Cable connector and electronic system

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model provides a cable connector and an electronic system. The cable connector comprises a conductive shell and a flexible flat cable, the end part of the flexible flat cable is fixed in the conductive shell, the end part of the flexible flat cable is electrically connected with or comprises a contact disc used for being electrically connected with an adaptive electric connector, the contact disc is electrically insulated from the conductive shell, the surface of the flexible flat cable is covered with a shielding layer, and the shielding layer is electrically insulated from the conductive shell. The shielding layer is electrically connected with the conductive shell and is electrically insulated from the contact disc. In the cable connector, the shell of the cable connector can be made of the conductive material, so that the signal conductor in the conductive shell can be well shielded, and the electromagnetic compatibility is improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of connector technology, and in particular to high speed, high density electrical connectors. The electrical connectors have improved electromagnetic compatibility performance, especially for harsh environments with strong vibration such as vehicles, and more particularly for new energy vehicles. BACKGROUND

[0002] Connectors are used in many electronic systems. It is often easier and less costly to manufacture an electronic system on several printed circuit boards (PCBs) that are connected to each other by connectors than to manufacture the electronic system as a single assembly. A conventional arrangement for interconnecting several PCBs typically uses one PCB as a master board. Other PCBs, referred to as daughter boards or daughter cards, are then connected to the master board by connectors to achieve the interconnection of the PCBs.

[0003] Electronic systems have generally become smaller, faster, and functionally more complex. These changes mean that the number of circuits in a given area of an electronic system, along with the frequency at which the circuits operate, has increased significantly in recent years. Current systems transfer more data between printed circuit boards, and require electrical connectors that can transmit signals at higher speeds than electrical connectors of a few years ago.

[0004] One of the main problems that needs to be addressed in manufacturing high density, high speed electrical connectors is to prevent the electrical connector from generating electromagnetic interference (EMI) to other components in the electronic system. This need is particularly strong for electrical connectors that are applied in environments such as vehicles. In conventional EMI solutions, a metal shielding shell is provided outside the insulating housing assembly of the electrical connector. The metal shielding shell can be connected to a reference voltage, thereby substantially weakening the strength of the interference signal. This solution provides a certain degree of shielding for the conductors inside the electrical connector, but still has limited effect for cable connectors that need to transmit over a long distance. SUMMARY

[0005] To at least partially solve the problems existing in the prior art, a first embodiment of the present disclosure provides a cable connector, comprising: a conductive housing; and a flexible flat cable, an end of the flexible flat cable being fixed in the conductive housing, the end of the flexible flat cable being electrically connected with or comprising a contact pad for electrically connecting with an adapter electrical connector, the contact pad being electrically insulated from the conductive housing, wherein: a shielding layer is covered on a surface of the flexible flat cable, the shielding layer being electrically connected with the conductive housing and electrically insulated from the contact pad.

[0006] For example, the conductive housing has a mating end for mating with an adapter electrical connector, and the mating end has a mating surface for mating with the shielding shell of the adapter electrical connector. A conductive member is provided on the mating end of the conductive housing, the conductive member protruding from the mating surface, and the conductive member is electrically connected to the conductive housing.

[0007] For example, the conductive component includes a conductive ring, which is sleeved on the mating end of the conductive housing.

[0008] For example, the conductive ring is elastic.

[0009] For example, a recess is provided on the mating surface, a conductive ring is embedded in the recess, and a portion of the conductive ring protrudes out of the recess.

[0010] For example, the conductive ring is fitted to the groove wall of the recess on three sides.

[0011] For example, the flexible flat cable includes a first flexible flat cable and a second flexible flat cable stacked together. Each of the first and second flexible flat cables includes an inner surface and an outer surface opposite to the inner surface. The inner surfaces of the first and second flexible flat cables are opposite to each other. A contact pad is located on the outer surface of the first and second flexible flat cables. The shielding layer includes an outer shielding layer disposed on the outer surface of at least one of the first and second flexible flat cables. The outer shielding layer is spaced apart from the contact pad on the corresponding flexible flat cable. The outer shielding layer is in electrical contact with the conductive housing.

[0012] For example, the shielding layer includes an inner shielding layer disposed on the inner surface of at least one of the first flexible flat cable and the second flexible flat cable, the inner shielding layer extending forward to the front end of the contact disc of the corresponding flexible flat cable.

[0013] For example, the inner shielding layer is in electrical contact with the outer shielding layer.

[0014] Another aspect of this disclosure provides an electronic system comprising: the cable connector described above; and an adapter connector, the adapter connector being mated to the cable connector, the adapter connector including a shielding shell, wherein: when the adapter connector is mated to the cable connector, the shielding shell is electrically connected to the conductive shell of the cable connector.

[0015] For example, the electronic system further includes: a circuit board, an adapter connector mounted to the circuit board, and a shielding shell electrically connected to a grounding line on the circuit board. In this cable connector, the housing can be made of a conductive material, allowing the signal conductors within the conductive housing to be well shielded, thus improving electromagnetic compatibility performance.

[0016] This utility model description introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This utility model description is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0017] The advantages and features of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The following drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference as part of this disclosure, are provided for understanding the disclosure. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the disclosure. In the drawings,

[0019] FIG. 1A A perspective view of a portion of an electronic system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a first electrical connector and a mating second electrical connector are connected in place;

[0020] FIG. 1B According to FIG. 1A A cross-sectional view of the electronic system shown;

[0021] FIG. 2 According to FIGS. 1A-1B A perspective view of a portion of the electronic system shown, in which the first electrical connector and the mating second electrical connector are separated from each other;

[0022] FIG. 3 An exploded view of a cable connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 4A According to FIG. 3 The cable connector shown is a sectional perspective view taken by the longitudinal center plane;

[0024] FIG. 4B To and FIG. 4A The corresponding sectional view;

[0025] FIG. 5 According to FIG. 3 The cable connector shown is a cross-sectional view taken by a plane offset to the right relative to the longitudinal center plane.

[0026] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B According to FIG. 3 The diagram shows a three-dimensional view of the top shell of the cable connector at different angles.

[0027] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B According to FIG. 3 The diagram shows a three-dimensional view of the bottom shell of the cable connector at different angles.

[0028] FIG. 8 According to FIG. 3 A perspective view of the separator of the cable connector shown;

[0029] FIGS. 9-15 According to FIG. 3 The diagram shows a 3D view of the cable connector at different assembly stages.

[0030] FIG. 16 A perspective view of a board connector according to an exemplary embodiment disclosed; and

[0031] FIG. 17 According to FIG. 5 The exploded view of the board connector is shown.

[0032] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0033] 10. Cable connector; 20. Board connector; 21. Main housing; 20A. Second mating end; 20B. Second mounting end; 22. Second conductive component; 23. Shielding shell; 23A. Board lock; 24. Outer shell; 25. Retaining member; 26. Second locking feature; 27. Second annular cavity; 30. First circuit board; 31. Pad via; 100. Conductive housing; 101. First mating end; 102. First connecting end; 103. Mounting channel; 106. First annular cavity; 110. Top shell; 111. Snap-fit; 112. First locking feature; 113. Second positioning pin; 120. Bottom shell; 121. Joint; 122. Positioning hole; 130. Separator; 131. First groove; 133. Separator lug; 134. First locating pin; 140, groove; 150, reinforcing rib; 151, first reinforcing rib; 152, second reinforcing rib; 160, lug groove; 170, locating groove; 180, recess; 181, first recess; 182, second recess; 200, flexible flat cable; 200A, first flexible flat cable; 200B, second flexible flat cable; 210, substrate; 220, cable conductor; 230, insulating layer; 241, inner surface; 242, outer surface; 250, shielding layer; 251, inner shielding layer; 252, outer shielding layer; 260, cable lug; 270, contact plate; 281, first cable portion; 282, second cable portion; 283, third cable portion; 300, conductive ring; 400, connector locking assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0034] In the following description, numerous details are provided to enable a thorough understanding of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description merely illustrates preferred embodiments of the disclosure, and that the disclosure can be practiced without one or more of these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion with this disclosure, some technical features well-known in the art have not been described in detail.

[0035] Flexible flat cables (FFCs) are widely used in vehicle interconnection systems, such as those in new energy vehicles. To prevent signals from radiating outwards from the internal conductors or from being affected by external electromagnetic interference during high-speed signal transmission, the surface of the FFC can be covered with conductive materials, such as conductive tape, copper foil, or aluminum foil. This significantly improves the FFC's resistance to electromagnetic interference (EMI).

[0036] The inventors understand and recognize a novel design for a cable connector. In some operating environments, electronic systems using poorly shielded cable connectors may experience severe signal transmission issues due to external electromagnetic interference. Leaked electromagnetic interference from poorly shielded cable connectors can also affect the signal transmission of surrounding electronic systems. In this cable connector, the housing can be made of a conductive material, allowing the signal conductors within the conductive housing to be effectively shielded, thus improving electromagnetic compatibility performance.

