Connector assembly

Abstract

The utility model discloses a connector assembly for electrically connecting a chip module, and the chip module has a first lead connection part. The connector assembly comprises: a flexible circuit board, one side of the flexible circuit board facing the first lead connection part has a plurality of contact pads, and the plurality of contact pads are arranged in an array of at least three rows; a pressing member comprising a plurality of pressing parts, the plurality of pressing parts are located on the side of the flexible circuit board away from the first lead connection part in the up-down direction, the plurality of pressing parts are arranged corresponding to the plurality of contact pads along the up-down direction, and the plurality of pressing parts apply force to the flexible circuit board, so that the plurality of contact pads are electrically connected to the first lead connection part, realizing signal transmission between the flexible circuit board and the docking module; a locking member locks the pressing member and the first lead connection part, so that the flexible circuit board is stably electrically connected to the first lead connection part.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This utility model relates to a connector assembly, and more particularly to a connector assembly that enables high-speed signal transmission between a flexible circuit board and a mating module. [Background Technology]

[0002] A traditional connector assembly is used to electrically connect to a chip module. The chip module has a substrate, and the connector assembly includes a receptacle connector and a flexible circuit board. The receptacle connector includes an insulating body and a plurality of conductive terminals housed in the insulating body. One end of the plurality of conductive terminals is electrically connected to the flexible circuit board, and the other end is soldered to the substrate and electrically connected to the chip module. That is, the chip module and the flexible circuit board are electrically connected through the receptacle connector. However, with the continuous improvement of current high-frequency / high-speed transmission specifications, the impedance matching, insertion / return loss performance, and crosstalk issues of the terminal elastic arm often conflict with mechanical performance, space size, and assembly requirements in design.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to design a new connector assembly to overcome at least one of the above problems. [Utility Model Content]

[0004] To address the problems of the prior art, the present invention aims to provide a new connector assembly that eliminates the need for a socket connector, allowing for direct or indirect electrical connection between the flexible circuit board and the docking module. This results in a shorter transmission path, optimized impedance matching and crosstalk, and superior insertion / return loss performance. A pressing member is provided above the flexible circuit board to abut against the docking module, ensuring stable contact between the two components.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides a connector assembly for electrically connecting a docking module. The docking module has a first conductive portion, comprising: a flexible circuit board with multiple contact pads on the side facing the first conductive portion, the multiple contact pads being arranged in an array of at least three rows; a pressing member including multiple pressing portions located vertically on the side of the flexible circuit board away from the first conductive portion, the multiple pressing portions corresponding to the multiple contact pads in the vertical direction, the multiple pressing portions applying force to the flexible circuit board, causing the multiple contact pads to be electrically connected to the first conductive portion, thereby realizing signal transmission between the flexible circuit board and the docking module; and a locking fastener for locking the pressing member to the first conductive portion, thereby ensuring a stable electrical connection between the flexible circuit board and the first conductive portion.

[0006] Furthermore, at least three rows of contact pads are arranged along a first direction, and each row of contact pads has a plurality of contact pads aligned along a second direction, thereby forming the array arrangement. The first direction, the second direction, and the up-down direction are mutually perpendicular to each other. The contact pads of two adjacent rows are aligned along the first direction to form multiple columns. The flexible circuit board has at least one first slit between each two adjacent rows of contact pads and at least one second slit between each two adjacent columns of contact pads. The first slit extends longitudinally along the second direction, and the second slit extends longitudinally along the first direction. Both the first slit and the second slit penetrate the flexible circuit board vertically. Each first slit and one of the second slits are cross-connected. Two adjacent contact pads of one row of contact pads and two adjacent contact pads of another row of contact pads aligned with and adjacent to it are located in the four quadrants of the cross.

[0007] Furthermore, the flexible circuit board has a plurality of first slits and a plurality of second slits. The plurality of first slits are arranged in multiple rows in a first direction and in multiple columns in a second direction. The flexible circuit board has a plurality of first connecting portions and a plurality of second connecting portions. The first connecting portions connect two adjacent contact pads in the same row, and the second connecting portions connect two adjacent contact pads in the same column. A first connecting portion is provided between two adjacent contact pads in each row of contact pads, and a second connecting portion is provided between two adjacent contact pads in each column of contact pads.

