Socket Connectors

Abstract

A socket connector configured to avoid damaging the conductor of the socket connector is provided. The socket connector includes: a plurality of connection terminals; a molded structure including: a front portion exposing each of the connection terminals, and a support portion disposed at a rear end of the front portion and surrounding each of the connection terminals; and a shield disposed on the support portion and containing a conductive material, wherein the support portion includes: a flat portion including a surface along which the shield extends, and a protrusion, wherein the protrusion protrudes from the surface of the flat portion and is disposed in front of the front end of the shield. The protrusion is formed to avoid damaging the conductor of the socket connector when a plug is mated to the socket connector.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0080067 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on July 3, 2019, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0127562 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on October 15, 2019; the entire contents of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a socket connector, and more particularly, to a socket connector including an electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) shield. Background Art

[0004] Generally, a connector may include a plug connector and a socket connector. The socket connector is mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) or the like of an electronic device and coupled to the plug connector. The socket connector may include a plurality of connection terminals, a molded structure supporting the connection terminals, and a housing surrounding the molded structure.

[0005] The connection terminals may be arranged in a form satisfying, for example, a universal serial bus (USB) pin standard. The connection terminals may be fixed in a molded structure while being insulated from each other by the molded structure and may be isolated from the outside by a housing surrounding the molded structure. Summary of the invention

[0006] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a socket connector having enhanced strength.

[0007] However, the aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to the aspects described herein. The above and other aspects of the present disclosure will become more apparent to those skilled in the art by referring to the detailed description of the present disclosure given below.

[0008] The present invention provides a socket connector, comprising: a plurality of connection terminals; a molded structure, comprising: a front portion, configured to expose each of the plurality of connection terminals, and a support portion, disposed at a rear end of the front portion and configured to surround each of the plurality of connection terminals; and a shield, wherein the shield is disposed on the support portion and contains a conductive material, wherein the support portion comprises: a flat portion, wherein the flat portion comprises a surface along which the shield extends, and a protrusion, wherein the protrusion protrudes from the surface of the flat portion and is disposed in front of the front end of the shield.

[0009] The present invention also provides another socket connector, comprising: a socket connector configured to couple with a plug connector inserted along a first direction, the socket connector comprising: a plurality of first connection terminals, wherein the plurality of first connection terminals extend along the first direction; a molded structure comprising: a front portion, wherein the front portion is configured to expose each of the plurality of first connection terminals, and a support portion, which is arranged at the rear end of the front portion and is configured to surround each of the plurality of first connection terminals; and a shielding member, wherein the shielding member is arranged on the support portion and is configured to be grounded; wherein the support portion includes a flat portion, wherein the flat portion includes: a surface along which the shielding member extends, and a protrusion, wherein the protrusion protrudes from the surface of the flat portion and the protrusion overlaps with at least a portion of the front end of the shielding member in the first direction.

[0010] The present invention also provides another socket connector, comprising: a plurality of connection terminals, wherein the plurality of connection terminals are arranged in a form that complies with the Type-C USB pin standard; a molded structure, wherein the molded structure comprises: a front portion that exposes each of the plurality of connection terminals, a support portion that is arranged on the rear end of the front portion and is configured to surround each of the plurality of connection terminals, and a rear portion that is arranged on the rear end of the support portion and protrudes beyond the upper surface of the support portion; a shield, wherein the shield comprises: a first horizontal portion extending along the upper surface of the support portion, a bent portion that is bent from the first horizontal portion and extends along the front surface of the rear portion, and a second horizontal portion, wherein the second horizontal portion is bent from the bent portion and extends along the upper surface of the rear portion; and a shell, wherein the shell surrounds the molded structure and contacts the second horizontal portion; wherein the support portion comprises: a flat portion, wherein the flat portion comprises a surface, the first horizontal portion extends along the surface, and a protrusion, wherein the protrusion protrudes from the upper surface of the flat portion and the protrusion is arranged in front of the front end of the first horizontal portion.

[0011] In addition, the present invention provides a socket connector, comprising: a contact device, which is configured to allow electrical contact with a second contact of a plug and allow electrical signals to pass between the contact device and the second contact; a first grounding pad device, which is configured to provide electromagnetic shielding of electrical signals near the socket connector; a flat device, which is configured to physically support the first grounding pad device; a protruding device, which is coupled to the flat device, wherein the protruding device is configured to cause the second grounding pad of the plug to deflect instantaneously to avoid collision and buckling of the first grounding pad during engagement of the plug with the socket connector; and a socket housing device, which is configured to structurally physically maintain the flat device, the first grounding pad device and the contact device with each other. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a socket connector is provided, comprising: a plurality of connecting terminals; a molded structure comprising a front portion exposing each of the connecting terminals, and a support portion arranged on a rear end of the front portion and surrounding each of the connecting terminals; and a shielding member arranged on the support portion and containing a conductive material, wherein the support portion comprises: a flat portion including a surface along which the shielding member extends, and a protruding portion protruding from the surface of the flat portion and arranged in front of the front end of the shielding member.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a socket connector is provided, which is to be coupled to a plug connector inserted along a first direction, and the socket connector includes: a plurality of first connecting terminals extending along the first direction; a molded structure, including a front portion exposing each of the first connecting terminals and a support portion arranged on the rear end of the front portion and surrounding each of the first connecting terminals; and a shielding member arranged on the support portion and grounded, wherein the support portion includes: a flat portion of a surface along which the shielding member extends, and a protrusion protruding from the surface of the flat portion, the protrusion overlapping with at least a portion of the front end of the shielding member in the first direction.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a socket connector is provided, comprising: a plurality of connection terminals arranged in a form that meets the Type-C USB pin standard; a molded structure comprising: a front portion exposing each of the connection terminals, a support portion disposed at the rear end of the front portion and surrounding each of the connection terminals, and a rear portion disposed at the rear end of the support portion and protruding beyond the upper surface of the support portion; a shield comprising: a first horizontal portion extending along the upper surface of the support portion, a bent portion bent from the first horizontal portion and extending along the front surface of the rear portion, and a second horizontal portion bent from the bent portion and extending along the upper surface of the rear portion; and a shell surrounding the molded structure and contacting the second horizontal portion of the shield, wherein the support portion comprises: a flat portion including a flat portion of the surface along which the first horizontal portion extends, and a protruding portion protruding from the upper surface of the flat portion and disposed in front of the front end of the first horizontal portion. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] These and / or other aspects will become apparent and more easily understood through the following description of the embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Magnified view of region R1 in FIG.

