Electrical connector and connector assembly

Abstract

An electrical connector includes a first connector, a second connector and a bracket. The first connector includes a first conductive terminal, a first board end terminal and a first cable. The first board end terminal includes a first extension and a first holding portion bent from the first extension, the first holding portion being provided with a first holding leg. The bracket includes a first wall, a second wall and a support wall, the support wall being provided with a through slot. The bracket is further provided with a heat dissipation channel beside the support wall, the heat dissipation channel penetrating through the bracket along a first direction. The first holding portion is at least partially located in the through slot. The first board end terminal of the first connector of the present application is installed on the circuit board through the bracket and the second connector, and an intermediate adapter element is omitted, thereby facilitating improvement of signal integrity. In addition, the bracket is provided with a heat dissipation channel, thereby facilitating improvement of heat dissipation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electrical connector and a connector assembly, belonging to the field of connector technology. Background Technology

[0002] Connector assemblies in related technologies include electrical connectors, shielding housings, and circuit boards. As the installation space requirements for connector assemblies continue to increase, stacked connectors have emerged in related technologies, comprising a first connector and a second connector. Both the first and second connectors include an insulating body, a plurality of conductive terminals mounted on the insulating body, and cables connected to a portion of the conductive terminals. The plurality of conductive terminals includes high-speed signal terminals and non-high-speed signal terminals.

[0003] As the requirements for signal transmission in electrical connectors continue to increase, related technologies use cables to transmit high-speed signals, while non-high-speed signal terminals are often mounted on circuit boards.

[0004] To improve signal integrity during transmission, how to electrically connect non-high-speed signal terminals to the circuit board is a technical problem faced by those skilled in the art. Meanwhile, for multilayer connectors, heat dissipation between the upper and lower layers is also a technical problem faced by those skilled in the art.

[0005] Therefore, there is still room for improvement in the connector components of the relevant technology. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an improved electrical connector and connector assembly.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention: an electrical connector includes:

[0008] A first connector, comprising a first module, the first module comprising a first conductive terminal, a first plate end terminal, and a first cable electrically connected to the first conductive terminal; the first plate end terminal comprising a first extension and a first retaining portion formed by bending from the first extension, the first retaining portion having a first retaining foot; the first connector being configured to mate with a first mating connector along a first direction.

[0009] Second connector; and

[0010] A bracket is disposed between the first connector and the second connector along a second direction. The bracket includes a first wall, a second wall opposite to the first wall, and a support wall connecting the first wall and the second wall. The support wall has a through groove that penetrates the bracket along the second direction. The bracket also has a heat dissipation channel located beside the support wall that penetrates the bracket along the first direction.

[0011] The first retaining portion is at least partially located in the through slot, and the first retaining foot passes through the through slot and the second connector to be configured for mounting on a circuit board.

[0012] As a further improved technical solution of the present invention, the first wall is in contact with the first connector, and the second wall is in contact with the second connector; the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0013] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first module includes a first insulating mounting block, the first insulating mounting block is fixed on the first holding part, the first holding foot protrudes from the first insulating mounting block, and the first insulating mounting block is at least partially inserted into the through groove.

[0014] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first connector includes an outer insulating shell fixed on the first module, and the outer insulating shell is provided with positioning protrusions;

[0015] The first wall is provided with a positioning opening, and the positioning protrusion is inserted into and positioned in the positioning opening.

[0016] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first connector includes an outer insulating shell fixed on the first module, and the outer insulating shell is provided with a first positioning protrusion.

[0017] The first wall is provided with a first positioning groove, and the first positioning protrusion is configured to receive and be positioned in the first positioning groove.

[0018] As a further improvement of the present invention, the through groove is located in the first positioning groove.

[0019] As a further improved technical solution of the present invention, the bracket includes a third wall connecting one side of the first wall and one side of the second wall, and a fourth wall connecting the other side of the first wall and the other side of the second wall, and the heat dissipation channel is formed by the first wall, the second wall, the third wall and the fourth wall.

[0020] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first connector is provided with a first receiving slot; the first conductive terminal includes a first contact arm, and the first contact arm includes a first contact portion protruding into the first receiving slot.

[0021] The first plate end terminal includes a first additional contact arm connected to the first extension, and the first additional contact arm includes a first additional contact portion protruding into the first receiving slot.

[0022] The second connector includes a retaining insulating housing with a clearance opening, the through slot communicating with the clearance opening, and the first insulating mounting block being at least partially inserted into the clearance opening.

[0023] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first connector further includes a second module, the second module including a second conductive terminal, a second plate end terminal, and a second cable electrically connected to the second conductive terminal; the second conductive terminal includes a second contact arm, the second contact arm including a second contact portion protruding into the first receiving slot; the second plate end terminal includes a second extension, a second additional contact arm connected to the second extension, and a second retaining portion bent from the second extension, the second additional contact arm including a second additional contact portion protruding into the first receiving slot; the second retaining portion is provided with a second retaining foot;

[0024] The second retaining portion is at least partially located in the through slot and the clearance opening, and the second retaining foot passes through the through slot and the clearance opening to be configured for mounting on the circuit board.

[0025] As a further improved technical solution of the present invention, the second module includes a second insulating mounting block, the second insulating mounting block is fixed on the second holding part, the second holding foot protrudes from the second insulating mounting block, the second insulating mounting block abuts against the first insulating mounting block, and the second insulating mounting block is at least partially inserted into the through groove and the clearance opening.

[0026] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first module includes a first conductive housing, and the first conductive terminal and the first board end terminal are at least partially disposed in the first conductive housing.

[0027] The second module includes a second conductive housing, and the second conductive terminal and the second board end terminal are at least partially disposed in the second conductive housing;

[0028] The first receiving slot is formed by the first conductive housing and the second conductive housing.

[0029] An embodiment of the present invention also discloses a connector assembly comprising:

[0030] An electrical connector, wherein the electrical connector is the aforementioned electrical connector; and

[0031] A shielding housing is disposed around the electrical connector. The shielding housing includes a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity. The first receiving cavity corresponds to the first connector and is configured to receive a first mating connector. The second receiving cavity corresponds to the second connector and is configured to receive a second mating connector.

[0032] As a further improved technical solution of the present invention, the shielding shell includes a first shielding shell, a second shielding shell that cooperates with the first shielding shell, an intermediate shielding shell, a front shielding shell, an additional shielding shell, and a rear shielding shell.

[0033] As a further improved technical solution of the present invention, the first shielding shell includes a first wall portion, a second wall portion formed by bending from one side of the first wall portion, and a third wall portion formed by bending from the other side of the first wall portion; the second wall portion is provided with a plurality of first crimping feet, and the third wall portion is provided with a plurality of second crimping feet;

[0034] The first shielding shell and the second shielding shell are fastened together. The second shielding shell is provided with a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings. The first crimping pin extends through the first opening and the second crimping pin extends through the second opening. The first crimping pin and the second crimping pin are configured to be mounted on a circuit board.

[0035] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first wall portion is provided with a first opening that penetrates the first wall portion;

[0036] The connector assembly includes a first heat sink mounted on the shielding housing, the first heat sink having a first protrusion extending through the first opening into the first receiving cavity, and a plurality of first heat dissipation fins; the first protrusion is configured to contact the first mating connector.

[0037] As a further improvement of the present invention, the intermediate shielding shell is U-shaped and includes a first plate, a second plate opposite to the first plate, and a connecting piece connecting the front end of the first plate and the front end of the second plate; the first plate, the second plate, and the connecting piece form an accommodating space; the second plate is provided with a second opening;

[0038] The connector assembly includes a second heat sink housed in the accommodating space. The second heat sink has a second protrusion extending through the second opening into the second accommodating cavity, and a plurality of second heat dissipation fins. The second protrusion is configured to contact the second mating connector.