[0008] Furthermore, the pressing member includes an elastic element located on the side of the flexible circuit board away from the first guide portion in the vertical direction. The elastic element has a main body and a plurality of pressing portions connected to the main body. The main body is integrally formed from a metal sheet, and the pressing portions protrude toward the flexible circuit board relative to the main body in the vertical direction.

[0009] Furthermore, the pressing part is composed of a helical spring or a spring needle. The spring needle includes a sleeve, a spring housed in the sleeve and abutting against the sleeve, and a pin abutting against the spring. The sleeve is connected to the main body, and the pin is used to abut against the flexible circuit board.

[0010] Furthermore, the elastic element is formed by stamping a metal sheet, the main body is a flat plate structure, and the elastic element also has multiple grooves that penetrate the main body vertically. The multiple grooves correspond to multiple pressing parts, and each pressing part is an elastic arm structure formed by extending from the groove edge of the corresponding groove.

[0011] Furthermore, the pressing component also includes a planar rigid plate, which is integrally formed from a metal sheet and located on the side of the elastic element away from the flexible circuit board in the vertical direction. The thickness of the planar rigid plate is greater than the thickness of the main body, and the planar rigid plate is locked to the first guide portion by the locking fastener.

[0012] Furthermore, when the pressing member presses against the flexible circuit board, the flexible circuit board deforms and indents on the side away from the contact pad in the vertical direction, and the plurality of contact pads are displaced in the vertical direction toward the side closer to the first conductive part and electrically connected to the first conductive part.

[0013] Furthermore, the system includes an adapter plate located between the flexible circuit board and the first conductive portion in a vertical direction. The flexible circuit board has a first surface facing the adapter plate in a vertical direction. A plurality of contact pads are disposed on the side of the flexible circuit board facing the adapter plate in a vertical direction and are recessed relative to the first surface. The first conductive portion has a plurality of metal pads disposed on the side of the first conductive portion facing the adapter plate in a vertical direction and are recessed relative to the surface of the first conductive portion. The adapter plate has a body and a plurality of conductive pads disposed on the body. Each conductive pad has a first contact portion and a second contact portion disposed vertically opposite each other. The first contact portion protrudes relative to the body, such that the first contact portion contacts the corresponding contact pad and contacts the corresponding surface of the body. The second contact portion protrudes relative to the body, such that the second contact portion contacts the corresponding metal pad and contacts the corresponding surface of the body.

[0014] Furthermore, it includes a rigid circuit board having a first side and a second side arranged opposite to each other. A flexible circuit board portion is sandwiched between the first side and the second side and is combined with the rigid circuit board to form a rigid-flex board. The portion of the flexible circuit board not combined with the rigid circuit board is provided with a plurality of contact pads.

[0015] Furthermore, the first conductive part includes a plurality of dual-core coaxial lines corresponding to the plurality of contact pads, and the plurality of contact pads abut against the plurality of dual-core coaxial lines.

[0016] Furthermore, the flexible circuit board is used to transmit high-speed signals, and the connector assembly further includes an electrical connector for electrical connection to the main circuit board. The docking module also includes a second guide portion extending horizontally from the first guide portion. The electrical connector is located below the second guide portion and contacts the second guide portion, so as to realize that the low-speed signal of the docking module is transmitted to the main circuit board through the electrical connector.

[0017] Furthermore, two docking modules are provided, and two pressing members are also provided corresponding to the two docking modules. The flexible circuit board has a first part, a second part, and a connecting section connecting the first part and the second part. The first part and the second part are respectively provided with a plurality of contact pads arranged in an array of at least three rows. A plurality of pressing parts of one pressing member apply force to the first part, so that the plurality of contact pads of the first part are electrically connected to the first conductive part of the corresponding docking module. A plurality of pressing parts of another pressing member apply force to the second part, so that the plurality of contact pads of the second part are electrically connected to the first conductive part of the corresponding docking module.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0019] A pressing member is provided, with multiple pressing parts of the pressing member disposed on the side of the flexible circuit board away from the first conductive part of the docking module, such that the multiple pressing parts and multiple contact pads are arranged vertically and vertically respectively. The multiple pressing parts apply force to the flexible circuit board, so that the multiple contact pads are electrically connected to the first conductive part. Signal transmission between the flexible circuit board and the docking module can be realized without the need for a socket connector. The transmission path is short, impedance matching and crosstalk problems are optimized, the manufacturing process of connector components is simplified and costs are saved. [Attached Image Description]

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the first embodiment of the connector assembly of this utility model after it has been docked with a docking module and a main circuit board;

[0021] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partial 3D assembly view showing only the connector assembly with the electrical connector hidden.

