Electrical connector with contact module

Abstract

An electrical connector (350) includes a connector housing (352) having a mating end (358) at a front of the connector housing configured to mate with a mating electrical connector (250). The connector housing includes a contact module chamber (382). The electrical connector includes a stack of contact modules (356) housed in the contact module chamber. Each contact module includes a module body (390) holding a plurality of contacts (354). The contacts have mating ends (372) at the mating end of the connector housing for mating with the mating electrical connector; and the electrical connector includes a contact module biasing member (400) between the contact modules and the connector housing to bias the contact modules in the contact module chamber forward, wherein the contact module biasing member is compressible to allow the contact modules to move independently of one another in the contact module chamber relative to the connector housing when mating with the mating electrical connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The main topic of this article is communication systems. Background Technology

[0002] Communication systems use electrical connectors to electrically connect various components, allowing data communication between them. For example, in a backplane system, circuit board assemblies with electrical connectors mounted on a circuit board are mated to electrically connect the circuit board. This system may include a device rack for supporting the circuit board assemblies relative to each other. The circuit board assemblies may mate relative to each other at an angle, causing a slight offset or misalignment of the mating interfaces, which can lead to incorrect mating of some contacts. Furthermore, known rack-mounted circuit board backplane connectors typically need to absorb large dimensional tolerance accumulations between the relative distances between circuit boards inserted from both sides of the device rack. Typical tolerances can be 1.5 mm or greater. The contact dimensions of the backplane connector at the mating area are adapted to the circuit board mating tolerance. For example, the contact length includes the length required for mechanical mating and the contact wiping length of any design, plus additional circuit board mating tolerances. The contact has such a length to accommodate a possible range of circuit board mating conditions. The additional contact length is typically set as an extension of the contact stub, which is the portion of the contact extending beyond the mating point to ensure that the contacts remain mated regardless of the circuit board position. In high-speed connectors, the stub can significantly degrade the connector's signal integrity performance. An electrical terminal acts as a reflective element for the propagation of energy along its length. When energy propagates back at a specific combination of signal wavelength (e.g., frequency) and physical terminal length, the terminal can generate null values ​​at a specific frequency that transmit energy. When the terminal is long enough and the corresponding frequency is low enough, these null values ​​are detrimental to the transmission of energy for the signal reaching the receiver.

[0003] Electrical connectors for communication systems are still needed, with improved fit, to enhance signal integrity performance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one embodiment, an electrical connector is provided, including a connector housing having a mating end at a front portion configured to mate with a mating electrical connector. The connector housing includes a contact module chamber. An electrical connector includes a stack of contact modules housed within the contact module chamber. Each contact module includes a module body holding a plurality of contacts. The contacts have mating ends located at the mating end of the connector housing for mating with the mating electrical connector; and the electrical connector includes a contact module biasing member between the contact modules and the connector housing to forward bias the contact modules within the contact module chamber, wherein the contact module biasing member is compressible to allow the contact modules to move independently of each other within the contact module chamber relative to the connector housing when mating with the mating electrical connector.

[0005] In another embodiment, the circuit board assembly includes a circuit board having a mounting surface. The circuit board has a mating edge and side edges extending from the mating edge to a rear edge. The circuit board has a board guide feature for positioning the circuit board in a device rack; and the circuit board assembly includes an electrical connector mounted to the mounting surface of the circuit board at the mating edge. The electrical connector includes a connector housing having a mating end at its front, the mating end being configured to mate with a mating electrical connector. The connector housing includes a contact module chamber. The electrical connector includes a stack of contact modules housed within the contact module chamber. Each contact module includes a module body holding a plurality of contacts. The contacts have mating ends at the mating end of the connector housing for mate with the mating electrical connector, and the electrical connector includes a contact module biasing member between the contact modules and the connector housing to forward bias the contact modules in the contact module chamber, wherein the contact module biasing member is compressible to allow the contact modules to move independently of each other relative to the connector housing and the circuit board in the contact module chamber when mating with the mating electrical connector.