[0037] Furthermore, the inventors recognized that by electrically connecting the conductive shell to the shielding layer on the surface of the flexible flat cable, gaps formed between the shielding materials can be effectively reduced or even eliminated, further preventing electromagnetic interference problems. The end electrical connection of the flexible flat cable includes or comprises a contact pad for electrical connection with an adapter connector. Both the shielding layer and the conductive shell are electrically insulated from the contact pad. In some embodiments, the conductive shell can be made of metal, for example, formed by stamping a metal sheet or by casting. In some embodiments, the conductive shell can also be provided with screw holes, solder points, etc., for fixing the shielding wire. Exemplarily, the conductive shell can also be molded from plastics, resins, etc., doped with conductive materials.

[0038] In some embodiments, the flexible flat cable may include a first flexible flat cable and a second flexible flat cable. Each of the first and second flexible flat cables may include an inner surface and an outer surface opposite to the inner surface. The inner surfaces of the first and second flexible flat cables face each other. A shielding layer may include an outer shielding layer disposed on the outer surface of at least one of the first and second flexible flat cables. The outer shielding layer facilitates electrical contact with the conductive housing. Contact pads may be located on the outer surfaces of the first and second flexible flat cables. When the cable connector mates with an adapter connector (e.g., a board connector), the two sets of conductive terminals of the board connector may press against the contact pads of the first and second flexible flat cables in opposite directions, respectively.

[0039] In some embodiments, the shielding layer may include an inner shielding layer disposed on the inner surface. The inner shielding layer may extend to the front end of the corresponding flexible flat cable (towards the end of the adapter connector) and may even extend through the entire length of the corresponding flexible flat cable. The outer shielding layer may be spaced apart from the front end of the corresponding flexible flat cable to expose the end of the cable conductor of the corresponding flexible flat cable and form a contact pad. Exemplarily, the outer shielding layer may extend along the length direction to the other end of the flexible flat cable. Thus, the cable conductor within the flexible flat cable can be enclosed in the shielding layer as much as possible, exposing only the necessary contact pad, thereby improving electromagnetic compatibility performance. The inner shielding layer may be in electrical contact with the outer shielding layer. Exemplarily, the first flexible flat cable and the second flexible flat cable may have the same construction.

[0040] The inventors understand and recognize a design for an electronic system. This electronic system may include a cable connector and an adapter connector, such as a board connector. The adapter connector may include a shielding shell. The shielding shell may be made of a metallic material. When the cable connector and the adapter connector mate, the shielding shell is electrically connected to the conductive housing of the cable connector, forming a fully shielded electromagnetic interference (EMI) room. This fully shielded structure can effectively improve electromagnetic compatibility performance. In some embodiments, the electronic system may also include a circuit board. The adapter connector may be mounted to the circuit board. The shielding shell may be electrically connected to a ground line on the circuit board. Thus, the EMI room can be grounded through the circuit board.

[0041] The conductive housing may have a mating end for mating with an adapter connector. In some embodiments, the mating end may have a mating surface for mating with the shielding shell of the adapter connector. A conductive member may be provided on the mating end. The conductive member may protrude from the mating surface and may be electrically connected to the conductive housing. When the adapter connector is mated to the connector, the shielding shell makes electrical contact with the protruding conductive member. Thus, an electrical connection is formed between the conductive housing of the connector and the shielding shell of the adapter connector via the conductive member, thereby extending the shielding protection range and reducing the possibility of electromagnetic interference passing through the shield.

[0042] In some embodiments, the conductive member may include a conductive ring. The conductive ring may be fitted onto the mating end of the conductive housing. This facilitates the installation of the conductive ring. In some embodiments, the conductive ring may be elastic. When the mating end of the cable connector mates with the adapter connector, the conductive member not only electrically connects the conductive housing of the cable connector and the shielding shell of the adapter connector, but also forms a seal between them. In some embodiments, a recess may be provided on the mating surface of the conductive housing. The conductive ring may be embedded in the recess, with a portion of the conductive ring protruding beyond the recess. In some embodiments, three sides of the conductive ring may all conform to the groove wall of the recess to ensure that the conductive ring is reliably held on the conductive housing and reliably electrically connected to the conductive housing. When the insulating body includes a top shell and a bottom shell, the conductive ring may be fitted onto both the top shell and the bottom shell. This also helps to secure the top shell and the bottom shell together.

[0043] like FIGS. 1A-1B A portion of an electronic system, such as that used in an automobile, is shown for interconnecting multiple electronic devices within the system. As shown, the electronic system may include cable connectors 10 and board connectors 20 that are mutually adapted and detachably connected to each other. The board connectors 20 may be mounted to a circuit board, such as a first circuit board 30. The cable connectors 10 may include flexible flat cables 200. The cable connectors 10 and board connectors 20 may provide interconnection between the first circuit board 30 and a second circuit board. Typically, the first circuit board 30, to which the board connectors 20 are mounted, may be fixed to another electronic device. In harsh environments such as those presented by automobiles, the electronic system can transmit data signals while withstanding vibrations.

[0044] Reference FIGS. 2-5The cable connector 10 may include a conductive housing 100 and a first conductive component held by the conductive housing 100. The first conductive component may include a flexible flat cable 200, the end of which is fixed within the conductive housing 100. It should be noted that the surface of the conductive housing 100 may be conductive throughout. For example, a metal housing may have its surface coated with a material to prevent corrosion; unless otherwise specified, these materials are not considered to affect the conductivity of the conductive housing 100.

[0045] refer to FIG. 3 The flexible flat cable 200 may include a substrate 210, a cable conductor 220 formed on the substrate 210, and an insulating layer 230 covering the cable conductor 220. The substrate 210 may be insulating. The substrate 210 typically has a greater thickness and mechanical strength than the insulating layer 230, but has a certain degree of flexibility. The cable conductor 220 may be formed on the substrate 210 by means of bonding or heat fusion. In some embodiments, the end of the flexible flat cable 200 includes a contact pad 270 for electrical connection with an adapter connector. Specifically, the insulating layer 230 may expose the cable conductor 220 at the end of the corresponding end of the flexible flat cable 200 to form the contact pad 270. The contact pad 270 may be located within a first mating end 101. In other embodiments, the end of the flexible flat cable 200 is electrically connected to a contact pad 270 for electrical connection with an adapter connector. Specifically, a first conductive component may include a printed circuit board located within the first mating end 101. The printed circuit board may include the contact pad. The contact plate can be electrically connected to the cable conductor 220 of the flexible flat cable 200 or the inner core of a regular cable by means of welding, crimping, or conductive adhesive bonding. The contact plate 270 can be electrically insulated from the conductive housing 100 to prevent the conductive housing 100 from short-circuiting the contact plate 270. After the cable connector 10 is mated to the board connector 20, the portion of the contact plate 270 corresponding to the grounding conductor can be grounded through the first circuit board 30 and / or the second circuit board.

[0046] A connector locking assembly 400 may be mounted on the conductive housing 100. Exemplarily, the conductive housing 100 may include a first locking feature 112. The connector locking assembly 400 may engage with the first locking feature 112 and be held on the conductive housing 100. In use, for ease of observation and operation, the first locking feature 112 is typically facing upwards when the cable connector 10 is fitted to the board connector 20. Thus, the side having the first locking feature 112 may be referred to as the top side of the conductive housing 100. Exemplarily, the board connector 20 may include a second locking feature 26. After the cable connector 10 is fitted to the board connector 20, by operating the connector locking assembly 400, the first locking feature 112 and the second locking feature 26 can be locked together, preventing accidental separation of the two connectors. One of the first locking feature 112 and the second locking feature 26 may be configured to include a protrusion, and the other may be configured to include a recess and / or groove capable of engaging with the protrusion. In some embodiments, the first locking feature 112 can be fixed to the conductive housing 100 by means of, for example, fasteners, riveting, etc. Optionally, at least a portion of the first locking feature 112 may be integrally formed with the conductive housing 100.

[0047] The conductive housing 100 may include a first mating end 101, which may be shaped to fit the board connector 20. The conductive housing 100 may also include a first connecting end 102. The first connecting end 102 and the first mating end 101 may be located at opposite ends of the conductive housing 100. A first conductive component may include a cable such as a flexible flat cable 200. The end of the flexible flat cable 200 may be mounted from the first connecting end 102 into the conductive housing 100 and extends to the first mating end 101. In the illustrated embodiment, the axes of the first mating end 101 and the first connecting end 102 are substantially parallel, thus the end of the flexible flat cable 200 within the conductive housing 100 is substantially straight. In an embodiment not shown, the axes of the first mating end 101 and the first connecting end 102 may be perpendicular to each other, and the end of the flexible flat cable 200 within the conductive housing 100 may have a bend. For example, the conductive housing 100 may include a mounting channel 103 extending from the first connecting end 102 to the first mating end 101, in which the end of the flexible flat cable 200 may be mounted.

