CONNECTOR ASSEMBLIES

Abstract

Various configurations of connector assemblies are disclosed herein. Each variation of connector assembly includes at least one conductive outer housing, one or more dielectrics, and conductors, some of which may be configured as compressible electrical contacts manufactured from a tube. One embodiment of the compressible electrical contact includes a first contact end, a second contact end opposing the first contact end, and a plurality of cut sections defined by at least one cut angle measured between a pair of outwardly extending opposing inner surfaces, an innermost cut distance, and an outermost cut distance. Each of the plurality of divaricated-cut sections is based on at least one divaricating pattern.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure generally relates to connector assemblies, and particularly connector assemblies, including straight and right-angle housings, center contacts, and printed circuit boards.

Some microwave frequency connectors have housings and metallic center contacts that are designed to be soldered directly to a printed circuit board (PCB). The metallic center contacts are generally surrounded by a plastic insulator and the metallic housing. Socket contacts in these connector assemblies are key components in the transmission of electrical signal. The components in connectors may be coupled by various methods, including a push-on design. These types of connectors may use a cable interconnect to transmit the signal to the PCB. However, these types of interconnections usually perform poorly above 10 GHz due to a right-angle transition to the PCB.

There are also connectors that include a housing and a metallic center contact that engages with a cable. The metallic center contact in the cable connector is generally surrounded by a plastic insulator and the metallic housing. The cable in the right-angle housing may be engaged, for example, by soldering a metallic access contact to a center conductor of the cable and then inserting the metallic access contact and cable subassembly into the right-angle housing. The metallic access center contact may thereafter be mated with a socket center contact within the right-angle housing. Another method to engage the cable is to simply insert the prepared cable into the housing where the center conductor of the cable directly engages the socket center contact in the right housing. In both cases the cable may be soldered to the housing. This type of design performs well up to 50 GHz depending on the specification of the cable.

Despite these various methods, there is still a need for solderless center contacts that mate to a PCB, using both solderless center contacts and solderless ground housings at high frequencies with low signal losses. In addition, there is a need to address the aforementioned interconnection situations in unique applications to improve performance at high frequencies, reduce discontinuities, and simplify the transition between PCBs.

SUMMARY

Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to connector assemblies, including low and high frequency connectors and DC connectors designed for low level signals. Some embodiments, however, are configured to operate at high frequencies, including frequencies up to 65 GHz, with low insertion and return losses.

The connector assemblies include a conductive housing, one or more dielectrics, and conductors, some of which may be configured as compressible electrical contacts. Each compressible electrical contact is configured to vary its length, compensate for tolerance ranges/deviations of mating center conductors or cables, and maintain constant electrical/mechanical connection upon assembly. The properties of the compressible electrical contacts disclosed herein are due, in part, to manufacturing the contacts using precision cutting methods, which result in a plurality of cut sections. Such methods include, but are not limited to, laser cutting, electroforming, and/or electro-etching. Regardless of the precision cutting method used, the contacts disclosed herein are preferably designed, using divaricating patterns, such that each contact has a plurality of cut sections in its final form.

The term “divaricating pattern”, as used herein, is defined as a cutting pattern that allows the compressible electrical contact to have contact sections configured to form open tapered areas after cutting when in a substantially relaxed state, nest or collapse inwardly to form outwardly extended tapered slots when compressive force is applied to ends of the compressible electrical contact, resulting in a substantially compressed state. The contacts are also configured maintain a flexible and substantially tubular form when transitioning from a substantially relaxed state to a substantially compressed state, despite the presence of the plurality of cut sections.

In some embodiments of the connector assemblies, the dielectrics contained therein are configured to guide one or more conductive center conductors, which functions as a signal conductor, through an angle ranging from about a 0° to about a 90°, which transition to a printed circuit board (PCB). The connector assemblies disclosed herein also preferably have a very low a profile and may be used in compact connector-PCB assemblies.

According to one aspect, a connector assembly includes a compressible electrical contact manufactured from a tube, a dielectric, and an outer housing. The compressible electrical contact has a first contact end, a second contact end opposing the first contact end, and at least one medial portion disposed between the first contact end and the second contact end. The at least one medial portion includes a plurality of divaricated cut sections based on at least one divaricating pattern cut into the tube. In some embodiments, the at least one divaricating pattern includes an upper tapered section and a lower tapered section such that a plurality of tapered slots are formed when the compressible electrical contact is substantially compressed. The connector assembly also includes a dielectric, having a central dielectric section surrounding the medial portion of compressible electrical contact and an outer housing surrounding the dielectric.

According to another aspect, a connector assembly includes a connector assembly having a compressible electrical contact manufactured from a tube, a plurality of dielectrics, and an outer housing. The compressible electrical contact has a first contact end, a second contact end opposing the first contact end, and at least one medial portion disposed between the first contact end and the second contact end. The at least one medial portion includes a plurality of divaricated cut sections based on at least one divaricating pattern cut into the tube. In some embodiments, the at least one divaricating pattern includes an upper tapered section and a lower tapered section such that a plurality of tapered slots are formed when the compressible electrical contact is substantially compressed. The connector assembly also includes a plurality of dielectrics, including two outer dielectrics and a center dielectric disposed between the two outer dielectrics. The outer dielectrics surround medial portions of compressible electrical contact and the center dielectric surround a central tubular portion of the compressible electrical contact. The connector assembly additionally includes the outer housing, which surrounds the plurality of dielectrics.

According to yet another aspect, a connector assembly includes a compressible electrical contact manufactured from a tube, a plurality of dielectrics having a different configuration, and an outer housing. The compressible electrical contact has a first contact end, a second contact end opposing the first contact end, and at least one medial portion disposed between the first contact end and the second contact end. The at least one medial portion includes a plurality of divaricated cut sections such that at least one divaricated cut section is based on at least one divaricating pattern cut into the tube. In some embodiments, the at least one divaricating pattern includes an upper tapered section and a lower tapered section such that a plurality of tapered slots are formed when the compressible electrical contact is substantially compressed. The connector assembly also includes a plurality of dielectrics, including two outer dielectrics and a center dielectric disposed between the two outer dielectrics. The outer dielectrics surround medial portions of compressible electrical contact. The connector assembly additionally includes an outer housing surrounding the plurality of dielectrics. In other embodiments, the outer housing includes a contoured bore having a portion of the first contact end of the compressible electrical contact contained therein and a plurality of mounting legs extending from an end of the outer housing.

Another aspect disclosed herein relates to a right-angle connector assembly, including a compressible electrical contact, a primary housing having a housing body with a side bore defined in a side of the primary housing, a bottom bore defined in a bottom of the primary housing, and an alignment dielectric bore. Disposed within the alignment dielectric bore is an alignment dielectric. The assembly also includes a side housing disposed in the side bore, a bottom housing disposed in the bottom bore, and a compressible electrical contact. Moreover, in preferred configurations, the compressible electrical contact is manufactured from a tube.

According to additional aspects, the compressible electrical contact has a first contact end, a second contact end opposing the first contact end, and at least one medial portion disposed between the first contact end and the second contact end. The at least one medial portion includes a plurality of divaricated cut sections such that at least one divaricated cut section is based on at least one divaricating pattern cut into the tube. In some embodiments, the at least one divaricating pattern includes an upper tapered section and a lower tapered section such that a plurality of tapered slots are formed when the compressible electrical contact is substantially compressed.

Additional aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein will be apparent upon review of the drawings and description, which follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiment(s), and together with the description serve to explain principles and the operation of the various embodiments.

FIG. 1A is a front view of a connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 1A, taken along line 1B-1B;

FIG. 1C is an isometric view of the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B;

FIG. 2A is a front view of another connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 2, taken along line 2B-2B;

FIG. 2C is an isometric view of the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B.

FIG. 3A is a front view of another connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 3, taken along line 3B-3B;

FIG. 3C is an isometric view of the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIG. 4A is a front view of another connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 4A, taken along line 4B-4B;

FIG. 4C is an isometric view of the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B;

FIG. 4D is a detail partial cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4B;

FIG. 5A is a front view of another connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 5A, taken along line 5B-5B;

FIG. 5C is an isometric view of the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B;

FIG. 5D is a front view of a connector-PCB assembly, including the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A assembled with PCBs;

FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 5D, taken along line 5E-5E;

FIG. 6A is a front view of another connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 6A, taken along line 6B-6B;

FIG. 6C is a rear view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6D is an isometric view of the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 6A-6C;

FIG. 6E is a front view of a connector-PCB assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIG. 2A, the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, and a PCB.