[0006] In another embodiment, a communication system includes a first circuit board assembly, the first circuit board assembly including a first circuit board and a first electrical connector coupled to the first circuit board. The first electrical connector includes a first connector housing having a mating end at a front portion of the first connector housing, the first connector housing including a first contact module chamber. The first electrical connector includes a stack of first contact modules housed within the first contact module chamber. Each first contact module includes a first module body holding a plurality of first contacts. The first contacts have mating ends located at the mating ends of the first connector housing, and the first electrical connector includes a first contact module biasing member between the first contact modules and the first connector housing to forward bias the first contact modules in the first contact module chamber; the communication system also includes a second circuit board assembly, the second circuit board assembly including a second circuit board and a second electrical connector coupled to the second circuit board. The second electrical connector has a second connector housing holding second contacts in a contact array. The second connector housing has a mating end coupled to the mating end of the first connector housing along a mating axis; the communication system includes a first contact module biasing member that is compressible to allow the first module body and the first contacts of each first contact module to float independently of each other relative to the first connector housing within the first contact module chamber. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a top perspective view of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3This is a rear perspective view of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0010] Figure 4 A perspective view as part of a communication system, showing the mating interface of a first circuit board assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] Figure 5 A perspective view as part of a communication system, showing the mating interface of a second circuit board assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a second electrical connector according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a first electrical connector that mates with a second electrical connector according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a first electrical connector that mates with a second electrical connector according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The communication system 100 includes a first circuit board assembly 200 and a second circuit board assembly 300 electrically connected together. In various embodiments, the communication system 100 may be a server or a network switch. In other various embodiments, the communication system 100 may be a backplane system. The first circuit board assembly 200 and / or the second circuit board assembly 300 may be a backplane assembly. The first circuit board assembly 200 and / or the second circuit board assembly 300 may be a daughter card assembly. The first circuit board assembly 200 and / or the second circuit board assembly 300 may be a motherboard assembly.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the first circuit board assembly 200 and / or the second circuit board assembly 300 include compressible mating interfaces to absorb mating tolerances of the communication system 100. For example, portions of the connectors in the first circuit board assembly 200 and / or the second circuit board assembly 300 may be spring-loaded or compressible. Optionally, the first circuit board assembly 200 and / or the second circuit board assembly 300 may include a spring-loaded connector configured to be compressed in the mating direction.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the communication system 100 includes a device rack 110 for holding a first circuit board assembly 200 and / or a second circuit board assembly 300. The device rack 110 includes a frame member 112 forming one or more chambers for the first circuit board assembly 200 and / or the second circuit board assembly 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the device rack 110 includes a front chamber 120 configured to receive the first circuit board assembly 200 and a rear chamber 130 configured to receive the second circuit board assembly 300. Optionally, multiple circuit board assemblies may be received in the front chamber 120 and / or the rear chamber 130. The device rack 110 may be open at the front and / or rear and / or sides. Alternatively, the device rack 110 may include walls or panels (not shown) that enclose the chambers 120, 130 at the front and / or rear and / or sides. The device rack 110 may include a horizontally oriented tray or platform that divides the chambers 120, 130 into stacked sub-chambers, each receiving a corresponding circuit board assembly. The equipment rack 110 may include vertically oriented partition walls that divide chambers 120 and 130 into adjacent sub-chambers, each sub-chamber receiving a corresponding circuit board assembly.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, the device rack 110 includes a front guide element 122 located in a front chamber 120. The front guide element 122 is used to guide a first circuit board assembly 200 into the front chamber 120. The front guide element 122 can position the first circuit board assembly 200 relative to the device rack 110, for example, to mate with a second circuit board assembly 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the front guide element 122 is a rail or track having a slot or recess for receiving the first circuit board assembly 200. In alternative embodiments, other types of guide elements may be used, such as tabs, pins, posts, openings, sockets, etc.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the device rack 110 includes a rear guide element 132 in a rear chamber 130. The rear guide element 132 is used to guide the second circuit board assembly 300 into the rear chamber 130. The rear guide element 132 can position the second circuit board assembly 300 relative to the device rack 110, for example, to mate with a first circuit board assembly 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the rear guide element 132 is a rail or track having a slot or recess for receiving the second circuit board assembly 300. In alternative embodiments, other types of guide elements may be used, such as tabs, pins, posts, openings, sockets, etc.

[0020] During assembly, the first circuit board assembly 200 is inserted into the front chamber 120 via its front end, and the second circuit board assembly 300 is inserted into the rear chamber 130 via its rear end. The first and second circuit board assemblies 200 and 300 mate within the equipment rack 110, for example, at the center of the equipment rack 110. The first and second circuit board assemblies 200 and 300 slide into and out of the equipment rack 110, for example, along guide elements 122 and 132. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second circuit board assemblies 200 and 300 are oriented perpendicularly to each other. For example, the first circuit board assembly 200 is oriented vertically, and the second circuit board assembly 300 is oriented horizontally, or vice versa. In various other embodiments, the first and second circuit board assemblies 200 and 300 are oriented parallel to each other. For example, the first and second circuit board assemblies 200 and 300 may both be oriented vertically. Alternatively, the first and second circuit board assemblies 200 and 300 may both be oriented horizontally.

