Daughter card locking module for automotive applications

Abstract

A high speed, high density, vibration resistant interconnect system. The connector may be assembled from connector modules of a high speed, high density interconnection system designed for operation in a controlled environment. These modules may be designed for mounting to a PCB in a linear array defining connectors. The connector may be adapted to high vibration environments through a locking feature integrated into a linear array. In a first connector, the locking feature may be part of a locking module that is integrated with other connector modules, such as a signal module, a power module, and a steering module. In a second complementary connector, the locking feature may be a feature in the PCB, such as a hole, that engages the locking module of the first connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates generally to electrical interconnect systems for interconnecting electronic components, and more particularly to those electrical interconnect systems that provide high density and high speed interconnections. Background Art

[0002] Electrical connectors are used in many electronic systems. It is often easier and more cost-effective to manufacture the system as separate electronic subassemblies, such as printed circuit boards (PCBs), which can be combined with electrical connectors. Having a detachable connector enables components of electronic systems manufactured by different manufacturers to be easily assembled. The detachable connector also enables easy replacement of components after the system is assembled to replace defective components or to upgrade the system with higher performance components. These interconnection systems are implemented by board-to-board connectors, in which each of the two mating connectors is mounted to a PCB, and the mating connectors establish multiple connections between the PCBs.

[0003] High-speed and high-density board-to-board connectors have been used to route signals to processors and other electrical components that handle a large number of high-speed signals, or to route signals from processors and other electrical components. These connectors are designed not to significantly degrade these signals. For example, connectors designed to interconnect printed circuit boards provide low attenuation of signals transmitted to or from these components. In addition, connectors are designed not to introduce crosstalk into signals, not to cause signal reflections or other signal distortions. Such connectors are also typically designed to be used in relatively controlled environments, such as in server rooms.

[0004] Connectors designed for use in automobiles or other vehicles are not conventionally designed for very large numbers of high-speed signals. Instead, automotive connectors are often designed with features that enable the connector to operate in the more demanding environment of an automobile. For example, connectors in automobiles are often subject to vibration, which can degrade the performance of the connector. If one or both of a pair of mating connectors are cable connectors, resistance to vibration can be provided.

[0005] A cable connector that terminates a cable and is flexible and can move freely with the mating connector even when the mating connector is mounted to a PCB. Thus, when the mating connectors are subjected to vibration, the mating connectors do not move relative to each other so that there is a small sliding motion of the mating contact surface of one connector over the mating contact surface of the other connector. This sliding motion causes wear on the contact surfaces, which may eventually lead to connector failure. These vibration-induced failures in automotive connectors are avoided or greatly delayed using a cable connection.

[0006] For high-speed signals, each signal may be transmitted through a pair of twisted pairs. In the case where multiple signals are to be transmitted between subassemblies in an automobile, multiple pairs of twisted pairs may be bundled into a cable. Each end of the cable may be connected to a subassembly so that multiple subassemblies may be combined through the cable. At least one end of the cable may be terminated in a cable connector that may mate with a board connector on one of the subassemblies. Summary of the invention

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to high speed, high density connectors.

[0008] Some embodiments relate to a locking module configured for use with a board-mounted connector module, the locking module comprising: a first surface and a second surface; a plurality of attachment posts extending from the first surface; a threaded hole in the first surface; and a plurality of bolts extending from the second surface, wherein the plurality of bolts are threaded.

[0009] Optionally, the locking module comprises an integral body comprising a first surface, a second surface, a plurality of attachment posts, a threaded hole, and a plurality of pegs.

[0010] Optionally, the second surface is perpendicular to the first surface.

[0011] Optionally, the locking module is metallic.

[0012] Optionally, the plurality of attachment posts comprise projections.

[0013] Optionally, the plurality of attachment posts are configured to form an interference fit attachment when pressed into holes in the PCB.

[0014] One or more of the concepts herein may be embodied as an electrical connector, for example, the electrical connector comprising any locking module described herein in combination with a plurality of signal modules, wherein the plurality of signal modules and locking modules are arranged in a linear array.

[0015] Optionally, the electrical connector further comprises a support member, wherein the locking module and the plurality of signal modules are attached to the support member.

[0016] Optionally, the locking module is a first locking module, and the electrical connector includes a similar second locking module.

[0017] One or more of the concepts described herein may be embodied in an automotive electronic system, comprising the electrical connector described herein in combination with a first printed circuit board and a second printed circuit board, wherein the second printed circuit board has a hole therethrough; the electrical connector is mounted to the first printed circuit board, wherein a first surface of a locking module is mounted against a surface of the first printed circuit board; the first connector mates with a second connector mounted to the second printed circuit board; and a plurality of pegs extend through the hole of the second printed circuit board.

[0018] Optionally, the automotive electronic system further includes: a screw that passes through the first printed circuit board and engages a threaded hole in the locking module; and a plurality of nuts that are screwed onto the plurality of bolts to keep the second surface of the locking module close to the surface of the second printed circuit board.

[0019] One or more of the concepts described herein can be embodied as an electrical connector configured to mate with a complementary connector and to be mounted to a first surface of a printed circuit board (PCB), the electrical connector comprising: a plurality of modules, the plurality of modules being configured to be mounted to the first surface of the PCB, wherein the plurality of modules comprise: one or more locking modules, the one or more locking modules being configured to secure the complementary connector to the electrical connector; a power module comprising a plurality of power contacts disposed in a cavity of a first shell; a signal module comprising a plurality of signal contacts; and one or more guide modules, each of the one or more guide modules comprising a housing having a first opening in a first direction.

[0020] Optionally, each of the one or more locking modules comprises one or more pegs, and the one or more pegs are configured to pass through corresponding one or more holes through the PCB.

[0021] Optionally, each of the one or more locking modules includes: a first surface, the first surface is configured to be mounted close to the first surface of the PCB; and a threaded hole, the threaded hole is in the first surface of the locking module, and the electrical connector further includes a screw, the screw is configured to pass through the hole in the PCB and engage the threaded hole so as to fix the locking component to the PCB.