[0017] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Magnified view of region R2 in FIG.

[0019] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.

[0020] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Magnified view of region R3 in FIG.

[0021] Figure 7 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG.

[0022] Figure 8 The arrangement of connection terminals of the socket connector according to the embodiment is shown.

[0023] Fig. 9 The arrangement of connection terminals of the socket connector according to the embodiment is shown.

[0024] Fig.10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a process in which a socket connector according to an embodiment is coupled to a corresponding plug connector.

[0025] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment.

[0026] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 Magnified view of region R4 in FIG.

[0027] Fig.13 is a perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment.

[0028] Fig.14 yes Fig.13 Magnified view of region R5 in FIG.

[0029] Fig.15 is a partially exploded perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment.

[0030] Fig.16 is a perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment.

[0031] Fig.17 It is along Fig.16 Cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG.

[0032] Fig.18 It shows that according to Figures 15 to 17 A cross-sectional view of a process of coupling a socket connector of an embodiment to a corresponding plug connector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Now refer to Figures 1 to 18 A socket connector according to an embodiment is described.

[0034] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Magnified view of region R1 in FIG. Figure 3 is a perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Magnified view of region R2 in FIG. Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Magnified view of region R3 in FIG. Figure 7 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. Figure 8 The arrangement of connection terminals of the socket connector according to the embodiment is shown. Fig. 9The arrangement of connection terminals of the socket connector according to the embodiment is shown.

[0035] Reference Figures 1 to 9 , the socket connector according to the embodiment includes a molding structure 100 , a plurality of first connection terminals 200 , and shields 300A and 300B.

[0036] The socket connector according to the embodiment may be mounted on a substrate (eg, a printed circuit board (PCB)) or the like. In addition, the socket connector according to the embodiment may be coupled to a corresponding plug connector (eg, Fig.10 For example, the plug connector may be advanced along a first direction X to be coupled to the socket connector according to the embodiment.

[0037] As used herein, the front of the socket connector refers to the direction from the socket connector toward the corresponding plug connector when the socket connector is coupled to the plug connector. On the contrary, as used herein, the back of the socket connector refers to the direction opposite to the front of the socket connector.

[0038] In addition, as used herein, the front end of the socket connector refers to the end of the socket connector arranged in the front of the socket connector. On the contrary, as used herein, the rear end of the socket connector refers to the end of the socket connector arranged in the back of the socket connector.

[0039] The first connection terminal 200 may be disposed in the molding structure 100. For example, the first connection terminal 200 may be supported and fixed by the molding structure 100. In some embodiments, the molding structure 100 may include a front portion 110, a support portion 120, and a rear portion 130.

[0040] The front portion 110 of the molded structure 100 may be plate-shaped. For example, the front portion 110 may be shaped as a plate extending in a first direction and a second direction Y intersecting the first direction X. In addition, the front portion 110 may expose a portion of each first connection terminal 200. Accordingly, when the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to a corresponding plug connector (e.g., Fig.10 When the plug connector 500 is used, the first connection terminals 200 can be electrically connected to the connection terminals of the plug connector (for example, Fig.10 The second connection terminal 600).

[0041] The support portion 120 of the mold structure 100 may be disposed on the rear end of the front portion 110. In addition, the support portion 120 may cover other portions of each of the first connection terminals 200. Therefore, the first connection terminals 200 may be supported and fixed by the mold structure 100.

[0042] In some embodiments, the support portion 120 may be thicker than the front portion 110. For example, in a third direction Z intersecting the first direction X and the second direction Y, the thickness of the support portion 120 may be greater than the thickness of the front portion 110. Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the support portion 120 may protrude further than an upper surface of the front portion 110 and a lower surface of the front portion 110 .

[0043] The rear portion 130 of the mold structure 100 may be disposed on the rear end of the support portion 120. The rear portion 130 of the mold structure 100 may be disposed on a substrate (not shown) on which the socket connector according to the embodiment is mounted.