[0022] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Partial exploded 3D view of the connector assembly after the electrical connector is hidden;

[0023] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A sectional view cut by a plane defined by a first direction and a vertical direction;

[0024] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A sectional view cut by a plane defined by a first direction and a vertical direction;

[0025] Figure 6 for Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the pressing component of the connector assembly in different embodiments;

[0026] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A sectional view cut by a plane defined by a first direction and a vertical direction;

[0027] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing the completed docking of the connector assembly and the docking module;

[0028] Figure 9 for Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the pressing component of the connector assembly in different embodiments of the second embodiment;

[0029] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A sectional view cut by a plane defined by a first direction and a vertical direction;

[0030] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A schematic diagram showing the completed docking of the connector assembly and the docking module;

[0031] Figure 12 for Figure 3 Exploded perspective view of a different embodiment of the flexible circuit board of the connector assembly;

[0032] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A magnified view of part A in the image;

[0033] Figure 14 for Figure 12 A three-dimensional exploded view from another perspective;

[0034] Figure 15 for Figure 14 A sectional view cut by a plane defined by a first direction and a vertical direction;

[0035] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view of the second embodiment of the connector assembly of this utility model before it is electrically connected to a mating module;

[0036] Figure 17 for Figure 16 A sectional view cut by a plane defined by a first direction and a vertical direction;

[0037] Figure 18 for Figure 16 A sectional view of the connector assembly and the docking module after assembly, cut with a plane defined by the first direction and the vertical direction;

[0038] Figure 19 This is an exploded perspective view of the third embodiment of the connector assembly of this utility model before electrical connection with a mating module;

[0039] Figure 20 for Figure 19 A three-dimensional exploded view from another perspective;

[0040] Figure 21 for Figure 19 A sectional view cut by a plane defined by a first direction and a vertical direction;

[0041] Figure 22 for Figure 21 A schematic diagram showing the connector assembly and docking module after docking.

[0042] Figure 23 This is an exploded perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the connector assembly of this utility model before electrical connection with the two docking modules;

[0043] Figure 24 for Figure 23 A sectional view cut by a plane defined by a first direction and a vertical direction;

[0044] Figure 25 for Figure 24 A schematic diagram showing the connector assembly and the docking module after docking.

[0045] Explanation of reference numerals in the accompanying drawings for the specific implementation methods:

[0046]

[0047]

Detailed Implementation Methods

[0048] To facilitate a better understanding of the purpose, structure, and features of this utility model, the present utility model will now be further described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0049] For ease of understanding, this utility model defines a first direction (X-axis), a second direction (Y-axis), and a vertical direction (Z-axis), and these three directions are perpendicular to each other.

[0050] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown, this is the first embodiment of the connector assembly of this utility model. Figures 16 to 18 As shown, this is a second embodiment of the connector assembly of this utility model. Figures 19 to 22 As shown, this is the third embodiment of the connector assembly of this utility model. Figures 23 to 25The image shows a fourth embodiment of the connector assembly of this utility model. Each connector assembly of this utility model includes a flexible circuit board 200, a pressing member 400, and multiple locking fasteners 600. Each connector assembly is used to electrically connect to a docking module 100. The docking module 100 has a first conductive portion J, which is used to electrically connect to the flexible circuit board 200. The first conductive portion J has an upper surface J1 and a lower surface (not labeled) arranged opposite each other in the vertical direction Z, and multiple metal pads J2. The multiple metal pads J2 are disposed on the side of the first conductive portion J facing the flexible circuit board 200 in the vertical direction Z. In this utility model, there are multiple implementations of the pressing member 400 and the flexible circuit board 200. The locking fasteners 600 are composed of screws and nuts, and the metal pads J2 are disposed on the upper surface J1.