[0048] After the cable connector 10 and the board connector 20 mate, the conductive housing 100 of the cable connector 10 can be electrically connected to the shielding housing 23 of the board connector 20 (as described below). Thus, an electrical connection is formed between the cable connector 10 and the shielding housing 23 of the adapter connector via conductive members, extending the shielding protection range and reducing the possibility of electromagnetic interference passing through the shield. In some embodiments, the first mating end 101 of the conductive housing 100 may have a mating surface for mating with the shielding housing 23 of the board connector 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating surface may include at least a portion of the outer surface of the first mating end 101. In other embodiments not shown, the mating surface may include at least a portion of the front end face or at least a portion of the inner surface of the first mating end 101; or it may include multiple of the aforementioned surfaces.

[0049] When the cable connector 10 mates with the board connector 20, the conductive housing 100 of the cable connector 10 can directly contact the shielding housing 23 of the board connector 20, thereby achieving an electrical connection. Exemplarily, a conductive member may be provided on the first mating end 101 of the conductive housing 100 and protrude from the mating surface. Exemplarily, the conductive member may include one or more conductive media such as conductive contacts, conductive foam, and conductive adhesive. In one embodiment, the conductive member may be provided on one surface of the mating end. In another embodiment, the conductive member may be provided on multiple surfaces of the mating end. In yet another embodiment, the conductive member may be provided around the conductive housing 100 one or more times. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating surface is located on the outer surface of the first mating end 101. When the cable connector 10 mates with the board connector 20, the conductive member is clamped on the outer side of the second mating end of the board connector 20. In an embodiment not shown, the conductive member may be provided on the inner side of the first mating end 101. In this case, when the cable connector 10 mates with the board connector 20, the second mating end of the board connector 20 can be inserted into the inner side of the conductive member. The conductive component functions as an electrical connection between the conductive housing 100 and the shielding housing 23 of the board connector. In some preferred embodiments, the conductive component does not obstruct the process of mating the cable connector 10 to the board connector 20, or during their separation. Even after a sufficient number of mating and separation cycles, the conductive component will not fail to form an electrical connection after mating.

[0050] In one specific embodiment, such as FIG. 1B and FIG. 2As shown, the conductive component can be a conductive ring 300. The conductive ring 300 can be more reliably fixed to the conductive housing 100, with a sufficiently large contact area and strength to ensure that it will not detach from the conductive housing 100. The conductive ring 300 can be sleeved on the portion of the housing assembly that mates with the adapter electrical connector. In some embodiments where the shielding shell 23 surrounds the second conductive component, the conductive ring 300 can achieve electrical connection from 360 degrees. When the cable connector 10 is subjected to an upward external force, the conductive ring 300 makes closer contact with the upper part of the shielding shell 23; when the cable connector 10 is subjected to a downward external force, the conductive ring 300 makes closer contact with the lower part of the shielding shell 23. In short, regardless of the direction of the external force, the conductive ring 300 always has at least one side in close contact with the shielding shell 23, ensuring reliable electrical contact.

[0051] In some embodiments, the conductive member may be rigid. In some embodiments, the conductive member may be made of a conductive, self-lubricating material. During the mating of the cable connector 10 to the board connector 20, the shield 23 of the board connector 20 may undergo elastic deformation under the pressure of the conductive member, thereby maintaining a certain pressure between the two to avoid poor electrical contact caused by factors such as vibration.

[0052] In other embodiments, the conductive ring 300 may be made of an elastic material such as conductive rubber. In these embodiments, the shielding shell 23 may be constructed as rigid to protect the housing assembly of the board connector 10. The elasticity of the conductive ring 300 also makes it easier to mount onto the conductive housing 100. The elastic conductive ring 300 is easier to manufacture than the elastic shielding shell 23, and when the cable connector 10 is fitted onto the board connector 20, the elastic conductive ring 300 also provides a sealing function to prevent the intrusion of foreign objects.

[0053] Exemplarily, the board connector 20 may include a housing assembly, a second conductive component 22 held by the housing assembly, and a shielding shell 23. The housing assembly may include a second mating end 20A and a second mounting end 20B located at both ends. The second mating end 20A is configured to mate in shape with the first mating end 101. Exemplarily, the second mating end 20A and the first mating end 101 may be complementary in shape to allow the cable connector 10 to be precisely positioned on the board connector 20. The second conductive component 22 may extend from the second mating end 20A to the second mounting end 20B. The second conductive component 22 may include a plurality of conductive terminals for electrically connecting to a corresponding contact pad 270 after the cable connector 10 mates with the board connector 20. As shown, the second mounting end 20B may be mounted to a first circuit board 30 such that the plurality of conductive terminals of the second conductive component 22 form an electrical connection with the circuitry on the first circuit board 30, thereby interconnecting the first circuit board 30 with the cable connector 10. The shielding shell 23 may be a metal shell fitted over the housing assembly. The shield 23 extends along the length of the second conductive component to surround it. In some embodiments not shown, the shield 23 may also be an insulating shell covered with a conductive material. To reliably secure the board connector 20 to the first circuit board 30, the board connector 20 may also include a board lock 23A. In some embodiments, the board lock 23A may be formed by extending from the shield 23. In other embodiments, the board lock may also be fixed to the housing assembly and formed of a metal part insulated from the second conductive component. Exemplarily, the first circuit board 30 may have pad vias 31. The board lock 23A may be mounted into the pad vias 31 to secure the board connector 20 to the first circuit board 30. In some exemplary embodiments where the shield 23 includes the board lock 23A, the pad via 31 to which the board lock 23A is fixed may be grounded, thus eliminating the need for an additional connection between the shield 23 and the ground line of the first circuit board 30. Thus, in some embodiments, the shield 23 is electrically connected to the ground line on the circuit board. In some embodiments, the housing assembly may also be molded from a material such as plastic. Plastics may include, but are not limited to, liquid crystal polymers (LCP), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), high-temperature nylon, or poly(p-phenylene oxide) (PPO) or polypropylene (PP), or any other suitable material. In some cases, the plastic may be a thermosetting plastic. In some cases, the insulating plastic may contain insulating materials such as glass fiber reinforced materials. Plastics are lightweight, flexible, easy to process, and inexpensive. Optionally, the surfaces of the contact pad 270 of the first conductive component and / or the second conductive component 22 may be formed with a noble metal layer to prevent poor contact caused by oxidation.

[0054] like FIG. 3 , FIGS. 4A-4B and FIG. 5As shown, to increase the density of the contact pads of the cable connector 10, a flexible flat cable 200 may optionally be used. To further increase the density, the cable connector 10 may include a plurality of flexible flat cables 200 stacked together. The ends of the plurality of flexible flat cables 200 extend from a first connecting end 102, for example, via a mounting channel 103 to a first mating end 101, and are held within the mounting channel 103. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible flat cable 200 may be configured to have contact pads 270. The contact pads 270 may be located within the first mating end 101. Optionally, the plurality of flexible flat cables 200 are arranged in pairs, with each pair of flexible flat cables 200 stacked along the thickness direction of the flexible flat cable 200. The contact pads 270 of each pair of flexible flat cables 200 may face opposite directions to facilitate electrical contact with terminals on a mating electrical connector. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable connector 10 may include a pair of flexible flat cables 200. In other embodiments, the cable connector 10 may include multiple pairs of flexible flat cables 200, which may be arranged in a row along the width direction of the flexible flat cables 200. Optionally, more than two flexible flat cables 200 may be provided along the stacking direction of the flexible flat cables 200. In this case, the flexible flat cables 200 facing the same side of the contact pad 270 may be staggered along their length direction to expose the contact pad 270 of the lower flexible flat cable 200.

[0055] Exemplarily, the cable connector 10 may further include a spacer 130 located between a plurality of flexible flat cables 200. Optionally, the spacer 130 is held by a conductive housing 100 along the stacking direction of the plurality of flexible flat cables 200. Typically, each spacer 130 may correspond to two flexible flat cables 200. For ease of description, the two flexible flat cables 200 are defined as a first flexible flat cable 200A and a second flexible flat cable 200B. Specifically, the two opposing surfaces of the spacer 130 may respectively abut against the back of the first flexible flat cable 200A and the back of the second flexible flat cable 200B. In the illustrated embodiment, the portions of the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B having contact pads 270 may be fully supported on the spacer 130 to ensure that the contact pads 270 abut against a flat surface. When the cable connector 10 mates with the board connector 20, the terminals of the board connector 20 can be better pressed against the contact plate 270 supported by the separator 130, ensuring good electrical contact. Optionally, along the length of the flexible flat cable 200, the separator 130 can be significantly longer than the contact plate 270, allowing more of the flexible flat cable 200 to be supported on the separator 130. In this case, through the cooperation of the separator 130 and the conductive housing 100, the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B on both sides can be clamped between the separator 130 and the top shell 110 of the conductive housing 100, and between the separator 130 and the bottom shell 120 of the conductive housing 100, respectively.