[0044] In some embodiments, the rear portion 130 may be thicker than the support portion 120. For example, in the third direction Z, the thickness of the rear portion 130 may be greater than the thickness of the support portion 120. Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the rear portion 130 may protrude further than an upper surface of the support portion 120 and / or a lower surface of the support portion 120 .

[0045] The mold structure 100 may be made of an insulating material such as a polymer or a plastic resin. Therefore, the mold structure 100 may electrically insulate the first connection terminals 200 from each other. In some embodiments, the mold structure 100 may include a liquid crystal polymer (LCP).

[0046] The support portion 120 of the molded structure 100 may include a flat portion 122 and a first protrusion 124. The first protrusion 124 may protrude from the flat portion 122. Figure 2 As shown, the support portion 120 may include a flat portion 122 extending in the first direction X and the second direction Y. Here, the first protrusion 124 may protrude in the third direction Z from the surface of the flat portion 122 .

[0047] In some embodiments, the planar portion 122 of the support portion 120 may include a plurality of first openings 122O. Each first opening 122O may extend, for example, along the third direction Z, and may be exposed from a surface of the planar portion 122.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first protrusion 124 may protrude from the front end of the flat portion 122. For example, the first protrusion 124 may protrude along the third direction Z from a portion of the flat portion 122 adjacent to the front portion 110.

[0049] In some embodiments, Figure 6 As shown, the first protrusion 124 may include a front surface 124S1 , a rear surface 124S2 , and an upper surface 124U.

[0050] According to an embodiment, the front surface 124S1 of the first protrusion 124 may face the front of the receptacle connector. In addition, the front surface 124S1 of the first protrusion 124 may connect the upper surface 110U of the front portion 110 and the upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124 .

[0051] According to an embodiment, the rear surface 124S2 of the first protrusion 124 may face the rear of the socket connector. That is, the rear surface 124S2 of the first protrusion 124 may be opposite to the front surface 124S1 of the first protrusion 124. In addition, the rear surface 124S2 of the first protrusion 124 may connect the upper surface 122U of the flat portion 122 and the upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124. The rear surface 124S2 of the first protrusion 124 may face the front end of each of the shields 300A and 300B to be described later.

[0052] The upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124 may connect the front surface 124S1 of the first protrusion 124 and the rear surface 124S2 of the first protrusion 124. For example, the upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124 may intersect the third direction Z.

[0053] In some embodiments, the height of the first protrusion 124 protruding from the surface of the flat portion 122 may be about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm. "mm" stands for "millimeter". For example, the height H2 of the upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124 from the upper surface 122U of the flat portion 122 may be about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm.

[0054] In some embodiments, the length of the front surface 124S1 of the first protrusion 124 may be greater than the length of the rear surface 124S2 of the first protrusion 124. For example, the height H1 of the upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124 from the upper surface 110U of the front portion 110 may be greater than the height H2 of the upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124 from the upper surface 122U of the flat portion 122.

[0055] In some embodiments, the front surface 124S1 of the first protrusion 124 may be angled with the upper surface 110U of the front portion 110. In some embodiments, the inclination angle θ formed by the front surface 124S1 of the first protrusion 124 and the upper surface 110U of the front portion 110 may be about 65 degrees or less.

[0056] In some embodiments, the thickness of the first protrusion 124 may be about 0.5 mm or more. For example, in the first direction X, the length TH of the upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124 may be about 0.5 mm or more. When the thickness of the first protrusion 124 is about 0.5 mm or more, the first protrusion 124 may be firmly supported, and thus effectively prevent damage to each of the shields 300A and 300B described later.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first protrusion 124 may extend along the second direction Y. For example, the first protrusion 124 may intersect the first connection terminal 200 .

[0058] In some embodiments, the first protrusion 124 may include a plurality of sub-protrusions 124a to 124c spaced apart from each other. For example, the first protrusion 124 may include first to third sub-protrusions 124a to 124c spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y. Although the first protrusion 124 is shown as including only three sub-protrusions, this is merely an example, and the number of sub-protrusions may vary.

[0059] In some embodiments, the sub-protrusions 124a to 124c may have different lengths. For example, in the second direction Y, the length La of the first sub-protrusion 124a may be greater than the length Lb of the second sub-protrusion 124b. In addition, for example, in the second direction Y, the length Lb of the second sub-protrusion 124b may be greater than the length Lc of the third sub-protrusion 124c. However, this is only an example, and the lengths of the sub-protrusions may vary.

[0060] In some embodiments, the ratio of the length of the first protrusion 124 to the length L of the support portion 120 may be about 30% or more. For example, in the second direction Y, the ratio of the sum of the lengths La to Lc of the first to third sub-protrusions 124a to 124c (La+Lb+Lc) to the length L of the support portion 120 may be about 30% or more. When the ratio of the length of the first protrusion 124 to the length L of the support portion 120 is about 30% or more, the socket connector according to the embodiment can effectively prevent damage to the shields 300A and 300B to be described later.

[0061] In some embodiments, the support portion 120 may further include a second protrusion 126 and a third protrusion 128. The second protrusion 126 may protrude from one side of the flat portion 122 along the third direction Z. The third protrusion 128 may protrude from the other side of the flat portion 122 along the third direction Z. Both the second protrusion 126 and the third protrusion 128 may extend along the first direction X.