[0051] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 , Figure 19 and Figure 20 , Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, in any of the four embodiments described above, the flexible circuit board 200 is located above the first conductive portion J, and the pressing member 400 is located above the flexible circuit board 200 to press against the flexible circuit board 200, so that the flexible circuit board 200 is electrically connected downward to the docking module 100. The locking fastener 600 fixes the pressing member 400, the flexible circuit board 200, and the docking module 100 together. The flexible circuit board 200 includes a first surface 1a and a second surface 1b arranged opposite each other in the vertical direction Z, and a plurality of contact pads 2. The first surface 1a is the surface of the flexible circuit board 200 facing the upper surface J1. The plurality of contact pads 2 are disposed on the first surface 1a. The plurality of metal pads J2 are arranged in at least three rows in the first direction X, and the plurality of metal pads J2 are arranged one-to-one with the plurality of contact pads 2 in the vertical direction Z, that is, the plurality of contact pads 2 are also arranged in at least three rows in the first direction X. Each row of contact pads 2 has a plurality of contact pads 2 arranged and aligned in the second direction Y (see reference). Figure 6 Thus, they form an array arrangement.

[0052] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 , Figure 19 and Figure 22 , Figure 24 and Figure 25As shown, in any of the four embodiments described above, the pressing member 400 includes an elastic element 8 and a planar rigid plate 9. The elastic element 8 is formed by stamping a metal sheet and is located on the side of the flexible circuit board 200 away from the first guide portion J in the vertical direction. The elastic element 8 includes a main body 81 and a plurality of pressing portions 82 connected to the main body 81. The main body 81 is a flat plate structure. The pressing portions 82 apply force to the flexible circuit board 200, causing the plurality of contact pads 2 to be electrically connected to the plurality of metal pads J2 of the first guide portion J, thereby realizing signal transmission between the flexible circuit board 200 and the docking module 100. Specifically, when the pressing portion 82 presses against the flexible circuit board 200, the flexible circuit board 200 deforms and indents on the side away from the contact pads 2 in the vertical direction, and the plurality of contact pads 2 are displaced in the vertical direction toward the side closer to the first guide portion J, thereby being electrically connected to the plurality of metal pads J2 of the first guide portion J.

[0053] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 , Figure 19 and Figure 22 , Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the planar rigid plate 9 is integrally formed from a metal sheet and is located on the side of the elastic member 8 away from the flexible circuit board 200 in the vertical direction. That is, the elastic member 8 is located between the flexible circuit board 200 and the planar rigid plate 9 in the vertical direction. The thickness of the planar rigid plate 9 is greater than the thickness of the main body 81. The planar rigid plate 9 is locked to the first guide part J by the locking fastener 600. Specifically, the locking fastener 600 is a matching screw and nut. The screw passes through the through holes (not labeled) of the main body 81, the flexible circuit board 200, and the first guide part J, and locks with the nut, thereby fixing the pressing member 400, the flexible circuit board 200, and the first guide part J together.

[0054] In other embodiments, the flexible circuit board 200 may also be located below the first conductive portion J. Correspondingly, the pressing member 400 is also located below the flexible circuit board 200. A plurality of metal pads J2 are disposed on the lower surface of the first conductive portion J in the vertical direction. The pressing portion 82 abuts against the flexible circuit board 200 upward, so that the plurality of contact pads 2 are electrically connected upward to the plurality of metal pads J2 of the first conductive portion J.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 15 The image shows a first embodiment of the connector assembly of this utility model.

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the docking module 100 further includes a second conductive portion K extending horizontally from the first conductive portion J, the second conductive portion K being used for electrical connection with an electrical connector 500. The flexible circuit board 200 transmits high-speed signals, the electrical connector 500 transmits low-speed signals and is electrically connected to a main circuit board 700, the electrical connector 500 having an insulating body (unlabeled) and a plurality of conductive terminals (unlabeled) disposed on the insulating body, the conductive terminals being elastic terminals, the plurality of conductive terminals being located between the second conductive portion K and the main circuit board 700 along the vertical direction Z, the plurality of conductive terminals abutting upward against the second conductive portion K and soldered to the main circuit board 700.