FIG. 7A is a front view of another connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 7A, taken along line 7B-7B;

FIG. 7C is a bottom view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7D is an isometric view of the connector assembly, shown in FIGS. 7A-7C;

FIG. 7E is a front view of a connector-PCB assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIG. 2A, the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 7A-7D, assembled with a PCB;

FIG. 7F is a cross-sectional view of the assembly, shown in FIG. 7E, taken along line 7F-7F;

FIG. 8A is a side isometric view of an assembled pair of dielectrics in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 8B shows isometric views of the pair of dielectrics shown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8C is a front view of the pair of dielectrics shown in FIG. 8B;

FIG. 8D is a bottom view of the assembled pair of dielectrics shown in FIG. 8A-8C;

FIG. 8E is a side view of the assembled pair of dielectrics shown in FIG. 8D;

FIG. 8F is a bottom view of the pair of dielectrics shown in FIG. 8C spaced a distance apart;

FIG. 8G is a side view of the pair of dielectrics shown in FIG. 8F spaced a distance apart;

FIG. 9A is a rear view of a connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 9A, taken along line 9B-9B;

FIG. 9C is a bottom view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9D shows isometric views of the connector assembly, shown in FIGS. 9A-9C;

FIG. 9E is a front view of an assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIG. 2A, the connector assembly shown in FIG. 9A, and a PCB;

FIG. 9F is a cross-sectional view of the assembly, shown in FIG. 9E, taken along line 9F-9F;

FIG. 10A is a front view of a connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 10A, taken along line 10B-10B;

FIG. 10C is a bottom view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 10D is an isometric view of the connector assembly, shown in FIGS. 10A-10C;

FIG. 10E is a front view of an assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 10A-10D and two PCBs;

FIG. 10F is a cross-sectional view of the assembly, shown in FIG. 10E, taken along line 10F-10F;

FIG. 11A is a front view of a connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 11A, taken along line 11B-11B;

FIG. 11C is a bottom view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 11A;

FIG. 11D is an isometric view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 11A;

FIG. 11E is a top view of a connector-PCB assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 11A-11C;

FIG. 11F is a side view of a connector-PCB assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 11A-11C;

FIG. 11G is a cross-sectional view of the connector-PCB assembly shown in FIGS. 11E-11F;

FIG. 12A is a front view of a connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 12A, taken along line 12B-12B;

FIG. 12C is a bottom view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12D is an isometric view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 12A-C;

FIG. 12E is a side view of a connector-PCB assembly, including the connector 12A-12C;

FIG. 12F is a cross-sectional view of the connector-PCB assembly, shown in FIG. 12E, taken along line 12F-12F;

FIG. 13A is a front view of another connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 13A, taken along line 13B-13B;

FIG. 13C is a bottom view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 13D is an isometric view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 13E is a top view of a connector-PCT assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 13A-13D;

FIG. 13F is a cross-sectional view of the connector-PCB assembly t shown in FIG. 13E, taken along line 13F-13F;

FIG. 14A is a front view of a connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 14A, taken along line 14B-14B;

FIG. 14C is a bottom view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 14D is an isometric view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 14E is a top view of a connector-PCT assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 14A-14D;

FIG. 14F is a cross-sectional view of the connector-PCB assembly t shown in FIG. 14E, taken along line 14F-14F;

FIG. 15A is a front view of a connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 15A, taken along line 15B-15B;

FIG. 15C is a bottom view of the connector assembly, shown in FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15D is an isometric view of the connector assembly, shown in FIGS. 15A-15C;

FIG. 15E is a front view of a connector-PCB assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 15A-15C and PCBs;

FIG. 15F is a cross-sectional view of the connector-PCB assembly, shown in FIG. 15E;

FIG. 16A is a front view of a connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 16A, taken along line 16B-16B;

FIG. 16C is an isometric view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 16A;

FIG. 16D is a top view of a connector-PCB assembly, including the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 16A-16C;

FIG. 16E is a cross-sectional view of the connector-PCB assembly shown in FIG. 16D, taken along line 16E-16E;

FIG. 17A is a front view of a connector assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 17A, taken along line 17B-17B;

FIG. 17C is an isometric view of the connector assembly, shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B;

FIG. 17D is a front view of a connector-cable assembly in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 17E is a cross-sectional view of the connector-cable assembly shown in FIG. 17D, taken along line 17E-17E;

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a compressible electrical contact in a substantially relaxed state in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 19 is an isometric view of the compressible electrical contact shown in FIG. 18 with an upper quadrant of the contact removed;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged cutaway portion of the medial section of the compressible electrical contacts disclosed herein;

FIG. 21 shows two top views of the compressible electrical contact shown in FIG. 18 with the compressible electrical contact being in a substantially relaxed state;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectioned top view of the compressible electrical contact shown in FIG. 1 taken along a centrally located latitudinal plane with respect to inner and outer diameters of the compressible electrical contact;

FIG. 23 is a side view of the compressible electrical contact shown in FIG. 18 in a substantially relaxed state;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectioned side view of the compressible electrical contact shown in FIG. 18, taken along a centrally located longitudinal plane with respect to inner and outer diameters of the compressible electrical contact shown;

FIG. 25 is a top view of the compressible electrical contact shown in FIG. 18 in a substantially compressed state;

FIG. 26 is a top view of another compressible electrical contact in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, shown in a substantially relaxed state;

FIG. 27 is a side view of the compressible electrical contact shown in FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a top view of the compressible electrical contact shown in FIG. 26 in a substantially relaxed state;

FIG. 29 is a top view of the compressible electrical contact, shown in FIGS. 26-28, in a substantially compressed state;

FIG. 30 is a side view of a tube, schematically illustrating a divaricating pattern for a compressible electrical contact in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

The figures are not necessarily to scale. Like numbers used in the figures may be used to refer to like components. However, it will be understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the component in another figure labeled with the same number.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure will now be described with particular reference to the Drawings. Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may take on various modifications and alterations without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the described exemplary embodiments, but are to be controlled by the limitations set forth in the claims and any equivalents thereof.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing feature sizes, amounts, and physical properties used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the foregoing specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing the teachings disclosed herein.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

Spatially related terms, including but not limited to, “lower,” “upper,” “beneath,” “below,” “above,” and “on top,” if used herein, are utilized for ease of description to describe spatial relationships of an element(s) to another. Such spatially related terms encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the particular orientations depicted in the figures and described herein. For example, if an object depicted in the figures is turned over or flipped over, portions previously described as below or beneath other elements would then be above those other elements.

Cartesian coordinates are used in some of the Figures for reference and are not intended to be limiting as to direction or orientation.

For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” and derivatives thereof, shall relate to the disclosure as oriented with respect to the Cartesian coordinates in the corresponding Figure, unless stated otherwise. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary.

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate a connector assembly 100, including a conductive center contact 110, an outer housing 120, and a dielectric 130 disposed between the center contact 110 and the outer housing 120. The center contact 110 has two contact ends 112a, 112a′, and a contact body 114 disposed between the contact ends 112a, 112a′. Each contact end 112a, 112a′ extends past ends 120a, 120a′ of the outer housing 120 and includes a contoured surface 112b, 112b′, which extends such that contact point surfaces 112c, 112c′ are formed. The contact body 114 includes outer body sections 114a, 114a′ coupled respectively to contact ends 112a, 112a′, inner body sections 114b, 114b′ and a central body section 114c, which are coupled to the dielectric 130 upon assembly.

The dielectric 130 has a dielectric body 134, having an inner annular dielectric surface 136, outer annular dielectric surfaces 138a, 138a′, and a central groove 138c, between the outer annular dielectric surfaces 138a, 138a′. Preferably, the dielectric 130 has an interference fit with the central body portion 114c and at least a portion of each inner body section 114a, 114a′.

Coupled to the outer annular dielectric surfaces 138a, 138a′ and the central groove 138c is an outer housing 120. The outer housing 120 includes a centrally located cavity or opening 121, which is illustrated as having a circular shape (FIG. 1A). The centrally located cavity 121 is not limited to a circular shape, and instead may undertake different shapes, such as that of a polygon (e.g., hexagonal).

The outer housing 120 also includes a plurality of biasing portions 122a, 122a′, extending from a medial housing section 124 positioned therebetween. Where two biasing portions are included in the outer housing 120, it is preferred, but optional, that the medial housing section 124, biasing portion 122a, and biasing portion 122a′ share a common longitudinal axis L1, as shown in FIG. 1B. It should be noted that longitudinal axes noted herein are mathematical or geometric constructs used to illustrate the principles concepts of the embodiments shown herein, and are not physical components.

Referring particularly to FIG. 1C, disposed between pairs of biasing portions are slots 123a, 123a′ which are symmetrically and circumferentially positioned at intervals at each outer housing end 127a, 127a′. The slots 123a, 123a also extend from each end 127a, 127a′ to the medial housing section 124. In the illustrated embodiment, six slots 123a, 123a′ divide biasing portions 122a, 122a into six cantilevered beams 129a, 129a′. It is to be understood, however, that fewer or more slots may be present. At least six slots and six beams per side are preferred, and six slots and six beams are more preferred.

The outer housing 120, preferably, but optionally includes transition portions 131a, 131a′ between each cantilevered beams 129a, 129a′ and the medial housing section 120. Each transition portion 131a, 131a has a radial outer surface which preferably, but optionally, has an inwardly arcing, curved profile. This transition portion preferably has a non-orthogonal profile, and more preferably curved, e.g., radial or rounded. Although not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that such profiles distribute stress in the outer housing 120 when the cantilevered beams 129a, 129a′ are flexed radially inward.

The medial housing section 124 also includes an upper housing portion 126 that extends upwardly and a lower housing portion 128 that extends downwardly to mate with the central groove 138c of the dielectric 130 upon complete assembly, as shown particularly in FIG. 1B. The lower housing portion 128 may be configured to extend continuously around the inner surface of the medial housing section. Alternatively, the lower housing portion 128 may comprise segments, such as diametrically opposed segments that are discontinuous from one another. The lower housing portion 128 may also be formed integrally with or separately from the remainder of the medial housing section 124.

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate another connector assembly 200, including a center contact 210, an outer housing 220, and a dielectric 230 disposed between the center contact 210 and the outer housing 220.