[0062] The first connection terminals 200 may be arranged on the molding structure 100. For example, the first connection terminals 200 extending in the first direction X may be arranged in the second direction Y. In addition, the front end of each first connection terminal 200 may be disposed on the front portion 110 of the molding structure 100 and exposed from the molding structure 100.

[0063] In some embodiments, the first connection terminal 200 may include an upper connection terminal 200A and a lower connection terminal 200B. Figure 7 As shown, the upper connection terminals 200A may be exposed from the upper surface of the mold structure 100 , and the lower connection terminals 200B may be exposed from the lower surface of the mold structure 100 .

[0064] Each upper connection terminal 200A may include, for example, a first extending portion 202A, a second extending portion 204A, and a first mounting portion 206A.

[0065] The first extension 202A may extend in the first direction X. A portion of the first extension 202A may be disposed on the upper surface 110U of the front portion 110 and exposed from the mold structure 100 . The other portion of the first extension 202A may be disposed in the support portion 120 and supported by the mold structure 100 .

[0066] The second extension portion 204A may extend in the third direction Z and may be connected to a rear end of the first extension portion 202A. The second extension portion 204A may be disposed in and supported by the molding structure 100. For example, the second extension portion 204A may penetrate the support portion 120 and the rear portion 130.

[0067] The first mounting portion 206A may extend from the second extending portion 204A and may be exposed from the mold structure 100. For example, the first mounting portion 206A may extend from a lower end of the second extending portion 204A and may be disposed below the rear portion 130.

[0068] The first mounting portion 206A can mount the corresponding upper connection terminal 200A on a substrate on which the socket connector according to the embodiment is arranged. For example, the first mounting portion 206A can be mounted on the substrate using a method such as welding. Since the molded structure 100 can support the first extension portion 202A and / or the second extension portion 204A, the corresponding upper connection terminal 200A mounted by the first mounting portion 206A can fix the molded structure 100 to the substrate on which the socket connector is arranged.

[0069] Each of the lower connection terminals 200B may include, for example, a third extending portion 202B, a fourth extending portion 204B, and a second mounting portion 206B.

[0070] The third extension portion 202B may extend in the first direction X. A portion of the third extension portion 202B may be disposed on the lower surface of the front portion 110 and exposed from the mold structure 100 . The other portion of the extension portion 202B may be disposed in the support portion 120 and supported by the mold structure 100 .

[0071] The fourth extension portion 204B may extend in the third direction Z and may be connected to a rear end of the third extension portion 202B. The fourth extension portion 204B may be disposed in the molding structure 100 and supported by the molding structure 100 .

[0072] In some embodiments, the fixing member 400 may be disposed in the rear portion 130 of the molded structure 100. The fixing member 400 may seal the rear portion 130 to provide a waterproof function for the socket connector according to the embodiment, but the embodiment is not limited to this case. In some embodiments, the fourth extension 204B may penetrate the fixing member 400.

[0073] The second mounting portion 206B may extend from the fourth extending portion 204B and may be exposed from the mold structure 100. For example, the second mounting portion 206B may extend from a lower end of the fourth extending portion 204B to protrude from a lower surface of the rear portion 130.

[0074] The second mounting portion 206B can mount the corresponding lower connection terminal 200B on the substrate on which the socket connector according to the embodiment is arranged. For example, the second mounting portion 206B can be mounted on the substrate using a method such as welding. Since the molded structure 100 can support the third extension portion 202B and / or the fourth extension portion 204B, the corresponding lower connection terminal 200B mounted by the second mounting portion 206B can fix the molded structure 100 to the substrate on which the socket connector is arranged.

[0075] Each first connection terminal 200 may be made of a conductive material. For example, the first connection terminal 200 may include a copper alloy.

[0076] The socket connector according to the embodiment may further include an intermediate plate 250. The intermediate plate 250 may be supported and fixed by the mold structure 100. For example, the intermediate plate 250 may be inserted between the upper connection terminal 200A and the lower connection terminal 200B. The intermediate plate 250 may be grounded to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) caused by high-speed signals.

[0077] The middle plate 250 may be made of a conductive material. For example, the middle plate 250 may include a copper alloy.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first connection terminal 200 may include a signal terminal 210 , a power terminal 220 , and a ground terminal 230 .

[0079] The signal terminals 210 can input and output data electrical signals. For example, when the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to a corresponding plug connector (eg, Fig.10 When the plug connector 500 is used, the signal terminal 210 can be electrically connected to the signal terminal of the plug connector.

[0080] The power terminal 220 may be arranged in parallel with the signal terminal 210 and input and output power signals. For example, when the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to a corresponding plug connector (eg, Fig.10 When a plug connector 500 is provided, the power terminal 220 can be electrically connected to the power terminal of the plug connector.

[0081] The ground terminal 230 may be arranged in parallel with the signal terminal 210 and the power terminal 220 and prevent EMI caused by high-speed signals. For example, when the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to a corresponding plug connector (eg, Fig.10 When a plug connector 500 is provided, the ground terminal 230 can be electrically connected to the ground terminal of the plug connector and thus grounded.

[0082] In some embodiments, the first connection terminal 200 may be arranged in a form that meets the Type-C Universal Serial Bus (USB) pin standard. The Type-C USB connection terminal is not limited to a specific connection direction of the plug connector. Therefore, the plug connector can be easily attached to or detached from the connection terminal.