[0021] The first circuit board assembly 200 includes a first circuit board 210 and a first electrical connector 250 coupled to the first circuit board 210. The first electrical connector 250 is configured to mate with a second circuit board assembly 300. Optionally, the first electrical connector 250 is a floating connector, wherein the first electrical connector 250 is movable relative to the first circuit board 210. When mating with the second circuit board assembly 300, the first electrical connector 250 can be movable. For example, the housing of the first electrical connector 250 is compressible and movable relative to the first circuit board 210, and / or the contact module of the first electrical connector 250 is compressible and movable within the housing to define a compressible mating interface. In various embodiments, the first electrical connector 250 may be a fixed connector, wherein the first electrical connector 250 is fixed relative to the first circuit board 210, but the contact module may be movable and compressible when mating with the second circuit board assembly 300. The movable contact module may be adapted to an angular or offset mating.

[0022] The second circuit board assembly 300 includes a second circuit board 310 and a second electrical connector 350 coupled to the second circuit board 310. The second electrical connector 350 is configured to mate with a first electrical connector 250 of the first circuit board assembly 200. Optionally, the second electrical connector 350 may be a floating connector, wherein the second electrical connector 350 is movable relative to the second circuit board 310. When mating with the second circuit board assembly 300, the second electrical connector 350 can move. For example, the housing of the second electrical connector 350 may be compressible, and / or the contact module of the second electrical connector 350 may be compressible and movable within the housing to define a compressible mating interface. In various embodiments, the second electrical connector 350 may be a fixed connector, wherein the second electrical connector 350 is fixed relative to the second circuit board 310, but the contact module may be movable and compressible when mating with the first electrical connector 250. The movable contact module may be adapted to an angular or offset mating.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a top perspective view of a communication system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 This is a rear perspective view of a communication system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 A first electrical connector 250 as a cable connector and a second electrical connector 350 as a board connector are shown. The first electrical connector 250 is a floating connector, and the second electrical connector 350 is a fixed connector. Figure 3 A first electrical connector 250 and a second electrical connector 350 as cable connectors are shown. The first electrical connector 250 is a floating connector, and the second electrical connector 350 is a fixed connector. In an alternative embodiment, the second electrical connector 350 may be a floating connector.

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the communication system 100 includes a plurality of front circuit board assemblies 200 and a plurality of rear circuit board assemblies 300; however, the communication system 100 may include a single front circuit board assembly 200 and / or a single rear circuit board assembly 300. In the illustrated embodiment, circuit board 210 has a single electrical connector 250, and circuit board 310 has a single electrical connector 350; however, circuit board 210 may include a plurality of electrical connectors 250 and / or circuit board 310 may include a plurality of electrical connectors 350.

[0025] The first circuit board 210 includes a mating edge 212 located at the front of the first circuit board 210 and side edges 214, 216 extending between the mating edge 212 and a rear edge 218. In the illustrated embodiment, the first circuit board 210 is rectangular. In alternative embodiments, the first circuit board 210 may have other shapes. The circuit board 210 includes first and second surfaces 220, 222 (e.g., an upper surface and a lower surface). A first electrical connector 250 is mounted to the first surface 220 of the circuit board 210 at a mounting region 224. Optionally, the mounting region 224 may be located near the mating edge 212. One or more electrical connectors may be additionally or alternatively located at the second surface 222.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the first circuit board 210 includes one or more electrical components 226 coupled to the first circuit board 210. The electrical components 226 may be chips, integrated circuits, processors, memory modules, electrical connectors, or other components. The electrical components 226 may be electrically connected to the circuit board 210, for example, through traces, pads, vias, or other circuitry. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical components 226 are electrically connected to a first electrical connector 250, for example, through the first circuit board 210 or through a direct connection via a cable.

[0027] The first circuit board 210 includes one or more circuit board guide features 230 for positioning the circuit board 210 in the equipment rack 110 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown). The board guide feature 230 is configured to be connected to the corresponding guide element 122 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the board guide feature 230 is defined by the edges of the circuit board 210 along the side edges 214, 216, and is configured to slide into a recess in the track defining the guide element 122. In alternative embodiments, other types of guide features may be used, such as tracks, slot tabs, pins, etc.

[0028] In one exemplary embodiment, the first circuit board assembly 200 includes a latching feature 232 at its rear edge 218. The latching feature 232 is used to secure the first circuit board assembly 200 to the device frame 110. The latching feature 232 can be used to press the circuit board 210 forward (towards the second circuit board 310) during engagement, or to pull the circuit board 210 backward during disengagement.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, the first circuit board assembly 200 includes a first connector mount 240. The first connector mount 240 includes a bracket 242 and one or more biasing members 244 coupled to the bracket 242 and the electrical connector 250. The biasing members 244 forward bias the electrical connector 250 for mating with a second electrical connector 350. In an exemplary embodiment, the biasing member 244 is a spring, such as a coil spring. In alternative embodiments, other types of biasing members, such as compressible foam members, may be used. The biasing member 244 allows the electrical connector 250 to move relative to the circuit board 210, for example, during mating with the second electrical connector 350. The biasing member 244 provides compressive force for maintaining the mechanical and electrical connection between the first and second electrical connectors 250, 350. The biasing member 244 accommodates mating tolerances between the circuit board assemblies 200, 300 within the device rack 110. For example, the circuit board 210 may have a range of positions within the device rack 110 (e.g., the position of the mating edge 212 within the device rack 110 may vary by approximately 1.5 mm). The biasing member 244 can accommodate some or all of the mating dimensional tolerances (e.g., approximately 1.5 mm) of the circuit board 210 in the equipment rack 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector 250 may include flexible features to allow further floating at the mating interface to accommodate mating tolerances. For example, the contact module of the electrical connector 250 may be movable relative to the connector housing, for example, in the mating direction, to accommodate mating tolerances. The contact module of the electrical connector 250 may be movable relative to the connector housing to accommodate angular tolerances, such as in cases where the circuit boards 210, 310 are tilted (e.g., at an angle).