The center contact 210 has two contact ends 212a, 212a′, and a contact body 214 disposed between the contact ends 212a, 212a′. The contact ends 212a, 212a′ do not extend past ends 220a, 220a′ of the outer housing 120. Each contact end 212a, 212a′ includes a contoured surface 212b, 212b′, which extends such that contact point surfaces 212c, 212c′ are formed. The contact body 214 includes inner body sections 214a, 214a′, coupled respectively to contact ends 212a, 212a′, and a central body section 214c. The inner body sections 214a, 214a′ and the central body section 214c are coupled to the dielectric 230 upon assembly.

The dielectric 230, in this assembly configuration, also includes a dielectric body 234, having an inner annular dielectric surface 236, outer annular dielectric surfaces 238a, 238a′, and a central groove 238c, between the outer annular dielectric surfaces 238a, 238a′. Preferably, the dielectric 230 has an interference fit with the central body portion 214c and at least a portion of each inner body section 214a, 214a′.

Coupled to the outer annular dielectric surfaces 238a, 238a′ and the central groove 238c is an outer housing 220. The outer housing 220 includes a plurality of biasing portions 222a, 222a′ on each housing end 220a, 220b with a medial housing section 224 positioned therebetween. The medial housing section 224 has an upper housing portion 226 that extends upwardly and a lower housing portion 228 that extends downwardly to mate with the central groove 138c of the dielectric 230 upon complete assembly, as shown particularly in FIG. 2B.

The outer housing 220 includes a centrally located cavity or opening 221, which is illustrated as having a circular shape (FIG. 2A) to provide the outer housing with an annular appearance. The centrally located cavity 221 is not limited to a circular shape, and instead may undertake different shapes, such as that of a polygon (e.g., hexagonal).

The outer housing 220 also includes a plurality of biasing portions 222a, 222a′, extending from a medial housing section 224 positioned therebetween. Where two biasing portions are included in the outer housing 220, it is preferred, but optional, that the medial housing section 224, biasing portion 222a, and biasing portion 222a′ share a common longitudinal axis L2, as shown in FIG. 2B.

Referring particularly to FIG. 2C, disposed between pairs of biasing portions are slots 223a, 223a′ which are symmetrically and circumferentially positioned at intervals at each outer housing end 227a, 227a′. The slots 223a, 223a also extend from each end 227a, 227a′ to the medial housing section 224. In the illustrated embodiment, six slots 223a, 223a′ divide biasing portions 222a, 222a into six cantilevered beams 229a, 229a′. It is to be understood, however, that fewer or more slots may be present. At least six slots and six beams per side are preferred, and six slots and six beams are more preferred.

The outer housing 220 preferably but optionally includes transition portions 231a, 231a′ between each cantilevered beams 229a, 229a′ and the medial housing section 220. Each transition portion 231a, 231a has a radial outer surface which preferably, but optionally, has an inwardly arcing, curved profile. This transition portion preferably has a non-orthogonal profile, and more preferably curved, e.g., radial or rounded. Although not wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that such profiles distribute stress in the outer housing 220 when the cantilevered beams 229a, 229a′ are flexed radially inward.

The medial housing section 224 also includes an upper housing portion 226 that extends upwardly and a lower housing portion 228 that extends downwardly to mate with the central groove 238c of the dielectric 230 upon complete assembly, as shown particularly in FIG. 2B. The lower housing portion 228 may be configured to extend continuously around the inner surface of the medial housing section. Alternatively, the lower housing portion 228 may comprise segments, such as diametrically opposed segments that are discontinuous from one another. The lower housing portion 228 may also be formed integrally with or separately from the remainder of the medial housing section 224.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate a connector assembly 300, including a compressible electrical contact 2000, shown in a substantially relaxed state, an outer housing 320, and a dielectric 330 disposed between the compressible electrical contact 2000 and the outer housing 320. Each of the elements in the assembly share a common longitudinal axis L3, as shown in FIG. 3B. The compressible electric contact 2000 is manufactured from a tube 3000A (FIG. 26) and includes a first contact end 2010, a second contact end 2020, two medial portions 2030a, 2030b, and a central tubular portion 2025. The compressible electrical contact 2000 and variations thereof (2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, 2600) will be described with additional detail, particularly with reference to FIGS. 18-30. As shown particularly in FIG. 20, each variation of the compressible electrical contact includes one or more medial portions 2030, 2130, 2230, 2330, 2430, 2530, 2630 having at least one cut section 2032, 2132, 2232, 2332, 2432, 2532, 2632 based on a divaricating pattern PA (FIG. 26).

The dielectric 330 has a dielectric body 334, with a first body end 334a and a second body end 334a′ opposing the first body end 334a. Preferably, both body ends 334a, 334a′ are contoured, as particularly shown in FIG. 3B. The body 334 also includes an inner annular dielectric surface 336, outer annular dielectric surface 338, a first dielectric bore 339a, on the first body end 334a, and a second dielectric bore 339a′ on the second body end 334a′. Disposed between both dielectric bores 339a, 339a′ is a central dielectric section 340, which extends and tapers downwardly to surrounds and mate with the central tubular portion 2025 of the contact 2000 upon assembly.

Upon assembly, the dielectric 330 is surrounded by an outer housing 320. The outer housing 320 includes a first housing end 320a and a second housing end 320a′ opposing the first housing end 320a. Preferably each end 320a, 320a′ includes chamfers 321a, 321a′. The dielectric 330 also has an outer surface 331 that mates with the outer housing 320 and an inner surface 333 configured to mate with the contact 2000, upon assembly. When assembled, the first contact end 2010 and the second contact end 2020 both extend beyond the dielectric 330 and the outer housing 320.

FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate a connector assembly 400, including the compressible electrical contact 2000, an outer housing 420, a center dielectric 430 and outer dielectrics, 440a, 440a′. Each of the elements in the assembly share a common longitudinal axis L4, as shown in FIG. 4B. All three dielectrics are disposed between the compressible electrical contact 2000 and the outer housing 420.

The center dielectric 430 has a center dielectric body 434, with a first body end 434a and a second body end 434a′ opposing the first body end 434a. Preferably, both ends 434a, 434a′ have contoured faces 435a, 435a′, as particularly shown in FIGS. 4B and 4D. The center dielectric body 434 also includes an inner annular dielectric surface 436 and an outer annular dielectric surface 438.

Each outer dielectric 440a, 440a′ has an inner surface 442a, 442a′ and preferably two respective outer surfaces 444a, 444a′, 444b, 444b′. As shown particularly in FIG. 4D outer surface 444a′ has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of outer surface 444b′. Also, outer surface 444a has a similar configuration with respect to outer surface 444b.

Upon assembly, each dielectric 430, 440a, 440a′ is surrounded by an outer housing 420. The outer housing 420 includes a first housing end 420a and a second housing end 420a′ opposing the first housing end 420a. Preferably each end 420a, 420a′ includes chamfers 421a, 421a′. The dielectric 430 also has an outer surface 431 and an inner surface 433 configured to mate with the contact 2000 upon assembly.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate a connector assembly 500, including the compressible electrical contact 2000, an outer housing 520, a center dielectric 530 and outer dielectrics, 540a, 540a′. Each of the elements in the assembly share a common longitudinal axis L5, as shown in FIG. 5B. All three dielectrics are disposed between the compressible electrical contact 2000 and the outer housing 520.

The center dielectric 530 has a center dielectric portion 534, with a first body end 534a and a second body end 534a′ opposing the first body end 534a. Preferably, both ends 534a, 534a′ have contoured faces 535a, 535a′, as particularly shown in FIG. 5B. The center dielectric body 534 also includes an inner annular dielectric surface 536 and an outer annular dielectric surface 538.

Each outer dielectric 540a, 540a′ has an inner surface 542a, 542a′ and preferably two respective outer surfaces 544a, 544a′, 544b, 544b′. The outer surface 544a has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of outer surface 544b, in a configuration that is similar to that shown in FIG. 4D.

Upon assembly, each dielectric 530, 540a, 540a′ is surrounded by an outer housing 520. The outer housing 520 includes a first housing end face 520a and a second housing end face 520a′ opposing the first housing end face 520a. A plurality of mounting legs 550a, 550a′ extend respectively from each housing end face 520a, 520a′. In this embodiment, four mounting legs 550a, 550a′ are shown extending from each end face 520a, 520a′, however, more or fewer mounting legs can be included on each end face. The mounting legs 550a, 550a′ are also preferably positioned symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal axis L5 that extends through the connector assembly 500.

FIG. 5D is a front view of a connector-PCB assembly 500A, including PCBs 570a, 570a′ coupled to the connector assembly 500, and specifically the outer housing 520, while FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 500A, taken along line 5E-5E. Each PCB 570a, 570a′ includes bores 572a, 572a′ having inner circular profiles that complement the outer circular profiles of the mounting legs 550a, 550a′. The bores 572a, 572a′ each have a length BL, which is long enough to accommodate the full length of each mounting leg 550a, 550a′. Preferably, the length BL is sufficient to allow additional clearance within the bores 572a, 572a′ even after final assembly, as particularly shown in FIG. 5E. Each PCB 570a, 570a′ also includes an engagement surface 574a, 574a′, including portions of which are positioned against external surfaces of the outer housing 520 and dielectrics 540a, 540a′.

FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate a connector assembly 600, including the compressible electrical contact 2000, an outer housing 620, a center dielectric 630 and outer dielectrics, 640a, 640a′. All three dielectrics 630, 640a, 640a′ are disposed between the compressible electrical contact 2000 and the outer housing 620.