[0022] Optionally, each of the plurality of power contacts is bifurcated.

[0023] Optionally, each of the plurality of bifurcated power contacts comprises a first prong and a second prong having a rest state, and wherein the prongs are biased toward each other when the electrical connector is mated with a complementary connector.

[0024] Optionally, each of the one or more locking components comprises a threaded bolt configured to be inserted through a hole of a panel to which the complementary connector is mounted.

[0025] Optionally, the signal module includes a plurality of recesses, each of the plurality of recesses including two opposite sides; signal terminals of a plurality of signal contacts are arranged along two opposite sides of each of the plurality of recesses so as to provide a mating interface configured to mate with the signal contacts on two sides of a corresponding protrusion of a complementary connector when the complementary connector is mated to the connector.

[0026] One or more of the concepts described herein may be embodied as a subassembly of an automotive electronic system. The subassembly may include: a printed circuit board (PCB) including a first surface and a plurality of holes therethrough; and an electrical connector including a plurality of modules arranged in a linear array on the first surface of the PCB, wherein: the plurality of modules include one or more of a power module, a signal module, or a guide module; the plurality of holes through the printed circuit board are configured to receive threaded bolts; and the plurality of holes through the printed circuit board are arranged in a linear array between adjacent modules of the plurality of modules.

[0027] Optionally, the connector includes a signal module, and the signal module includes: one or more recesses, the signal contacts are disposed within the recesses and are configured to mate with signal contacts of the complementary connector when the complementary connector is mated to the electrical connector.

[0028] Optionally, the connector comprises a power module, and the power module comprises a socket comprising one or more recesses configured to receive power contacts of a complementary connector.

[0029] It should be appreciated that the aforementioned concepts and the additional concepts discussed below may be arranged in any suitable combination, as the present disclosure is not limited in this regard. In addition, other advantages and novel features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of various non-limiting embodiments when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component shown in various figures may be represented by the same reference numeral. For clarity, not every component will be labeled in every figure. In the drawings:

[0031] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative interconnect system within an electronic device in accordance with some embodiments.

[0032] Figure 2 According to some embodiments Figure 1A perspective view of a first exemplary board connector of an interconnect system.

[0033] Figure 3A According to some embodiments Figure 1 1. A front top perspective view of a second exemplary board connector of an interconnect system.

[0034] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A front bottom perspective view of a second exemplary board connector.

[0035] Figure 4 According to some embodiments FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B A perspective view of a locking module of a board connector.

[0036] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 Alternative stereograms of the interconnection system.

[0037] Figure 5B yes Figure 1 Side view of the interconnect system.

[0038] Figure 5C yes Figure 1 Top view of the interconnect system.

[0039] Fig. 6A is a side view of an alternative configuration of an illustrative interconnect system in an electronic device in which multiple daughter boards are connected to a main board.

[0040] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A A plan view of an exemplary motherboard of an interconnect system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The inventors have recognized and appreciated designs for economically implementing high-speed and high-density interconnect systems in automotive or other high-vibration environments. These interconnect systems may provide lower cost and / or occupy less volume than conventional automotive interconnect systems for high-speed signals. Thus, they may enable automotive designers to easily integrate multimedia and other high-bandwidth features into automobiles.

[0042] Connectors for such interconnect systems can be based on components for board-to-board interconnects, utilizing designs for high-speed and high-density interconnects, such as used within switches, servers, and other high-bandwidth electronic devices that routinely operate in controlled environments. Examples of such connectors are known as backplane connectors. These board-to-board connector components can be integrated with additional components that make the interconnect resistant to vibration.

[0043] In one aspect, an interconnection system for an automobile can be assembled from a board-to-board connector module in combination with a locking module designed to prevent relative movement between the board-to-board connector modules, which couple data signals and / or power between two PCBs. The locking module can be configured to be attached to each of the two PCBs or other substrates to be interconnected through the board-to-board connector module.

[0044] Turning to the drawings, specific non-limiting embodiments are described in further detail. It should be understood that the various systems, components, features, and methods described with respect to these embodiments may be used either alone and / or in any desired combination, as the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein.

[0045] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary interconnection system 100 according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the interconnection system can be used to connect two subassemblies to each other. Each subassembly can be implemented with a PCB so that the interconnection system provides a board-to-board connection. Semiconductors and other electronic components can be attached to the PCB to implement the functions of the subassembly, and connectors also mounted to the PCB can be connected to transfer signals and power between the components of the subassembly.

[0046] The connectors can be based on designs for high-density board-to-board connectors, such as used in network switches or other electronic devices with high-density signals. For example, in some examples, the connectors can provide a density of more than 20 differential signals per inch (measured along the edge of the PCB to which the connectors are mounted), such as at least 25, 30, or 40 differential signals per inch. These connectors can occupy a volume that extends less than 2 inches from the surface of the PCB to which the connectors are mounted.

[0047] These connectors can be based on designs for high-speed board-to-board connectors, such as for servers or other electronic devices that operate high-speed signals. For example, the connectors can be designed to carry 25Gb / s or 56Gb / s. In some examples, these connectors can have a signal path that has an impedance change of less than 5% over the signal path through the mating connector, or an impedance change of less than 3% or less than 2%. In some examples, these connectors can introduce an insertion loss of less than 3dB at 15GHz. In some examples, these connectors can introduce a crosstalk of less than -40dB at frequencies up to 15GHz.

[0048] The interconnect system 100 can be used in high data rate applications. For example, the interconnect system 100 can connect a PCB having electronic components implementing a display driver to a PCB having non-volatile memory that can store video content for display on an onboard video system of a vehicle.