[0039] Compared to existing technologies, the electrical connector and connector assembly of the present invention include a first connector, a second connector, and a bracket disposed between the first connector and the second connector. The first connector includes a first board-end terminal, which includes a first retaining portion and a first retaining foot. The first board-end terminal of the first connector of the present invention passes through the bracket and the second connector and is mounted on the circuit board, eliminating the intermediate adapter element and thus improving signal integrity. Furthermore, the bracket has a heat dissipation channel that extends through the bracket along the first direction, thereby improving heat dissipation. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a partial exploded perspective view of the connector assembly of the present invention in one embodiment, wherein the first mating connector and the second mating connector are not inserted into the shielding housing;

[0041] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the connector assembly of the present invention in another embodiment;

[0042] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of another embodiment;

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The main view of the connector assembly described in the image;

[0044] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Partial exploded perspective view of the connector assembly described herein;

[0045] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Partial 3D exploded view from another angle;

[0046] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of part B circled in the middle;

[0047] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A further partial exploded 3D view of the connector assembly after the circuit board has been removed;

[0048] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of the shielding housing and electrical connector in the image.

[0049] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A three-dimensional exploded view from another angle;

[0050] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the electrical connector of the present invention in one embodiment;

[0051] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A three-dimensional diagram from another angle;

[0052] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 The main view;

[0053] Figure 14 yes Figure 10 An exploded 3D view of the shielding shell in the middle;

[0054] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A three-dimensional exploded view from another angle;

[0055] Figure 16 yes Figure 11 Partial exploded 3D diagram;

[0056] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 Partial 3D exploded view from another angle;

[0057] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 Partial exploded perspective view of the first connector in the diagram;

[0058] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 Partial 3D exploded view from another angle;

[0059] Figure 20 yes Figure 16 Partial exploded perspective view of the second connector in the diagram;

[0060] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 Partial 3D exploded view from another angle;

[0061] Figure 22 yes Figure 13 Partial exploded view;

[0062] Figure 23 yes Figure 18 3D exploded view of the first and second modules;

[0063] Figure 24 yes Figure 18 3D exploded view of the third and fourth modules;

[0064] Figure 25 yes Figure 23 A three-dimensional exploded view from another angle;

[0065] Figure 26 yes Figure 24 A three-dimensional exploded view from another angle;

[0066] Figure 27 yes Figure 23 3D exploded view of the first module;

[0067] Figure 28 yes Figure 23 3D exploded view of the second module;

[0068] Figure 29 yes Figure 24 3D exploded view of the third module;

[0069] Figure 30 yes Figure 24 3D exploded view of the fourth module;

[0070] Figure 31 yes Figure 27 A three-dimensional exploded view from another angle;

[0071] Figure 32 yes Figure 28 A three-dimensional exploded view from another angle;

[0072] Figure 33 yes Figure 29 A three-dimensional exploded view from another angle;

[0073] Figure 34 yes Figure 30 A three-dimensional exploded view from another angle;

[0074] Figure 35 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional diagram of the CC line is shown, and the direction of airflow for heat dissipation is schematically indicated. Detailed Implementation

[0075] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. If several embodiments exist, features in these embodiments may be combined with each other without conflict. When the description refers to the drawings, unless otherwise stated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The descriptions in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with the present invention; rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses, products, and / or methods consistent with some aspects of the present invention as set forth in the claims.

[0076] The terminology used in this invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention. The singular forms “a,” “the,” or “the” as used in the specification and claims of this invention are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0077] It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," and similar words used in the specification and claims of this invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish features. Similarly, the terms "an" or "a" do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. Unless otherwise stated, the terms "before," "after," "upper," "lower," and similar words appearing in this invention are for ease of explanation only and are not limited to a specific location or spatial orientation. The terms "comprising" or "including" are an open-ended expression, meaning that the element preceding "comprising" or "including" encompasses the element following "comprising" or "including" and its equivalents, but this does not preclude the element preceding "comprising" or "including" from also including other elements. In this invention, the term "several" means two or more.

[0078] Please refer to Figures 1 to 35As shown in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, a connector assembly is disclosed, comprising an electrical connector 100, a shielding housing 500 disposed around the electrical connector 100, a first heat sink 600 mounted on the shielding housing 500, a retaining piece 700 for fixing the first heat sink 600 to the shielding housing 500, a light guide tube 800 mounted on the shielding housing 500, a circuit board 400 for mounting the electrical connector 100, and a mating connector 300 for at least partially inserting into the electrical connector 100. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the shielding housing 500 is configured to be mounted on the circuit board 400. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the electrical connector 100 is an OSFP (Octal Small Form-factor Pluggable) receptacle connector; correspondingly, the mating connector 300 is an OSFP plug connector. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the electrical connector 100 is a receptacle connector. Of course, those skilled in the art will understand that the electrical connector 100 can also be an SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) socket connector, a QSFP (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable) socket connector, a QSFP-DD (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable-Double Density) socket connector, an SFP-DD (Small Form-factor Pluggable-Double Density) socket connector, or a DSFP (Dual Chanel Small Form-factor Pluggable) socket connector, etc.; correspondingly, the mating connector 300 can be an SFP plug connector, a QSFP plug connector, a QSFP-DD plug connector, an SFP-DD plug connector, or a DSFP plug connector, etc. Those skilled in the art will understand that the basic architecture of the above types of electrical connectors 100 is specified by the corresponding association standards, and will not be elaborated further here. Of course, those skilled in the art will understand that the electrical connector 100 can also be other types of electrical connectors, including but not limited to USB connectors, HDMI connectors, DisplayPort connectors, RJ45 connectors, Thunderbolt connectors, etc. In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the electrical connector 100 is a semi-outlet type socket connector, that is, a portion of the conductive terminals of the electrical connector 100 is connected to the cable, and the other portion of the conductive terminals is configured to be directly or indirectly electrically connected to the circuit board 400.

[0079] Please combine Figure 5As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the circuit board 400 includes a plurality of first mounting holes 401, a plurality of second mounting holes 402, a plurality of first conductive holes 404, a plurality of second conductive holes 405, a plurality of third conductive holes 406, and a plurality of fourth conductive holes 407. The plurality of first mounting holes 401 are arranged in a first row along a first direction A1-A1 (e.g., front-to-back direction), and the plurality of second mounting holes 402 are arranged in a second row parallel to the first row along the first direction A1-A1. The plurality of first conductive holes 404 are arranged in two staggered rows along the first direction A1-A1, with each row arranged along the third direction A3-A3. The plurality of second conductive holes 405 are arranged in two staggered rows along the first direction A1-A1, with each row arranged along the third direction A3-A3. The plurality of third conductive holes 406 are arranged in two staggered rows along the first direction A1-A1, with each row arranged along the third direction A3-A3. The plurality of fourth conductive holes 407 are arranged in two staggered rows along the first direction A1-A1, wherein each row is arranged along the third direction A3-A3.

[0080] Please combine Figure 1 As shown in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the mating connector 300 includes a first mating connector 300a and a second mating connector 300b, wherein the first mating connector 300a and the second mating connector 300b have the same structure. The mating connector 300 includes a mating module, such as a tongue plate 301. The tongue plate 301 includes an upper surface, a lower surface, a plurality of first contact pieces exposed on the upper surface, and a plurality of second contact pieces exposed on the lower surface. Please refer to... Figure 9 As shown in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the electrical connector 100 is provided with a first receiving slot 101a that at least partially accommodates the mating module of the first mating connector 300a and a second receiving slot 101b that at least partially accommodates the mating module of the second mating connector 300b. To simplify the description of the specific embodiments of the present invention, the insertion / removal direction of the mating connector 300 and the electrical connector 100 is a first direction A1-A1 (e.g., front-to-back direction); the thickness direction of the first receiving slot 101a is a second direction A2-A2 (e.g., vertical direction); and the width direction of the first receiving slot 101a is a third direction A3-A3 (e.g., horizontal direction). The first direction A1-A1, the second direction A2-A2, and the third direction A3-A3 are all perpendicular to each other.

[0081] Please combine Figures 9 to 13 , Figure 16 as well as Figure 17As shown in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the electrical connector 100 includes a first connector 100a, a second connector 100b, and a bracket 100c disposed between the first connector 100a and the second connector 100b. Please refer to... Figures 17 to 35 As shown, the first connector 100a includes a first module M1, a second module M2, and an outer insulating shell 7 fixed to the first module M1 and the second module M2, wherein the first module M1 and the second module M2 are separately disposed but fixed together. In one embodiment of the present invention, the outer insulating shell 7 is made of insulating material and is fixed to the first module M1 and the second module M2. The outer insulating shell 7 is provided with a downwardly protruding first positioning protrusion 71 and a downwardly protruding positioning post 72.