The center dielectric 630 has a center dielectric body 634, with a first body end 634a and a second dielectric end 634a′ opposing the first body end 634a. Preferably, both ends 634a, 634a′ have contoured faces 635a, 635a′, as particularly shown in FIG. 6B. The center dielectric body 634 also includes an inner annular dielectric surface 636 and an outer annular dielectric surface 638.

Each outer dielectric 640a, 640a′ has an inner surface 642a, 642a′ and preferably two respective outer surfaces 644a, 644a′, 644b, 644b′. The outer surface 644a has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of outer surface 644b (FIG. 4D).

Upon assembly, each dielectric 630, 640a, 640a′ is surrounded by an outer housing 620. The outer housing 620 includes a first housing end 620a, including a contoured bore 622 and a second housing end 620a′ opposing the first housing end 620a. The contoured bore 622 is configured such that a portion of the first contact end (2010) is contained therein. A plurality of mounting legs 650 extend from the second housing end 620a′. In this embodiment, four mounting legs 650 are shown extending in a symmetrical pattern from an end face 621 of the second housing end 620a′, however, more or fewer mounting legs can be included. The mounting legs 650 are also preferably positioned symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal axis a′ that extends through the connector assembly 600.

FIGS. 6E and 6F illustrate a connector-PCB assembly 600A, including assemblies 200, 600. Assembly 200 is partially disposed within the bore 622 such that a portion of the assembly 200 extends freely from the connector-PCB assembly 600A. The mounting legs 650 are positioned in the PCB 670.

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate a right-angle connector assembly 700, including a compressible electrical contact 2100 in a substantially relaxed state, a primary housing 702, a side housing 704, and a bottom housing 706. The compressible electrical contact 2100 is elongated and includes a first contact end 2110, a second contact end 2120, a plurality of medial portions 2130, and a central tubular portion 2125, having a bend 2127. In this configuration, two medial portions 2130a, 2130b are included in the compressible electrical contact 2100. Each medial portion has a plurality of cut sections 2132.

The primary housing 702, side housing 704, and bottom housing 706 form a right-angle housing assembly because the bottom housing 706 is positioned about 90 degrees away from the side housing 704 when measured with respect to centerlines C_SH, C_BH. The primary housing 702 has a housing body 703 that includes a side bore 708a defined in a side 705 of the primary housing 702, a bottom bore 708b defined in the bottom 707 of the primary housing 702, and an alignment dielectric bore 708c defined in an interior section 709 of the primary housing 702. The alignment bore 708c is configured to house an alignment dielectric 730, as will be further described.

Preferably, the alignment dielectric 730, as well as other dielectrics disclosed herein, is manufactured from an organic/inorganic hybrid material, such as, for example, a low-dielectric polyimide/poly(silsesquioxane)-like nanocomposite material (sometimes referred to as “PI-PSSQ”). PI-PSSQ is advantageous because of its dielectric properties similar to glass or ceramics while still being able to be processed at lower enough temperatures which will not deteriorate the plating of the components.

The alignment dielectric 730 is preferably formed by injecting a material comprising polyimide/poly(silsesquioxane)-like nanocomposite material in a volume within the primary housing 702. The assembly with the injected material may then be heated to a temperature between about 150 C to about 380 C in a substantially dry nitrogen-based environment and allowed the connector to cool. The alignment dielectric 730 is further formed such that a contact bore 760 is disposed within the alignment dielectric that follows a contact path CP that extends from a side face 731 of the alignment dielectric 730 to a bottom face 733 of the alignment dielectric 730. Adjacent to the alignment dielectric bore 708c is the side bore 708a and the bottom bore 708b. The side bore 708a is configured to house the side housing 704 and the bottom bore 708b is configured to house the bottom housing 706.

Referring particularly to FIG. 7B, the side housing 704 is disposed within the side bore 708a. The side housing 704 has an innermost bore 770 configured to house a side dielectric 740 and a contoured bore 772 configured to house connector assembly 200 (FIGS. 2A-2C). The side housing 704 preferably has a stepped-configuration, which form a plurality of outer surfaces 704a, 704b, 704c. Here, the second side housing surface 704b has an outer surface diameter larger than third side housing surface 704c.

The bottom housing 706 is disposed within the bottom bore 708b. The bottom housing 706 also preferably has a stepped-outer configuration, and includes a plurality of circular outer surfaces 706a, 706b, 706c. The first bottom housing surface 706a has an outer surface diameter larger than second bottom housing surface 706b, while the second bottom housing surface 706b has an outer surface diameter larger than third bottom housing surface 706c. The bottom housing additionally includes a top engagement surface 707a configured to mate with a corresponding inner surfaces of the primary housing 702 and a bottom engagement surface 707b configured to mate with a PCB 770 (FIG. 7F).

Extending from the bottom engagement surface 707b are a plurality of mounting legs 750. Referring to FIG. 7C, four mounting legs 750 are shown. This number, however, is not to be construed as limiting, as fewer or more mounting legs may extend from the bottom engagement surface 707b. Also disposed within the bottom housing 706 is a bottom dielectric 780 positioned within the bottom dielectric bore 782.

FIGS. 7E and 7F illustrate a connector-PCB assembly 700A, including connector assembly 200 (FIGS. 2A-2C) disposed within side bore 708a. The connector assembly 200 is partially disposed within the side bore 708c such that medial housing section 224 is partially inserted into the side bore 708a and contact point surface 212c engages contact 2100, as particularly shown in FIG. 7F. The connector-PCB assembly 700A also includes a PCB coupled to the bottom engagement surface 708b. The mounting legs 750 are disposed within corresponding PCB mounting holes (not shown).

FIGS. 8A-8G show an alignment dielectric 830 used in accordance with some embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 8A shows a side perspective view of the dielectric 830 when halves 830a, 830b of the dielectric 830 are assembled. FIG. 8B shows the dielectric 830 positioned uprightly with the two halves 830a, 830b of the dielectric 830a, 830b separated. Each halve 830a, 830b includes a curved halve channel 831a, 831b defined therein with a chamfered edge 839a, 839b.

When assembled, the dielectric halves 830a, 830b are mated to form a substantially conical portion 832 with conical half portions 832a, 832b and a bottom portion 834 with cylinder half portions 834a, 834b. The first dielectric half 830a includes an interior half surface 833a, having a plurality of male alignment elements 837a, 837a′, 837a″, extending therefrom. The first dielectric half 830a also has a bottom surface 835a. A channel 860a extends from the bottom surface 835a to the outer surface of the cylinder half portion 834a. The second dielectric half 830b includes an interior half surface 833b, having a plurality of female alignment sockets 837b, 837b′, 837b″ disposed therein. The second dielectric half 830a also has a bottom surface 835b. A channel 860b similarly extends from the bottom surface 835b to the outer surface of the cylinder half portion 834b, forming openings 862, 864. When the halves of the dielectric 830a, 830b are assembled together, channels 831a, 831b form an enclosed channel for conductive contacts, as will be further described with respect to FIGS. 9A-9F.

FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate a connector assembly 900, including a compressible electrical contact 2200 in a substantially relaxed state, a primary housing 902, a side housing 904, a bottom housing 906, and the alignment dielectric 830. The compressible electrical contact 2200 is elongated and includes a first contact end 2210, a second contact end 2220, a plurality of medial portions 2230, and a tubular portion 2225, having bends 2227a, 2227b. A portion of the first contact end 2210 is cylindrical, while a portion of the second contact end 2220 has a plurality of longitudinally oriented u-shaped slots 2213 delineated by a plurality of openings 2215. In this configuration, three medial portions 2230a, 2230b, 2230c are included in the compressible electrical contact 2200. Each medial portion has a plurality of cut sections 2232 based on divaricating pattern PA.

Together, the primary housing 902, side housing 904, and bottom housing 906 form a right-angle housing assembly. The primary housing 902 has a housing body 903. Defined within the housing body 903 are a side bore 908a, a bottom bore 908b, an alignment bore 908c, and a dielectric bore 908d. The side bore 908a is configured to partially house the side housing 904. The bottom bore 908b is similarly configured to partially house the bottom housing 906. The alignment bore 908c is configured to house the alignment dielectric 830, as described with respect to FIGS. 8A-8G. Various elements of the alignment dielectric 830, including male alignment elements 837a, 837a′, 837a″ and female alignment sockets 837b, 837b′, 837b″, are used to position the compressible electrical contact 2200 within the primary housing 902 and facilitate routing of the compressible electrical contact 2200 into the side housing 904 and the bottom housing 906. The dielectric bore 908d partially houses an intermediary dielectric 930, which has a portion that extends into the bottom housing 906.

Referring particularly to FIG. 9B, the side housing 904 is disposed within the side bore 908a. The side housing 904 has an innermost bore 970 configured to house a side dielectric 940 and a contoured bore 972 configured to house assembly 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C), as shown in FIG. 9F. The side housing 904 preferably has a stepped outer configuration, which forms a plurality of circular outer surfaces 904a, 904b, 904c. Here, the first side housing surface 904a has an outer surface diameter larger than the second side housing surface 904b, while the second side housing surface 904b has an outer surface diameter larger than third side housing surface 904c.