[0030] The second circuit board 310 includes a mating edge 312 located at the front of the second circuit board 310 and side edges 314, 316 extending between the mating edge 312 and the rear edge 318. The mating edge 312 faces the mating edge 212 of the first circuit board 210. The circuit board 310 includes first and second surfaces 320, 322 (e.g., left and right sides). A second electrical connector 350 is mounted to the first surface 320 of the circuit board 310 in a mounting region 324. Optionally, the mounting region 324 may be located near the mating edge 312. One or more electrical connectors may be additionally or alternatively located at the second surface 322.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, the second circuit board 310 includes one or more electrical components 326 coupled to the second circuit board 310. The electrical components 326 may be chips, integrated circuits, processors, memory modules, electrical connectors, or other components. The electrical components 326 may be electrically connected to the circuit board 310, for example, through traces, pads, vias, or other circuitry. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical components 326 are electrically connected to a second electrical connector 350, for example, through the second circuit board 310 or through a direct connection via a cable.

[0032] The second circuit board 310 includes one or more circuit board guide features 330 for positioning the circuit board 310 in the equipment rack 110 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown). The board guide feature 330 is configured to be connected to the corresponding guide element 132 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the board guide feature 330 is defined by the edges of the circuit board 310 along its side edges 314, 316, and is configured to slide into a recess in the track defining the guide element 132. In alternative embodiments, other types of guide features may be used, such as tracks, slot tabs, pins, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector 350 may include flexible features to allow floating movement at the mating interface to accommodate mating tolerances. For example, the contact module of the electrical connector 350 may be movable relative to the connector housing, for example, in the mating direction, to accommodate mating tolerances. The contact module of the electrical connector 350 may be movable relative to the connector housing to accommodate angular tolerances, such as when the circuit boards 210, 310 are tilted (e.g., at an angle).

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the second circuit board assembly 300 includes a latching feature 332 located at its rear edge 318. The latching feature 332 is used to secure the second circuit board assembly 300 to the device frame 110. The latching feature 332 can be used to press the circuit board 310 forward (towards the first circuit board 210) during engagement, or to pull the circuit board 310 backward during disengagement.

[0034] Figure 4 A perspective view of a part of a communication system 100, showing the mating interface of a first circuit board assembly 200 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5This is a perspective view of a portion of a communication system 100, showing the mating interface of a second circuit board assembly 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, the first electrical connector 250 is a receptacle connector and the second electrical connector 350 is a plug connector. However, in an alternative embodiment, the first electrical connector 250 is a plug connector and the second electrical connector 350 is a receptacle connector. Other types of connectors may be used in alternative embodiments. In the exemplary embodiment, in the illustrated embodiment, the first circuit board assembly 200 has a compressible mating interface (e.g., the contacts are movable relative to the housing during mating). In the illustrated embodiment, the second circuit board assembly 300 has a fixed mating interface (e.g., the contacts are fixed relative to the housing during mating). However, the second circuit board assembly 300 may have a compressible mating interface (e.g., the contacts are movable relative to the housing during mating).

[0035] The first electrical connector 250 includes a connector housing 252 that holds a first contact 254 in a contact array. Figure 4 In various embodiments, contacts 254 may be arranged together in a first contact module 256, also referred to as a chicklet, which may be an overmolded lead frame. In an exemplary embodiment, the first contact module 256 is movably coupled to a connector housing 252. For example, the contact modules 256 may be movable independently of each other relative to the connector housing 252 to form a flexible mating interface. In an exemplary embodiment, a contact module biasing member is disposed between the contact module 256 and the connector housing 252 to allow independent movement of the contact module 256. The connector housing 252 includes a mating end 258 configured to mate with a second electrical connector 350. The mating end 258 is located at the front of the connector housing 252. Contacts 254 are exposed at the mating end 258 for mating with corresponding contacts of the second electrical connector 350.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the first electrical connector 250 is a cable connector having a plurality of first cables 260 extending from a connector housing 252. The connector housing 252 includes cable ends 262. Cables 260 extend from cable ends 262. In the illustrated embodiment, cable ends 262 are opposite mating ends 258; however, in alternative embodiments, other orientations are possible, for example, cable ends 262 perpendicular to a right-angle connector of mating ends 258. Cables 260 may be single cables, such as coaxial or biaxial cables. In other embodiments, cables 260 may be flat, flexible cables, such as flexible circuits. Cables 260 are electrically connected to corresponding contacts 254. For example, cables 260 form part of a contact module 256 and are connected to contacts 254 within the contact module 256. Cables 260 extend from the contact module 256. Cables 260 are flexible to allow the first electrical connector 250 to move relative to the connector housing 252 and the first circuit board 210.