[0082] Specifically, please combine Figure 18 as well as Figure 19 As shown in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the outer insulating shell 7 includes a first outer insulating shell 7a and a second outer insulating shell 7b. The first outer insulating shell 7a has an upwardly protruding bulge 7a1. The bulge 7a1 is used to support the shielding shell 500. The second outer insulating shell 7b has a first base 7b1, and a first positioning protrusion 71 protrudes downward from the first base 7b1. A positioning protrusion 72 protrudes downward from the first base 7b1. The first base 7b1 has a first positioning opening 7b11 that penetrates the first base 7b1 along a second direction A2-A2.

[0083] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the first connector 100a and the second connector 100b have the same structure, and the following description takes the first connector 100a as an example.

[0084] Please combine Figure 11 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the first connector 100a includes a housing, an insulating fixing block 2 fixed to the housing, a plurality of conductive terminals 3 installed on the housing, and a cable 5 connected to the conductive terminals 3.

[0085] In one embodiment of the present invention, the housing is a conductive housing 1. The conductive housing 1 is a metal housing made of metallic material to further improve the shielding effect and enhance the quality of signal transmission. In another embodiment of the present invention, the conductive housing 1 can also be a composite housing formed by electroplating metallic material onto insulating material. This composite housing can also improve the shielding effect and enhance the quality of signal transmission.

[0086] Please combine Figure 11 , Figure 27 , Figure 28 , Figure 31 as well as Figure 32 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the conductive housing 1 includes a first conductive housing 11 and a second conductive housing 12. The first conductive housing 11 and the second conductive housing 12 are fixed together, for example, the first conductive housing 11 and the second conductive housing 12 are assembled and then fixed together by means such as welding. In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the first conductive housing 11 of the first module M1 and the second conductive housing 12 of the second module M2 are separately disposed and fixed together to jointly form the first receiving slot 101a.

[0087] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first conductive housing 11 includes a first base 111, a first protrusion 112 extending forward from the first base 111, and a plurality of first terminal module mounting grooves 113 penetrating the first base 111 and the first protrusion 112 along the first direction A1-A1. The first protrusion 112 is provided with a second upper surface 1121, a second lower surface 1122, and a plurality of first filling grooves 1123 penetrating upward through the second upper surface 1121 along the second direction A2-A2. The first filling grooves 1123 penetrate forward through a first front end face 1120 of the first protrusion 112 along the first direction A1-A1. The first protrusion 112 also includes a plurality of first positioning posts 1124 protruding upward through the second upper surface 1121 along the second direction A2-A2.

[0088] The plurality of first terminal module mounting slots 113 are arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3. The first conductive housing 11 includes a plurality of first partition walls 114 arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3. Two adjacent first terminal module mounting slots 113 are separated by corresponding first partition walls 114 along the third direction A3-A3. In this configuration, each first terminal module mounting slot 113 is relatively independent, thereby reducing signal crosstalk and improving the quality of data transmission. Each first partition wall 114 is provided with a first positioning block 1141 that protrudes along the third direction A3-A3. The first positioning block 1141 is located at the end away from the first front end face 1120.

[0089] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second conductive housing 12 includes a second base 121, a second protrusion 122 extending forward from the second base 121, and a plurality of second terminal module mounting grooves 123 penetrating the second base 121 and the second protrusion 122 along the first direction A1-A1. The second protrusion 122 is provided with a fourth upper surface 1221, a fourth lower surface 1222, and a plurality of second filling grooves 1223 penetrating downward through the fourth lower surface 1222. The second filling grooves 1223 penetrate forward through the second front end face 1220 of the second protrusion 122. The second protrusion 122 also includes a plurality of second positioning posts 1224 protruding downward from the second lower surface 1122.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of second terminal module mounting slots 123 are arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3. The second conductive housing 12 includes a plurality of second partition walls 124 arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3. Two adjacent second terminal module mounting slots 123 are separated by corresponding second partition walls 124 along the third direction A3-A3. This arrangement makes each second terminal module mounting slot 123 relatively independent, thereby reducing signal crosstalk and improving data transmission quality. Each second partition wall 124 is provided with a second positioning block 1241 that protrudes along the third direction A3-A3. The second positioning block 1241 is located at the end away from the second front end face 1220.

[0091] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the insulating fixing block 2 includes a first insulating fixing block 21 and a second insulating fixing block 22. The first insulating fixing block 21 is fixed in the first filling groove 1123, and the second insulating fixing block 22 is fixed in the second filling groove 1223. Preferably, in order to increase the bonding force between the first insulating fixing block 21 and the first conductive shell 11, the first insulating fixing block 21 is formed in the first filling groove 1123. Similarly, in order to increase the bonding force between the second insulating fixing block 22 and the second conductive shell 12, the second insulating fixing block 22 is formed in the second filling groove 1223.

[0092] The first insulating fixing block 21 is provided with a plurality of first slots 211 and a plurality of second slots 212, wherein adjacent first slots 211 and second slots 212 form a group and are connected to the corresponding first terminal module mounting slots 113. The first insulating fixing block 21 is also provided with a first front surface 210, which is coplanar with the first front end surface 1120 of the first protrusion 112.

[0093] Similarly, the second insulating fixing block 22 is provided with a plurality of third slots 221 and a plurality of fourth slots 222, wherein adjacent third slots 221 and fourth slots 222 form a group and are connected to the corresponding second terminal module mounting slots 123. The second insulating fixing block 22 is provided with a second front surface 220, which is coplanar with the second front end surface 1220 of the second protrusion 122.

[0094] The plurality of conductive terminals 3 include a plurality of first conductive terminals 31, a plurality of second conductive terminals 32, a plurality of first plate-end terminals 35, and a plurality of second plate-end terminals 36. Each first conductive terminal 31 includes a first fixing portion 311 extending along the first direction A1-A1, a first contact arm 310 extending forward from the front end of the first fixing portion 311, and a first tail portion 312 extending rearward from the rear end of the first fixing portion 311. The first contact arm 310 includes a first contact portion 3101 extending into the first receiving slot 101a. The first contact portion 3101 is used to contact the first signal contact piece of the tongue plate 301. In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the first tail portion 312 extends horizontally rearward to be electrically connected to the first cable 51.

[0095] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the plurality of first conductive terminals 31 are divided into several groups, and each group of first conductive terminals 31 includes a first signal terminal S1 and a second signal terminal S2 adjacent to the first signal terminal S1. Preferably, the first signal terminal S1 and the second signal terminal S2 in each group of first conductive terminals 31 form a differential pair to improve signal transmission speed and is suitable for high-speed signal transmission.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first connector 100a further includes a first retaining block 33 fixed to the first signal terminal S1 and the second signal terminal S2 of each set of first conductive terminals 31. In one embodiment of the present invention, the first signal terminal S1 and the second signal terminal S2 are embedded in the first retaining block 33 to form an integral first terminal module 31a. The first contact portion 3101 of the first signal terminal S1 and the second signal terminal S2 in each first terminal module 31a abuts against the first signal contact piece of the mating module.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first retaining block 33 is fixed to the middle of the first fixing portion 311 of the first signal terminal S1 and the second signal terminal S2. The first retaining block 33 is installed and fixed in the first terminal module mounting groove 113, so that the first conductive terminal 31 does not short-circuit due to contact with the first conductive housing 11. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first retaining block 33 includes a first protruding post 331 protruding along the third direction A3-A3 and a first positioning protruding post 332 protruding along the third direction A3-A3, the protrusion directions of the first protruding post 331 and the first positioning protruding post 332 being opposite. The first protruding post 331 is used to be positioned with the through hole of the first conductive housing 11, and the first protruding post 331 extends out of the first conductive housing 11.

[0098] Similarly, each second conductive terminal 32 includes a second fixing portion 321 extending along the first direction A1-A1, a second contact arm 320 extending forward from the front end of the second fixing portion 321, and a second tail portion 322 extending rearward from the rear end of the second fixing portion 321. The second contact arm 320 includes a second contact portion 3201 extending into the first receiving slot 101a. The second contact portion 3201 is used to contact the second signal contact piece of the tongue plate 301. In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the second tail portion 322 extends horizontally rearward from the second fixing portion 321 for electrical connection with the second cable 52.