[0049] exist Figure 1 In the example of , the interconnect system 100 includes a first connector 200 that mates with a second connector 300. Each of the first connector 200 and the second connector 300 can be composed of a module configured for mounting on a printed circuit board (PCB). The modules can be attached to a support member, such as a metal reinforcement or a plastic housing, before being mounted to the PCB. Alternatively or additionally, some or all of the modules forming the connector can be mounted to the PCB individually without first connecting other modules to the connector. In this case, the PCB itself can serve as a support member. The modules can be mounted to the PCB in an array to mate with modules in a similar array attached to another PCB. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , each of the connectors 200 and 300 is shown mounted to a corresponding PCB. To simplify the illustration, the support members and electronic components mounted to the PCB and other connections mounted to the PCB are not explicitly shown. In this example, the modules are mounted to the PCB in a linear array.

[0050] Each of the modules of each of the connectors 200 and 300 mates with one or more modules of the other connector. Each of the connectors 200 and 300 may include modules with different configurations that may provide different functions, such as transmitting power, signals, or providing guides for aligning the two connectors for mating. Figure 1 In the example of , there is a one-to-one correspondence between the modules, so that each module is matched with a complementary module. For example, there can be one or more matched power modules 150, one or more matched guide modules 120A and 120B, and one or more signal modules 140A and 140B.

[0051] In this example, the power module, signal module, and guide module may be commercially available modules, such as backplane connector modules. An example of a suitable commercially available module is the Connector Modules. The locking modules 330A and 330B may be sized to fit into the same connectors as these commercially available modules.

[0052] One or both of the connectors may include a locking module. In this example, connector 300 includes locking modules 330A and 330B, which are used to limit the relative movement of connectors 200 and 300 when the connectors are mated. In this example, locking modules 330A and 330B fix connectors 200 and 300 because they are rigidly attached to the PCBs on which these connectors are mounted. Due to the rigid attachment to the PCBs, the relative movement of the PCBs and therefore the relative movement of the connectors mounted to those PCBs is limited.

[0053] Figure 2 It is mounted on PCB 210 Figure 1 3D view of a first exemplary board connector 200 of an interconnect system of FIG. As described herein, the board connector 200 can include several modules mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) 210. Each of these modules can be configured to mate with a corresponding module of the connector 300. The exemplary connector 200 includes modules such as a power module 250, one or more guide modules 220A and 220B, and one or more signal modules 240A and 240B. In this example, these modules are integrated into the connector 200 when they are attached to the PCB 210 in a linear array, in which the modules can mate to a mating connector.

[0054] Power module for the first connector

[0055] According to some embodiments, the first power module 250 is configured to cooperate with the second power module 350 to form a matched power module 150. The power module 250 may have an insulating housing. The mating interface of the power module 250 may have one or more holes with electrical contacts inside the holes. These electrical contacts may, for example, have a flat surface that cooperates with the mating contacts inserted into the holes. The power module 250 is configured to receive the electrical contacts of the power module 350 of the mating connector.

[0056] exist Figure 2 In the example of FIG. 2 , the electrical contacts of the power module 250 have tails configured for plated through-hole attachment, but press-fit or other attachment techniques may be used. The power module 250 may be mounted to the PCB 210 by pressing the tails into holes in the PCB.

[0057] Guide module of the first connector

[0058] Connector 200 may include guide modules 220A and 220B of mating guide modules 120A and 120B, respectively. Each of guide modules 220A and 220B may include a protruding member configured to fit into an opening of a mating interface of guide modules 320A and 320B of connector 300. The protruding member has a base configured for attachment to a PCB, such as a base attached to the PCB with screws. In this example, the protruding members of guide modules 220A and 220B extend perpendicularly to the base and therefore perpendicularly to the PCB 210 to which they are mounted. In this example, the distal end of the protruding member is tapered to facilitate engagement with the mating interface of the mating guide module.

[0059] The mating guide modules 120A and 120B can provide additional functions besides guiding when engaged. For example, the mating guide modules 120A and 120B can provide a latch for the connectors 200 and 300 to limit accidental movement in a direction that would disengage the connectors (e.g., a direction opposite to direction 500). As another example, the mating guide modules 120A and 120B can be formed of a conductive material such as a die-cast metal, which can be connected to a ground or power source to transmit power through the mating connectors. However, in other examples, all or part of the guide modules 220A and 220B can be formed of an insulating material.

[0060] Signal module of the first connector

[0061] Connector 200 may include signal modules 240A and 240B of mating signal modules 140A and 140B, respectively. Signal modules 240A and 240B are configured to mate with signal modules 340A and 340B of connector 300. During operation and / or when mating, the signal module may be configured to transmit high-speed signals with high signal integrity. The shape and size of each signal module in signal modules 240A and 240B may be designed to receive mating signal modules (e.g., signal modules 340A or 340B). In the illustrated embodiment, signal modules 240A and 240B may include one or more slots with parallel walls between the slots. Signal modules 240A and 240B may each include rows of electrical contacts in the slots adjacent to the walls. In this example, connectors with similar mating interfaces can be mated to signal modules 240A and 240B, wherein similar walls of the mating connectors are inserted into the slots signal modules 240A and 240B, and the walls of the signal modules 240A and 240B are inserted into the similar slots of the mating connectors. In this way, the electrical contacts of the two connectors will engage, thereby forming a signal path through the mating connectors.

[0062] exist Figure 2In the example of FIG. 2 , the electrical contacts of the signal modules 240A and 240B may have press-fit tails. The signal modules 240A and 240B may be mounted to the PCB 210 by pressing the tails into holes in the PCB.

[0063] Locking feature of the first connector

[0064] Locking features associated with connector 200 may be provided. The locking features may be integrated into one or more of the modules described elsewhere herein, into a separate module, into a PCB to which the connector module is mounted, or into a portion of any other component of one or more of the signal modules rigidly coupled to connector 200. In the example shown, those locking features are within the PCB 210 to which the connector components are mounted. In this example, the locking features associated with connector 200 are provided by holes in PCB 210.