[0057] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the elastic element 8 further includes multiple grooves Q extending vertically through the main body 81. Each groove Q corresponds to one of the multiple pressing portions 82, which are fixedly connected to the main body 81. In this embodiment, each pressing portion 82 is a spring arm structure extending from the groove edge of the corresponding groove Q. Each pressing portion 82 extends downwards from the corresponding groove Q to press against the flexible circuit board 200. A gap G exists between the flexible circuit board 200 and the first guide portion J in the vertical direction Z. In other embodiments, the pressing portion 82 can also be a helical spring (see...). Figures 6 to 8 ) or spring pin (see Figures 9 to 11 (or other structures), the spring needle includes a sleeve 821, a spring 822 housed in the sleeve 821 and abutting upward against the sleeve 821, and a pin 823 abutting upward against the spring 822, the sleeve 821 being connected to the body 81, and the pin 823 being used to abut against the flexible circuit board 200.

[0058] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, in this embodiment, the multiple contact pads 2 of the flexible circuit board 200 are arranged in five rows in the first direction X. The contact pads 2 in two adjacent rows are aligned along the first direction X to form five columns. Each row of contact pads 2 has five contact pads 2 aligned along a second direction Y. In other embodiments, the number of contact pads 2 in each row can be set according to actual needs. Here, the specific number of contact pads 2 is not limited, as long as it is at least an array arrangement of three rows.

[0059] like Figure 13 and Figure 14As shown, in this embodiment, the flexible circuit board 200 further includes a plurality of first slits 3a disposed between each two adjacent rows of contact pads 2 and a plurality of second slits 3b disposed between each two adjacent columns of contact pads 2 (of course, in other embodiments, one first slit 3a may also be disposed between each two adjacent rows of contact pads 2, and one second slit 3b may also be disposed between each two adjacent columns of contact pads 2). The plurality of first slits 3a are arranged in multiple rows in the first direction X and in multiple columns in the second direction Y. The first slits 3a extend longitudinally along the second direction Y, and the second slits 3b extend longitudinally along the first direction X. Both the first slits 3a and the second slits 3b penetrate the flexible circuit board 200 vertically. In other embodiments, either or both of the first slits 3a and the second slits 3b may be blind slots.

[0060] like Figures 12 to 14 As shown, each of the first slits 3a is cross-connected with one of the second slits 3b, wherein two adjacent contact pads 2 of one row of contact pads 2 and two adjacent contact pads 2 of another row of contact pads 2 aligned with and adjacent to it are located in the four quadrants of the cross. In other embodiments, the number of contact pads 2 in each row can be two or more, and the number of contact pads 2 in each column can be two or more. The specific number of contact pads 2 in each row and column is not limited here. Multiple rows and columns of multiple contact pads 2 do not necessarily need to be aligned in each row and column. As long as the multiple contact pads 2 are arranged in at least two rows in a first direction X, and each row of contact pads 2 has at least two contact pads 2 aligned in a second direction Y, wherein two adjacent contact pads 2 in one row of contact pads 2 and two adjacent contact pads 2 in another row of contact pads 2 that are aligned with and adjacent to it are located in the four quadrants of the cross. That is, at least one group of four adjacent contact pads 2 located in the four quadrants of the cross formed by the first slit 3a and the second slit 3b are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0061] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the flexible circuit board 200 also has a plurality of first connecting portions 4a and a plurality of second connecting portions 4b. The first connecting portion 4a connects two adjacent contact pads 2 in the same row, and the second connecting portion 4b connects two adjacent contact pads 2 in the same column. A first connecting portion 4a is provided between two adjacent contact pads 2 in each row, and a second connecting portion 4b is provided between two adjacent contact pads 2 in each column. The first connecting portions 4a and the second connecting portions 4b facilitate the circuit layout of the flexible circuit board 200.

[0062] like Figures 16 to 18 The image shows a second embodiment of the connector assembly described in this utility model.

[0063] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, in this embodiment, the connector assembly further includes an adapter plate 300. The adapter plate 300 is located between the flexible circuit board 200 and the first conductive portion J along the vertical direction Z. The adapter plate 300 is a non-electrical connector. A plurality of contact pads 2 are disposed along the vertical direction Z on the side of the flexible circuit board 200 facing the adapter plate 300, and are recessed upwards relative to the first surface 1a. A plurality of metal pads J2 are disposed along the vertical direction Z on the side of the first conductive portion J facing the adapter plate 300, and are recessed downwards relative to the upper surface J1 of the first conductive portion J.