[0037] The first electrical connector 250 is configured to mate with the second electrical connector 350 along a mating direction (along the mating axis 264). The mating end 258 may be perpendicular to the mating axis 264. In an exemplary embodiment, the first electrical connector 250 may be movable in a direction parallel to the mating axis 264. For example, the first electrical connector 250 may be pressed backward during mating. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact module 256 may be movable within the connector housing 252 along the mating direction (e.g., along the mating axis 264). For example, the contact module 256 may be spring-biased relative to the connector housing 252.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 252 includes one or more mounting features 266. The mounting features 266 may be tabs or ears extending from one or more sides of the connector housing 252. The mounting features 266 may be coupled to a connector mount 240, such as to a bracket 242. In an exemplary embodiment, a biasing member 244 is coupled to the mounting features 266. The biasing member 244 may press the mounting features 266 forward against the bracket 242. The bracket 242 operates as a forward stop for the connector housing 252. The bracket 242 positions the first electrical connector 250 to mate with the second electrical connector 350.

[0039] Contact 254 is disposed at mating end 258 for mating with second electrical connector 350. In an exemplary embodiment, connector housing 252 includes contact channel 257 located at mating end 258, including signal channel and ground channel. Ground channel holds a ground contact or ground shield, which provides electrical shielding for contact 254. In the illustrated embodiment, ground channel is C-shaped.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, contact 254 is a stamped contact. Contact 254 has a metal body extending between a mating end 272 and a termination end (not shown) opposite to the mating end 272. In an exemplary embodiment, a conductor of cable 260 is terminated to the termination end of the corresponding contact 254. For example, the termination end may include a pad, crimp sleeve, insulation displacement termination, or other type of electrical termination. Contact 254 may be movable relative to connector housing 252, for example, when contact module 256 is moved relative to connector housing 252. In an alternative embodiment, instead of terminating to cable 260, the termination end of contact 254 may be directly terminated to circuit board 210, for example, by soldering or press-fitting into a plated through-hole of circuit board 210. In such an embodiment, first electrical connector 250 may be fixed relative to circuit board 210.

[0041] Each contact 254 has a mating end 272 including a mating interface configured to electrically connect with a corresponding contact of the second electrical connector 350. The mating end 272 of the contact 254 is disposed in a contact channel for mating with the second electrical connector 350. In an exemplary embodiment, the mating end 272 includes a socket (e.g., a split beam contact). In alternative embodiments, other contact types, such as pads, pins, sockets, etc., may be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the mating end 272 has a short electrical length downstream of the mating interface (e.g., a bent end of the beam forms a tip extending beyond the mating interface), resulting in a short electrical tip. In an exemplary embodiment, because the first electrical connector 250 is capable of floating relative to the first circuit board 210, the mating end 272 of the contact 254 can have a short mechanical tip. For example, since the mating end 272 does not need to accommodate circuit board mating tolerances, the length of the mechanical stub extending beyond the mating interface can be very short (e.g., less than 1.0 mm). In an exemplary embodiment, because the contact module 256 is capable of floating relative to the connector housing 252, the mating end 272 of the contact 254 can be very short. This is because the mating end 272 can accommodate at least some tolerances of the circuit board fit, which are accommodated by the spring-loaded floating motion of the electrical connector 250 (e.g., provided by the bias member 244). The length of the tip at the mating end 272 can be short enough to accommodate mechanical mating plus any contact wiping, but does not need to accommodate any circuit board fit tolerances.

[0042] The second electrical connector 350 includes a connector housing 352, which holds a second contact 354 in a contact array. Figure 5In various embodiments, contacts 354 may be arranged together in a second contact module 356, also referred to as a tab, which may be an overmolded lead frame. Connector housing 352 includes a mating end 358 configured to mate with a first electrical connector 250. The mating end 358 is located at the front of connector housing 352 (facing the mating end 258 of the first electrical connector 250). Second contacts 354 are exposed at the mating end 358 for mating with the first contacts 254.