The bottom housing 906 is disposed within the bottom bore 908b. The bottom housing 906 also preferably has a stepped outer configuration, and includes a plurality of outer surfaces 906a, 906b, 906c. The first bottom housing surface 904a has an outer surface diameter larger than second bottom housing surface 904b, while the second bottom housing surface 904b has an outer surface diameter larger than third bottom housing surface 904c. The bottom housing further includes a top engagement surface 907a configured to mate with corresponding inner surfaces of the primary housing 902 and a bottom engagement surface 907b configured to mate with a PCB 970 (FIG. 9F). Extending from the bottom engagement surface 908b are a plurality of mounting legs 950. Referring to FIG. 9C, four mounting legs 950 are shown. This number, however, is not to be construed as limiting, as fewer or more mounting legs may extend from the bottom engagement surface 908b. Also disposed within the bottom housing 906 is a dielectric 980 positioned with a bottom dielectric bore 982. The dielectric 980 is preferably has an L-shaped cross-section, as shown in FIG. 9B. And the bottom dielectric bore 982 has a shape that is complementary to the dielectric shape.

FIGS. 9E and 9F illustrate a connector-PCB assembly 900A, including connector assembly 100 (FIGS. 1A-1C) disposed within side bore 908a. The connector assembly 100 is partially disposed within the side bore 908c such that the medial housing section 124 is partially inserted into the side bore 908a and contact point surface 112c engages contact 2200, as particularly shown in FIG. 9F. The connector-PCB assembly 900A also includes a PCB 970 coupled to the bottom engagement surface 908b. The mounting legs 950 are disposed within corresponding PCB mounting holes (not shown). In addition, the contact 2200 is preferably soldered to the PCB 970.

FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate a connector assembly 1000, including the connector assembly 500, a compressible electrical contact 2300, and pins 1090a, 1090a′. FIGS. 10E-10F illustrate a connector-PCB assembly 1000A, including PCBs 1070a, 1070a′, and the connector assembly 1000. Referring particularly to FIGS. 10B and 10F, the compressible electrical contact 2300 includes a first contact end 2310, 2320, a second contact end 2320, a plurality of medial portions 2330, and a central tubular portion 2325. Portions of the first and second contact ends 2310 are cylindrical. In this configuration, two medial portions 2330a, 2330b, adjacent to each contact end 2310, 2320, are included in the compressible electrical contact 2300. Each medial portion has a plurality of cut sections 2332 based on divaricating pattern PA.

Each contact end 2310, 2320 is configured to mate with a mounting leg end portion 1092a, 1092a′. Preferably each mounting leg end portion 1092a, 1092a′ is disposed within each contact end 2310, 2320 upon assembly. Each mounting leg 1090a, 1090a′ also includes outer mounting leg portions 1094a, 1094a′ and medial mounting leg portions 1096a, 1096a′, integral with and between mounting leg portions 1094a, 1094a′.

FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate an assembly 1100, including the connector assembly 500, and a compressible electrical contact 2400. FIGS. 11E and 11G illustrate an assembly 1100A, including PCBs 1170a, 1170a′ and assembly 1100. Referring particularly to FIGS. 11B and 11G, the compressible electrical contact 2400 includes a first contact end 2410, a second contact end 2420, a plurality of medial portions 2430, and a central tubular portion 2325. In this configuration, two medial portions 2330a, 2330b, adjacent to each contact end 2310, 2320, are included in the compressible electrical contact 2300. Each medial portion has a plurality of cut sections 2332 based on divaricating pattern PA. Each contact end 2410, 2420 includes a plurality of longitudinally oriented u-shaped slots 2412a, 2412a′ delineated by a plurality of openings 2413a, 2413a′. Each contact end 2410, 2420 is configured to mate with a conductive pin-shaped portion 1172a, 1172a′ (FIG. 11G) which is integral with each PCB.

FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate an assembly 1200, including a center contact 2400, an outer housing 1220, a center dielectric 1230 and outer dielectrics, 1240a, 1240a′. All three dielectrics are disposed between the center contact 2400 and the outer housing 1220. The center dielectric 1230 has a center dielectric body 1234, with a first body end 1234a and a second dielectric end 1234a′ opposing the first body end 1234a. Preferably, both ends 1234a, 1234a′ have contoured faces 1235a, 1235a′, as particularly shown in FIG. 12B. The center dielectric body 1234 also includes an inner annular dielectric surface 1236 and an outer annular dielectric surface 1238.

Each outer dielectric 1240a, 1240a′ has an inner surface 1242a, 1242a′ and at least one outer surface 1244a, 1244a′. The outer surface 1244a has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of outer surface 1244b, in a configuration similar to that shown in FIG. 4D.

Upon assembly, each dielectric 1230, 1240a, 1240a′ is surrounded by the outer housing 1220. The outer housing 1220 includes a first housing end face 1220a and a second housing end face 1220a′ opposing the first housing end face 1220a. A plurality of mounting legs 1250a, 1250a′ are disposed in bores 1260a, 1260a′ and extend respectively beyond each housing end face 1220a, 1220a′. In this embodiment, four mounting legs 1250a, 1250a′ are shown extending from each end face 1220a, 1220a′, however, more or fewer mounting legs can be extended from each end face. The mounting legs 1250a, 1250a′ are also preferably positioned symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal axis that extends through the connector assembly 1200. Each pin 1250a, 1250a′ preferably has a plurality of annular grooves 1252a, 1252a′ disposed therein.

FIGS. 12E-12F illustrate a connector-PCB assembly 1200A, including PCBs 1270a, 1270a′, coupled to the connector assembly 1200, and specifically the outer housing 1220. FIG. 12F is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 1200A, taken along line 12F-12F. Each PCB 1270a, 1270a′ includes bores 1272a, 1272a′ having inner circular profiles that complement the outer circular profiles of the mounting legs 1250a, 1250a′. The bores 1272a, 1272a′ each have a bore length, which is long enough to accommodate the full length of each mounting leg 1250a, 1250a′. Preferably, the bore length is sufficient to allow additional clearance within the bores 1272a, 1272a′ even after final assembly, as particularly shown in FIG. 12E. Each PCB 1270a, 1270a′ also includes an engagement surface 1274a, 1274a′, including portions of which are positioned against external surfaces of the outer housing 1220 and dielectrics 1240a, 1240a′.

Referring particularly to FIG. 12F, the conductive contact 2300 has two substantially cylindrical contact ends 2310, 2320 configured to mate with a mounting leg end portion 1092a, 1092a′. Preferably each mounting leg end portion 1292a, 1092a′ is disposed within each contact end 2310, 2320 upon assembly. Each mounting leg 1290a, 1290a′ also includes outer mounting leg portions 1294a, 1294a′ and medial mounting leg portions 1296a, 1296a′.

FIGS. 13A-13D illustrate an assembly 1300, including the center contact 2400, an outer housing 1320, a center dielectric 1330 and outer dielectrics, 1340a, 1340a′. All three dielectrics are disposed between the center contact 2400 and the outer housing 1320. The center dielectric 1330 has a center dielectric body 1334, with a first body end 1334a and a second dielectric end 1334a′ opposing the first body end 1334a. Preferably, both ends 1334a, 1334a′ have contoured faces 1335a, 1335a′, as particularly shown in FIG. 13B. The center dielectric body 1334 also includes an inner annular dielectric surface 1336 and an outer annular dielectric surface 1338.

Each outer dielectric 1340a, 1340a′ has an inner surface 1342a, 1342a′ and at least one outer surface 1344a, 1344a′. The outer surface 1344a has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of outer surface 1344b, in a configuration that is similar to that shown in FIG. 4D.

Upon assembly, each dielectric 1330, 1340a, 1340a′ is surrounded by an outer housing 1320. The outer housing includes a first housing end face 1320a and a second housing end face 1320a′ opposing the first housing end face 1320a. A plurality of mounting legs 1350a, 1350a′ are disposed in bores 1360a, 1360a′ and extend respectively beyond each housing end face 1320a, 1320a′. In this embodiment, four mounting legs 1350a, 1350a′ are shown extending from each end face 1320a, 1320a′, however, more or fewer mounting legs can be included on each end face. The mounting legs 1350a, 1350a′ are also preferably positioned symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal axis that extends through the connector assembly 1300. Each mounting leg 1350a, 1350a′ preferably has at least one longitudinal groove 1352a, 1352a′. Preferably each groove 1352a, 1352a′ extends fully along the length of the mounting leg and inwardly into the mounting leg, as particularly shown in FIGS. 13A and 13C.

FIGS. 13E-13F illustrate a connector-PCB assembly 1300A, including PCBs 1370a, 1370a′ coupled to the connector assembly 1300, and specifically the outer housing 1320. FIG. 13F is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 1300A, taken along line 13F-13F. Each PCB 1370a, 1370a′ includes bores 1372a, 1372a′ having inner circular profiles that complement the outer profiles of the mounting legs 1350a, 1350a′. The bores 1372a, 1372a′ each have a bore length, which is long enough to accommodate the full length of each pin 1350a, 1350a′. Preferably, the bore length is sufficient to allow additional clearance within the bores 1372a, 1372a′ even after final assembly, as particularly shown in FIG. 13E. Each PCB 1370a, 1370a′ also includes an engagement surface 1374a, 1374a′, including portions of which are positioned against external surfaces of the outer housing 1320 and dielectrics 1340a, 1340a′.

FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate an assembly 1400, including the center contact 2400, an outer housing 1420, a center dielectric 1430 and outer dielectrics 1440a, 1440a′. All three dielectrics are disposed between the center contact 2400 and the outer housing 1420. The center dielectric 1430 has a center dielectric body 1434, with a first body end 1434a and a second dielectric end 1434a′ opposing the first body end 1434a. Preferably, both ends 1434a, 1434a′ have contoured faces 1435a, 1435a′, as particularly shown in FIG. 14B. The center dielectric body 1434 also includes an inner annular dielectric surface 1436 and an outer annular dielectric surface 1438.