[0064] like Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown, the adapter plate 300 has a body P and a plurality of conductive pads 7 disposed on the body P. The plurality of conductive pads 7 are arranged one-to-one with a plurality of metal pads J2. Each conductive pad 7 has a first contact portion 71 and a second contact portion 72 disposed vertically opposite each other, and a connecting portion 73 connecting the first contact portion 71 and the second contact portion 72. The first contact portion 71 protrudes upward relative to the body P, so that the first contact portion 71 contacts the corresponding contact pad 2 upward and contacts the upper surface of the body P downward. The second contact portion 72 protrudes downward relative to the body P, so that the second contact portion 72 contacts the corresponding metal pad J2 downward and contacts the lower surface of the body P upward. The connecting portion 73 is fixed to the body P. The second embodiment only describes the structure between the first conductive portion J and the flexible circuit board 200, omitting the second conductive portion K, electrical connector 500 and main circuit board 700, etc. The first embodiment can be referred to.

[0065] like Figures 19 to 22 The diagram shows a third embodiment of the connector assembly described in this utility model.

[0066] like Figure 19 and Figure 20As shown, in this embodiment, the docking module 100 is a CPO (Co-packaged optics) module, and the connector assembly further includes a rigid circuit board 800. The rigid circuit board 800 has a first side 801 and a second side 802 arranged opposite to each other. The flexible circuit board 200 is partially sandwiched between the first side 801 and the second side 802 and is combined with the rigid circuit board 800 to form a rigid-flex board. The portion of the flexible circuit board 200 that is not combined with the rigid circuit board 800 is provided with a plurality of contact pads 2.

[0067] like Figure 19 and Figure 22 As shown, the first conductive part J includes a plurality of metal pads J2 corresponding to the plurality of contact pads 2. Each metal pad J2 is a cross-sectional contact portion of a dual-core coaxial cable. The contact pads 2 and metal pads J2 have the same structure. The plurality of contact pads 2 abut against the plurality of metal pads J2, that is, the plurality of contact pads 2 abut against the plurality of dual-core coaxial cables. The third embodiment only describes the structure between the first conductive part J and the flexible circuit board 200, omitting the second conductive part K, electrical connector 500, and main circuit board 700, etc. The first embodiment can be referred to.

[0068] like Figures 23 to 25 The image shows a fourth embodiment of the connector assembly described in this utility model.

[0069] like Figures 23 to 25 As shown, in this embodiment, two docking modules 100 are provided, and two pressing members 400 are also provided corresponding to the two docking modules 100. The flexible circuit board 200 has a first part L1, a second part L2, and a connecting section L3 connecting the first part L1 and the second part L2. The first part L1 and the second part L2 are respectively provided with a plurality of contact pads 2 arranged in an array of three rows and five columns. The plurality of pressing parts 82 of one pressing member 400 applies force to the first part L1, so that the plurality of contact pads 2 of the first part L1 are electrically connected to the first conductive part J of the corresponding docking module 100. The plurality of pressing parts 82 of the other pressing member 400 applies force to the second part L2, so that the plurality of contact pads 2 of the second part L2 are electrically connected to the first conductive part J of the corresponding docking module 100. Of course, the structures of the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment can also be used in the fourth embodiment to achieve an electrical connection between the two docking modules 100.

[0070] The connector assembly of this utility model also has the following beneficial effects:

[0071] 1. The plurality of pressing parts 82 of the pressing member 400 are disposed on the side of the flexible circuit board 200 away from the first conductive part J of the docking module 100, so that the plurality of pressing parts 82 are vertically corresponding to the plurality of contact pads 2. The plurality of pressing parts 82 apply force to the flexible circuit board 200, so that the plurality of contact pads 2 are electrically connected to the first conductive part J. Signal transmission between the flexible circuit board 200 and the docking module 100 can be realized without the need for a socket electrical connector. The transmission path is short, impedance matching and crosstalk problems are optimized, the manufacturing process of connector components is simplified and costs are saved.