[0056] Optionally, this application may also include embodiments in which only a single layer of flexible flat cable is provided along the stacking direction.

[0057] Exemplarily, the separator 130 can be installed within the mounting channel 103 to separate at least two stacked flexible flat cables 200 and to position the ends of the flexible flat cables 200. Therefore, the separator 130 can be a flat, sheet-like structure as shown in the figure. In some embodiments, the separator 130 can be inserted into the mounting channel 103 from the first connecting end 102 and can be fixed within the mounting channel 103 by means of clips, screws, or other structures. Return to Reference FIG. 2 and FIG. 3In the embodiment shown in the figure, the conductive housing 100 may include multiple parts, whereby the separator 130 and the flexible flat cable 200 can be mounted onto a first cable portion of the multiple parts before the multiple parts are assembled, and then the remaining second part is assembled with the first part, thereby positioning the separator 130 and / or the flexible flat cable 200, at which point the flexible flat cable 200 extends from the rear opening of the mounting channel 103 to the outside of the conductive housing 100. Since the separator 130 has two large and opposing flat surfaces, one end of the flexible flat cable 200 can be supported on each of these two surfaces. In an embodiment not shown, the width of these two flat surfaces may be greater than the width of the end of the flexible flat cable 200, such that each flat surface can support the ends of multiple flexible flat cables 200 side by side.

[0058] For example, the separator 130 can divide at least the front portion of the mounting channel 103 into a first mounting channel 103A and a second mounting channel 103B. Both the first mounting channel 103A and the second mounting channel 103B extend from the first mating end 101 toward the first connecting end 102 and are spaced apart from the first connecting end 102. FIGS. 4A-4B and FIG. 5 As shown, along the stacking direction of the flexible flat cable 200, the separator 130 is located in the middle of the mounting channel 103 to separate the first mounting channel 103A and the second mounting channel 103B on the upper and lower sides of the separator 130, respectively. The ends of the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B can be inserted into the first mounting channel 103A and the second mounting channel 103B, respectively. Within the first mating end 101, along the width direction of the flexible flat cable 200, the separator 130 is also spaced apart from the conductive housing 100. Thus, the inner layer of the second mating end 20A of the board connector 20 can be inserted into the first annular cavity 106 between the separator 130 and the conductive housing 100 to increase the mechanical strength of the connection. As will be described later, the second mating end 20A of the board connector 20 also has an outer layer that can be fitted over the outside of the first mating end 101 of the conductive housing 100 to further enhance the strength of the mechanical connection. The position of the separator 130 in the first mating end 101 of the conductive housing 100 is related to the mating connector.

[0059] like FIG. 3In the illustrated embodiment, the conductive housing 100 may include a top shell 110 and a bottom shell 120. Through separate processing, grooves 140 can be injection molded into the interior of the top shell 110 and bottom shell 120 to reduce material consumption and weight. Reinforcing ribs 150 can be retained within the grooves 140 to ensure the mechanical strength of the top shell 110 and bottom shell 120. Furthermore, this facilitates the installation of the separator 130 and the flexible flat cable 200 within the mounting channel 103. In use, the user typically holds the top shell 110 and bottom shell 120 separately with their fingers and inserts the cable connector 10 into the board connector 20. Thus, dividing the conductive housing 100 into two parts, the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120, not only facilitates injection molding but also reduces the likelihood of accidental separation of the top shell 110 and bottom shell 120 during daily operation. The top housing 110 may include a first locking feature 112 configured to operate with the connector locking assembly 400 to facilitate operation of the connector locking assembly 400.

[0060] Exemplarily, the connector locking assembly 400 can move forward or backward along the length of the flexible flat cable 200. The directional term "forward" as used herein and hereinafter refers to the direction along the length of the flexible flat cable 200 toward the mating electrical connector. Conversely, the directional term "rear" refers to the direction along the length of the flexible flat cable 200 away from the mating electrical connector. When it is necessary to lock the interconnected cable connector 10 and board connector 20, it can be pushed forward until the connector locking assembly 400 is inserted into the gap between the first locking feature 112 and the top shell 110. Exemplarily, the first locking feature 112 can be configured to have a locking protrusion that can engage with a locking opening on the board connector 20, thereby locking the cable connector 10 and the board connector 20. When it is necessary to unlock the cable connector 10 and the board connector 20, the connector locking assembly 400 can be moved backward. The connector locking assembly 400 disengages from the gap between the first locking feature 112 and the top shell 110, allowing the first locking feature 112 to move toward the top shell 110 under external force. This allows the locking protrusion to disengage from the locking opening of the board connector 20, thereby enabling the cable connector 10 and the board connector 20 to separate under external force. Of course, this application does not exclude embodiments using other forms of connector locking assemblies.

[0061] Exemplarily, one of the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 may include a snap fastener, and the other of the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 includes a connecting portion 121. In the illustrated embodiment, the top shell 110 is provided with an outwardly protruding snap fastener 111, and the bottom shell 120 is provided with a connecting portion 121 extending toward the top shell 110. Exemplarily, the connecting portion 121 may have a certain degree of elasticity and include an opening. When the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 are engaged, the connecting portion 121 may be offset outward under the guidance of the inclined surface of the snap fastener 111, thereby fitting the opening onto the snap fastener 111 and locking it by the blocking surface. This arrangement facilitates the demolding of the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 during injection molding. In an embodiment not shown, the connecting portion 121 may also be provided in the bottom shell 120, and the snap fastener may be provided in the top shell 110. Through the snap fastener 111 and the connecting portion 121, the top shell 110 can be detachably fixed to the bottom shell 120 at a lower cost.

[0062] Reference FIGS. 6A-6B and FIGS. 7A-7B A second positioning pin 113 may be provided on the top shell 110. The second positioning pin 113 can be inserted into the positioning hole 122 of the bottom shell 120, thereby preventing misalignment between the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120. In other embodiments not shown, the second positioning pin may also be provided on the bottom shell and the positioning hole may be provided on the top shell, or the second positioning pin may be provided on both the top shell and the bottom shell, and the positioning hole may also be provided on the top shell and the bottom shell respectively. FIG. 5 An example is shown where the second locating pin 113 is inserted into the locating hole 122.

[0063] Exemplarily, the conductive housing 100 may also be provided with a positioning groove 170, and the separator 130 includes a first positioning pin 134, which is inserted into the positioning groove 170 to position the separator 130 within the conductive housing 100. In some embodiments, the first positioning pin 134 may fit tightly with the positioning groove 170. Thus, after the first positioning pin 134 is inserted into the positioning groove 170, it can act as a limit along the length and width directions of the flexible flat cable 200. Exemplarily, the two side edges of the separator 130 may include separator lugs 133, such as... FIG. 3 , FIG. 5 and FIGS. 8-11 As shown. The top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 can also clamp the partition lugs 133 on the upper and lower sides respectively, thereby limiting the partition 130 along the stacking direction of the flexible flat cable 200.

[0064] Exemplarily, the two side edges of the end of each flexible flat cable 200 may include cable lugs 260. Cable lugs 260 may be positioned in a one-to-one correspondence with separator lugs 133. Cable lugs 260 may be formed on the portion of the flexible flat cable 200 excluding the cable conductor 220. Cable lugs 260 and separator lugs 133 may engage together with a conductive housing 100 to limit the position of the plurality of flexible flat cables 200 and separators 130 along the length direction of the plurality of flexible flat cables 200. In an embodiment not shown, top housing 110 and bottom housing 120 may also position the flexible flat cables 200 and separators 130 along the length direction by clamping the cable lugs 260 toward the separator lugs 133, respectively. FIG. 5 and FIG. 6A As shown, both the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 of the conductive housing 100 may be provided with lugs and grooves 160. Cable lugs 260 and separator lugs 133 can match the lugs and grooves 160. The cable lugs 260 and separator lugs 133 can be embedded into the lugs and grooves 160. After the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 of the conductive housing 100 are connected, the flexible flat cable 200 and the separator 130 can be positioned from the stacking direction of the flexible flat cable 200. Specifically, in some embodiments, the conductive housing 100, such as the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120, can directly press against the flexible flat cable 200. In some preferred embodiments, the conductive housing 100 can press against only the cable lugs 260 in the stacking direction. In some embodiments, the conductive housing 100 only presses against the separator 130, without pressing against the flexible flat cable 200. The separator 130 can position the flexible flat cable 200 along the stacking direction. In the length direction, the edges of the cable lug 260 and the separator lug 133 abut against the lug groove 160 for positioning. In the width direction, the conductive housing 100 can tightly engage with both sides of the flexible flat cable 200 when it is installed, thus providing a limiting function. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the flexible flat cable 200 and the separator 130 are limited by the cable lug 260 and the separator lug 133 being positioned against the conductive housing 100 in the length direction, rather than by clamping in the stacking direction. This eliminates the need for a large clamping force between the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120, reduces the requirements for material strength and assembly precision, and lowers the cost.