[0099] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the plurality of second conductive terminals 32 are divided into several groups, and each group of second conductive terminals 32 includes a third signal terminal S3 and a fourth signal terminal S4 adjacent to the third signal terminal S3. Preferably, the third signal terminal S3 and the fourth signal terminal S4 in each group of second conductive terminals 32 form a differential pair to improve signal transmission speed and is suitable for high-speed signal transmission.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first connector 100a further includes a second retaining block 34 fixed to the third signal terminal S3 and the fourth signal terminal S4 of each set of second conductive terminals 32. In one embodiment of the present invention, the third signal terminal S3 and the fourth signal terminal S4 are embedded in the second retaining block 34 to form an integral second terminal module 32a. The second contact portion 3201 of the third signal terminal S3 and the fourth signal terminal S4 in each second terminal module 32a abuts against the second signal contact piece of the mating module.

[0101] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the second retaining block 34 is fixed to the middle of the second fixing portion 321 of the third signal terminal S3 and the fourth signal terminal S4. The second retaining block 34 is installed and fixed in the second terminal module mounting groove 123, so that the second conductive terminal 32 does not short-circuit due to contact with the second conductive housing 12. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the second retaining block 34 includes a second protruding post 341 protruding along the third direction A3-A3 and a second positioning protruding post 342 protruding along the third direction A3-A3, the protrusion directions of the second protruding post 341 and the second positioning protruding post 342 being opposite. The second protruding post 341 is used to be positioned with the through hole of the second conductive housing 12, and the second protruding post 341 extends out of the second conductive housing 12.

[0102] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the first connector 100a further includes a first non-high-speed terminal module 33a and a second non-high-speed terminal module 34a. The first non-high-speed terminal module 33a includes at least one first insulating block 33a1, at least one first insulating mounting block 33a2, and a first board-end terminal 35 fixed to the first insulating block 33a1 and the first insulating mounting block 33a2. Those skilled in the art will understand that the first board-end terminal 35 includes, but is not limited to, non-high-speed signal terminals, power terminals, etc.

[0103] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the first plate-end terminal 35 includes a first ground terminal G1, a second ground terminal G2, and at least one first plate-end additional terminal 350 located between the first ground terminal G1 and the second ground terminal G2.

[0104] Furthermore, the first grounding terminal G1 also includes a first abutment portion 3521 and a first bent portion 3525 formed by bending the first abutment portion 3521. The first abutment portion 3521 extends along the first direction A1-A1, and the first bent portion 3525 extends along the second direction A2-A2. The first bent portion 3525 is provided with a first mounting foot 3525a.

[0105] Similarly, the second grounding terminal G2 also includes a second abutment portion 3522 and a second bent portion 3526 formed by bending the second abutment portion 3522. The second abutment portion 3522 extends along the first direction A1-A1, and the second bent portion 3526 extends along the second direction A2-A2. The second bent portion 3526 is provided with a second mounting foot 3526a.

[0106] The first plate-end additional terminal 350 includes a first extension 3523, a first additional contact arm 3524 connected to the first extension 3523, and a first retaining portion 3527 bent from the first extension 3523. The first additional contact arm 3524 includes a first additional contact portion 3524a protruding into the first receiving slot 101a. The first extension 3523 extends along the first direction A1-A1. The first retaining portion 3527 extends along the second direction A2-A2. The first retaining portion 3527 is provided with a first retaining foot 3527a.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first abutment portion 3521, the second abutment portion 3522, and the first extension portion 3523 are parallel to each other. The length of the first extension portion 3523 along the first direction A1-A1 is greater than the length of the first abutment portion 3521 along the first direction A1-A1, and the length of the first extension portion 3523 along the first direction A1-A1 is greater than the length of the second abutment portion 3522 along the first direction A1-A1. Neither the first grounding terminal G1 nor the second grounding terminal G2 is provided with any resilient contact arm protruding into the first receiving slot 101a and configured to be electrically connected to the mating connector 300. In other words, neither the first grounding terminal G1 nor the second grounding terminal G2 is provided with a first additional contact arm 3524 similar to the first plate-end additional terminal 350.

[0108] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the first abutting portion 3521 and the second abutting portion 3522 are located at a first height along the second direction A2-A2, and the first extension portion 3523 is located at a second height along the second direction A2-A2. The first height and the second height are different.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first extension 3523 of the first plate-end additional terminal 350 is partially embedded in the first insulating block 33a1, and the first additional contact arm 3524 extends out of the first insulating block 33a1. The first insulating block 33a1 is provided with at least one first positioning protrusion 33a11. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first bent portion 3525, the second bent portion 3526, and the first retaining portion 3527 are all fixed in the first insulating mounting block 33a2. The first mounting foot 3525a, the second mounting foot 3526a, and the first retaining foot 3527a all protrude from the first insulating mounting block 33a2 to press into the first mounting hole 401.

[0110] Similarly, the second non-high-speed terminal module 34a includes at least one second insulating block 34a1, at least one second insulating mounting block 34a2, and a second board-end terminal 36 fixed to the second insulating block 34a1 and the second insulating mounting block 34a2. Those skilled in the art will understand that the second board-end terminal 36 includes, but is not limited to, non-high-speed signal terminals, power terminals, etc.

[0111] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the second plate-end terminal 36 includes a third grounding terminal G3, a fourth grounding terminal G4, and at least one second plate-end additional terminal 360 located between the third grounding terminal G3 and the fourth grounding terminal G4.

[0112] Furthermore, the third grounding terminal G3 also includes a third abutment portion 3621 and a third bent portion 3625 formed by bending the third abutment portion 3621. The third abutment portion 3621 extends along the first direction A1-A1, and the third bent portion 3625 extends along the second direction A2-A2. The third bent portion 3625 is provided with a third mounting foot 3625a.

[0113] Similarly, the fourth grounding terminal G4 further includes a fourth abutment portion 3622 and a fourth bent portion 3626 formed by bending the fourth abutment portion 3622. The fourth abutment portion 3622 extends along the first direction A1-A1. The fourth bent portion 3626 extends along the second direction A2-A2. The fourth bent portion 3626 is provided with a fourth mounting foot 3626a.

[0114] The second plate-end additional terminal 360 includes a second extension 3623, a second additional contact arm 3624 connected to the second extension 3623, and a second retaining portion 3627 bent from the second extension 3623. The second additional contact arm 3624 includes a second additional contact portion 3624a protruding into the first receiving slot 101a. The second extension 3623 extends along the first direction A1-A1. The second retaining portion 3627 extends along the second direction A2-A2. The second retaining portion 3627 is provided with a second retaining foot 3627a.

[0115] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the third abutment portion 3621, the fourth abutment portion 3622, and the second extension portion 3623 are parallel to each other. The length of the second extension portion 3623 along the first direction A1-A1 is greater than the length of the third abutment portion 3621 along the first direction A1-A1, and the length of the second extension portion 3623 along the first direction A1-A1 is greater than the length of the fourth abutment portion 3622 along the first direction A1-A1. Neither the third grounding terminal G3 nor the fourth grounding terminal G4 is provided with any resilient contact arm protruding into the first receiving slot 101a and configured to be electrically connected to the mating connector 300. In other words, neither the third grounding terminal G3 nor the fourth grounding terminal G4 is provided with a second additional contact arm 3624 similar to the second plate-end additional terminal 360.

[0116] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the third abutting portion 3621 and the fourth abutting portion 3622 are located at a third height along the second direction A2-A2, and the second extension portion 3623 is located at a fourth height along the second direction A2-A2. The third height and the fourth height are different.

[0117] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the second extension 3623 of the second plate-end additional terminal 360 is partially embedded in the second insulating block 34a1, and the second additional contact arm 3624 extends out of the second insulating block 34a1. The second insulating block 34a1 is provided with at least one second positioning protrusion 34a11. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the third bending portion 3625, the fourth bending portion 3626, and the second retaining portion 3627 are all fixed in the second insulating mounting block 34a2. The third mounting foot 3625a, the fourth mounting foot 3626a, and the second retaining foot 3627a all protrude from the second insulating mounting block 34a2 to press into the second mounting hole 402.