[0083] For example, the first connection terminal 200 may be Figure 8 and Fig. 9 Arrange as shown. Figure 8 2 is an example pin diagram of the first connection terminal 200 when the socket connector according to the embodiment is implemented with 14 pins. Fig. 9 2 is an example pin diagram of the first connection terminal 200 when the socket connector according to the embodiment is implemented with 24 pins.

[0084] exist Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In FIG. 1 , GND indicates a ground terminal. For example, GND may correspond to the ground terminal 230 of the first connection terminal 200. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In, V BUS Indicates the power supply terminal. For example, V BUS The power terminal 220 may correspond to the first connection terminal 200. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In the , CC1 and CC2 indicate the configuration channel terminals used to identify the plug connector. Figure 8 and Fig. 9, D1 and D2 indicate terminals for data transmission, each of which forms a pair of (+) and (−) adjacent to each other. For example, D1 and D2 may correspond to the signal terminal 210 of the first connection terminal 200.

[0085] exist Fig. 9 In FIG. 1 , TX1, TX2, RX1, and RX2 indicate data bus terminals for high-speed signal transmission, each of which forms a pair of (+) and (-) adjacent to each other. Fig. 9 In the example, SBU1 and SBU2 indicate the sideband use terminals.

[0086] The shielding members 300A and 300B may be disposed on the support portion 120 of the molded structure 100. For example, the shielding members 300A and 300B may extend along the surface of the flat portion 122 of the support portion 120. In addition, the shielding members 300A and 300B may each be disposed behind the first protrusion 124 of the support portion 120. That is, the first protrusion 124 of the support portion 120 may be disposed in front of the front end of each of the shielding members 300A and 300B. In addition, in the first direction X, at least a portion of the front end of each of the shielding members 300A and 300B may overlap with the first protrusion 124.

[0087] exist Figure 6 , the height H2 of the upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124 from the upper surface 122U of the flat portion 122 is less than the height of the upper surface 122U of each shield 300A and 300B from the upper surface 122U of the flat portion 122. However, this is only an example. For example, the height H2 of the upper surface 124U of the first protrusion 124 from the upper surface 122U of the flat portion 122 may be equal to or greater than the height of the upper surface 122U of each shield 300A and 300B from the upper surface 122U of the flat portion 122.

[0088] In some embodiments, shields 300A and 300B may be electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) shields. For example, shields 300A and 300B may include conductive materials. Shields 300A and 300B may be grounded to prevent EMI caused by high-speed signals.

[0089] In some embodiments, the front end of each shield 300A and 300B may be spaced apart from the rear end of the first protrusion 124. For example, the rear surface 124S2 of the first protrusion 124 may be spaced apart from the front end of each shield 300A and 300B. In some embodiments, the distance DS between the front end of each shield 300A and 300B and the rear surface 124S2 of the first protrusion 124 may be about 0.03 mm or more. In some embodiments, the distance DS is about 0.03 mm.

[0090] In some embodiments, shielding members 300A and 300B may be disposed above support portion 120 and rear portion 130. For example, Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, each of the shields 300A and 300B may include a first horizontal portion 310 , a bent portion 320 , and a second horizontal portion 330 .

[0091] The first horizontal portion 310 of each of the shields 300A and 300B may extend along the surface of the support portion 120 (or the flat portion 122). The bent portion 320 of each of the shields 300A and 300B may be bent from the first horizontal portion 310 and extend along the front surface of the rear portion 130. For example, the bent portion 320 may extend from the rear end of the first horizontal portion 310 along the third direction Z. The second horizontal portion 330 of each of the shields 300A and 300B may be bent from the bent portion 320 and extend along the surface of the rear portion 130. For example, the second horizontal portion 330 may extend from the upper end of the bent portion 320 along the first direction X.

[0092] In some embodiments, each of the shields 300A and 300B may further include a first elastic portion 322. The first elastic portion 322 of each of the shields 300A and 300B may be bent from the first horizontal portion 310 and may be disposed on the rear portion 130. An end of each first elastic portion 322 may be fixed to the first horizontal portion 310 so that the first elastic portion 322 can be elastically deformed. In some embodiments, the first elastic portion 322 may be disposed in the groove 135 of the rear portion 130 and may be elastically deformed.

[0093] In some embodiments, the uppermost portion of each first elastic portion 322 may protrude from the upper surface of the second horizontal portion 330. Figure 7 As shown, the uppermost portion of each first elastic portion 322 may be higher than the upper surface of the second horizontal portion 330 .

[0094] In some embodiments, at least a portion of each of the shields 300A and 300B may extend along a side surface of the support portion 120. For example, each of the shields 300A and 300B may further include a first fixing portion 312 and a second fixing portion 314.

[0095] The first fixing portion 312 of each of the shielding members 300A and 300B may extend along one side surface of the support portion 120, and the second fixing portion 314 of each of the shielding members 300A and 300B may extend along the other side surface of the support portion 120. For example, the first fixing portion 312 may be bent from one side surface of the first horizontal portion 310 and extend along one side surface of the support portion 120. The second fixing portion 314 may be bent from the other side surface of the first horizontal portion 310 and extend along the other side surface of the support portion 120.