[0065] The board 210 to which the connector 200 is mounted may include one or more holes configured to receive a member protruding from or into the locking module of the connector 300. In the example shown, the hole receives a bolt protruding from the locking module of the connector 300. The bolt may be a protruding member elongated in the protruding direction. The bolt may be, for example, cylindrical or substantially cylindrical. However, in other examples, the bolt may have a square, hexagonal cross-section or have some other number of sides. The bolt may be used to hold the locking module to the board. The bolt may be threaded or have other features to facilitate attachment to a printed circuit board.

[0066] For example, as this article combines FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B and Figure 4 As described above, the plate 210 may include holes such as holes 230A, 230B, 230C, and 230D. The locking modules 330A and 330B of the connector 300 include pegs 332A, 332B, 332C, and 332D. Each of these pegs is configured to extend into a corresponding hole 230A to 230D of the plate 210. In some examples, and as described herein with respect to Figure 5A As further described, one or more nuts (eg, nuts 211A-211D) threaded onto the bolts are used to secure the plate 210 to the locking module (eg, by creating a contact pressure of the plate 210 against the locking module).

[0067] Figure 3A is installed according to some embodiments Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of a second exemplary board connector 300 for a PCB 310 of an interconnect system. Figure 3B3 is another perspective view of a board connector 300. As described herein, the connector 300 may include various types of modules mounted on a surface of a printed circuit board (PCB) 310. The modules may be configured so that they collectively mate with the connector 200. The exemplary connector 300 includes modules such as a power module 350, one or more guide modules 320A and 320B, and one or more signal modules 340A and 340B.

[0068] Second connector for power module

[0069] The second module of the mating power module 150, namely the power module 350, includes one or more electrical contacts 354 disposed in an insulating housing 352. The electrical contacts 354 have mating contact portions that mate with the mating contact portions of the electrical contacts in the power module 250. In this example, the electrical contacts 354 include flexible fingers that press against flat portions of the electrical contacts in the power module 250 when mated.

[0070] The insulating housing 352 includes a mating interface having an opening in the mating direction 500, and the mating contact portion of the electrical contact 354 extends into the opening. The shape and size of the opening of the mating interface are designed to receive the power module 250. When the power module 250 is inserted into the opening of the power module 350 during mating, the mating contact portion of the electrical contact 354 enters the opening in the power module 250 for mating. According to some embodiments, the power module may include 4 electrical contacts. In some examples, the mating contact portion of the electrical contact may be bifurcated. The bifurcated electrical contact may have a first pin and a second pin. Before mating, the electrical contact may be in a stationary state. During mating, the pins may be offset toward each other.

[0071] The electrical contacts 354 may have tails configured for mounting to a PCB or other substrate like the contacts of the power module 250. In the example shown, the tails are conductive posts configured for plated through-hole attachment.

[0072] The tail 355 of the electrical contact 354 can extend into a hole in the mounting surface of the PCB 310. For example, the mounting surface of the PCB can include a hole plated with a conductive material. The plating of the hole can be electrically connected to a power layer or a ground layer or other conductive structure within the printed circuit board 310. According to some embodiments, power can be provided to the power module via a power supply connected to the power layer within the board 310.

[0073] The power module 350 can include attachment posts 356. The attachment posts 356 can be configured to extend into holes of the PCB 310, for example, to prevent or mitigate movement of the power module 350 relative to the board 310.

[0074] Guide module for the second connector

[0075] The connector 300 may include one or more guide modules 320A and 320B. As described herein, the guide modules 320A and 320B may engage with the guide modules 220A and 220B to guide the connectors 200 and 300 to a position for mating. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B In the example of , the connector 300 includes a guide module 320A of the matching guide module 120A and a guide module 320B of the matching guide module 120B. The guide module 320A can be configured to mate with the guide module 220A, and the guide module 320B can be configured to mate with the guide module 220B.

[0076] In the example shown, the guide modules 320A and 320B have mating interfaces 322A and 322B, and the mating interfaces 322A and 322B include openings in the mating direction 500. The shape and size of the opening can be designed to receive the protruding members of the guide modules 220A, 220B of the connector 200. According to some embodiments, part or all of the guide modules 320A and 320B can be formed of insulating materials. For example, the guide modules 320A and 320B can include an insulating housing. Alternatively or additionally, the housing can be made of metal (such as die-cast metal) or other materials.

[0077] As described in conjunction with guide modules 220A and 220B, mating guide modules 120A and 120B can provide further functionality in addition to guidance when engaged. In some examples, the guide modules further include retention features, such as latches, that are configured to, on the one hand, retain guide modules 220A and 220B to guide modules 320A and 320B. The latches can prevent accidental unmating of connectors 200 and 300.

[0078] Each of components 320A and 320B may include an attachment post 324 configured to extend into one or more holes of PCB 310. For example, components 320A and 320B may each have two attachment posts 324. Posts 324 may be shaped and may function as described for posts 333A and 333B. In embodiments where mating guide modules 120A and / or 120B provide a ground connection or a power connection, posts 324 may be metal or other conductive material.

[0079] In lieu of or in addition to the posts, other features may be included to hold or secure the module to the PCB. In the example shown, each of guide modules 320A and 320B may also include a hole, which in the example shown is located between the two attachment posts. A screw may extend through plate 310 into each hole to secure the guide module to the PCB. For example, screw 312C may secure guide module 320B to plate 310, and screw 312B may secure guide module 320A to plate 310. According to some embodiments, the holes may be threaded, or a threaded insert may be provided in the holes.

[0080] Signal module for the second connector

[0081] The connector 300 may include one or more modules for carrying signals. In this example, the connector 300 includes signal modules 340A and 340B, which form a part of the signal modules 140A and 140B that are matched. Each signal module may include one or more electrical contacts in an insulating housing. The insulating housing includes a matching interface in a matching direction 500. The matching interfaces of signal modules 340A and 340B can be complementary to the matching interfaces of signal modules 240A and 240B, respectively, so that the signal modules of the matching connector can be matched. In the illustrated embodiment, all signal modules in these signal modules have the same matching interface, and the same matching interface is configured for hermaphroditic matching. Therefore, the matching interfaces of signal modules 340A and 340B can be as described above for signal modules 240A and 240B.