[0118] In one embodiment of the present invention, there are several first insulating blocks 33a1 and several second insulating blocks 34a1.

[0119] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, both the first insulating mounting block 33a2 and the second insulating mounting block 34a2 are generally cuboid in shape and extend along the second direction A2-A2. The first insulating mounting block 33a2 and the second insulating mounting block 34a2 are attached to each other and are jointly positioned in the first positioning opening 7b11.

[0120] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first connector 100a further includes at least one grounding piece 4 mounted on the conductive housing 1. One end of the grounding piece 4 is fixed relative to the conductive housing 1, and the grounding piece 4 includes a first grounding piece 41 and a second grounding piece 42. In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, there are two first grounding pieces 41 made of metal; there are also two second grounding pieces 42 made of metal.

[0121] Each first grounding plate 41 is generally U-shaped and includes a first mounting plate 411, a second mounting plate 412 opposite to the first mounting plate 411, a first connecting plate 413 connecting one side of the first mounting plate 411 and one side of the second mounting plate 412, and a first extension plate 414 extending downward and backward from the other side of the second mounting plate 412. The first mounting plate 411 is provided with a first mounting positioning hole 4111 that mates with the first positioning post 1124.

[0122] The first connecting plate 413 abuts against and at least partially covers the first front surface 210 of the first insulating fixing block 21. The first connecting plate 413 is located at the front end of the first receiving slot 101a along the first direction A1-A1; when the docking module is inserted, the tongue plate may first contact the first connecting plate 413, thereby facilitating the release of static electricity. The second mounting plate 412 is provided with a plurality of first grounding spring arms 415 arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3. Each pair of first contact arms 310 of each group of first conductive terminals 31 is provided with a first grounding spring arm 415 on both sides to improve the shielding effect and improve the quality of signal transmission.

[0123] Each second grounding plate 42 is generally U-shaped and includes a third mounting plate 421, a fourth mounting plate 422 opposite to the third mounting plate 421, a second connecting plate 423 connecting one side of the third mounting plate 421 and one side of the fourth mounting plate 422, and a second extension plate 424 extending downward and backward from the other side of the fourth mounting plate 422. The third mounting plate 421 is provided with a second mounting positioning hole 4211 that mates with the second positioning post 1224.

[0124] The second connecting plate 423 abuts against and at least partially covers the second front surface 220 of the second insulating fixing block 22. The second connecting plate 423 is located at the front end of the first receiving slot 101a along the first direction A1-A1; when the docking module is inserted, the tongue plate 301 may first contact the second connecting plate 423, thereby facilitating the release of static electricity. The fourth mounting plate 422 is provided with a plurality of second grounding spring arms 425 arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3. A second grounding spring arm 425 is provided on both sides of the second contact arm 320 of each group of second conductive terminals 32 to improve the shielding effect and improve the quality of signal transmission.

[0125] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the first module M1 further includes a first shielding sheet 61 mounted on the first conductive housing 11. In one embodiment of the present invention, the first shielding sheet 61 is a metal shielding sheet. The first shielding sheet 61 includes a first main body portion 611 and a first plate-shaped extension portion 613 extending from the first main body portion 611. The first main body portion 611 includes a plurality of first stamped portions 612 integrally stamped. Each first stamped portion 612 is provided with a first positioning through hole 6121 penetrating the first stamped portion 612 along a second direction A2-A2. The first main body portion 611 also includes a plurality of first notches 6111 penetrating one side edge and a plurality of first positioning grooves 6112 penetrating the side edge. The plurality of first notches 6111 and the plurality of first positioning grooves 6112 are all arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3, wherein the first notches 6111 and the first positioning grooves 6112 are arranged alternately along the third direction A3-A3. The first shielding sheet 61 can form a surrounding shielding structure with the first conductive shell 11, thereby improving the shielding effect. The first positioning groove 6112 cooperates with the first positioning block 1141 to achieve positioning. The first notch 6111 corresponds to the first shielding layer 513 of the first cable 51. The first notch 6111 is configured to be filled with solder to weld and fix the first main body 611 to the first shielding layer 513, thereby further improving the grounding shielding effect. The first positioning through hole 6121 cooperates with the first positioning protrusion 332.

[0126] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first plate-shaped extension 613 is generally T-shaped and has at least one first positioning through hole 6131. ​​The first positioning protrusion 33a11 passes through the first positioning through hole 6131 to achieve assembly positioning. The first shielding sheet 61 is at least partially supported on the first insulating block 33a1.

[0127] The first plate-shaped extension 613 of the first shielding plate 61 contacts the first abutting portion 3521 of the first grounding terminal G1 and the second abutting portion 3522 of the second grounding terminal G2, so that the first shielding plate 61 can be indirectly grounded to the circuit board 400 through the first elastic abutting portion 351 of the first grounding terminal G1 and the first elastic abutting portion 351 of the second grounding terminal G2. In one embodiment of the present invention, the first plate-shaped extension 613 of the first shielding plate 61 is welded and fixed to the first abutting portion 3521 of the first grounding terminal G1 and the second abutting portion 3522 of the second grounding terminal G2. The first shielding plate 61 does not contact the first extension 3523 of the first plate-end additional terminal 350 to prevent short circuit.

[0128] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the second module M2 further includes a second shielding sheet 63 mounted on the second conductive housing 12. In one embodiment of the present invention, the second shielding sheet 63 is a metal shielding sheet. The second shielding sheet 63 includes a second main body portion 631 and a second plate-shaped extension portion 633 extending from the second main body portion 631. The second main body portion 631 includes a plurality of second stamped portions 632 integrally stamped. Each second stamped portion 632 is provided with a second positioning through hole 6321 penetrating the second stamped portion 632 along a second direction A2-A2. The second main body portion 631 also includes a plurality of second notches 6311 penetrating one side edge and a plurality of second positioning grooves 6312 penetrating the side edge. The plurality of second notches 6311 and the plurality of second positioning grooves 6312 are all arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3, wherein the second notches 6311 and the second positioning grooves 6312 are arranged alternately along the third direction A3-A3. The second shielding sheet 63 can form a surrounding shielding structure with the second conductive shell 12, thereby improving the shielding effect. The second positioning groove 6312 cooperates with the second positioning block 1241 to achieve positioning. The second notch 6311 corresponds to the second shielding layer 523 of the second cable 52. The second notch 6311 is configured to be filled with solder to weld and fix the second main body 631 to the second shielding layer 523, thereby further improving the grounding shielding effect. The second positioning through hole 6321 cooperates with the second positioning protrusion 342.

[0129] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the second plate-shaped extension 633 is generally T-shaped and has at least one second positioning through hole 6331. The second positioning protrusion 34a11 passes through the second positioning through hole 6331 to achieve assembly positioning. The second shielding sheet 63 is at least partially supported on the second insulating block 34a1.

[0130] The second plate-shaped extension 633 of the second shielding sheet 63 contacts the third abutment portion 3621 of the third grounding terminal G3 and the fourth abutment portion 3622 of the fourth grounding terminal G4, so that the second shielding sheet 63 can be indirectly grounded to the circuit board 400 through the second elastic abutment portion 361 of the third grounding terminal G3 and the second elastic abutment portion 361 of the fourth grounding terminal G4. In one embodiment of the present invention, the second plate-shaped extension 633 of the second shielding sheet 63 is welded and fixed to the third abutment portion 3621 of the third grounding terminal G3 and the fourth abutment portion 3622 of the fourth grounding terminal G4. The second shielding sheet 63 does not contact the second extension portion 3623 of the second plate-end additional terminal 360 to prevent short circuit.

[0131] When assembling the first connector 100a, firstly, the first insulating fixing block 21 is fixed in the first filling groove 1123, and the second insulating fixing block 22 is fixed in the second filling groove 1223.