[0065] In some embodiments, each flexible flat cable 200 may include a plurality of cable lugs 260 disposed along the length direction of the flexible flat cable 200. The separator 130 may also include a plurality of separator lugs 133 disposed along the length direction of the flexible flat cable 200. After the flexible flat cable 200 and the separator 130 are installed into the conductive housing 100, exemplaryly, the projections of the cable lugs 260 onto the separator 130 can all fall within the separator lugs 133. In this way, the separator lugs 133 can provide support for the cable lugs 260, preventing damage to the cable lugs 260.

[0066] During use, the flexible flat cable 200 may warp due to aging, vibration, or its own stress. This may damage the flexible flat cable 200 or the conductive terminals of the board connector 20 when the cable connector 10 mates with the board connector 20. For example, for each of the plurality of flexible flat cables 200, the separator 130 may include a first groove 131 and a second groove. FIGS. 8-9 The first groove 131 is shown. The second groove may be symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis along the length direction of the flexible flat cable 200. The first groove 131 and the second groove extend along the length direction of the corresponding flexible flat cable 200 and are opposite each other along the width direction of the corresponding flexible flat cable 200. The two side edges of the corresponding flexible flat cable 200 are respectively inserted into the first groove 131 and the second groove. (Refer to reference...) FIG. 8 , FIG. 9 and FIG. 11 The separator 130 can be axisymmetric, meaning it can be symmetrical not only along its width centerline but also along its stacking centerline. Both the top and bottom surfaces of the separator 130 can have a first groove 131 and a second groove. Thus, for each flexible flat cable 200, the first groove 131 and the second groove can press the flexible flat cable 200 against the surface of the separator 130 from both sides, thereby limiting the flexible flat cable 200 from warping and extending its service life.

[0067] To improve the signal integrity of the electronic system including cable connector 10 and board connector 20, cable connector 10 may optionally include a first shielding assembly. Board connector 20 may include a second shielding assembly. The second shielding assembly may include a shielding housing 23, such as... FIGS. 16-17As shown, the shielding shell 23 can partially or fully surround the second conductive component 22 along the circumferential direction of the board connector 20. The first and second shielding components form a full shield when the cable connector 10 and the board connector 20 mate. In some embodiments, the first and second shielding components can substantially completely surround the contact portion of the first and second conductive components 22 along the circumferential direction to form a full shield. In other embodiments, the first and second shielding components can substantially completely surround the portion of the second conductive component 22 within the board connector 20 and the portion of the first conductive component within the conductive housing 100 of the cable connector 10 along the circumferential direction to form a full shield. Exemplarily, the first and / or second shielding components can be electrically connected to the same reference voltage, such as ground. Exemplarily, the first and second shielding components can be electrically connected to the same reference voltage, respectively. Exemplarily, the first and second shielding components can be electrically contacted to each other after the cable connector 10 and the board connector 20 mate. In this case, the first and second shielding components can be selectively electrically connected to the reference voltage. For example, board connector 20 is mounted to first circuit board 30, and second shielding assembly can be electrically connected to a reference voltage on first circuit board 30.

[0068] In some embodiments, the conductive housing 100 may be integral. The first mating end 101 may be complementary in shape to the second mating end 20A of the adapted board connector 20. In some embodiments, when the first mating end 101 can be inserted into the second mating end 20A of the board connector 20, the complementary configuration can improve the connection strength between the conductive housing 100 and the board connector 20.

[0069] Exemplarily, the first shielding assembly may further include a conductive ring 300 fitted onto the conductive housing 100. The conductive ring 300 may be in electrical contact with the conductive housing 100. The conductive ring 300 may be made of an elastic material such as conductive rubber. FIGS. 1A-1B and FIG. 2 As shown, the board connector 20 may include a shielding shell 23, which can serve as at least part of a second shielding assembly. A conductive ring 300 is electrically connected between the conductive shell 100 and the shielding shell 23 when the cable connector 10 and the board connector 20 are mated. Thus, the conductive shell 100 and the shielding shell 23 can form a reliable electrical connection, achieving full shielding. Furthermore, the conductive ring 300 can also form a seal at the interface between the conductive shell 100 and the board connector 20.

[0070] In embodiments where the conductive housing 100 includes a top housing 110 and a bottom housing 120, the outer surfaces of the assembled top housing 110 and bottom housing 120 can be flat. The conductive ring 300 is configured to fit over the first mating end 101 of the electrical connector that mates with the adapter connector. The conductive ring 300 can secure the top housing 110 and bottom housing 120 together. In some embodiments, the conductive ring 300 itself is made of a high-strength material. In other embodiments, the conductive ring 300 may contain reinforcing material, such as steel wire or nylon rings, capable of withstanding greater forces. Therefore, in some embodiments, the top housing 110 and bottom housing 120 do not require mating structures such as snap-fits or screw holes; at least at the positions corresponding to the first mating end 101, the conductive ring 300 alone prevents the two from separating. In the above embodiment where the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 are fixed by the conductive ring 300, at least a positioning structure for the mating direction, such as a positioning pin, can be provided between the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 to prevent misalignment of the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 when fixed by the conductive ring 300 alone.

[0071] Exemplarily, a recess 180 surrounding the mounting channel 103 is provided on the outer surface of the conductive housing 100, the recess 180 being configured to receive the conductive ring 300. In some embodiments, the conductive ring 300 may be made of conductive rubber. By placing the conductive ring 300 in the recess 180, its surface is nearly flush with the outer surface of the conductive housing 100. This prevents excessive resistance when the cable connector 10 is inserted into the board connector 20, and also prevents the conductive ring 300 from being excessively compressed and damaged. On the other hand, the conductive rubber conductive ring 300 has high friction. The recess 180 can limit the conductive ring 300, preventing it from shifting due to friction during insertion or removal of the cable connector 10 from the board connector 20. In other embodiments, the conductive ring 300 may be made of, for example, a metal material, such as an aluminum strip pressed around the recess 180 onto the outer surface of the conductive housing 100. In a preferred embodiment, the recess 180 may be provided on the mating surface, the conductive ring 300 is embedded in the recess 180, and a portion of the conductive ring 300 protrudes out of the recess 180.

[0072] In another embodiment of the conductive housing 100, which includes a top shell 110 and a bottom shell 120, a first recess 181 and a second recess 182 may be provided on the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120, respectively, and the first recess 181 and the second recess 182 together form an annular recess 180. The conductive ring 300 can further ensure a reliable electrical connection between the conductive top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120, and reliably connect the conductive housing 100 and the shielding shell 23 of the board connector 20 when the cable connector 10 is inserted into the board connector 20, while also providing a sealing and dustproof function. In some embodiments, the conductive ring 300 can also reduce the force borne by the aforementioned buckle 111 and the engagement portion 121 by relying on its strength or elasticity.

[0073] For example, the conductive ring 300 is fitted to the groove wall of the recess 180 on three sides. During the mating and disassembly of the cable connector and the board connector, the conductive ring 300 can be evenly stressed and is less prone to twisting or excessive compression under friction, thus preventing damage. This allows for the largest possible contact area between the conductive ring 300 and the conductive housing 100, ensuring a reliable electrical connection between the two.

[0074] By way of example, the first shielding assembly also includes a shielding layer 250 formed on the surface of each of the plurality of flexible flat cables 200. Continuing to refer to... FIG. 3 As previously described, the flexible flat cable 200 may include a substrate 210, a cable conductor 220 sequentially formed on the inner surface of the substrate 210, and an insulating layer 230. The sides of the flexible flat cable 200 may have portions that do not include the cable conductor 220. These portions may consist only of the substrate 210, or may consist only of the substrate 210 and the insulating layer 230. Exemplarily, a shielding layer 250 may be provided on a second surface of the substrate 210 opposite to the first surface. Exemplarily, a shielding layer 250 may be provided on the surface of the insulating layer 230. Exemplarily, shielding layers 250 may be provided on both the second surface of the substrate 210 and the surface of the insulating layer 230. The shielding layer 250 may be spaced apart from the cable conductor 220 by the substrate 210 or the insulating layer 230. The shielding layer 250 may include one or more of the following: a metal sheet, conductive adhesive, and metal foil, to give the shielding layer 250 good conductivity and flexibility. This serves both to shield the conductor and minimizes the impact on the flexibility of the flexible flat cable 200. FIG. 3 In the embodiment shown, the shielding layer 250 can be copper foil or aluminum foil.