[0043] In various embodiments, the second electrical connector 350 is a cable connector having a cable (not shown) extending from the contact module 356. The contact module 356 is movable within the connector housing 352 along a mating direction (e.g., along the mating axis 264). For example, the contact module 356 may be spring-biased relative to the connector housing 352. In other various embodiments, the second electrical connector 350 is a board connector configured to be directly mounted to the second circuit board 310. The connector housing 352 includes a mounting end for mounting to the second circuit board 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the second electrical connector 350 is a right-angle connector with its mounting end perpendicular to the mating end 358; however, other orientations are possible in alternative embodiments. The connector housing 352 may include mounting features for mounting the connector housing 352 to the circuit board 310, such as mounting lugs for receiving threaded fasteners, press tabs, solder tabs, etc. Alternatively, contacts 354 may be used to mount the second electrical connector 350 to the circuit board 310, for example using press-fit pins.

[0044] The second electrical connector 350 is configured to mate with the first electrical connector 250 in a mating direction along the mating axis 264. In an exemplary embodiment, the second electrical connector 350 is a plug connector. The second electrical connector 350 includes a protective wall forming a receiving space for the first electrical connector 250. In an exemplary embodiment, as the second circuit board assembly 300 is loaded into the device rack 110, the first electrical connector 250 (and / or the second electrical connector 350) can be pressed rearward during mating. As the second circuit board assembly 300 is loaded into the device rack 110, the first contact module 256 (and / or the second contact module 356) can be pressed rearward during mating. The movement of electrical connectors 250, 350 and / or contact modules 256, 356 allows contacts 254, 354 to be relatively short because contacts 254, 354 do not need to accommodate circuit board mating tolerances, which can be approximately 1.5 mm. This means that compared to other systems, the first contact 254 and / or the second contact 354 can be shortened, for example, by approximately 1.5 mm.

[0045] A contact 354 is disposed at a mating end 358 for mating with a first electrical connector 250. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact 354 is a stamped contact. The contact 354 has a metal body extending between a mating end 372 and a termination end (not shown) opposite to the mating end 372. In an exemplary embodiment, the termination end of the contact 354 may be directly terminated to a circuit board 310, for example, by soldering or press-fitting into a plated through-hole of the circuit board 310. Alternatively, the contact 354 may be terminated to a cable instead of directly terminating to the circuit board 310. The contact 354 may be movable relative to the connector housing 352, for example, when the contact module 356 is moved relative to the connector housing 352.

[0046] Each second contact 354 has a mating end 372 including a mating interface configured for electrical connection with the first contact 254. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating end 372 includes pins. The pins may be arranged in pairs. In alternative embodiments, other contact types may be used, such as pads, resilient beams, receptacles, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the second electrical connector 350 includes a ground contact 374 that provides electrical shielding for the pins. In the illustrated embodiment, the ground contact 374 is C-shaped.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the mating end 372 has a short electrical length downstream of the mating interface, resulting in a short electrical tip. In an exemplary embodiment, because the first electrical connector 250 is able to float (press backward) when mating with the second electrical connector 350, the mating end 372 of the contact 354 is very short because the mating end 372 does not need to accommodate circuit board fit tolerances, which are accommodated by the spring-loaded floating movement of the first electrical connector 250. In an exemplary embodiment, when the contact module 356 is able to float (press backward) when mating with the first electrical connector 250, the mating end 372 of the contact 354 is very short because the mating end 372 does not need to accommodate circuit board fit tolerances, which are accommodated by the floating movement of the contact module 356. The length of the tip at the mating end 372 can be short enough to accommodate mechanical mating plus any contact wiping, but does not need to accommodate any circuit board fit tolerances.

[0048] The floating mating interface provided by the connector mounts and / or contact modules 256, 356 absorbs circuit board mating tolerances (e.g., 1.5 mm or greater). The floating mating interface eliminates the need for a contact interface capable of absorbing large bracket mating tolerances, thus allowing the use of contacts with short tips. The tips of the ends of contacts 254 and / or 354 can be shortened (e.g., less than 1.0 mm), which improves the performance of the communication system 100 by improving signal integrity along the signal path. Compared to contacts with long electrical tips, performance, particularly at high speeds (e.g., above 100 Gbps, and more particularly, above 200 Gbps), is improved.

[0049] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the second electrical connector 350 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 6 One of the contact modules 356 coupled to the connector housing 352 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the second electrical connector 350 is a cable connector having a cable 360 ​​coupled to the contact 354 and extending from the contact module 356. In the illustrated embodiment, the contact module 356 is movable relative to the connector housing 352. The contact modules 356 are independently coupled to the first electrical connector 250 (e.g., Figure 4 (As shown) When mated, it can float within the connector housing 352.

