the first female connecting end 1406a and the second female connecting end 1406b. In other embodiments, there may be no reduced diameter portion 1419 instead; there may be an increased diameter portion 1419, a combination of reduced diameter portions and increased diameter portions, or neither.

[00118] FIG. 14C illustrates the RF connector 10’ with the center conductor 1400 mounted therein via the one or more dielectric mounts 30’ . In the depicted embodiment, three dielectric mounts 30a’, 30b’, and 30c’ position the central conductor 1400 within the housing 12’. For example, first and second dielectric mounts 30a’, 30b’ are positioned within the recessed region 1419 while the third dielectric mount 30c’ surrounds the second female connecting end 1406b. In the depicted embodiment, the second female connecting end 1406b of the central conductor 1400 has a male connector 40 positioned therein for communication of electrical signals.

[00119] In any of the embodiments described herein, the central conductor may be axially compressible in the axial direction. For example, the central conductor may be axially compressible at least 2.5% of an overall length of the central conductor in along the axis 101. In other embodiments, axially compressibility may be greater than or less than 2.5% of the overall length of the central conductor. For example, axial compressibility may be between about 1% and about 10% of the overall length of the central conductor, such as between about 2% and about 5%, such as about between about 2.5% and about 4%, or the like. Axial compressibility may allow for variations of positions of male connectors thereby improving assembly to a male connector.

[00120] It should now be understood that embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to central conductors that include a plastic elongate body and one or more conductive layers and RF connectors including central conductors. The plastic elongate body generally extends between a first end and a second end, wherein the first end defines a first female connecting end configured to receive a male connector. The one or more conductive layers are coated on the plastic elongate body and define a conductive pathway from an inner surface of the first female connecting end to the second end. The first female connecting end is configured to radially and resiliently stretch to compliantly grip the received male connector. That is, by forming the central conductor from a plastic coated with one or more conductive layers, the central conductor may more compliantly grip a received male connector, thereby providing increased contact resulting in improved RF transmission and a more secure connection. Moreover, by forming the central conductor of plastic material, machining and material costs, complexity, and weight may be decreased.

[00121] It is noted that the terms "substantially" and "about" may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

[00122] While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.