[0072] 2. By setting the first slit 3a and the second slit 3b, each of the first slit 3a and one of the second slits 3b are arranged in a cross-shaped connection. The two adjacent contact pads 2 of one row of contact pads 2 and the two adjacent contact pads 2 of another row of contact pads 2 that are aligned with and adjacent to it are located in the four quadrants of the cross-shaped connection. This softens the flexible circuit board 200, making it easier for the flexible circuit board 200 to deform when it is pressed by the pressing member 400. This facilitates the downward electrical connection of the multiple contact pads 2 with the first conductive part J. Similarly, the slot 6 is set for the same purpose.

[0073] 3. A first connecting part 4a is provided between two adjacent contact pads 2 in each row, and a second connecting part 4b is provided between two adjacent contact pads 2 in each column, which facilitates the circuit layout and signal transmission of the flexible circuit board 200.

[0074] 4. By setting multiple pressing parts 82 that correspond one-to-one with the multiple contact pads 2, each contact pad 2 can be precisely pressed downward by the corresponding pressing part 82 and directly abut against or indirectly electrically connected to the corresponding metal pad J2, thereby increasing the stability of the electrical connection between the flexible circuit board 200 and the first conductive part J.

[0075] 5. When the contact pad 2 is recessed upward relative to the first surface 1a and the metal pad J2 is recessed downward relative to the upper surface J1 of the first conductive part J, so that the flexible circuit board 200 and the first conductive part J cannot be electrically connected due to direct contact, by setting the adapter plate 300, the flexible circuit board 200 can be indirectly electrically connected to the first conductive part J through the adapter plate 300, thereby not affecting the signal transmission between the flexible circuit board 200 and the docking module 100.

[0076] 6. The elastic element 8 is formed by stamping metal sheet, and the main body 81 is a flat plate structure. The pressing part 82 is set as a spring arm structure extending from the groove edge of the corresponding groove Q, thereby reducing the height of the elastic element 8 and saving the space occupied by the elastic element 8.

[0077] 7. By setting the planar rigid plate 9 integrally formed from a metal sheet, the planar rigid plate 9 is positioned on the side of the elastic member 8 away from the flexible circuit board 200 in the vertical direction. The thickness of the planar rigid plate 9 is greater than the thickness of the main body 81, which strengthens the overall mechanical strength of the pressing member 400 and makes it less prone to damage. The planar rigid plate 9 is locked to the first guide part J by the locking fastener 600, so that the flexible circuit board 200 and the first guide part J can be stably connected.

[0078] The above detailed description is only a description of the preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the patent scope of this utility model. Therefore, all equivalent technical changes made using the content of this invention's specification and illustrations are included within the patent scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A connector assembly for electrically connecting a mating module, the mating module having a first conductive portion, characterized in that, include: A flexible circuit board, wherein the side of the flexible circuit board facing the first conductive portion has a plurality of contact pads, and the plurality of contact pads are arranged in an array of at least three rows; The pressing component includes multiple pressing parts, which are located on the side of the flexible circuit board away from the first conductive part in the vertical direction. The multiple pressing parts are correspondingly arranged with the multiple contact pads in the vertical direction. The multiple pressing parts apply force to the flexible circuit board, so that the multiple contact pads are electrically connected to the first conductive part, thereby realizing signal transmission between the flexible circuit board and the docking module. The locking fastener secures the pressing member to the first conductive part, thereby ensuring that the flexible circuit board is stably electrically connected to the first conductive part.

2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: At least three rows of contact pads are arranged along a first direction, and each row of contact pads has a plurality of contact pads aligned along a second direction, thereby forming the array arrangement. The first direction, the second direction, and the up-down direction are mutually perpendicular to each other. The contact pads of two adjacent rows are aligned along the first direction to form multiple columns. The flexible circuit board has at least one first slit between each two adjacent rows of contact pads and at least one second slit between each two adjacent columns of contact pads. The first slit extends longitudinally along the second direction, and the second slit extends longitudinally along the first direction. Both the first slit and the second slit penetrate the flexible circuit board vertically. Each first slit and one of the second slits are cross-connected. Two adjacent contact pads of one row of contact pads and two adjacent contact pads of another row of contact pads aligned with and adjacent to it are located in the four quadrants of the cross.