[0075] Exemplarily, a plurality of flexible flat cables 200 include a first flexible flat cable 200A and a second flexible flat cable 200B arranged in a stacked manner. Each of the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B may include an inner surface 241 and an outer surface 242 opposite to the inner surface 241, with the inner surfaces 241 of the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B facing each other. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the contact pads 270 of the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B may be located on the outer surface 242 of each of them, such that the contact pads of the two cables face opposite directions. When the cable connector 10 mates with the board connector 20, the two sets of conductive terminals of the board connector 20 may press against the contact pads 270 of the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B respectively, facing opposite directions.

[0076] Exemplarily, the shielding layer 250 may include an inner shielding layer 251 disposed on the inner surface 241 of at least one of the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B. The inner shielding layer 251 extends forward to the front end of the corresponding flexible flat cable 200A and / or 200B. In high-speed, high-density cable connectors, the distance between the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B is relatively small. Providing one or two inner shielding layers 251 between the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B can effectively improve signal integrity. Optionally, the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B may have the same construction, allowing for component standardization. Exemplarily, the inner shielding layer 251 may penetrate the flexible flat cable 200 along its length. By way of example, along the width direction of the flexible flat cable 200, the inner shielding layer 251 may at least cover all the cable conductors 220 on the flexible flat cable 200. However, this application does not preclude embodiments in which the inner shielding layer 251 exposes a portion of the cable conductors 220 of the flexible flat cable 200 along the length and / or width direction.

[0077] Exemplarily, the shielding layer 250 may include an outer shielding layer 252 disposed on the outer surface 242. The outer shielding layer 252 is spaced apart from the front end of the corresponding flexible flat cable to expose the end of the cable conductor 220 of the corresponding flexible flat cable and form a contact pad 270. In other words, the outer shielding layer is spaced apart from the contact pad on the corresponding flexible flat cable. Further, the outer shielding layer is in electrical contact with the conductive housing 100, thereby further improving the shielding effect. Exemplarily, along the length direction of the flexible flat cable 200, the conductive housing 100 and the outer shielding layer 252 may have overlapping portions to improve the shielding effect. Exemplarily, along the length direction of the flexible flat cable 200, the outer shielding layer 252 may extend rearward to the other end of the corresponding flexible flat cable 200. However, this application does not exclude embodiments in which the outer shielding layer 252 also exposes other portions of the cable conductor 220 of the flexible flat cable 200 along the length direction. By way of example, along the width direction of the flexible flat cable 200, the outer shielding layer 252 may at least cover all the cable conductors 220 on the flexible flat cable 200. However, this application does not preclude embodiments in which the outer shielding layer 252 exposes a portion of the cable conductors 220 of the flexible flat cable 200 along the width direction.

[0078] The inner shielding layer 251 can be disposed on the inner surface 241 of the flexible flat cable 200 without the contact plate 270. Therefore, the extension of the inner shielding layer 251 to the front end of the flexible flat cable 200 will not affect the function of the contact plate 270. In other words, the inner shielding layer 251 can extend to the back of the contact plate 270, spaced apart from the contact plate 270 by the substrate 210. In contrast, the outer shielding layer 252 can only extend to the outer surface 242 near the contact plate 270, and its end can not exceed the end of the insulating layer 230 to prevent contact with the contact plate 270. Thus, the cable terminals within the flexible flat cable 200 can be wrapped in the shielding layer 250 as much as possible, exposing only the contact plate 270 that must be exposed, thereby improving electromagnetic compatibility performance. On the other hand, this facilitates the processing of the flexible flat cable 200. For example, the flexible flat cable 200 with an inner shielding layer 251 and an outer shielding layer 252 attached to its two surfaces can be cut, and the shielding layer 250 and the insulation layer 230 at the end of the inner surface 241 of the flexible flat cable 200 can be peeled off to form a contact plate 270.

[0079] When an inner shielding layer 251 and an outer shielding layer 252 are respectively provided on two opposite surfaces of the flexible flat cable 200, the inner shielding layer 251 and the outer shielding layer 252 are in electrical contact. In some embodiments, further, at least a portion of each of the inner shielding layer 251 and the outer shielding layer 252 is wider than the corresponding flexible flat cable 200, and the widened portions of the inner shielding layer 251 and the outer shielding layer 252 are electrically connected to each other. FIG. 3 and 9 As shown, the portions of the inner shielding layer 251 and the outer shielding layer 252 on the separator 130 can have the same width as the flexible flat cable 200, allowing them to be mounted on the separator 130. For other portions of the flexible flat cable 200 accommodated within the mounting channel 103, the inner shielding layer 251 and the outer shielding layer 252 can be wider than the flexible flat cable 200, allowing them to make electrical contact. Exemplarily, the portions of the inner shielding layer 251 and the outer shielding layer 252 outside the conductive housing 100 can also have a width greater than the flexible flat cable 200 and can make electrical contact with each other, thereby forming full shielding along the entire length of the flexible flat cable 200. This improves the electromagnetic compatibility performance of the flexible flat cable 200. The inner shielding layer 251 and the outer shielding layer 252 can be joined together by welding or adhesive. In some embodiments, the portions of the inner shielding layer 251 and the outer shielding layer 252 wider than the flexible flat cable 200 can only be located outside the conductive housing 100. Exemplarily, as FIG. 14 As shown, the conductive housing 100, such as the top housing 110 and the bottom housing 120, has space reserved to accommodate the widened portion of the shielding layer 250. Thus, the widened portion of the shielding layer 250 can extend into the conductive housing 100, thereby enabling the cable connector 10 to have better electromagnetic compatibility performance.

[0080] In the embodiment where the inner shielding layer 251 and the outer shielding layer 252 are wider than the portion of the flexible flat cable 200 and extend into the conductive housing 100, the cable conductor 220 is completely surrounded by the inner shielding layer 251, the outer shielding layer 252 and the conductive housing 100, leaving no gaps that would allow electromagnetic interference to intrude or leak out.

[0081] For example, such as FIGS. 4A-4B and FIG. 13As shown, each flexible flat cable 200 may include a first cable portion 281 located on the separator 130, a second cable portion 282 located outside the conductive housing 100, and a third cable portion 283 connected between the first cable portion 281 and the second cable portion 282. The first cable portion 281 and the third cable portion 283 are ends located within the conductive housing 100. The aforementioned cable lug 260 may be located on the first cable portion 281. Along the stacking direction, the conductive housing 100 is spaced apart from the first cable portions 281 of the plurality of flexible flat cables 200. Along the stacking direction, the size of the third cable portion 283 of the mounting channel 103 that accommodates the plurality of flexible flat cables 200 may be larger than the total size of the stacked flexible flat cables 200. In this way, the third cable portions 283 can have a certain gap between each other or between themselves and the inner wall of the mounting channel 103 within the mounting channel 103, preventing the conductive housing 100, such as the top housing 110 and the bottom housing 120, from exerting a large external force on the third cable portions 283. As shown in the figure, the first cable portion 281 of the flexible flat cable 200 is fixed in the stacking direction by the separator 130, but the conductive housing 100 will not press against the shielding layer of the flexible flat cable 200, such as the outer shielding layer 252. Similarly, for the third cable portion of the flexible flat cable 200, the first flexible flat cable 200A and the second flexible flat cable 200B will not be clamped by the conductive housing 100. This effectively prevents damage to the cable conductor 220 or the shielding layer 250 due to compression from the conductive housing 100. Especially in applications where the flexible flat cable 200 may be subjected to pulling, the above-mentioned design can prevent the part of the conductive housing 100 that contacts the shielding layer 250 from being damaged when pulled due to clamping.

[0082] like FIGS. 4A-4B As shown, the separator 130 does not completely occupy the entire mounting channel 103 along its length. Exemplarily, the mounting channel 103 may include a first channel portion accommodating the separator 130 and a second channel portion located behind the first channel portion. Along the stacking direction of the plurality of flexible flat cables 200, at least a portion of the size (i.e., height) of the second channel portion may be smaller than the ends of the plurality of flexible flat cables 200 and the total size of the separator 130, such that the inner wall of the second channel portion can compress the plurality of flexible flat cables 200. Exemplarily, protruding reinforcing ribs, such as reinforcing ribs 150 of the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120, may be provided within the conductive housing 100 corresponding to the second channel portion. See also FIG. 6B and FIG. 7AThe corresponding first channel portions of the top shell 110 and bottom shell 120 have first reinforcing ribs 151, and the corresponding first channel portions of the top shell 110 and bottom shell 120 have second reinforcing ribs 152. The second reinforcing ribs 152 can protrude from the first reinforcing ribs 151 toward the inward side of the mounting channel 130. Therefore, after the top shell 110 and bottom shell 120 are fastened together, the height of the first channel portion defined by the first reinforcing ribs 151 can be greater than the height of the first channel portion defined by the second reinforcing ribs 152. In this way, the second reinforcing ribs 152 can compress a plurality of flexible flat cables 200 toward the inward side. Although the flexible flat cables 200 are flexible, they also have a certain degree of rigidity, giving them the ability to maintain their original straight shape. Therefore, the flexible flat cables 200 tend to abut against the second reinforcing ribs 152. In other embodiments not shown, the top shell 110 and bottom shell 120 can also be solid, as long as they can compress the flexible flat cables 200 toward the inward side.