[0082] As in the configuration shown, the mating interface of the signal modules 340A and 340B includes a plurality of recesses 342A and 342B. The recess may include a plurality of electrical contacts. The shape and size of the mating interface of each signal module may be designed to receive a mating connector (e.g., signal module 240A / 240B) therein. For example, the protrusion (e.g., a slotted configuration) of the signal module 240A / 240B may be configured to fit into a corresponding recess of the signal module 340A / 340B so that the electrical contacts of the first component and the second component contact and are electrically connected in the mating configuration. According to some embodiments, each recess of the signal module 340A / 340B may have an electrical contact disposed along two opposing sides of the recess. Each corresponding protrusion of the signal module 240A / 240B may have an electrical contact disposed along two opposing sides of the protrusion. In the mating configuration, the electrical contacts of the recess and the protrusion contact and form an electrical connection.

[0083] Locking module for the second connector

[0084] A locking feature associated with connector 300 may be provided. The locking feature may engage a locking feature associated with connector 200 to limit the relative movement of connectors 200 and 300. For example, the locking feature may be implemented as a fastener that engages with a complementary fastener on a board to which the mating connector is mounted. One or more fasteners may be threaded fasteners, such as a threaded column or a threaded hole. For example, a locking module may have two tangential surfaces, each of which is aligned with a PCB to which one of the mating connectors is mounted. Each surface may have a fastener that may engage a complementary fastener to hold one of the tangential surfaces of the locking module against the corresponding PCB, thereby holding the two PCBs in a set orientation, which in turn holds the connectors mounted to the PCBs in a stable position.

[0085] The locking features associated with connector 300 may be integrated into one or more of the modules described elsewhere herein, into a separate module, into a PCB to which the connector module is mounted, or into a portion of any other component of one or more of the signal modules rigidly coupled to connector 200. In this example, these locking features are part of separate modules, shown here as locking modules 330A and 330B.

[0086] In a design that limits the relative movement of connectors 200 and 300 by limiting the relative movement of the PCBs to which connectors 200 and 300 are attached, the locking modules may have a common locking feature for engaging PCBs 210 and 310. In this example, connector 300 has a plurality of locking modules of substantially the same configuration. Each of these locking modules has a feature for engaging both PCBs 210 and 310.

[0087] In the example shown, each of the locking modules 330A and 330B includes a bolt for engaging the PCB 210. The locking module 330A, for example, includes bolts 332A and 332B, which are configured to extend into corresponding holes 230A and 230B of the board 210, respectively. The locking module 330B includes bolts 332C and 332D, which are configured to extend into corresponding holes 230C and 230D, respectively. Additional components or features may be present to help provide a rigid engagement between the locking module and the PCB 210. In the configuration shown, the bolts are threaded. In this article Figure 5A In the example shown, one or more nuts, such as nuts 211A or 211B, may be tightened onto the threaded bolt to hold the PCB 210 against the surface of the locking module 330A.

[0088] One or more of the locking modules may also include features for forming a rigid attachment between the locking module and the PCB 310. In the illustrated configuration, each locking module includes attachment posts configured to extend into one or more holes of the PCB 310. For example, the attachment posts 333A and 333B of the locking module 330A and the attachment posts 333C and 333D of the locking module 330B may be configured to extend into corresponding holes of the PCB 310. In some examples, the attachment posts may be interference fit posts. For example, each post may be generally cylindrical with a relatively thin protrusion extending radially outward. The cylindrical body of the post may have a diameter less than the inner diameter of the hole on the board 310, but the protrusion may extend to a diameter greater than the inner diameter of the hole. When the posts 333A and 333B are inserted into the corresponding holes of the board 310, the protrusion may deform and or deform the inner surface of the hole, thereby generating a high friction force between the posts and the surface of the hole. This high friction force may provide retention of the posts in the holes.

[0089] Whether the inner surface of the protrusion and / or hole of the column is deformed may depend on the relative hardness of the material used for the columns 333A and 333B relative to the material of the PCB. For example, the locking modules 330A and 330B may be metal, and the PCB may be formed primarily of epoxy resin. In this case, the deformation may be entirely or primarily in the PCB. For example, the locking module may be machined from a block of metal, or may be die-cast. Alternatively, if the locking modules 330A and 330B are made of a softer material such as plastic or nylon, the deformation may be entirely or primarily in the protrusion.

[0090] Additional components or features may be present to help provide a rigid engagement between the locking module and the PCB 310. In the illustrated configuration, each of the locking modules 330A and 330B includes a hole (e.g., hole 335 of the locking module 330A) that is located between the two attachment posts in this example. A screw may extend through the board 310 into each of these holes to secure the locking module to the board. For example, screw 312D may secure the locking module 330B to the board 310, and screw 312A may secure the locking module 330A to the board 310. According to some embodiments, the holes may be threaded and / or threaded inserts may be provided in the holes. In some embodiments, the holes of the modules 330A and 330B may alternatively be bolts that are configured to be received by the holes through the board 310.

[0091] Figure 4 yes Figure 3A and Figure 3B30A of the board connector 300. The locking module 330A may have a first surface 430 configured to be fixed to the printed circuit board 310. The locking module 330A may also have a second surface 420 perpendicular to the first surface, configured to be fixed to the printed circuit board 210. In the example shown, the locking module 330A has an integral structure, so that when the locking module 330A is fixed to the PCBs 210 and 310, the locking module 330A rigidly holds the PCBs 210 and 310 to limit the relative movement of the PCBs 210 and 310, and thus limit the relative movement of the second connector 300 and the first connector 200.

[0092] exist Figure 4 In the example of FIG. 3 , attachment posts 333A and 333B extend perpendicularly from the first surface and are configured to extend into one or more holes of PCB 310 .