[0050] The connector housing 352 has a plurality of walls 380 forming a contact module chamber 382. For example, the walls 380 may include side walls, upper walls, lower walls, front walls, rear walls, or other walls. The contact module chamber 382 receives a stack of contact modules 356. Optionally, the front portion of the contact module chamber 382 may receive a first electrical connector 250 (e.g., Figure 4 (As shown). In various embodiments, wall 380 may include an inner wall, such as a partition wall dividing the contact module chamber 382 into a channel for receiving a corresponding contact module 356. Connector housing 352 may include latching features 384 for securing the contact module 356 within the contact module chamber 382. In an exemplary embodiment, connector housing 352 includes one or more positioning features 386 for positioning the contact module 356 within the chamber 382. Positioning features 386 are located within the chamber 382. In the illustrated embodiment, positioning features 386 are protrusions extending from the upper and lower walls into the chamber 382. Positioning features 386 may be located near the rear of connector housing 352. Positioning features 386 may be part of a partition wall defining a channel.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the second contact module 356 is an overmolded lead frame. For example, the lead frame having multiple signal conductors is overmolded by a dielectric module body 390. The signal conductors form contacts 354. The contacts 354 may be arranged in pairs.

[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, the second contact module 356 includes one or more grounding shields 392 coupled to one or more sides of the second contact module 356. The grounding shield 392 may be a stamped shield. The grounding shield 392 provides electrical shielding for the second contact module 356. The grounding shield 392 includes a grounding contact 374 located at the front. The grounding contact 374 may be integral with the grounding shield 392. Alternatively, the grounding contact 374 may be separate and coupled to the grounding shield 392.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector 350 includes a contact module biasing member 400 located between a contact module 356 and a connector housing 352. The contact module biasing member 400 biases the contact module 356 forward within a contact module chamber 382. The contact module biasing member 400 is compressible to allow the contact modules 356 to move independently of each other relative to the connector housing 352. For example, when the first electrical connector 250 is coupled to the second electrical connector 350, the contact module 356 can be pressed backward against a spring force of the contact module biasing member 400. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact module 356 can slide against the spring force of the contact module biasing member 400 in a sliding direction parallel to the mating direction with the first electrical connector 250.

[0054] In various embodiments, the contact module biasing member 400 extends along one or both sides of the contact module 356 such that the contact module biasing member 400 is located between adjacent contact modules 356. In other various embodiments, the contact module biasing member extends along the top and / or bottom of the contact module 356 to engage the upper or lower wall of the connector housing 352, respectively.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the contact module biasing member 400 is integral with the contact module 356. For example, the contact module biasing member 400 is stamped together with the grounding shield 392. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact module biasing member 400 includes a deflectable spring. Each contact module biasing member 400 includes a fixed end 402 and a free end 404 at the distal end of the contact module biasing member 400 opposite to the fixed end 402. The fixed end 402 defines a base 406 of the contact module biasing member 400. The base 406 extends from the grounding shield 392. For example, the base 406 can be bent or folded from the grounding shield 392, for example, perpendicular to the grounding shield 392. The contact module biasing member 400 includes a spring arm 408 located between the ends 402 and 404. The spring arm 408 extends cantileveredly from the base 406. The spring arm 408 extends from the grounding shield 392 to the free end 404. The free end 404 is configured to engage the connector housing 352, for example, the corresponding positioning feature 386. The free end 404 engages the connector housing 352 to position the contact module 356 relative to the connector housing 352. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact module 356 includes a plurality of contact module biasing members 400. For example, the contact module 356 includes an upper spring arm 408a and a lower spring arm 408b. The upper spring arm 408a engages the upper positioning feature 386a, and the lower spring arm 408b engages the lower positioning feature 386b.

[0056] During assembly, the contact module 356 is held within the connector housing 352. The contact module biasing member 400 biases the contact module 356 forward within the chamber 382. During mating, the contact module 356 can slide in a sliding direction (e.g., rearward). As the contact module 356 moves rearward, the spring arm 408 flexes, generating a spring force that tends to press the contact module 356 forward. The spring force can be based on the dimensions of the spring arm 404 (e.g., height, width, thickness). In an exemplary embodiment, the spring force can be greater than the mating force (e.g., frictional contact force) between the first contact 254 and the second contact 354, such that the contact module 356 does not move during mating. In such embodiments, the contact module 356 may move relative to the connector housing 352 in the event of over-fitting. For example, over-fitting may occur during the final loading or locking of the first circuit board 210 and the second circuit board 310 in the device rack 110. The contact module 356 can be compressible in the backward sliding direction to accommodate the final stroke of the first and second circuit boards 210, 310, for example, a fit tolerance of 1.5 mm.

[0057] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a first electrical connector 250 that mates with a second electrical connector 350, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 7A first electrical connector 250 and a second electrical connector 350 are shown mating at an angle 364 relative to mating axis 264. The angle 364 is not perpendicular to the mating axis 264. When mated at an angle, the contact module 356 is movable within the connector housing 352 to accommodate the angled mating interface. For example, the contact module 356 can move independently relative to the connector housing 352, allowing it to be compressed by different distances when mating with the first electrical connector 250. In the illustrated embodiment, the left contact module 356 is further compressed than the right contact module 356. For example, the front of the module body 390 of the left contact module 356a is located at a first distance 410 from the front of the connector housing 352, and the front of the module body 390 of the right contact module 356b is located at a second distance 412 from the front of the connector housing 352. The second distance 412 differs from the first distance 410.