Each outer dielectric 1440a, 1440a′ has an inner surface 1442a, 1442a′ and at least one outer surface 1444a, 1444a′. The outer surface 1444a has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of outer surface 1444b, in a configuration that is similar to that shown in FIG. 4D.

Upon assembly, each dielectric 1430, 1440a, 1440a′ is surrounded by an outer housing 1420. The outer housing includes a first housing end face 1420a and a second housing end face 1420a′ opposing the first housing end face 1420a. A plurality of complaint mounting legs 1450a, 1450a′ are partially disposed in bores 1460a, 1460a′ such that the legs 1450a, 1450a′ extend respectively beyond each housing end face 1420a, 1420a′. In this embodiment, four complaint mounting legs 1450a, 1450a′ are shown extending from each end face 1420a, 1420a′, however, more or fewer mounting legs can be included on each end face. The mounting legs 1450a, 1450a′ are also preferably positioned symmetrically with respect to longitudinal axes that extend through the connector assembly 1400. Each pin 1450a, 1450a′ preferably has a tapered element 1451a, 1451a′, having channels 1452a, 1452a′ that extend partially through each taper element 1451a, 1451a′, allowing for expansion and contraction of the mounting legs 1450a, 1450a′ upon insertion and extraction in a PCB.

FIGS. 14E-14F illustrate a connector-PCB assembly 1400A, including PCBs 1470a, 1470a′ coupled to the connector assembly 1400, and specifically the outer housing 1420. FIG. 14F is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 1400A, taken along line 14F-14F. Each PCB 1470a, 1470a′ includes bores 1472a, 1472a′ having inner circular profiles for positioning of the mounting legs 1450a, 1450a′ therein. The bores 1450a, 1450a′ each have a bore length, which is long enough to accommodate the full length of each mounting leg 1450a, 1450a′. Preferably, the bore length is also sufficient to allow additional clearance within the bores 1472a, 1472a′ even after final assembly, as particularly shown in FIG. 14F. Each PCB 1470a, 1470a′ also includes an engagement surface 1474a, 1474a′, including portions of which are positioned against external surfaces of the outer housing 1420 and dielectrics 1440a, 1440a′.

FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate an assembly 1500, including the center contact 2400, an outer housing 1520, a center dielectric 1530 and outer dielectrics, 1540a, 1540a′. All three dielectrics are disposed between the center contact 2400 and the outer housing 1520. The center dielectric 1530 has a center dielectric body 1534, with a first body end 1534a and a second dielectric end 1534a′ opposing the first body end 1534a. Preferably, both ends 1534a, 1534a′ have contoured faces 1535a, 1535a′, as particularly shown in FIG. 15B. The center dielectric body 1534 also includes an inner annular dielectric surface 1536 and an outer annular dielectric surface 1538.

Each outer dielectric 1540a, 1540a′ has an inner surface 1542a, 1542a′ and at least one outer surface 1544a, 1544a′. The outer surface 1544a has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of outer surface 1544b, in a configuration similar to that shown in FIG. 4D.

Upon assembly, each dielectric 1530, 1540a, 1540a′ is surrounded by an outer housing 1520. The outer housing includes a first housing end face 1520a and a second housing end face 1520a′ opposing the first housing end face 1520a. A plurality of mounting legs 1550a, 1550a′ are disposed in bores 1560a, 1560a′ and extend respectively beyond each housing end face 1520a, 1520a′. In this embodiment, four mounting legs 1550a, 1550a′ are shown extending from each end face 1520a, 1520a′, however, more or fewer mounting legs can be included on each end face. The mounting legs 1550a, 1550a′ are also preferably positioned symmetrically with respect to longitudinal axes that extends through the connector assembly 1500. Each pin 1550a, 1550a′ preferably has a plurality of axial grooves 1552a, 1552a′ disposed therein.

FIGS. 15E-15F illustrate a connector-PCT assembly 1500A, including PCBs 1570a, 1570a′ coupled to the connector assembly 1500, and specifically the outer housing 1520, while FIG. 15F is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 1500A, taken along line 15F-15F. Each PCB 1570a, 1570a′ includes bores 1572a, 1572a′ having inner circular profiles configured to accommodate the outer circular profiles of the mounting legs 1550a, 1550a′. The bores 1572a, 1572a′ each have a bore length, which is long enough to accommodate the full length of each pin 1550a, 1550a′. Preferably, the bore length is sufficient to allow additional clearance within the bores 1572a, 1572a′ even after final assembly, as particularly shown in FIG. 15E. Each PCB 1570a, 1570a′ also includes an engagement surface 1574a, 1574a′, including portions of which are positioned against external surfaces of the outer housing 1520 and dielectrics 1540a, 1540a′.

FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate an assembly 1600, including a plurality of collapsible electrical contacts 2400a, 2400b, 2400c, an outer housing 1620, a plurality of center dielectrics 1630a, 1630b, 1630c and outer dielectrics, 1640a, 1640a′, 1640b, 1640b′, 1640c, 1640c′. Each center dielectric 1630a, 1630b, 1630c has a center dielectric body 1634a, 1634b, 1634c, with a first body end 1634a, 1634b, 1634c and a second dielectric end 1634a′, 1634b′, 1634c′ opposing its respective first body end. Preferably the ends of each center dielectric has contoured faces 1635a, 1635a′, 1635b, 1635b′, 1635c, 1635c′. Each center dielectric body 1634a, 1634b, 1634c also includes respective inner annular dielectric surfaces 1636a, 1636b, 1636c an outer annular dielectric surface 1638a, 1638b, 1638c.

Each outer dielectric 1640a, 1640a′, 1640b, 1640b, 1640c, 1640c′ has an inner surface 1642a, 1642a′, 1642b (not shown), 1642b′ (not shown), 1642c (not shown), 1642c′ (not shown) and at least one outer surface 1644a, 1644a′, 1644b (not shown), 1644b′ (not shown), 1644c (not shown), 1644c′ (not shown). Each outer surface 1644a, has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of outer surface 1644b, in a configuration that is similar to that shown in FIG. 4D.

Upon assembly, each dielectric 1630, 1640a, 1640a′ is surrounded by an outer housing 1620. The outer housing includes a first housing end face 1620a and a second housing end face 1620a′ opposing the first housing end face 1620a. A plurality of mounting legs 1650a, 1650a′ are disposed in bores 1660a, 1660a′ and extend respectively beyond each housing end face 1620a, 1620a′. In this embodiment, four mounting legs 1650a, 1650a′ are shown extending from each end face 1620a, 1620a′, however, more or fewer mounting legs can be included on each end face. The mounting legs 1650a, 1650a′ are also preferably positioned symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal axis that extends through the connector assembly 1600. Each pin 1650a, 1650a′ preferably has a plurality of annular grooves 1650a, 1650a′ disposed therein.

FIGS. 16E-16F illustrate a connector-PCB assembly 1600A, including PCBs 1670a, 1670a′ coupled to the connector assembly 1600, and specifically the outer housing 1620, while FIG. 16F is a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly 1600A, taken along line 16F-16F. Each PCB 1670a, 1670a′ includes bores 1672a, 1672a′ having inner circular profiles that complement the outer circular profiles of the mounting legs 1650a, 1650a′. The bores 1672a, 1672a′ each have a bore length, which is long enough to accommodate the full length of each mounting leg 1650a, 1650a′. Preferably, the bore length is sufficient to allow additional clearance within the bores 1672a, 1672a′ even after final assembly, as particularly shown in FIG. 16E. Each PCB 1670a, 1670a′ also includes an engagement surface 1674a, 1674a′, including portions of which are positioned against external surfaces of the outer housing 1620 and dielectrics 1640a, 1640a′.

FIGS. 17A-17C illustrate a connector assembly 1700, including the compressible electrical contact 2000, a first outer housing 1720a, a second outer housing 1720b, a center dielectric 1730 and outer dielectrics, 1740a, 1740b. All three dielectrics are disposed between the center contact 2000 and the outer housings 1720a, 1720b. The center dielectric 1730 has a center dielectric body 1734, with a first body end 1734a and a second dielectric end 1734a′ opposing the first body end 1734a. Preferably, both ends 1734a, 1734a′ have contoured faces 1735a, 1735a′, as particularly shown in FIG. 17B. The center dielectric body 1734 also includes an inner annular dielectric surface 1736 and an outer annular dielectric surface 1738.

FIGS. 17D-17E illustrate a connector-cable assembly 1700A, including the connector assembly 1700, shown in FIGS. 17A-C, and the connector assembly 200, shown in FIGS. 2A-2C. The cable 4000 includes a cable center conductor 4002, having a portion positioned within the front contact end 2010, a cable dielectric 4004 surrounding the cable center conductor 4002, and a cable outer sheath 4006 surrounding the cable dielectric 4004.

Each outer dielectric 1740a, 1740a′ has an inner surface 1742a, 1742a′ and at least one outer surface 1744a, 1744a′. The outer surface 1744a has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of outer surface 1744b, in a configuration that is similar to that shown in FIG. 4D.

FIGS. 18-25 show various views of a compressible electrical contact 2500 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the compressible electrical contact 2500 in a substantially relaxed state. The compressible electrical contact 2500 includes a first contact end 2510, a second contact end 2520 opposite the first contact end 2510, and a medial portion 2530 disposed between the first contact end 2510 and the second contact end 2520. The first contact end 2510 includes an inner surface 2512 and an outer surface 2514. Similarly, the second contact end 2520 includes an inner surface 2522 (FIG. 19) and an outer surface 2524.