3. The connector assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The flexible circuit board has a plurality of first slits and a plurality of second slits. The plurality of first slits are arranged in multiple rows in a first direction and in multiple columns in a second direction. The flexible circuit board has a plurality of first connecting portions and a plurality of second connecting portions. The first connecting portions connect two adjacent contact pads in the same row, and the second connecting portions connect two adjacent contact pads in the same column. A first connecting portion is provided between two adjacent contact pads in each row of contact pads, and a second connecting portion is provided between two adjacent contact pads in each column of contact pads.

4. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pressing member includes an elastic element located on the side of the flexible circuit board away from the first guide portion in the vertical direction. The elastic element has a main body and a plurality of pressing portions connected to the main body. The main body is integrally formed from a metal sheet, and the pressing portions protrude toward the flexible circuit board relative to the main body in the vertical direction.

5. The connector assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The pressing part is composed of a helical spring or a spring needle. The spring needle includes a sleeve, a spring housed in the sleeve and abutting against the sleeve, and a pin abutting against the spring. The sleeve is connected to the main body, and the pin is used to abut against the flexible circuit board.

6. The connector assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The elastic element is formed by stamping a metal sheet, the main body is a flat plate structure, and the elastic element also has multiple grooves that run through the main body from top to bottom. The multiple grooves correspond to multiple pressing parts, and each pressing part is an elastic arm structure that extends from the edge of the corresponding groove.

7. The connector assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The pressing component further includes a planar rigid plate, which is integrally formed from a metal sheet and located on the side of the elastic element away from the flexible circuit board in the vertical direction. The thickness of the planar rigid plate is greater than the thickness of the main body, and the planar rigid plate is locked to the first guide portion by the locking fastener.

8. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the pressing member presses against the flexible circuit board, the flexible circuit board deforms and indents in the vertical direction on the side away from the contact pad, and the plurality of contact pads are displaced in the vertical direction toward the side closer to the first conductive part and electrically connected to the first conductive part.

9. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The system further includes an adapter plate located between the flexible circuit board and the first conductive portion in a vertical direction. The flexible circuit board has a first surface facing the adapter plate in a vertical direction. A plurality of contact pads are disposed on the side of the flexible circuit board facing the adapter plate in a vertical direction and are recessed relative to the first surface. The first conductive portion has a plurality of metal pads disposed on the side of the first conductive portion facing the adapter plate in a vertical direction and are recessed relative to the surface of the first conductive portion. The adapter plate has a body and a plurality of conductive pads disposed on the body. Each conductive pad has a first contact portion and a second contact portion disposed vertically opposite each other. The first contact portion protrudes relative to the body, such that the first contact portion contacts the corresponding contact pad and contacts the corresponding surface of the body. The second contact portion protrudes relative to the body, such that the second contact portion contacts the corresponding metal pad and contacts the corresponding surface of the body.

10. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The system further includes a rigid circuit board having a first side and a second side arranged opposite to each other. A flexible circuit board portion is sandwiched between the first side and the second side and is combined with the rigid circuit board to form a rigid-flex board. The portion of the flexible circuit board not combined with the rigid circuit board is provided with a plurality of contact pads.

11. The connector assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that: The first conductive part includes a plurality of dual-core coaxial lines corresponding to the plurality of contact pads, and the plurality of contact pads abut against the plurality of dual-core coaxial lines.

12. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flexible circuit board is used to transmit high-speed signals. The connector assembly further includes an electrical connector for electrical connection to the main circuit board. The docking module also includes a second guide extending horizontally from the first guide. The electrical connector is located below the second guide and contacts the second guide, so as to enable the low-speed signal of the docking module to be transmitted to the main circuit board through the electrical connector.

13. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: Two docking modules are provided, and two pressing members are also provided corresponding to the two docking modules. The flexible circuit board has a first part, a second part, and a connecting section connecting the first part and the second part. The first part and the second part are respectively provided with a plurality of contact pads arranged in an array of at least three rows. A plurality of pressing parts of one pressing member apply force to the first part, so that the plurality of contact pads of the first part are electrically connected to the first conductive part of the corresponding docking module. A plurality of pressing parts of another pressing member apply force to the second part, so that the plurality of contact pads of the second part are electrically connected to the first conductive part of the corresponding docking module.

Images