[0058] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a first electrical connector 250 that mates with a second electrical connector 350, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 8 A first electrical connector 250 with movable contact modules 256 and a second electrical connector 350 with movable contact modules 356 are shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the first electrical connector 250 includes a biasing device 420 coupled to a connector housing 252. The biasing device 420 includes a contact module biasing member 422 extending from a base 424. The contact module biasing member 422 engages a corresponding contact module 256 to bias the contact module 256 forward. The contact module biasing member 422 has a spring arm 426, the distal end of which 428 is configured to engage the contact module 256. The contact module biasing member 422 can engage the side of the contact module 256. Alternatively, the contact module biasing member 422 can engage the top and / or bottom of the contact module 256. In the illustrated embodiment, the second electrical connector 350 includes a biasing device 430 coupled to a connector housing 352. The biasing device 430 includes a contact module biasing member 432 extending from a base 434. The contact module biasing member 432 engages a corresponding contact module 356 to bias the contact module 356 forward. The contact module biasing member 432 has a spring arm 436, the distal end 438 of which is configured to engage the contact module 356. The contact module biasing member 432 can engage the side of the contact module 356. Alternatively, the contact module biasing member 432 can engage the top and / or bottom of the contact module 356.

[0059] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than limiting. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention. The dimensions, material types, orientations of various components, and the number and location of various components described herein are intended to define parameters of certain embodiments and are by no means limiting, but merely exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments and modifications within the spirit and scope of the claims will be apparent to those skilled in the art after reading the above description. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of their equivalents. In the appended claims, the terms “comprising” and “wherein” are used as equivalents to the corresponding terms “including” and “in…”. Furthermore, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used only as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Furthermore, the limitations of the following claims are not written in the form of means plus function, nor are they intended to be interpreted based on 35 USC §112(f), unless and until such a claim limitation expressly uses the phrase “means for…” followed by a functional description without further structure.

Claims

1. An electrical connector (350), comprising: The connector housing (352) has a mating end (358) located at the front of the connector housing, the mating end being configured to mate with a mating electrical connector (250), the connector housing including a contact module chamber (382). A stack of contact modules (356) is received in the contact module chamber, each contact module including a module body (390) holding a plurality of contacts (354), the contacts having mating ends (372) located at the mating end of the connector housing for mating with the mating electrical connector; and A contact module biasing member (400) is located between the contact module and the connector housing to forward bias the contact module in the contact module chamber, wherein the contact module biasing member is compressible to allow the contact modules to move independently of each other relative to the connector housing in the contact module chamber when mating with the mating electrical connector; The contact module (356) includes a first contact module and a second contact module. The module body (390) of the first contact module is located at a first distance (410) from the front of the connector housing (352), and the module body of the second contact module is located at a second distance (412) from the front of the connector housing, which is different from the first distance.

2. The electrical connector (350) according to claim 1, wherein, The contact module (356) is slidable in a sliding direction parallel to the mating direction of the mating electrical connector (250).

3. The electrical connector (350) according to claim 1, wherein, The contact module (356) has a cable electrically connected to the contact (354) and extending from the module body (390).

4. The electrical connector (350) according to claim 1, wherein, The contact module biasing member (400) is integral with the contact module (356), and the end of the contact module biasing member engages with the connector housing (352) to position the contact module relative to the connector housing.

5. The electrical connector (350) according to claim 1, wherein, Each contact module biasing member (400) includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the first end extending from the contact module (356) and the second end being coupled to the connector housing (352).

6. The electrical connector (350) according to claim 1, wherein, Each contact module (356) includes a ground shield (392), and the contact module biasing member (400) is stamped from the ground shield, the contact module biasing member having a distal end (428) that engages the connector housing (352).

7. The electrical connector (350) according to claim 1, wherein, Each contact module biasing member (400) includes a base (406) and a spring arm (408) extending from the base, the base being coupled to the contact module (356) and the spring arm engaging the connector housing (352).

8. The electrical connector (350) according to claim 1, wherein, Each contact module biasing member (400) includes an upper spring arm (408) and a lower spring arm, the upper spring arm engaging an upper positioning feature (386) of the connector housing (352), and the lower spring arm engaging a lower positioning feature of the connector housing.

9. The electrical connector (350) according to claim 1, wherein, The contact module biasing member (400) is coupled to the connector housing (352) and includes a spring arm (408) having a distal end (428) that engages the contact module (356) to bias the contact module forward.

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