[0093] exist Figure 4 In the example of FIG. 3 , the locking module 330A has pegs 332A and 332B on the second surface. The pegs 332A and 332B are configured to extend through corresponding holes 230A and 230B of the plate 210 of the first connector 200. In some embodiments, the pegs 332A or 332B may alternatively be holes configured to receive the pegs, such as threaded holes.

[0094] According to some embodiments, one or both of the locking modules in the locking module may have a size that fits within a connector that is configured with a component configured for use in a known high-speed and high-density interconnect. As a specific example, the second surface may have a first height identified as dimension 338 and a width identified as dimension 339. Dimension 338 may be between 18mm and 25mm, such as 21.60 millimeters (mm). Dimension 339 may be between 8mm and 15mm, such as 10mm. In some specific examples, an end opposite to the second surface may have a height identified as dimension 336. For example, dimension 336 may be between 15mm and 205mm, such as 17.90mm. The distance from the second surface to the end opposite to the second surface is identified as dimension 337, and dimension 337 may be between 25mm and 45mm, such as 33.75mm.

[0095] although Figure 4The description is directed to locking module 330A, but aspects of locking module 330A may be similar or identical to aspects of locking module 330B. For example, locking module 330B may have bolts 332C and / or 332D corresponding to 332A and / or 332B, respectively. Bolts 332C and 332D may be configured to extend through corresponding holes 230C and 230D of plate 210. In some embodiments, bolts 332C or 332D may alternatively be holes configured to receive bolts, such as threaded holes. Locking module 330B may also have attachment posts 333C and 333D corresponding to 333A and 333B, respectively. The holes may be similarly disposed on the first surface of locking module 330B.

[0096] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 As shown, board connector 200 includes several modules mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) 210. In some embodiments, the modules and / or PCB 210 may include features for attaching and securing components and the PCB.

[0097] As described herein, PCB 210 may include one or more holes 230A to 230D, one or more holes 230A to 230D configured to receive bolts 332A to 332D of locking modules 330A and 330B of connector 300. Each of these bolts is configured to extend into a corresponding hole 230A to 230D of board 210, respectively. In this embodiment, each of nuts 211A to 211D is used to fasten PCB 210 to the locking module (e.g., by generating contact pressure of PCB 210 against the locking module). Similarly, guide modules 320A and 320B may have bolts 323A and 323B, respectively. PCB 210 includes corresponding holes, and each bolt may extend through the corresponding hole. Nuts 211E and 211F are used to fasten PCB 210 to guide modules 320A and 320B, respectively.

[0098] According to some embodiments, the power module 250 may include an attachment post 357. The board 210 may include a corresponding hole through which the attachment post 357 may extend. According to some examples, the attachment post 357 may be configured to form an interference fit, as described above in connection with the post 324. Alternatively or additionally, the power module 250 may include a press fit hold down or other structure to hold the power module 250 to the PCB 210 until the tails of the contacts of the power module 250 are soldered to the PCB 210.

[0099] The first component 250 of the power module may also include an electrical contact 353. The electrical contact may be in electrical contact with a power layer or other conductive structure within the printed circuit board 210. In this example, the contact has a tail 353 that extends through a hole in the PCB 210 and may be soldered, for example using plated through-hole soldering techniques, to form an electrical and mechanical connection with the PCB 210.

[0100] Figure 5A Also disclosed is the mounting footprint of each of the signal modules 340A and 340B on the PCB 210. Such footprints are shown here as footprints 315A and 315B, respectively. In this example, each footprint 315 and 315B includes a plurality of parallel rows. Each of these rows includes pairs of holes formed by openings in the power layer and the ground layer within the PCB, wherein each pair of holes is within an anti-pad. The holes with anti-pads can be electrically connected to the tails of the signal conductors within the signal module. The signal tails can be press-fit tails assembled within the holes. The holes can have plating that is electrically connected to signal traces or other conductive structures within the printed circuit board 210. Additional holes are between the pairs of holes in each row, which additional holes can be electrically connected to the tails of the ground conductors within the signal module. In this example, the ground tails can also be press-fit. However, other attachment mechanisms can be used alternatively or in addition. For example, Figure 5A The holes visible in the lower surface of PCB 210 can be connected to pads on the opposite surface, and the tails can be surface mount soldered to those pads.

[0101] In the example shown, adjacent rows have similar configurations, but the adjacent rows are offset so that the hole pairs in adjacent rows are not aligned in a direction perpendicular to the rows. The center lines of the hole pairs in one row can be offset, for example, relative to the center lines of the adjacent hole pairs in each adjacent row by a distance equal to about 50% to 80% of the center-to-center distance of the hole pairs. Such a configuration enables high-speed and high-density interconnection.

[0102] like Figure 3B As shown, similar footprints may be used to mount signal modules 342A and 342B to PCB 310 .

[0103] Figure 5B is a side view of the interconnect system 100, and Figure 5Cis a top view of the interconnect system 100. The indicated dimensions show that a high density interconnect is achieved by achieving a vibration-resistant board-to-board connection. As a specific example, the distance 510B between the first end of the module mounted to the board 210 and the second end of the module opposite the first end can be between 30 mm and 40 mm, such as 33.75 mm. The height 510C of one end of the module mounted to the board 210 can be between 18 mm and 30 mm, such as 22.50 mm. When mated to the components of the connector 200, the height 510A of the mating interface of the module of the connector 300 can be between 15 mm and 25 mm, such as 17.90 mm. The width 520 of the connector 200 and / or the connector 300 can be between 70 mm and 100 mm, such as 82.90 mm.

[0104] Figure 1 An interconnect system 100 is shown connecting a first PCB to a second PCB. In other examples, the techniques and components described herein can be used in other system configurations. For example, multiple connectors can be mounted to a PCB so that multiple PCBs can be connected to or through the PCB. For example, Fig. 6A 8 is a side view of an exemplary system 600. In this example, subassembly 800 can have two connectors mounted to PCB 810. Each of these connectors can mate with a corresponding connector 700A or 700B, each of which is mounted to a corresponding PCB 710A or 710B. Fig. 6A In the example of FIG. 6 , system 600 includes a first group of modules 600A and a second group of modules 600B. Each group of modules can have the configuration of the mating connectors 200 and 300 described above. For example, the modules mounted to PCB 810 can have the configuration described above in conjunction with connector 200, and the modules mounted to PCBs 710A and 710B can have the configuration described above in conjunction with connector 300.