[0096] In some embodiments, the first fixing portion 312 and the second fixing portion 314 may extend along a region of the support portion 120 where the first protrusion 124, the second protrusion 126, and the third protrusion 128 are not formed. Figure 4 As shown, the first fixing portion 312 may extend along a surface of the flat portion 122 disposed between the first protrusion 124 and the second protrusion 126. Similarly, the second fixing portion 312 may extend along a surface of the flat portion 122 disposed between the first protrusion 124 and the third protrusion 128.

[0097] In some embodiments, the first fixing portion 312 and the second fixing portion 314 may not overlap in the second direction Y. For example, the first fixing portion 312 may be adjacent to a front end of the first horizontal portion 310 , and the second fixing portion 314 may be adjacent to a rear end of the first horizontal portion 310 .

[0098] In some embodiments, the first fixing portion 312 and the second fixing portion 314 may be coupled to the middle plate 250. For example, Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the middle plate 250 may include a locking portion 252 protruding from a side surface of the support portion 120. In addition, the first fixing portion 312 and the second fixing portion 314 may each include a second opening 312O. When the shields 300A and 300B are both placed on the support portion 120, the locking portion 252 of the middle plate 250 may be coupled to the second opening 312O of the first fixing portion 312 and the second opening 312O of the second fixing portion 314. Therefore, the shields 300A and 300B may be fixed to the support portion 120.

[0099] In some embodiments, the shielding members 300A and 300B may include an upper shielding member 300A disposed on the upper surface of the support portion 120 and a lower shielding member 300B disposed on the lower surface of the support portion 120. The upper shielding member 300A and the lower shielding member 300B may have substantially the same shape. As used herein, the term "same" is intended to include not only being completely identical but also slight differences caused by process margins, etc. The upper shielding member 300A and the lower shielding member 300B may be disposed, for example, to face each other and surround the support portion 120.

[0100] Fig.10 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a process of coupling a socket connector to a corresponding plug connector according to an embodiment. Figures 1 to 9 Description of the elements and features described.

[0101] Reference Fig.10 , the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to the corresponding plug connector 500 .

[0102] In some embodiments, the plug connector 500 may include a second connection terminal 600 and a ground pad 510 .

[0103] When the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to the plug connector 500, the first connection terminal 200 may be connected to the second connection terminal 600 of the plug connector 500. The first connection terminal 200 may be electrically connected to the second connection terminal 600 to input or output an electrical signal to or from a substrate (not shown) on which the socket connector according to the embodiment is mounted.

[0104] When the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to the plug connector 500, the ground pad 510 may be connected to the shields 300A and 300B. For example, the ground pad 510 may include a ground spring protruding toward the inside of the ground pad 510. The shields 300A and 300B may be electrically connected to the ground spring and thus grounded.

[0105] In order to prevent EMI caused by high-speed signals, the socket connector may include an EMC shield disposed on the surface of the molded structure. However, as the size of the socket connector becomes smaller, the EMC shield is easily broken during the process of coupling the socket connector to the plug connector. For example, the front end of the EMC shield of the socket connector may be bent and damaged due to the grounding spring of the plug connector connected to the EMC shield.

[0106] However, as mentioned above regarding e.g. Figures 4 to 7 as well as Fig.10As described, the socket connector according to the embodiment may include the first protrusion 124 provided at the front of each of the shields 300A and 300B. Therefore, when the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to the plug connector 500, the first protrusion 124 may protect the front end of each of the shields 300A and 300B from the ground pad 510 of the plug connector 500, thereby preventing the front end of each of the shields 300A and 300B from being damaged.

[0107] In addition, as described in the above embodiments, the front surface of the first protrusion 124 (eg, Figure 6 124S1) may have an inclined angle (e.g., Figure 6 Therefore, when the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to the plug connector 500, the first protrusion 124 can guide each ground pad 510 of the plug connector 500, thereby effectively preventing the ground pad 510 of the plug connector 500 from being damaged.

[0108] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment. Fig.12 yes Fig.11 For ease of description, the above description will be briefly given or omitted. Figures 1 to 10 Description of the elements and features described.

[0109] Reference Fig.11 and Fig.12 In the socket connector according to the embodiment, the first protrusion 124 covers the entire front end of the first horizontal portion 310 .

[0110] For example, the first protrusion 124 may protrude from a portion of the flat portion 122 adjacent to the front portion 110 along the third direction Z and extend along the second direction Y. In some embodiments, the first protrusion 124 may not be divided into a plurality of sub-protrusions (eg, Figure 2 124a to 124c in FIG.

[0111] The first protrusion 124 covering the entire front end of the first horizontal portion 310 may more securely protect each of the shields 300A and 300B.

[0112] Fig.13 is a perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment. Fig.14 yes Fig.13 For ease of description, the above description will be briefly given or omitted. Figures 1 to 10 Description of the elements and features described.

[0113] Reference Fig.13 and Fig.14In the socket connector according to the embodiment, each of the shields 300A and 300B further includes a third protrusion 316 .

[0114] The third protrusion 316 may protrude forward from the front end of the first horizontal portion 310. In some embodiments, the third protrusion 316 may overlap the first protrusion 124 in the second direction Y.