In the substantially relaxed state, the compressible electrical contact 2500 has a relaxed length defined as L_R1, measured from a first outer edge 2526a to an opposing outer edge 2528a. Each contact end 2510, 2520 is also defined, in part, by top lengths TL_CE1, TL_CE2 and bottom lengths, BL_CE1, BL_CE2, as particularly shown in FIG. 22. Top length TL_CE1 is measured from the first outer edge 2526a to a first top inner edge 2526a′ of the contact 2500, while top length TL_CE2 is measured from the second outer edge 2528a to a second top inner edge 2528a′ of the contact 2500. Bottom length BL_CE1 is measured from the first outer edge 2526a to a first bottom inner edge 2526b, while bottom length BL_CE2 is measured from the second outer edge 2528a to a second bottom inner edge 2528b. In preferred configurations, at least a portion of each contact end 2510, 2520 is cylindrical.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 18-22, the medial portion 2530 includes a plurality of cut sections 2532 with medial elements 2534 adjacent to or therebetween. For further illustration, FIG. 19 shows an isometric view of the compressible electrical contact 2500 in a substantially relaxed state with its upper right quadrant removed and FIG. 20 shows an enlarged section of the medial portion 2530 cutaway from the first contact end 2510. In alternative configurations, the compressible electrical contact can include a body or medial portion without the first and second contact ends.

FIGS. 18-25 also show various views of the compressible electrical contact 2500 in a substantially relaxed state, manufactured according to a divaricating pattern PA (FIG. 9) that defines how the plurality of cut sections 2532 are cut into a tube 3000A. Referring particularly to FIG. 4, from the first contact end 2510, an initial cut 2532_e1 (referring to the first cut on the first contact end 2510) may be defined by a first end cut angle α_e1, which is measured with respect to opposing inner surfaces 2536a, 2536b. From the second contact end 2520, a final cut 2532_e2 (referring to the last cut on the second contact end 2520) may be defined by a second end cut angle α_e2, which is measured with respect to opposing inner surfaces 2538a, 2538b. Inner cut sections 2532_in, positioned between the first contact end 2510 and the second contact end 2520, may be defined by an inner cut angle α_in (referring to a plurality of inner cut angles between the first contact end 2510 and the second contact end 2520). Each inner cut angle α in is measured with respect to outwardly extending opposing inner surfaces 2539_ain, 2539_bin, between inner cut-sections 2532_in. In addition, preferably included in each cut section is a radiused edge R_e1, R_in R_e2 disposed between the respective opposing inner surfaces 139_ain, 139_bin. Each of the cut sections can be further defined with respect to innermost cut distances V_EI1, V_IN1, V_EI2 and outermost cut distances V_EO1, V_ON1, V_EO2, where each innermost cut distance is smaller than each outermost cut distance.

Although a certain number of sections and medial elements are shown in FIGS. 18-25, the number of cut sections and medial elements shown should not be construed as limiting. Fewer or additional cut sections and medial elements may be included within the overall structure of the compressible electrical contacts disclosed herein. Moreover, the angles of the cut sections and the widths of the medial elements may vary

FIG. 25 shows the compressible electrical contact 2500, in a substantially compressed state, at a compressed length L_C1, where L_C1 is measured from the first outer edge 2526a to the second outer edge 2528a of the contact 2500 when the contact 2500 is substantially compressed. In this state, the inner surfaces 2536a, 2536b (FIG. 21) nest or collapse inwardly and contact each other such that a first end space 2540 is formed adjacent the first contact end 2510. Also, inner surfaces 2538a, 2538b (FIG. 21) nest or collapse inwardly and are in contact such that a second end space 2542 is formed adjacent to the second contact end 2520. And inner surfaces 2539_ain, 2539_bin (FIG. 4) nest or collapse inwardly such that the compressible electrical contact 2500 also includes interior spaces 2544_in formed between interior surfaces 2539_ain, 2539_bin. Accordingly, in the substantially compressed state, a portion of each inner surface touches such that the end spaces and interior spaces form a plurality of tapered slots 2550_e1 (first contact end slot), 2550_in (inner contact slots), 2550_e2 (second contact end slot) that extends through the compressible electrical contact 2500. The plurality of slots 2550 can be further defined to have a tapered-teardrop shape upon compression.

In the substantially relaxed state, shown in FIG. 21, the compressible electrical contact 2500 also remains in a substantially tubular shape without the need for inner and/or outer diameter support structures. The ability of the compressible electrical contact 2500 to maintain a relatively tubular shape is in marked contrast to the jumbled and serpentine undulations commonly seen in coil-type springs when compressed without inner and/or outer diameter support structures. As a result, the medial elements 2534 (FIG. 25) act to counter-balance each other throughout a compression stroke, spreading the load of the forces exerted onto the contact across substantially all portions of the contact 2500.

FIG. 26 illustrates the exemplary divaricating pattern PA for a tube 3000A, upon which cut sections 2032, 2132, 2332, 2432, 2532, 2632 are based. The tube 3000A includes an outer surface 3002a and an inner surface (not shown). The divaricating pattern PA is defined with respect to a central axis CA along the length of the tube 3000A. A theoretical divaricated cut 3050A for a tube end 3010A may be defined with respect to a first divaricating pattern PT1, using predefined measurements DA_C1, EA_C1, FA_C1, and GA_C1. The first divaricating pattern PT1 includes an upper tapered section 3070A and a lower tapered section 3072A. The lowered tapered section 3072A preferably mirrors and is positioned directly below the upper tapered section 3070A.

DA_C1 measures the overall height of the theoretical divaricated cut 3050A. EA_C1 measures the FA_C1, and GA_C1. EA_C1 measures the distance of the center of the divaricating pattern PA from a first outer edge 3026A of the tube 3000A. FA_C1 is the widest width of the divaricating pattern PA_T1 and GA_C1 is narrowest width of the divaricating pattern PT1.

A theoretical cut 3060A for a tube medial portion 3030A may be defined with respect to a second divaricating pattern PA_T2, using predefined measurements DA_C2, FA_C2, and GA_C2. DA_C2 measures the overall height of the theoretical cut 3060A. FA_C2 is the widest width of the divaricating pattern PA_T2 and GA_c2 is narrowest width of the divaricating pattern PA_T2. The divaricating patterns PA_T1, PA_T2 are further defined with respect to dimensions HAc, DAm, where HAc is the distance between the patterns PA_T1, PA_T2 measured from their respective centerlines and DA_M1 is the distance from the bottom of divaricating pattern PA_T2 to a middle line ML where the tapered sections 3070_A1, 3072_A1 join, with the line being central axis CA.

The theoretical cuts are further defined with respect to each other at a measurement HAc defined with respect to the centerlines of theoretical end cut 350A and theoretical medial cut 360A. Preferably, the divaricating patterns are such that they allow the final form of the cut compressible electrical contact to exhibit spring-like properties. Moreover, in the embodiments disclosed herein, zig-zag-like tapered patterns are preferred such that the final properties of the contact are spring-like. The divaricating pattern PA is also configured such that the amount of bowing that could occur in the medial portion, after cutting of the tube and during compression is minimal. Alternative variations and divaricating patterns may, however, be used.

FIGS. 28-30 show various views of a compressible electrical contact 2600 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 28 shows a top view of the contact 2600 and FIG. 29 shows a side view of the contact 2600 in a substantially relaxed state. The compressible electrical contact 2600 includes a first contact end 2610, a second contact end 2620 opposite the first contact end 2610, and a medial portion 2630 disposed between the first contact end 2610 and the second contact end 2620. The first contact end 2610 includes an inner surface (not shown) and an outer surface 2614. Similarly, the second contact end 2620 includes an inner surface (not shown) and an outer surface 2624. In preferred configurations, at least a portion of each contact end 2610, 2620 is cylindrical.

In the substantially relaxed state, the compressible electrical contact 2600 has a relaxed length defined as L_R2, measured from a first outer edge 2626a to an opposing outer edge 2628a. Contact end 210 is defined, in part, by a bottom length, BL_DE1 measured from the outer edge 2626a to a bottom inner edge 2626b. Contact end 2620 is defined, in part, by a top length, TL_DE1 measured from the outer edge 2628a to a first top inner edge 2628b.

The medial portion 2630 includes a plurality of divaricated-cut sections 2632 with medial elements 2634 adjacent to or therebetween. As with the first embodiment, the compressible electrical contact 2600 can include just a medial portion without the first and second contact ends.

Referring particularly to FIG. 28, from the first contact end 2610, an initial cut 2632_e1 (referring to the first cut on the first contact end 2610) may be defined by cut angles δ_e1I, δ_e1I, which are measured with respect to opposing inner surfaces 2636a, 2636b, 2636c, 2636d. From the second contact end 2620, a final cut 2632_e2 (referring to the last cut on the second contact end 2620) may be defined by cut angles δ_e2I, δ_e2O which are measured with respect to opposing inner surfaces 2638a, 2638b, 2638c, 2638d. Extending from inner surface 2638a is a final curved surface 2639. Inner cut sections 2632_in (referring to a plurality of inner cut sections between the first contact end 2610 and the second contact end 2620) may be defined by a plurality of cut angles δ_NI, δ_NO (referring to a plurality of innermost and outermost cut angles between the first contact end 2610 and the second contact end 2620). Cut angles δ_NI, δ_NO are measured with respect to outwardly extending pairs of opposing inner surfaces 2641_ain, 2641_bin, 2641_cin, 2641_din located between inner cut-sections 2632_in. Each of the cut sections can be further defined with respect to innermost cut distances V_EI2, V_IN2, V_EI2 and outermost cut distances V_OI2, V_ON2, V_EO2, where each innermost cut distance is smaller than each outermost cut distance. In addition, preferably included in each cut section is a radiused edge RB_e1, RB_in, RB_e2 disposed between the respective opposing inner surfaces.

