Abstract: The invention relates to a connector and method of connecting electrical conductors or other substrates. It is particularly suited to making connections between coaxial cables, even those having different diameters. The connector is a shell comprising a hollow heat-recoverable member having two open ends, an electrically conductive deformable member disposed within the heat-recoverable member and a quantity of solder also disposed within the heat-recoverable member. To make a connection, the conductors are inserted into different ends of the sleeve and the assembly heated to cause recovery of the heat-recoverable member. The recovery force of the recoverable member deforms the deformable member into close contact with the conductors to provide mechanical strength to the connection and electrical contact between the conductors. The heat used to bring about recovery also fuses the solder to improve both the mechanical and electrical integrity of the connection.

Abstract: Disclosed is an electrical connector suitable for connecting a plurality of electrically conductive members to an electrical component, the connector being adjustable to the spacing of the terminals on the component. The connector comprises a plurality of hollow members slidably retained within one another and having electrically conductive members extending from one end of each hollow member for connection to the electrical component.

Abstract: Herein is described an article for encapsulating in separate compartments a plurality of elongate substrates. Typically the substrates comprise the union or junction between pair of electrical conductors or similar structures. The article comprises a heat recoverable outer tubular member and an inner spacer member to divide the space within the outer member into separate compartments. In particularly preferred embodiments, the article also comprises a fusible insert which will melt when the outer member is heated to cause its recovery. The fusible member can flow about the substrate. If the fusible member comprises, for example, solder, the article can be employed to simultaneously incapsulate and form a secure electrical connection between electrical conductors at their union.

Abstract: A heat recoverable member is disposed about a utility carrier and positioned at least partially within an aperture. The heat recoverable member includes a heat expansible portion disposed within the aperture and a heat shrinkable portion coupled to the heat expansible portion. The heating of the heat recoverable member results in the heat expansible portion expanding in the aperture and the heat shrinkable portion shrinking about the utility carrier.