[0132] Then, the first terminal module 31a and the second terminal module 32a are installed along the second direction A2-A2 into the corresponding first terminal module mounting slots 113 and 123. At this time, the first retaining block 33 is held in the corresponding first terminal module mounting slot 113, so that the first fixing part 311 of the first conductive terminal 31 is mounted in the first terminal module mounting slot 113 to avoid short circuit due to contact with the first conductive housing 11. The first contact arm 310 of the first signal terminal S1 extends at least partially into the first slot 211 of the first insulating retaining block 21. The first contact arm 310 of the second signal terminal S2 extends at least partially into the second slot 212 of the first insulating retaining block 21. Similarly, the second retaining block 34 is held in the corresponding second terminal module mounting slot 123, so that the second fixing part 321 of the second conductive terminal 32 is mounted in the second terminal module mounting slot 123 to avoid short circuit due to contact with the second conductive housing 12. The second contact arm 320 of the third signal terminal S3 extends at least partially into the third slot 221 of the second insulating fixing block 22. The second contact arm 320 of the fourth signal terminal S4 extends at least partially into the fourth slot 222 of the second insulating fixing block 22.

[0133] Then, the first cable 51 and the second cable 52 are respectively inserted into the first terminal module mounting slot 113 and the second terminal module mounting slot 123. The first cable 51 is in contact with the first tail 312 of the first conductive terminal 31, and the second cable 52 is in contact with the second tail 322 of the second conductive terminal 32.

[0134] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first cable 51 and the second cable 52 are inserted from back to front along the first direction A1-A1 into the corresponding first terminal module mounting slot 113 and second terminal module mounting slot 123. The first cable 51 is located at the bottom of the first tail 312 of the first conductive terminal 31, and the second cable 52 is located at the top of the second tail 322 of the second conductive terminal 32. Preferably, in one embodiment of the present invention, the first cable 51 is welded to the first tail 312 of the first conductive terminal 31, and the second cable 52 is welded to the second tail 322 of the second conductive terminal 32.

[0135] Then, the first shielding plate 61 and the second shielding plate 63 are respectively installed on the first conductive housing 11 and the second conductive housing 12.

[0136] Then, the first grounding piece 41 and the second grounding piece 42 are respectively installed on the first conductive housing 11 and the second conductive housing 12.

[0137] Then, the first conductive housing 11 and the second conductive housing 12 are abutted together; the first base 111 and the second base 121 are vertically aligned; the first protrusion 112 and the second protrusion 122 are vertically aligned. In the second direction A2-A2, the first shielding plate 61 and the second shielding plate 63 are both located between the plurality of first conductive terminals 31 and the plurality of second conductive terminals 32 to reduce crosstalk between the first conductive terminals 31 and the second conductive terminals 32. Furthermore, to further increase the bonding force between the first conductive housing 11 and the second conductive housing 12, the first conductive housing 11 and the second conductive housing 12 are welded at the joint position. After the first conductive housing 11 and the second conductive housing 12 are fixed, a first receiving slot 101a for accommodating the docking module is formed between the first protrusion 112 and the second protrusion 122.

[0138] Those skilled in the art will understand that the order of the steps in the above assembly method can be flexibly adjusted as needed, and this invention will not elaborate further on this.

[0139] The second connector 100b includes a third module M3, a fourth module M4, and a retaining insulating housing 8 fixed to the third module M3 and the fourth module M4, wherein the third module M3 and the fourth module M4 are separately disposed but fixed together. In one embodiment of the present invention, the retaining insulating housing 8 is made of insulating material and is fixed to the third module M3 and the fourth module M4. The retaining insulating housing 8 is provided with a downwardly protruding second positioning protrusion 8b3 and a downwardly protruding mounting post 8b2.

[0140] Specifically, in the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the retaining insulating housing 8 includes a first retaining insulating housing 8a and a second retaining insulating housing 8b.

[0141] The second retaining insulating housing 8b is provided with a second base 8b1. The second positioning protrusion 8b3 protrudes downward from the second base 8b1. The mounting post 8b2 protrudes downward from the second base 8b1. The second base 8b1 is provided with a second positioning opening 8b11 extending through the second base 8b1 along the second direction A2-A2, and a clearance opening 8b12 extending through the second base 8b1 along the second direction A2-A2.

[0142] In one embodiment of the present invention, the third module M3 includes a third conductive housing 13, a plurality of third conductive terminals 31b, a third cable 51b electrically connected to the third conductive terminals 31b, a plurality of third board-end terminals 35b, and a third insulating mounting block 33b2 fixed to the third board-end terminals 35b. The fourth module M4 includes a fourth conductive housing 14, a plurality of fourth conductive terminals 32b, a fourth cable 52b electrically connected to the fourth conductive terminals 32b, a plurality of fourth board-end terminals 36b, and a fourth insulating mounting block 34b2 fixed to the fourth board-end terminals 36b. The third conductive housing 13 and the fourth conductive housing 14 are fixed together, for example, after the third conductive housing 13 and the fourth conductive housing 14 are assembled, they are then fixed together by means such as welding. In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the third conductive housing 13 of the third module M3 and the fourth conductive housing 14 of the fourth module M4 are separately disposed and fixed together to jointly form the second receiving slot 101b.

[0143] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the third plate end terminal 35b includes a fifth grounding terminal G5, a sixth grounding terminal G6, and at least one third plate end additional terminal 350b located between the fifth grounding terminal G5 and the sixth grounding terminal G6.

[0144] Furthermore, the fifth grounding terminal G5 also includes a fifth abutment portion 3521b and a fifth bent portion 3525b formed by bending the fifth abutment portion 3521b. The fifth abutment portion 3521b extends along the first direction A1-A1, and the fifth bent portion 3525b extends along the second direction A2-A2. The fifth bent portion 3525b is provided with a fifth mounting foot 3525b1.

[0145] Similarly, the sixth grounding terminal G6 further includes a sixth abutment portion 3522b and a sixth bent portion 3526b formed by bending the sixth abutment portion 3522b. The sixth abutment portion 3522b extends along the first direction A1-A1, and the sixth bent portion 3526b extends along the second direction A2-A2. The sixth bent portion 3526b is provided with a sixth mounting foot 3526b1.

[0146] The third plate-end additional terminal 350b includes a third extension 3523b, a third additional contact arm 3524b connected to the third extension 3523b, and a third retaining portion 3527b formed by bending from the third extension 3523b. The third additional contact arm 3524b includes a third additional contact portion 3524b1 protruding into the second receiving slot 101b. The third extension 3523b extends along the first direction A1-A1. The third retaining portion 3527b extends along the second direction A2-A2. The third retaining portion 3527b is provided with a third retaining foot 3527b1.

[0147] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the fifth bending portion 3525b, the sixth bending portion 3526b, and the third retaining portion 3527b are all fixed in the third insulating mounting block 33b2. The fifth mounting foot 3525b1, the sixth mounting foot 3526b1, and the third retaining foot 3527b1 all protrude from the third insulating mounting block 33b2 to press into the third mounting hole 403.

[0148] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the fourth plate end terminal 36b includes a seventh grounding terminal G7, an eighth grounding terminal G8, and at least one fourth plate end additional terminal 360b located between the seventh grounding terminal G7 and the eighth grounding terminal G8.

[0149] Furthermore, the seventh grounding terminal G7 also includes a seventh abutment portion 3621b and a seventh bent portion 3625b formed by bending the seventh abutment portion 3621b. The seventh abutment portion 3621b extends along the first direction A1-A1, and the seventh bent portion 3625b extends along the second direction A2-A2. The seventh bent portion 3625b is provided with a seventh mounting foot 3625b1.

[0150] Similarly, the eighth grounding terminal G8 further includes an eighth abutment portion 3622b and an eighth bent portion 3626b formed by bending the eighth abutment portion 3622b. The eighth abutment portion 3622b extends along the first direction A1-A1. The eighth bent portion 3626b extends along the second direction A2-A2. The eighth bent portion 3626b is provided with an eighth mounting foot 3626b1.

[0151] The fourth plate-end additional terminal 360b includes a fourth extension 3623b, a fourth additional contact arm 3624b connected to the fourth extension 3623b, and a fourth retaining portion 3627b formed by bending from the fourth extension 3623b. The fourth additional contact arm 3624b includes a fourth additional contact portion 3624b1 protruding into the second receiving slot 101b. The fourth extension 3623b extends along the first direction A1-A1. The fourth retaining portion 3627b extends along the second direction A2-A2. The fourth retaining portion 3627b is provided with a fourth retaining foot 3627b1.