[0115] In some embodiments, the third protrusion 316 may be inserted between the plurality of sub-protrusions 124a to 124c. For example, the third protrusion 316 may include a fourth sub-protrusion 316a and a fifth sub-protrusion 316b spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y. Here, the fourth sub-protrusion 316a may be inserted between the first sub-protrusion 124a and the second sub-protrusion 124b, and the fifth sub-protrusion 316b may be inserted between the second sub-protrusion 124b and the third sub-protrusion 124c. The fourth sub-protrusion 316a and the fifth sub-protrusion 316b may overlap with the first sub-protrusion 124a to the third sub-protrusion 124c in the second direction Y.

[0116] The third protrusion 316 overlapping the first protrusion 124 in the second direction Y can enable the support portion 120 to be more firmly fixed to each of the shields 300A and 300B. In addition, the third protrusion 316 can ensure an additional area for EMC function, thereby more effectively preventing EMI caused by high-speed signals.

[0117] Fig.15 is a partially exploded perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment. Fig.16 is a perspective view of a socket connector according to an embodiment. Fig.17 It is along Fig.16 For ease of description, the above-mentioned Figures 1 to 10 Description of the elements and features described.

[0118] Reference Figures 15 to 17 , the socket connector according to the embodiment further includes a housing 700 .

[0119] The housing 700 may surround the molded structure 100. The housing 700 may protect the molded structure 100 from the outside of the socket connector according to the embodiment. Fig.18 When the plug connector 500 is used, the housing 700 may define a space for accommodating the plug connector. Fig.17 As shown, a case space 700S may be formed between the front portion 110 of the mold structure 100 and the case 700 .

[0120] The housing 700 may include a body 710. The body 710 of the housing 700 may be annular. Alternatively, the body 710 of the housing 700 may be formed as a hollow container. For example, the body 710 may be formed as an elliptical container. However, the body 710 may have various shapes around the molded structure 100.

[0121] The front end of the body 710 may be open to receive the plug connector. For example, when the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to a corresponding plug connector (eg, Fig.18 When the plug connector 500 is inserted into the front end of the body 710, the plug connector can be inserted into the housing space 700S between the front portion 110 and the body 710.

[0122] The rear end of the body 710 may be fixed by the molding structure 100. For example, the rear end of the body 710 may be supported by the rear portion 130 of the molding structure 100.

[0123] In some embodiments, housing 700 may be connected to shields 300A and 300B. Fig.17 As shown, the body 710 of the housing 700 may be connected to the first elastic portion 322 of each of the shields 300A and 300B and / or the second horizontal portion 330 of each of the shields 300A and 300B.

[0124] In some embodiments, the housing 700 may further include a third mounting portion 720. The third mounting portion 720 may mount the housing 700 on a substrate or the like on which a socket connector according to an embodiment is disposed. For example, the third mounting portion 720 may be mounted on a substrate or the like using a method such as welding.

[0125] In some embodiments, the housing 700 may further include a second elastic portion 730. The second elastic portion 730 may be bent from the body 710 and face the housing space 700S. An end of each second elastic portion 730 may be fixed to the body 710 so that the second elastic portion 730 can be elastically deformed.

[0126] In some embodiments, the housing 700 may further include a cover 740. The cover 740 may cover the rear end of the molded structure 100. For example, as shown in the figure, the molded structure 100 may be inserted into the rear end of the body 710, and the cover 740 may be bent to cover the rear end of the molded structure 100.

[0127] Fig.18 It shows that according to Figures 15 to 17 A cross-sectional view of a process in which a socket connector of an embodiment is coupled to a corresponding plug connector. For ease of description, the description of the use of the socket connector will be briefly given or omitted. Figures 1 to 10 as well as Figures 15 to 17Description of the above elements and features described.

[0128] Reference Fig.18 , the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to the corresponding plug connector 500 .

[0129] The plug connector 500 may be inserted into the front end of the housing 500 and may be placed in the housing space 700S.

[0130] When the socket connector according to the embodiment is coupled to the plug connector 500, the plug connector 500 can be connected to the housing 700. For example, the ground pad 510 of the plug connector 500 can be connected to the second elastic portion 730 of the housing 700. In some embodiments, the housing 700 can be electrically connected to the ground pad 510 and thus grounded. In addition, since the housing 700 can be connected to the shields 300A and 300B, the shields 300A and 300B can be electrically connected to the ground pad 510 and thus grounded.

[0131] Although the present invention has been specifically shown and described with reference to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. It is therefore desirable that the embodiments presented be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive, with reference to the appended claims rather than the foregoing description to indicate the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A socket connector, comprising: Multiple connection terminals; Molded structure, including: a front portion configured to expose each of the plurality of connection terminals, and a support portion disposed at a rear end of the front portion and configured to surround each of the plurality of connection terminals; and A shielding member, wherein the shielding member is disposed on the support portion and comprises a conductive material, wherein the support portion comprises: a planar portion, wherein the planar portion includes a surface along which a portion of the shield extends, and a protrusion, wherein the protrusion protrudes from the surface of the flat portion and is provided in front of a front end of the shield, and A first height of a first upper surface of the protruding portion from the surface of the flat portion is smaller than a second height of a second upper surface of the portion of the shielding member from the surface of the flat portion.

2. The socket connector according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of connection terminals are arranged in a form conforming to a Type-C universal serial bus pin standard.