[0083] Because the flexible flat cable 200 abuts against the second reinforcing rib 152, the shielding layer 250 (e.g., the outer shielding layer 252) on the flexible flat cable 200 can make electrical contact with the second reinforcing rib 152. This allows the shielding layer 250 of the flexible flat cable 200 to make electrical contact with the conductive housing 100, facilitating connection of both to a reference voltage. Exemplarily, the conductive housing 100 can be electrically connected to the shielding shell 23 of the board connector 20 via a conductive ring 300, and the shielding shell 23 can be electrically connected to the grounding conductor on the first circuit board 30.

[0084] This disclosure also provides an economical method for assembling electrical connectors. For example... FIG. 9 As shown, the end of the first flexible flat cable 200A is attached to the first side of the separator 130. Exemplarily, when the separator 130 includes a plurality of first positioning pins 134 arranged along the length of the first flexible flat cable 200A, the separator lugs 133 on both sides of the separator 130 can be correspondingly positioned with cable lugs 260. During assembly, the first flexible flat cable 200A can be placed on the first side of the separator 130 along the stacking direction, such that the cable lug 260 near the front is positioned between two first positioning pins 134. After the first flexible flat cable 200A is attached to the first side of the separator 130, the first flexible flat cable 200A can be pushed forward so that the two sides of the front end of the first flexible flat cable 200A can be inserted into the corresponding first groove 131 and second groove, respectively. FIG. 10 As shown. Thus, the cable lug 260 and the separator lug 133 can be aligned.

[0085] Then, the separator 130, on which the first flexible flat cable 200A is mounted, can be installed onto the bottom housing 120, with the first side facing the bottom housing 120. For example...FIG. 11 As shown, the separator 130 and the first flexible flat cable 200A mounted thereon can be flipped so that the first side of the separator 130 faces the bottom shell 120. The first positioning pin 134 of the separator 130 is aligned with the positioning groove 170 of the bottom shell 120, and the separator 130 and the first flexible flat cable 200A are installed onto the bottom shell 120. Since the first flexible flat cable is fixed only by the first groove 131 and the second groove, this prevents the installed first flexible flat cable 200A from falling off during the installation of the second flexible flat cable 200B. After the separator 130 is installed onto the bottom shell 120, the bottom shell 120 can support the first flexible flat cable 200A, and the lug groove 160 can position the first flexible flat cable 200A in the length direction, preventing its position from changing. As described above, the first positioning pin 134 of the separator 130 can be inserted into the positioning groove 170 of the bottom shell 120, thereby providing a limiting function in both the stacking direction and the length direction. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to constantly press the first flexible flat cable 200A to prevent it from shifting or falling off. The structure after installation is as follows: FIG. 12 As shown.

[0086] Continue to refer to FIG. 12 The end of the second flexible flat cable 200B is attached to the second side of the separator 130, with the second side opposite to the first side. The process of attaching the end of the second flexible flat cable 200B to the second side of the separator 130 is the same as the process of attaching the first flexible flat cable 200A described above. The structure after installation is as follows: FIG. 13 As shown.

[0087] Next, as FIG. 14 As shown, the top shell 110 is mounted to the bottom shell 120. Exemplarily, the second locating pin 113 on the top shell 110 can be aligned with the locating hole 122 on the bottom shell 120 until the snap-fit ​​111 on the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 engages with the joint 121 on the bottom shell 120. Thus, the separator 130, the first flexible flat cable 200A, and the second flexible flat cable 200B can be held between the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120. This simplifies connector assembly and reduces assembly costs.

[0088] In the above steps, the bottom shell 120 is assembled first, followed by the top shell 110. In other embodiments, the top shell 110 may be assembled first, followed by the bottom shell 120. However, the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 are simply given different names for distinction. Unless otherwise specified, the structure and function of the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 in this application are interchangeable. In some embodiments, the shell on which the connector locking assembly 400 is mounted may be referred to as the top shell 110. That is, the top shell 110 may include a first locking feature 112 configured for operation with the connector locking assembly 400.

[0089] For example, after the top shell 110 and the bottom shell 120 are assembled, the conductive ring 300 can also be fitted onto the installed top shell 110 and bottom shell 120.

[0090] The board connector 20, which is adapted to the cable connector 10, will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 As shown, the board connector 20 may include a housing assembly and a second conductive component 22 held by the housing assembly. The housing assembly may include a main housing 21 and an outer housing 24. The second conductive component 22 may be held on the main housing 21. Exemplarily, the second conductive component 22 may include a plurality of conductive terminals. Exemplarily, the plurality of conductive terminals may be secured together by a retaining member 25 as shown in the embodiment, the retaining member 25 being held in the main housing 21 by a snap-fit, thereby holding the plurality of conductive terminals on the main housing 21. The retaining member 25 may be insulated. Exemplarily, in other embodiments, the plurality of conductive terminals may also be held directly on the main housing 21.

[0091] Exemplarily, board connector 20 may include a second shielding assembly. Exemplarily, the second shielding assembly may include a shielding shell 23. The shielding shell 23 may be held between the main shell 21 and the outer shell 24. The shielding shell 23 may surround the main shell 21 in a circumferential direction surrounding the second conductive assembly 22. Board connector 20 is used to establish an electrical connection between a circuit board to be mounted (not shown) and an adapter electrical connector (e.g., the cable connector described above). The circuit board to be mounted may be a first circuit board 30 (also referred to as a "first printed circuit board" or "first PCB"). Board connector 20 may be mounted to the circuit board to be mounted, and a first mating portion of cable connector 10 may be inserted into board connector 20, thereby establishing an electrical connection between the circuit board to be mounted and the cable connector 10 through board connector 20.

[0092] The main housing 21 may be made of an insulating material. Examples of insulating materials suitable for manufacturing the main housing 21 include, but are not limited to, plastics, nylon, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), high-temperature nylon or polyphenylene oxide (PPO) or polypropylene (PP). The shielding shell 23, the main housing 21 and the outer shell 24 together form a second mating portion 20A for mating with the first mating end 101 of the cable connector 10.

[0093] The conductive terminals can be formed of a conductive material. Suitable conductive materials for manufacturing conductive terminals can be metals or metal alloys, such as copper or copper alloys. The conductive terminals can include electrical contact ends and mounting ends. The electrical contact ends can extend to a second mating portion 20A. The electrical contact ends can be configured to mate with a corresponding mating portion of an electrical component, such as the aforementioned cable connector 10. The mounting ends can extend beyond the housing assembly and the second shielding assembly. The mounting ends can be configured for mounting to a circuit board, such as the aforementioned first circuit board 30. Specifically, the first circuit board 30 can include conductive portions such as conductive pads or conductive vias, and the mounting ends of the conductive terminals can be configured to be connected to the conductive portions of the first circuit board 30 by any suitable process known in the art (e.g., press-fit or soldering). Each conductive terminal can include a bent section that is bent such that the mounting end and the electrical contact end of the conductive terminal are oriented substantially perpendicular to each other. This configuration makes each conductive terminal generally straight.

[0094] Exemplarily, the main housing 21 can be secondary-formed onto the conductive terminals. In some embodiments, the main housing 21 may further include a retaining member 25 for spacing the mounting ends of the plurality of conductive terminals apart from each other. In some embodiments, the main housing 21 includes a main body portion and a reserved groove, through which all conductive terminals can be mounted onto the main body of the main housing 21, and then a retaining member 25 for fixing the mounting ends of the conductive terminals is secondary-formed by filling the groove with adhesive.

[0095] For example, the shielding shell 23 can completely enclose the main housing 21 of the board connector 20. The shielding shell 23 can be connected to the signal ground, thereby effectively shielding against external interference. Preferably, the metal sheet can be stamped into a suitable shape using a stamping process. After the main housing 21 and the second conductive component 22 of the board connector 20 are assembled, the semi-finished stamped shielding shell 23 is placed inside, and the portion of the shielding shell 23 that needs to be bent is bent, so that the shielding shell 23 completely encloses the main housing 21. For example, the lower part of the shielding shell 23 can be formed with a tenon and mortise structure. After bending, the edges of the originally separate metal sheets of the shielding shell 23 are connected to each other, thereby being able to withstand a larger force parallel to the direction of the metal sheets. Compared with welding the metal sheets of the shielding shell 23 together to form a complete whole, the tenon and mortise structure can be mass-produced quickly using a stamping process, resulting in lower cost, higher reliability, and higher yield.