FIG. 29 shows the compressible electrical contact 2600 in a substantially compressed state at a compressed length L_C2, measured from the first outer edge 2626a to the second outer edge 2628a of the contact 2600 when the contact is substantially compressed. In this state, the inner surfaces 2636a, 2636b nest or collapse inwardly and contact each other such that a first end space 2640 is formed adjacent the first contact end 2610. Also, inner surfaces 2638a, 2638b collapse inwardly and are in contact such that a second end space 2642 is formed adjacent to the second contact end 2620. And inner surfaces 2639_ain, 2639_bin collapse inwardly such that the compressible electrical contact 2600 also includes interior spaces 2644_in formed between interior surfaces 2646_in, 2648_in. In the substantially compressed state, a portion of each inner surface touches such that the end spaces and interior spaces form a plurality of tapered slots 2650. The plurality of tapered slots 2650 can be further described to include a first contact end slot 2650_e1, at least one inner contact slots 2650_in, and a second contact end slot 2650_e2 that extends through the compressible electrical contact 2600. The plurality of slots 2650 can be further defined to have a tapered-teardrop shape upon compression. Due to the curved surfaces, however, the slots 2650 are much smaller and narrower compared to the slots included in other embodiments of the compressible electrical contacts based on pattern PA.

In the substantially compressed state, shown in FIG. 29, the compressible electrical contact 2600 remains in substantially tubular without the need for inner and/or outer diameter support structures. As with the first embodiment, the medial elements 2634 (FIG. 28) act to counter-balance each other throughout a compression stroke, spreading the load of the forces exerted onto the contact across all portions of the contact 2600.

FIG. 30 shows another type of divaricating pattern PB, including a plurality of divaricating-cut patterns, that may be used to cut the plurality of divaricated-cut sections 2632 into a tube 3000B. The tube 3000B includes an outer surface 3002B and an inner surface (not shown), an overall tube length T_L2, a first tube edge 3026B, and a second tube edge 3028B. The divaricating pattern PB is defined with respect to a central axis CB that extends along the length of the tube 3000B.

A theoretical divaricated cut 3050B for a medial portion 3030B may be defined with respect to a first divaricating cut pattern PB_T1, using predefined measurements DB_C1, EB_C1, and GB_C1. DB_C1 measures the overall height of the theoretical divaricated cut 3050B. EB_C1 measures the maximum width of the divaricated cut 3050B and GB_C1 is narrowest width of the of the divaricated cut 3050B. The first divaricating cut pattern PB_T1 also includes an upper tapered section 3070_B1, a lower tapered section 3072_B1, and an arc section 3074_B1 positioned between the upper tapered section 3070_B1 and the lowered tapered section 3072_B1. The arc section 3074_B1 includes two arc segments BB_T1, BB_T2.

A theoretical divaricating cut 3060B for a tube end portion 3010B may be defined with respect to a second divaricating pattern PB_T2, using predefined measurements DB_C2, EB_C2, FB_C2, and GB_C2. DB_C2 measures the overall height of the theoretical divaricated cut 3060B. EB_C2 measures the distance from the centerline of the cut 3060B to the edge of the tube 3026B. FB_C2 is the widest width of the divaricating pattern PB_T2 and GB_C2 is narrowest width of the divaricating pattern PB_T2.

Divaricating patterns PB_T1, PB_T2 are further defined with respect to dimensions HBc and DB_M2. Measurement HBc is the distance between the patterns PB_T1, PB_T2 measured from their respective centerlines and DBm₂ is the distance from the bottom of divaricating pattern PB_T2 to the median of the arc section 3074_B1, which is parallel with central axis CB.

Preferably, the divaricating patterns PA, PB may cut at internals in the tube are such that they allow the final form of the divaricated-cut contact to exhibit spring-like properties. Moreover, in the embodiments disclosed herein, zig-zag like patterns are preferable such that the final properties of the contact are spring-like. The divaricating patterns PA, PB are also configured such that the amount of bowing that could occur in the medial portion, after cutting of the tube and during compression is minimal. Alternative variations and divaricating patterns may, however, be used.

The compressible electrical contacts disclosed herein are preferably manufactured from tubes using one or more precision cutting methods, e.g. laser cutting. The tube is also preferably manufactured from one or more electrically conductive materials. Suitable materials for the compressible electrical contact include, but are not limited to, brass, copper, beryllium copper and stainless steel. Preferably, these materials have spring-like properties, high strength, high elastic limit, and low moduli.

Overall dimensions for the compressible electrical contacts disclosed herein can range from micro- to large scale. Targeted sizes, however, are on a smaller basis given current industry trends. An exemplary tube size has an inner diameter of about 0.006 inches, an outer diameter of about 0.010 inches, and an overall length of about 0.070 inches. When the compressible electrical contact is manufactured, using a tube having these dimensions and incorporating divaricating pattern, PA, the resulting cut angles can be about 5 degrees, the innermost cut distances can be about 0.001 inches and the outermost cut distance can be about 0.002 inches. And, when the compressible electrical contact is manufactured, incorporating divaricating pattern PB, the resulting outermost cut angles can range from about 13 degrees to about 15 degrees, the resulting innermost cut angles can range from about 1.5 degrees to about 3.0 degrees with the innermost cut distances being about 0.0006 inches and the outermost cut distance being about 0.002 inches.

Dimensions of the compressible electrical contacts disclosed herein, however, depend on various factors, including but not limited to the contact's spring rate and the length of travel between a substantially relaxed state and a compressed state. Nonetheless, after compression, the compressible electrical contacts disclosed herein will have an effective inner diameter of about 0.006 inches, an effective outer diameter of about 0.010 inches, and an overall length of about 0.070 inches, when manufactured from a tube having an inner diameter of about 0.006 inches, an outer diameter of about 0.010 inches, and an overall length of about 0.070 inches.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed embodiments. Since modifications combinations, sub-combinations and variations of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit and substance of the embodiments may occur to persons skilled in the art, the disclosed embodiments should be construed to include everything within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A connector assembly, comprising: a compressible electrical contact, comprising a first contact end, a second contact end opposing the first contact end, and a plurality of cut sections positioned between the first contact end and the second contact end, each of the plurality of cut sections being defined by at least one cut angle measured between a pair of outwardly extending opposing inner surfaces, an innermost cut distance, and an outermost cut distance, wherein the innermost cut distance is smaller than the outermost cut distance when the compressible electrical contact is in a substantially relaxed state, and wherein when the compressible electrical contact is in a substantially compressed state, each pair of opposing inner surfaces collapses inwardly to form a slot;a dielectric, having a central dielectric section surrounding the compressible electrical contact; andan outer housing surrounding the dielectric.

2. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the compressible electrical contact is manufactured from a tube.

3. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one of the plurality of cut sections is based on at least one divaricating pattern.

4. The connector assembly of claim 3, wherein each divaricating pattern comprises an upper tapered section and a lower tapered section.

5. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of cut sections is included in a medial portion disposed between the first contact end and the second contact end.

6. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the central dielectric section extends and tapers downwardly to mate with the compressible electrical contact.

7. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the central dielectric section is disposed between a first dielectric bore on a first body end and a second dielectric bore on a second body end.

8. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the compressible electrical contact comprises a material selected from the group consisting of brass, copper, beryllium copper, and stainless steel.

9. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the compressible electrical contact has an effective outer diameter of about 0.010 inches.

10. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the compressible electrical contact has an effective inner diameter of about 0.006 inches.

11. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one cut angle is about 5 degrees when the compressible electrical contact is in the substantially relaxed state.

12. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the outermost cut distance is about 0.002 inches when the compressible electrical contact is in the substantially relaxed state.

13. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the innermost cut distance is about 0.001 inches when the compressible electrical contact is in the substantially relaxed state.

14. A connector assembly, comprising: a compressible electrical contact, comprising a first contact end, a second contact end opposing the first contact end, and a plurality of cut sections positioned between the first contact end and the second contact end, each of the plurality of cut sections being defined by at least one cut angle measured between a pair of outwardly extending opposing inner surfaces, an innermost cut distance, and an outermost cut distance wherein the innermost cut distance is smaller than the outermost cut distance in a substantially relaxed state, and wherein in a substantially compressed state, each pair of opposing inner surfaces collapses inwardly to form a slota plurality of dielectrics, including outer dielectrics and a center dielectric disposed between the outer dielectrics, wherein the outer dielectrics surround medial portions of the compressible electrical contact; andan outer housing surrounding the plurality of dielectrics.

15. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the center dielectric mates with the compressible electrical contact.

16. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the compressible electrical contact comprises a material selected from the group consisting of brass, copper, beryllium copper, and stainless steel.

17. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the at least one cut angle is about 5 degrees when the compressible electrical contact is in the substantially relaxed state.

18. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the outermost cut distance is about 0.002 inches when the compressible electrical contact is in the substantially relaxed state.

19. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the innermost cut distance is about 0.001 inches when the compressible electrical contact is in the substantially relaxed state.

20. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the compressible electrical contact has an effective outer diameter of about 0.010 inches.