[0105] When both sets of modules 600A and 600B are in a mated configuration, the printed circuit boards 710A and 710B can be spaced apart by a spacing 720A. The spacing 720A can be between 18 mm and 30 mm, such as 24.25 mm. The height 720B of the two sets of modules 600A and 600B can be between 40 mm and 60 mm, such as 46.75 mm.

[0106] Figure 6B810B. The subassembly 800 may include a first group of modules and a second group of modules as described herein. Each of the first group and the second group may be attached and / or fixed to a portion 810A or 810B of the board. Portions 810A and 810B may be configured in substantially the same manner and may function in substantially the same manner.

[0107] For example, portion 810A may include coverage areas 815A and 815B for signal modules, and portion 810B may include coverage areas 815C and 815D for signal modules. Each of coverage areas 815A...815D may be as described above for coverage areas 315A and 315B.

[0108] Each portion 810A and 810B may also include features for attaching a power module. Each portion may include corresponding holes 817A and 817B through which an attachment post of the power module may extend. For example, the attachment post may be as described above in conjunction with connector 200.

[0109] Each portion 810A and 810B may also include features for engaging a locking module. Each of the locking modules engaged to the PCB 810 may have a configuration that is the same or similar to the configuration of the locking module 330A described herein, and may include a plug configured to extend into a corresponding hole 830aa, 830ab, 830ba, and 830bb of the board 810, respectively. According to some embodiments, the plug may be threaded. In some examples, and as described herein, Figure 5A As shown in FIG. 8 , one or more nuts (such as nuts 211A or 211B) may be used to create contact pressure of plate 810 against the locking module surface.

[0110] Each portion 810A and 810B may also include features for engaging a guide module. Each guide module may have a bolt. Plate 810 includes corresponding holes 830ac and 830bc, and each bolt may extend through corresponding holes 830ac and 830bc. Nuts (which may be similar to nuts 211E and 211F) may be used to fasten the guide module to plate 810.

[0111] Each portion 810A and 810B may also include features for electrical and / or mechanical connection to a power module. For example, PCB 810 may include holes 816A. Holes 816A may be through holes through which electrical connections may be provided between tail 353 and a power layer or other conductive structure within printed circuit board 810.

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the two interconnected PCBs are aligned at right angles to each other, with an edge of one PCB facing a surface of the other PCB. In other configurations, the interconnected PCBs may be parallel to each other or may be aligned in an orthogonal configuration, with the interconnected PCBs being orthogonal to each other, with an edge of one PCB facing an edge of the other PCB.

[0113] Likewise, in the illustrated embodiment, the signal and power modules are mounted to the PCB using press-fit tails. Other configurations of tails may be used to connect some or all of the signal and power contacts to the PCB. For example, the tails may be configured for surface mount soldering or pin insertion solder paste mounting.

[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector is formed of modules, each module being designed for a specific function. A connector can be constructed in which components of the connector perform multiple functions. For example, a connector component can have contacts for both signal connections and power connections or both power and guides.

[0115] Such changes, modifications and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure and are intended to fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, although the advantages of the present invention are pointed out, it should be appreciated that not every embodiment of the present invention will include every described advantage. Some embodiments may not implement any of the features described herein and in some cases as being advantageous. Therefore, the foregoing description and accompanying drawings are intended to be examples only.

[0116] The various aspects of the present invention may be used alone, in combination, or in various arrangements not specifically discussed in the foregoing embodiments, and therefore the application of the present invention is not limited to the details and arrangements of the components set forth in the foregoing description or shown in the accompanying drawings. For example, aspects described in one embodiment may be combined in any manner with aspects described in other embodiments.

[0117] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0118] The use of ordinal terms such as "first", "second", "third" and the like to modify claim elements in the claims does not in itself imply any priority, or order of precedence of one claim element over another claim element or the temporal order of the actions of performing a method, but is merely used as a label to distinguish one claim element having a particular name from another respective element having the same name (but using an ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements.

[0119] The indefinite articles "a" and "an," as used herein in the specification and claims, should be understood to mean "at least one," unless expressly indicated to the contrary.

[0120] As used herein in the specification and claims, the phrase "at least one" with respect to a list of one or more elements should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each element specifically listed in the list of elements, and not excluding any combination of elements in the list of elements. This limitation also allows for the optional presence of elements other than the elements specifically identified in the list of elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

[0121] The phrase "and / or" as used herein in the specification and claims should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so combined, i.e., elements present in combination in some cases and separately in other cases. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" should be interpreted in the same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so combined. In addition to the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, other elements may optionally be present, whether related or unrelated to those specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, when used in combination with open language such as "comprising", reference to "A and / or B" may refer to only A (optionally including elements other than B) in one embodiment; to only B (optionally including elements other than A) in another embodiment; to both A and B (optionally including other elements) in yet another embodiment; and so on.

[0122] As used herein in the specification and claims, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and / or" as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or "and / or" should be interpreted as inclusive, i.e., including at least one of a plurality of elements or a list of elements, but also including more than one, and optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms that clearly indicate the opposite, such as "only one" or "precise one of...", or when used in the claims, "consisting of..." will refer to including a plurality of elements or a precise one of a list of elements. Generally, when preceded by an exclusive term, such as "any", "one of...", "only one of...", or "precise one of...", the term "or" used should only be interpreted as indicating an exclusive alternative (i.e., "one or the other, but not both"). When used in the claims, "essentially consisting of..." should have its ordinary meaning used in the field of patent law.