[0152] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the seventh bend 3625b, the eighth bend 3626b, and the fourth retaining portion 3627b are all fixed in the fourth insulating mounting block 34b2. The seventh mounting foot 3625b1, the eighth mounting foot 3626b1, and the fourth retaining foot 3627b1 all protrude from the fourth insulating mounting block 34b2 to press into the fourth mounting hole 404.

[0153] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the third insulating mounting block 33b2 and the fourth insulating mounting block 34b2 are attached to each other and are jointly positioned in the second positioning opening 8b11.

[0154] The first insulating mounting block 33a2 and the second insulating mounting block 34a2 are attached to each other and are positioned together in the clearance opening 8b12.

[0155] The support 100c includes a first wall 100c1 (e.g., a top wall), a second wall 100c2 (e.g., a bottom wall) opposite to the first wall 100c1, a third wall 100c3 (e.g., a left side wall) connecting one side of the first wall 100c1 and one side of the second wall 100c2, a fourth wall 100c4 (e.g., a right side wall) connecting the other side of the first wall 100c1 and the other side of the second wall 100c2, and a heat dissipation channel 100c5 formed by the first wall 100c1, the second wall 100c2, the third wall 100c3, and the fourth wall 100c4. The heat dissipation channel 100c5 penetrates the support 100c along the first direction A1-A1 to allow airflow through, thereby improving the heat dissipation effect. The third wall 100c3 is provided with an outwardly protruding first rib 100c31, and the fourth wall 100c4 is provided with an outwardly protruding second rib 100c41.

[0156] In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the bracket 100c further includes a support wall 100c6 connecting the first wall 100c1 and the second wall 100c2. The support wall 100c6 serves to strengthen the structure. In one embodiment of the present invention, the support wall 100c6 has a circumferentially surrounding structure. The support wall 100c6 includes four side walls. The support wall 100c6 has a through groove 100c7 extending through the bracket 100c along the second direction A2-A2. The through groove 100c7 is configured to receive the first insulating mounting block 33a2 and the second insulating mounting block 34a2. The first wall 100c1 also has a downwardly recessed first positioning groove 100c11, which is configured to receive and position the first positioning protrusion 71 to position the first connector 100a. In addition, the first wall 100c1 is provided with a positioning opening 100c12 that penetrates the first wall 100c1 and communicates with the heat dissipation channel 100c5. The positioning protrusion 72 is inserted into and positioned in the positioning opening 100c12.

[0157] The shielding housing 500 is mounted and fixed to the circuit board 400. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the shielding housing 500 is made of a metallic material to provide a relatively good shielding effect. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the shielding housing 500 includes a plurality of receiving cavities 501 stacked along the second direction A2-A2. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of receiving cavities 501 includes a first receiving cavity 501a and a second receiving cavity 501b. In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the shielding housing 500 includes a first shielding housing 50a, a second shielding housing 50b cooperating with the first shielding housing 50a, an intermediate shielding housing 50c, a front shielding housing 50d, an additional shielding housing 50e, and a rear shielding housing 50f.

[0158] The first shielding housing 50a includes a first wall portion 50a1 (e.g., a top wall), a second wall portion 50a2 (e.g., a left side wall) bent downward from one side of the first wall portion 50a1, and a third wall portion 50a3 (e.g., a right side wall) bent downward from the other side of the first wall portion 50a1. The first wall portion 50a1 has a first opening 50a11 extending upward along the second direction A2-A2 through the first wall portion 50a1. The second wall portion 50a2 has a plurality of first crimping feet 50a21 extending along the second direction A2-A2. Each first crimping foot 50a21 has a first through hole, giving it a certain elastic deformation capability to facilitate pressing into the first mounting hole 401 of the circuit board 400. The third wall portion 50a3 has a plurality of second crimping feet 50a31 extending along the second direction A2-A2. The second crimping foot 50a31 is provided with a second through hole, giving it a certain elastic deformation capability to facilitate pressing into the second mounting hole 402 of the circuit board 400. Furthermore, the second wall portion 50a2 is also provided with a first retaining groove 50a22 extending along the first direction A1-A1. The third wall portion 50a3 is also provided with a second retaining groove 50a32 extending along the first direction A1-A1. The first retaining groove 50a22 is configured to receive the first protruding rib 100c31, and the second retaining groove 50a32 is configured to receive the second protruding rib 100c41.

[0159] The first shielding housing 50a and the second shielding housing 50b are interlocked to form a rectangular space. The second shielding housing 50b is provided with a plurality of first openings 50b1 and a plurality of second openings 50b2. The first crimping foot 50a21 extends downward through the first opening 50b1, and the second crimping foot 50a31 extends downward through the second opening 50b2, so as to facilitate mounting on the circuit board 400.

[0160] The first heat sink 600 has a first protruding portion 601 that extends through the first opening 50a11 into the first receiving cavity 501a, and a plurality of first heat dissipation fins 602. The first protruding portion 601 is configured to contact the first mating connector 300a to transfer heat to the first heat sink 600. The plurality of first heat dissipation fins 602 are arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3, and each first heat dissipation fin 602 extends along the first direction A1-A1. A first heat dissipation groove 603 is formed between any two adjacent first heat dissipation fins 602, and the first heat dissipation groove 603 extends along the first direction A1-A1. In the embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the first heat dissipation fins 602 protrude upward from the first wall portion 50a1, and the first heat dissipation groove 603 facilitates airflow to improve heat dissipation.

[0161] The intermediate shielding housing 50c is generally U-shaped and includes a first plate 50c1 (e.g., an upper plate), a second plate 50c2 (e.g., a lower plate) opposite to the first plate 50c1, and a connecting piece 50c3 (e.g., a front plate) connecting the front ends of the first plate 50c1 and the front ends of the second plate 50c2. The intermediate shielding housing 50c is fixed in the first shielding housing 50a to divide the space into a first receiving cavity 501a located above the intermediate shielding housing 50c and a second receiving cavity 501b located below the intermediate shielding housing 50c.

[0162] In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first plate 50c1, the second plate 50c2, and the connecting piece 50c3 form a receiving space 50c4. The connector assembly further includes a second heat sink 900 housed within the receiving space 50c4.

[0163] The second plate 50c2 is also provided with a second opening 50c21, which connects the accommodating space 50c4 and the second receiving cavity 501b. The connecting piece 50c3 is provided with a plurality of heat dissipation openings 50c31 extending through the connecting piece 50c3 along the first direction A1-A1.

[0164] The second heat sink 900 is located between the first plate 50c1 and the second plate 50c2. The second heat sink 900 has a second protrusion 901 that extends through the second opening 50c21 into the second receiving cavity 501b, and a plurality of second heat dissipation fins 902. The second protrusion 901 is configured to contact the second mating connector 300b to transfer heat to the second heat sink 900. The plurality of second heat dissipation fins 902 are arranged at intervals along the third direction A3-A3, and each second heat dissipation fin 902 extends along the first direction A1-A1. A second heat dissipation groove 903 is formed between any two adjacent second heat dissipation fins 902, and the second heat dissipation groove 903 extends along the first direction A1-A1. The heat dissipation opening 50c31 communicates with the second heat dissipation groove 903 along the first direction A1-A1, thereby facilitating airflow and improving heat dissipation.

[0165] The retaining plate 700 fixes the first heat sink 600 to the shielding housing 500 to prevent the first heat sink 600 from falling off.

[0166] The light guide tube 800 includes a first tube body 81, a second tube body 82, a first connecting portion 83 connecting the first tube body 81 and the second tube body 82, a second connecting portion 84 connecting the first tube body 81 and the second tube body 82, and a third connecting portion 85 connecting the first tube body 81 and the second tube body 82. Both the first tube body 81 and the second tube body 82 are L-shaped. The first connecting portion 83, the second connecting portion 84, and the third connecting portion 85 are arranged at intervals along the first direction A1-A1.

[0167] The first connecting portion 83, the second connecting portion 84 and the third connecting portion 85 are each provided with a plurality of extended protrusions 86. Each extended protrusion 86 includes a protruding post 861 and a neck 862 connected to the protruding post 861. The neck 862 is constricted relative to the protruding post 861 so as to be held and fixed in the corresponding mounting through hole 50g.