[0096] Exemplarily, the shielding shell 23 may include a plate lock 23A for mounting to the first circuit board 30. As described above, the shielding shell 23 can be fixed to the first circuit board 30. Since the board connector 20 may be subjected to a certain tensile force after being connected to the cable connector 10, there are certain requirements for the connection strength between the shielding shell 23, which is the main load-bearing component, and the first circuit board 30. Preferably, the shielding shell 23 can be connected to the first circuit board 30 by soldering. In some embodiments, one side of the shielding shell 23 can be integrally soldered to the first circuit board 30 to form a reliable connection. In a preferred embodiment, the surface of the shielding shell 23 includes a plate lock 23A composed of protruding metal portions, which can be embedded in the pad vias and / or through holes of the first circuit board 30 and can also be soldered to further ensure that the shielding shell 23 is firmly locked to the first circuit board 30. The plate lock 23A can match the pad vias 31 of the first circuit board 30, which are typically slightly larger than the plate lock 23A. After the board lock 23A is inserted into the through-hole 31 of the first circuit board 30, the gap between the through-hole and the board lock 23A can be filled by soldering, thereby reliably fixing it and enabling electrical connection with the reference voltage in the first circuit board 30, such as grounding. Compared with the embodiment of directly soldering the shielding shell 23 to the first circuit board 30, the form of board lock 23A not only eliminates the need to heat the entire shielding shell 23 to ensure that the temperature at the solder joint reaches the soldering requirements, reducing the soldering difficulty; the board lock 23A passes through the first circuit board 30, and when the shielding shell 23 is under force, not only the solder joint is under force, but the substrate of the first circuit board 30 also disperses the force on the shielding shell 23, thereby preventing the solder pads at the solder joint from separating from the substrate of the first circuit board 30 under large tensile force, ensuring the firmness of the board connector 20. Preferably, the end of the board lock 23A can have a reduced size, thereby forming a step at a position where the board lock 23A is nearly flush with the lower surface of the shielding shell 23. The smaller size of the end of the plate lock 23A allows it to be inserted into the through-hole of the pad on the first circuit board 30, while the step can be locked onto the surface of the first circuit board 30 without entering the through-hole, thus limiting the shielding shell 23 and ensuring that the shielding shell 23 does not tilt. Optionally, the shielding shell 23 can be fixed to the first circuit board 30 by any suitable means such as adhesive or clips, thereby providing support and limiting the main shell 21.

[0097] For board connector 20, such as FIG. 1B and FIG. 17As shown, the outer sidewall of the front portion of the main housing 21 can be spaced apart from the inner sidewall of the shielding shell 23, thereby forming a second annular cavity 27 around the main housing 21. This second annular cavity 27 can receive the first mating end 101 of the cable connector 10. Since the front portion of the main housing 21 can be inserted into the first mating end 101, the front portion of the main housing 21 can be referred to as the inner layer portion of the second mating end 20A. This inner layer portion can be inserted into the first annular cavity 106 between the separator 130 and the conductive shell 100 of the cable connector 10.

[0098] Exemplarily, the shield 23 may extend flush with the front end face of the main housing 21 (i.e., the end face of the cable connector 10 along the mating direction), or extend beyond the front end face of the main housing 21, or may not reach the front end face of the main housing 21. The shield 23 can provide better support for the cable connector 10 when mated with the adapted cable connector 10. Compared to the main housing 21 or the conductive housing 100 of the adapted cable connector 10, the shield 23 can withstand greater external forces, preventing the mating position of the cable connector 10 and the board connector 20 from being broken by external forces. The front portion of the shield 23 may fit over the outside of the conductive housing 100 of the cable connector 10 when the cable connector 10 mates with the board connector 20. Exemplarily, the shield 23 may extend towards the cable connector 10 beyond the front end face of the main housing 21. In this way, the shielding shell 23 can reach the position of the conductive ring 300 on the conductive shell 100, so that the shielding shell 23 can make more reliable electrical contact with the conductive shell 100 through the conductive ring 300.

[0099] The outer shell 24 can surround the shielding shell 23 in the circumferential direction. Exemplarily, the outer shell 24 can be installed to the shielding shell 23 by means of adhesive bonding, welding, snap-fitting, etc. The outer shell 24 may include a second locking feature 26 that mates with the connector locking assembly 400, thereby locking the cable connector 10 to the board connector 20. Exemplarily, along the front of the cable connector 10, the outer shell 24 can extend beyond or be flush with the shielding shell 23, such that after the cable connector 10 mates with the board connector 20, the outer shell 24 can surround the first mating end 101 of the cable connector 10 and lock with the connector locking assembly 400 on the cable connector 10, improving the reliability of the mating. Thus, the outer portion of the second mating end 20A of the board connector 20 can be formed by the shielding shell 23 and the outer shell 24.

[0100] Therefore, this disclosure has been described through the above-described embodiments. However, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can make many more variations, modifications, and improvements based on the teachings of this disclosure, all of which fall within the spirit and scope of the disclosure and the claims. The scope of protection of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. The above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit this disclosure to the described embodiments.

[0101] Although many inventive aspects of the electronic system have been described above with reference to mutually compatible electrical connectors, it should be understood that the aspects of this disclosure are not limited thereto. As such, any one of the inventive features, whether alone or in combination with one or more other inventive features, can also be used for two mutually compatible electrical connectors or multiple mutually compatible electrical connectors, etc. Furthermore, the electrical connector can be used as a plug connector or a socket connector, and can also be an orthogonal connector, a perpendicular connector, a coplanar connector, or a right-angle connector, etc.

[0102] In the description of this disclosure, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front", "rear", "up", "down", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and "bottom" is usually based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this disclosure; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0103] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "over," "on the upper surface of," and "above" are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship between one or more components or features shown in the figures and other components or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms include not only the orientation of the component as depicted in the figures but also different orientations during use or operation. For example, if the components in the figures are inverted as a whole, "above" or "above other components or features" will include cases where the component is "below" or "under" other components or features. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." Furthermore, these components or features may also be positioned at other different angles (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other angles), and this document intends to include all such cases.

[0104] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to limit the exemplary implementations according to this disclosure. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, parts, components and / or combinations thereof.

[0105] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this disclosure described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

Claims

1. A cable connector characterized by comprising: Comprising: an electrically conductive housing; and a flexible flat cable, an end portion of the flexible flat cable being fixed within the electrically conductive housing, the end portion of the flexible flat cable being electrically connected with or including a contact pad for electrically connecting with a mating electrical connector, the contact pad being electrically insulated from the electrically conductive housing, wherein: a shielding layer is covered on a surface of the flexible flat cable, the shielding layer being electrically connected with the electrically conductive housing and electrically insulated from the contact pad.

2. The cable connector of claim 1, wherein, the electrically conductive housing has a mating end portion for mating with the mating electrical connector, and the mating end portion has a mating surface for mating with a shielding shell of the mating electrical connector, an electrically conductive member is provided on the mating end portion of the electrically conductive housing, the electrically conductive member protruding from the mating surface, the electrically conductive member being electrically connected with the electrically conductive housing.

3. The cable connector of claim 2, wherein, the electrically conductive member includes an electrically conductive ring, the electrically conductive ring being sleeved on the mating end portion of the electrically conductive housing.

4. The cable connector of claim 3, wherein, the electrically conductive ring is elastic.

5. The cable connector of claim 3, wherein, a recess is provided on the mating surface, the electrically conductive ring is embedded into the recess, and a portion of the electrically conductive ring protrudes out of the recess.

6. The cable connector of claim 5, wherein, three sides of the electrically conductive ring are attached to groove walls of the recess.

7. The cable connector of claim 1, wherein, the flexible flat cable includes a first flexible flat cable and a second flexible flat cable arranged in a stack, each of the first flexible flat cable and the second flexible flat cable includes an inner side surface and an outer side surface opposite to the inner side surface, the inner side surfaces of the first flexible flat cable and the second flexible flat cable are opposite to each other, the contact pad is located on the outer side surfaces of the first flexible flat cable and the second flexible flat cable, the shielding layer includes an outer side shielding layer provided on the outer side surface of at least one of the first flexible flat cable and the second flexible flat cable, the outer side shielding layer is spaced apart from the contact pad on the corresponding flexible flat cable, the outer side shielding layer is in electrical contact with the electrically conductive housing.

8. The cable connector of claim 7, wherein, the shielding layer includes an inner side shielding layer provided on the inner side surface of at least one of the first flexible flat cable and the second flexible flat cable, the inner side shielding layer extends forward to a front end of the contact pad of the corresponding flexible flat cable.

9. The cable connector of claim 8, wherein, the inner side shielding layer is in electrical contact with the outer side shielding layer.

10. An electronic system, characterized by Comprising: the cable connector of any one of claims 1-9; and a mating electrical connector, the mating electrical connector being mateable to the cable connector, the mating electrical connector including a shielding shell, wherein: when the mating electrical connector is mated to the cable connector, the shielding shell is electrically connected to the electrically conductive housing of the cable connector.

11. The electronic system of claim 10, wherein, Further comprising: a circuit board, the mating electrical connector being mounted to the circuit board, the shielding shell being electrically connected with a ground circuit on the circuit board.

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