[0123] In addition, the phraseology and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. The use of "comprising," "including," "having," "including," "involving," and variations thereof herein is intended to encompass the items listed thereafter and their equivalents as well as additional items.

Claims

1. A locking module, the locking module being configured to be used with a board-mounted connector module, the locking module comprising: a first surface and a second surface; a plurality of attachment posts extending from the first surface; a threaded hole in the first surface; as well as A plurality of pegs extend from the second surface, wherein the plurality of pegs are threaded.

2. The locking module according to claim 1, wherein: The locking module includes a unitary body including the first surface, the second surface, the plurality of attachment posts, the threaded holes, and the plurality of pegs.

3. The locking module according to claim 2, wherein: The second surface is perpendicular to the first surface.

4. The locking module according to claim 1, wherein: The locking module is metallic.

5. The locking module according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of attachment posts include protrusions.

6. The locking module according to claim 5, wherein: The plurality of attachment posts are configured to form an interference fit attachment when pressed into the holes of the PCB.

7. An electrical connector, comprising the locking module according to claim 1, the locking module being combined with a plurality of signal modules, wherein: The plurality of signal modules and the locking module are arranged in a linear array.

8. The electrical connector according to claim 7, further comprising a support member, wherein: The locking module and the plurality of signal modules are attached to the support member.

9. The electrical connector according to claim 7, wherein: The locking module is a first locking module; and The electrical connector includes a similar second locking module.

10. An automotive electronic system, comprising the electrical connector according to claim 7, the electrical connector being combined with a first printed circuit board and a second printed circuit board, wherein: the second printed circuit board having a hole therethrough; The electrical connector is mounted to the first printed circuit board, wherein the first surface of the locking module is mounted closely against the surface of the first printed circuit board; The electrical connector is a first connector; the first connector mates to a second connector mounted to the second printed circuit board; and The plurality of pegs extend through the holes of the second printed circuit board.

11. The automotive electronic system according to claim 10, further comprising: a screw extending through the first printed circuit board and engaging a threaded hole in the locking module; as well as A plurality of nuts are screwed onto the plurality of bolts to keep the second surface of the locking module in close contact with the surface of the second printed circuit board.

12. An electrical connector configured to mate with a complementary connector and configured to be mounted to a first surface of a printed circuit board (PCB), the electrical connector comprising: a plurality of modules configured to be mounted to the first surface of the PCB, Wherein, the multiple modules include: one or more locking modules configured to secure the complementary connector to the electrical connector; a power module, the power module comprising a plurality of power contacts disposed in a cavity of the first housing; a signal module, the signal module comprising a plurality of signal contacts; and One or more guide modules, each of the one or more guide modules comprises a housing having a first opening in a first direction.

13. The electrical connector according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the one or more locking modules comprises one or more bolts, and The one or more pegs are configured to pass through corresponding one or more holes through the PCB.

14. The electrical connector according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the one or more locking modules comprises: a first surface, the first surface being configured to be mounted closely against the first surface of the PCB; and a threaded hole in the first surface of each of the one or more locking modules, and The electrical connector further includes a screw configured to pass through a hole in the PCB and engage the threaded hole to secure the one or more locking modules to the PCB.

15. The electrical connector according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the plurality of power contacts is bifurcated.

16. The electrical connector according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the plurality of bifurcated power contacts includes a first prong and a second prong having a rest state, and wherein the prongs are biased toward each other when the electrical connector is mated with the complementary connector.

17. The electrical connector according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the one or more locking modules comprises: A threaded bolt is configured to be inserted through a hole of a board to which the complementary connector is mounted.

18. The electrical connector according to claim 12, wherein: The signal module includes a plurality of recesses, each of the plurality of recesses includes two opposite sides; The signal terminals of the plurality of signal contacts are arranged along the two opposite sides of each of the plurality of recesses to provide a mating interface, which is configured to mate with the signal contacts on the two sides of the corresponding protrusion of the complementary connector when the complementary connector is mated to the connector.

19. A subassembly of an automotive electronic system, the subassembly comprising: a printed circuit board (PCB), the PCB comprising a first surface and a plurality of holes passing through the PCB; as well as An electrical connector comprising a plurality of modules arranged in a linear array on the first surface of the PCB, wherein: The plurality of modules include one or more of a power module, a signal module or a guide module; The plurality of holes through the PCB are configured to receive threaded bolts; and The plurality of holes passing through the PCB are arranged in the linear array between adjacent modules of the plurality of modules.

20. The subassembly of claim 19, wherein: The electrical connector includes the signal module; and The signal module comprises: one or more recesses, A signal contact is disposed within the recess and is configured to mate with a signal contact of the complementary connector when the complementary connector is mated to the electrical connector.

21. The electrical connector according to claim 19, wherein: The connector includes the power module; and The power module includes a receptacle including one or more recesses configured to receive power contacts of a complementary connector.

22. An electrical connector configured to mate with a complementary connector and configured for mounting to a surface of a first printed circuit board (PCB), the electrical connector comprising a plurality of modules in a linear array, the plurality of modules comprising: a signal module having a mounting side and a mating side, wherein the mounting side faces a first direction and is configured to be mounted against the surface of the first PCB, and the mating side faces a second direction and is configured to mate with the complementary connector; as well as A locking module, the locking module comprising a first side facing the first direction and a second side facing the second direction, wherein the first side comprises a first fastener, the first fastener is configured to engage a first complementary fastener to fix the locking module against the surface of the first PCB, and the second side comprises a second fastener, the second fastener is configured to engage a second complementary fastener to fix the module against the surface of the first PCB.

23. The electrical connector according to claim 22, wherein: The first fastener or the second fastener includes a threaded hole.

24. The electrical connector according to claim 23, wherein: The locking module further includes a post extending from a side of the first side or the second side including the threaded hole.

25. The electrical connector according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein: The first fastener or the second fastener includes a threaded post.

26. The electrical connector according to claim 22, wherein: The first side surface is perpendicular to the second side surface.

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