3. The socket connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first height of the first upper surface of the protruding portion relative to the surface of the flat portion is 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

4. The socket connector according to claim 1, wherein: The protrusion includes a rear surface that faces the front end of the shield and is spaced apart from the front end of the shield by a first distance.

5. The socket connector according to claim 4, wherein: The first distance is 0.03 mm or greater.

6. The socket connector according to claim 1, wherein: The protruding portion includes a front surface that is angled with the third upper surface of the front portion and is configured to connect the third upper surface of the front portion and the first upper surface of the protruding portion.

7. The socket connector according to claim 6, wherein: An inclination angle formed by the front surface of the protruding portion and the third upper surface of the front portion is 65 degrees or less.

8. The socket connector according to claim 1, wherein: The protrusion includes a rear surface facing the front end of the shield and a front surface opposite the rear surface, the front surface is angled with the third upper surface of the front portion, and the first upper surface of the protrusion is configured to connect the rear surface and the front surface.

9. The socket connector according to claim 8, wherein: A length of the first upper surface of the protrusion measured in a direction from the front surface of the protrusion to the rear surface of the protrusion is 0.5 mm or more.

10. The socket connector according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of connection terminals is configured to extend along a first direction, and the protrusion is configured to extend along a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

11. The socket connector according to claim 10, wherein: The protrusion includes a plurality of second protrusions spaced apart from each other in the second direction.

12. The socket connector according to claim 10, wherein: A ratio of a length of the protruding portion in the second direction to a length of the supporting portion in the second direction is 30% or more.

13. A socket connector configured to couple with a plug connector inserted along a first direction, the socket connector comprising: a plurality of first connection terminals, wherein the plurality of first connection terminals extend along the first direction; Molded structure, including: a front portion, wherein the front portion is configured to expose each of the plurality of first connection terminals, and a support portion disposed at a rear end of the front portion and configured to surround each of the plurality of first connection terminals; and a shielding member, wherein the shielding member is disposed on the supporting portion and is configured to be grounded; Wherein, the support portion comprises: a planar portion, wherein the planar portion includes a surface along which a portion of the shield extends, and a protrusion, wherein the protrusion protrudes from the surface of the flat portion and the protrusion overlaps at least a portion of a front end of the shield in the first direction, and A first height between an upper surface of the protruding portion and the surface of the flat portion is smaller than a second height between an upper surface of the portion of the shielding member and the surface of the flat portion.

14. The socket connector according to claim 13, wherein: The plug connector includes a plurality of second connection terminals and a ground pad surrounding the plurality of second connection terminals. The socket connector is electrically matched with the plug connector by connecting the plurality of first connection terminals to the plurality of second connection terminals and connecting the shielding member to the grounding pad so that the shielding member is grounded.

15. The socket connector according to claim 13, wherein: The molded structure further includes a rear portion disposed on a rear end of the support portion and protruding beyond the support portion, and Each of the plurality of first connection terminals comprises: a first extension exposed on the front portion, a second extension portion penetrating the support portion, and A mounting portion penetrates the rear portion and is exposed.

16. The socket connector according to claim 15, further comprising a housing, wherein: The housing is supported by the rear portion of the molded structure, the housing is configured to surround the molded structure, and the front portion of the molded structure and the housing are configured to form a housing space for accommodating the plug connector.

17. The socket connector according to claim 15, wherein: The shielding member comprises: a first horizontal portion, the first horizontal portion being the portion of the shield extending along the surface of the flat portion, a bent portion, wherein the bent portion is bent relative to the first horizontal portion and is configured to extend along a front surface of the rear portion, and A second horizontal portion is bent from the bent portion and extends along a surface of the rear portion.

18. The socket connector according to claim 13, wherein: The plurality of first connection terminals include: an upper connection terminal exposed from an upper surface of the front portion of the mold structure, and A lower connection terminal is exposed from a lower surface of the front portion of the mold structure.

19. The socket connector according to claim 18, further comprising a middle plate, wherein: The intermediate plate is configured to be grounded in the molded structure between the upper connection terminal and the lower connection terminal.

20. A socket connector, comprising: A plurality of connection terminals, wherein the plurality of connection terminals are arranged in a form conforming to the Type-C USB pin standard; A molded structure, wherein the molded structure comprises: exposing a front portion of each of the plurality of connection terminals, a support portion disposed on a rear end of the front portion and configured to surround each of the plurality of connection terminals, and a rear portion disposed on a rear end of the support portion and protruding beyond an upper surface of the support portion; A shielding member, wherein the shielding member comprises: a first horizontal portion extending along the upper surface of the support portion, a bent portion bent from the first horizontal portion and extending along the front surface of the rear portion, and a second horizontal portion, wherein the second horizontal portion is bent from the bent portion and extends along an upper surface of the rear portion; and a housing, wherein the housing surrounds the molded structure and contacts the second horizontal portion; Wherein, the support portion comprises: a flat portion, wherein the flat portion includes a surface along which the first horizontal portion extends, and a protrusion, wherein the protrusion protrudes from an upper surface of the flat portion, and the protrusion is provided in front of a front end of the first horizontal portion, and A first height between an upper surface of the protruding portion and the surface of the flat portion is smaller than a second height between an upper surface of the first horizontal portion of the shielding element and the surface of the flat portion.

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