[0168] The front shielding housing 50d is generally frame-shaped and is fixed to the front end of the first shielding housing 50a and the second shielding housing 50b.

[0169] The additional shielding housing 50e is fixed to the first shielding housing 50a. The additional shielding housing 50e has a mounting opening 50e1 and a mounting through hole 50e2. The second positioning protrusion 8b3 is positioned in the mounting opening 50e1 and at least partially protrudes downward through the mounting opening 50e1. The mounting through hole 50e2 is configured to cooperate with the mounting post 8b2 to position the second connector 100b.

[0170] The rear shielding housing 50f is fixed to the first shielding housing 50a. The rear shielding housing 50f is provided with a first cable exit opening 50f1, a second cable exit opening 50f2, a plurality of first heat dissipation holes 50f3 located above the first cable exit opening 50f1, and a plurality of second heat dissipation holes 50f4 located above the second cable exit opening 50f2. The first heat dissipation holes 50f3 at least partially correspond to the first receiving cavity 501a, and the second heat dissipation holes 50f4 at least partially correspond to the second receiving cavity 501b, so as to improve the heat dissipation effect.

[0171] Compared to existing technologies, the electrical connector 100 of the present invention includes hybrid terminals, meaning that some terminals are connected to a cable, while other terminals are directly or indirectly connected to the circuit board 400. For the stacked ports shown in the illustrations of the present invention (corresponding to the first receiving cavity 501a and the second receiving cavity 501b respectively), the circuit board 400 can still be installed on one side of the stacked port, rather than between them. This arrangement facilitates installation for the customer.

[0172] In addition, the high-speed terminal of the electrical connector 100 of the present invention is connected to the cable, and the non-high-speed terminal is electrically connected to the circuit board 400 after being bent. The bracket 100c located between the first connector 100a and the second connector 100b is designed to be open, and only the support wall 100c6 allows the terminal bundle of the first connector 100a to pass through. Therefore, the heat dissipation effect between the first connector 100a and the second connector 100b is better.

[0173] The height of the bracket 100c can be flexibly adjusted so that the heights of the first connector 100a and the second connector 100b can be the same as those of the existing stacked electrical connector 100, thereby enabling the shielding housing to be shared and saving costs.

[0174] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit the technical solutions described in the present invention. The understanding of the present invention should be based on those skilled in the art. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still make modifications or equivalent substitutions to the present invention. All technical solutions and improvements that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. An electrical connector, characterized in that, include: A first connector, comprising a first module, the first module comprising a first conductive terminal, a first plate end terminal, and a first cable electrically connected to the first conductive terminal; the first plate end terminal comprising a first extension and a first retaining portion formed by bending from the first extension, the first retaining portion having a first retaining foot; the first connector being configured to mate with a first mating connector along a first direction. Second connector; as well as A bracket is disposed between the first connector and the second connector along a second direction. The bracket includes a first wall, a second wall opposite to the first wall, and a support wall connecting the first wall and the second wall. The support wall has a through groove that penetrates the bracket along the second direction. The bracket also has a heat dissipation channel located beside the support wall that penetrates the bracket along the first direction. The first retaining portion is at least partially located in the through slot, and the first retaining foot passes through the through slot and the second connector to be configured for mounting on a circuit board.

2. The electrical connector as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The first wall is in contact with the first connector, and the second wall is in contact with the second connector; the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

3. The electrical connector as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The first module includes a first insulating mounting block, which is fixed to the first retaining portion. The first retaining foot protrudes from the first insulating mounting block, and the first insulating mounting block is at least partially inserted into the through slot.

4. The electrical connector as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The first connector includes an outer insulating housing fixed to the first module, and the outer insulating housing is provided with positioning protrusions; The first wall is provided with a positioning opening, and the positioning protrusion is inserted into and positioned in the positioning opening.

5. The electrical connector as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The first connector includes an outer insulating housing fixed to the first module, and the outer insulating housing is provided with a first positioning protrusion; The first wall is provided with a first positioning groove, and the first positioning protrusion is configured to receive and be positioned in the first positioning groove.

6. The electrical connector as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The through groove is located in the first positioning groove.

7. The electrical connector as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The bracket includes a third wall connecting one side of the first wall and one side of the second wall, and a fourth wall connecting the other side of the first wall and the other side of the second wall. The heat dissipation channel is formed by the first wall, the second wall, the third wall and the fourth wall.

8. The electrical connector as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that: The first connector is provided with a first receiving slot; the first conductive terminal includes a first contact arm, the first contact arm including a first contact portion protruding into the first receiving slot; The first plate end terminal includes a first additional contact arm connected to the first extension, and the first additional contact arm includes a first additional contact portion protruding into the first receiving slot. The second connector includes a retaining insulating housing with a clearance opening, the through slot communicating with the clearance opening, and the first insulating mounting block being at least partially inserted into the clearance opening.

9. The electrical connector as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that: The first connector further includes a second module, the second module including a second conductive terminal, a second plate-end terminal, and a second cable electrically connected to the second conductive terminal; the second conductive terminal includes a second contact arm, the second contact arm including a second contact portion protruding into the first receiving slot; the second plate-end terminal includes a second extension, a second additional contact arm connected to the second extension, and a second retaining portion bent from the second extension, the second additional contact arm including a second additional contact portion protruding into the first receiving slot; the second retaining portion is provided with a second retaining foot; The second retaining portion is at least partially located in the through slot and the clearance opening, and the second retaining foot passes through the through slot and the clearance opening to be configured for mounting on the circuit board.

10. The electrical connector as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that: The second module includes a second insulating mounting block, which is fixed on the second retaining portion. The second retaining foot protrudes from the second insulating mounting block, and the second insulating mounting block abuts against the first insulating mounting block. The second insulating mounting block is at least partially inserted into the through slot and the clearance opening.

11. The electrical connector as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that: The first module includes a first conductive housing, and the first conductive terminal and the first board end terminal are at least partially disposed in the first conductive housing; The second module includes a second conductive housing, and the second conductive terminal and the second board end terminal are at least partially disposed in the second conductive housing; The first receiving slot is formed by the first conductive housing and the second conductive housing.

12. A connector assembly, characterized in that, include: An electrical connector, wherein the electrical connector is the electrical connector as described in any one of claims 1 to 11; as well as A shielding housing is disposed around the electrical connector. The shielding housing includes a first receiving cavity and a second receiving cavity. The first receiving cavity corresponds to the first connector and is configured to receive a first mating connector. The second receiving cavity corresponds to the second connector and is configured to receive a second mating connector.

13. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that: The shielding housing includes a first shielding housing, a second shielding housing that cooperates with the first shielding housing, an intermediate shielding housing, a front shielding housing, an additional shielding housing, and a rear shielding housing.

14. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that: The first shielding housing includes a first wall portion, a second wall portion formed by bending from one side of the first wall portion, and a third wall portion formed by bending from the other side of the first wall portion; the second wall portion is provided with a plurality of first crimping feet, and the third wall portion is provided with a plurality of second crimping feet; The first shielding shell and the second shielding shell are fastened together. The second shielding shell is provided with a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings. The first crimping pin extends through the first opening and the second crimping pin extends through the second opening. The first crimping pin and the second crimping pin are configured to be mounted on a circuit board.

15. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that: The first wall portion is provided with a first opening that penetrates the first wall portion; The connector assembly includes a first heat sink mounted on the shielding housing, the first heat sink having a first protrusion extending through the first opening into the first receiving cavity, and a plurality of first heat dissipation fins; the first protrusion is configured to contact the first mating connector.

16. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that: The intermediate shielding shell is U-shaped and includes a first plate, a second plate opposite to the first plate, and a connecting piece connecting the front end of the first plate and the front end of the second plate; the first plate, the second plate, and the connecting piece form an accommodating space; the second plate is provided with a second opening; The connector assembly includes a second heat sink housed in the accommodating space. The second heat sink has a second protrusion extending through the second opening into the second accommodating cavity, and a plurality of second heat dissipation fins. The second protrusion is configured to contact the second mating connector.

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